Freebie of the Week: The Genius Spark of Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla may just be one of the most important scientists you’ve never heard of—or if you have, kudos for paying attention in 5th grade science class. The Serbian-American engineer invented the first marketable AC motor, a nifty contraption that has powered everything from refrigerators to the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago—the first all-electric fair in history. Needless to say, Tesla is kind of like a legend. You can check out his work out for yourself, including artifacts straight from the Tesla Museum in Belgrade, at Navy Pier’s free exhibit running August 6–28. Chicago is the only US city to host the exhibit, which also features a model of an all-electric Tesla automobile. Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave (312-595-7437). Free, 10am-10pm.