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Millennium Park Chicago - Overview

Author: Dee Fabbricatore




Millennium Park has become Chicago’s biggest main stage attraction. Aligned with Chicago’s emphasis on architectural innovation, Millennium Park, Chicago's 24.5-acre phenomenon, integrates historical significance with contemporary style from a number of international players.

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Millennium Park, Chicago - Overview

Since its inception in 1997, Millennium Park has become Chicago’s newest main stage attraction. Aligned with the city’s emphasis on architectural innovation, this 24.5-acre phenomenon integrates historical significance with contemporary style from a number of international players.

Paying homage to the City of Chicago, Millennium Park has an interesting history and offers an array of aesthetics for residents and visitors alike. The sights and sounds of Millennium Park are year-round and can accommodate any range of interests.

Millennium Park, Chicago - Architecture, Art & Attractions

The design elements at Millennium Park are world-class, and you can visit different corners of the park and receive different experience on a daily basis. There's a lot to cover, so we recommend spending part of the day at the park, then moving on to one of the other many nearby attractions.

Among Millennium Park’s many attractions are Gehry's flower-shaped Jay Pritzker Pavilion, London artist Anish Kapoor's jelly bean-shaped Cloud Gate sculpture (a.k.a. “The Bean”), and Barcelona artist Jaume Plensa's twin towers of illuminated glass—the Crown Fountain.

Wrigley Square & Millennium Monument

At the northern end of Millennium Park sits a spectacle whose significance goes far beyond its architectural design. A replica of the original Peristyle that stood in its place during1917 and 1953, this monument signifies the journey of the Millennium Park creation from its original visionaries to today’s founders, serving as a link between past and present.

Jay Pritzer Pavilion

Home to the Grant Park Music Festival (June-August) and free concert events throughout the summer season, this 120-ft. high arena is the first of its kind in musical experience. With seating for 11,000 listeners, the Pavilion was designed to replicate the acoustics of an indoor venue, making every seat in the house a good one.

Cloud Gate

More commonly referred to as “the bean,” this 110-ton elliptical sculpture is quite possibly Millennium Park’s most revered attraction. Designed by British artist, Anish Kapoor, the inspiration for the 33-ft high monument was liquid mercury. Sitting pretty in the Park’s upper level, SBC Plaza, Cloud Gate mirrors Chicago’s trademark skyline and

McCormick Tribune Plaza & Ice Rink

During the winter months, sharpen your skates for Millennium Park’s own outdoor rink. With the city as your backdrop, the ice is a perfect spot for a Saturday afternoon retreat with the family or a romantic outing with your loved one. When the weather begins to change, the rink is transformed into an outdoor bar and grill, complete with eats from the Park Grill restaurant and live entertainment.

The Crown Fountain

This is perhaps one of the most unique displays of public art, these dueling 50-ft.-high fountains stand like bookends to a small reflecting pool at the Park’s south end. The towers personify the diversity of Chicago’s people by projecting changing facial images to accompany its water features.

More Millennium Park Art & Architecture

Millennium Park Tours 

Shopping

Located right in the park, the Park Shop features park-related products, like Frank Gehry limited-edition fine art, Chicago guide books, and other souvenirs.Many top retailers call the Loop home. On the southern end of the Magnificent Mile, shopping is an experience to be had, offering visitors everything from their favorite retailers to interactive shopping spaces and no shortage of the best high-end brands fashion has to offer.

Dining/Nightlife

The always-popular Park Grill specializes in classic American cuisine both comforting and sophisticated. It's a versatile venue with an equally broad menu. Park Grill features different events throughout the year, and boasts stellar outdoor dining during the summer months. In the winter, watch the skaters do their thing at the ice rink.

More Millennium Park Dining

More Millennium Park Nightlife

nearby places of interest

312 Chicago
136 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60602

This seasonally influenced Italian-inspired American eatery buzzes by day with politicians (City Hall is across the street), and buzzes with diners heading to the nearby Cadillac Theater at night.Make a Reservation

Aria Restaurant
200 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago, IL 60601

A top Chicago restaurant serving contemporary American cuisine at The Fairmont Chicago hotel, Aria has proven that it's here to stay. Currently under the leadership of chef de cuisine Leon Gunn, the kitchen here serves a menu that's bursting with cultural influences from around the world.

Blackbird
619 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60661

One of the most acclaimed restaurants in Chicago, Blackbird has been named one of the 50 best restaurants in the country by Gourmet magazine. Contemporary American dining reaches its zenith here.

Bongo Room
1152 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60605

Serving breakfast and lunch, this sibling to the popular Wicker Park location serves omelets, breakfast burritos and upscale flapjack offerings such as the “Oreo cookie” for breakfast. If you’re looking for lunch, seasonally inspired salads and sandwiches highlight the menu.

Custom House
500 S. Dearborn St., Chicago, IL 60605

Custom House focuses on offering the finest artisanal meats and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Unlike most classic steak houses, Custom House allows carnivores to savor their meat raw, cured, marinated, braised, roasted and slow-cooked.

Elephant & Castle
160 E. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60611

At this English pub in Chicago, expect a mix of traditional English pub fare and American menu items are served here; English-style breakfast is also a draw. 

Elephant & Castle
185 North Wabash, Chicago, Illinois 60601

At this English pub in Chicago, expect a mix of traditional English pub fare and American menu items are served here; English-style breakfast is also a draw

Elephant & Castle
111 W. Adams St., Chicago, IL 60603

At this English pub in Chicago, expect a mix of traditional English pub fare and American menu items are served here; English-style breakfast is also a draw

Italian Village
71 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603

One of Chicago's oldest and most venerated restaurants, Italian Village has been doing it right for more than 80 years.

La Mediterranee
941 W. Randolph St. , Chicago, IL 60607

This West Loop neighborhood restaurant serves all the classics you'd expect from Chicago Italian restaurants and all the cuisine of an authentic, French bistro. They offfer a variety of pasta, meat, and seafood entrees, and an extensive wine list.

Pannenkoeken Cafe
2257 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

Breakfast and lunch cafe specializes in Dutch Pancakes in a variety of delicious flavors, set in the lively Bucktown/Wicker Park neighborhood.

Park Grill
11 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60602

Park Grill is versatile venue with an equally broad menu specializing in classic American cuisine with a hint of sophistication. It's a white tablecloth place where you won't feel out of place in shorts.

Tavern at the Park
130 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601

Trying to give off that neighborhood tavern feel, while serving up fine dining dishes right across from Millennium Park.

The Gage
24. S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603

The Gage offers high-end Irish fare with a touch of elegance and class. Located near Millenium Park, this restaurant offers traditional Irish foods along with all-American favorites.  

Walnut Room
111 N State Street, Chicago, IL 60602

The historic Walnut Room, located on Macy's seventh floor, has been a premier Chicago dining destination since 1907.

Aritzia
835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60611

Aritzia stores feature art and fashion all in one place. Music, artwork and clothing are the highlights of this off-beat and cultured shopping hot-spot.

Cynthia Rowley
810 W. Armitage Ave. , Chicago, IL 60614

Charming boutique of acclaimed designer and Chicago native Cynthia Rowley.

Cynthia Rowley
1653 N. Damen Ave. , Chicago, IL 60647

Charming boutique of acclaimed designer and Chicago native Cynthia Rowley.  

Garrett Popcorn Shop
4 East Madison Ave., Chicago, IL 60602

Since 1949, Chicagoans have been enjoying Garrett Popcorn, Carmel Corn, and Cheese Corn. The popcorn is hot-air popped using no oils or fats.

Macy's On State Street
111 N. State St, Chicago, IL 60602

A Chicago landmark department store since 1852, Macy's Chicago provides locals and visitors alike with top quality service and merchandise.

Macy's Water Tower Place
835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Part of Water Tower Place on Michigan Avenue, this is a second Chicago location for the famed department store.

Sterling Works
835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Located in downtown Chicago's Water Tower Place, Sterling Works has a massive collection of unique wearable sterling silver.  

312 Chicago
136 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL 60602

This seasonally influenced Italian-inspired American eatery buzzes by day with politicians (City Hall is across the street), and buzzes with diners heading to the nearby Cadillac Theater at night.Make a Reservation

Italian Village
71 W. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603

One of Chicago's oldest and most venerated restaurants, Italian Village has been doing it right for more than 80 years.

Potter's
17 E Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603

Located inside the Palmer House Hilton, Potter's offers unique retro cocktails and delicious small plates in a classically elegant setting.  

The Gage
24. S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603

The Gage offers high-end Irish fare with a touch of elegance and class. Located near Millenium Park, this restaurant offers traditional Irish foods along with all-American favorites.  

Bike Chicago Rental & Tours
239 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601

Bicycle rental, bicycle tours, segway tours, and in-line skate rentals make Bike Chicago a key attraction in the city. Bike Chicago has five locations scattered throughout the Chicago area, which is convenient for tourists and locals alike. 

Bobby's Bike Hike
465 N McClurg Court, Chicago, IL 60611

Guided bike tours, (bicycles provided), that are definitely family friendly. Tours are designed for riders of all ages and fitness levels. A great way to learn about Chicago’s past, as well as insight into current events around the city. Bike rentals are also available for riders looking to explore the nearby Lakefront Bike Path. 

Buckingham Fountain
Congress Parkway & Columbus Drive, Chicago, IL 60601

The Buckingham Fountain is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago. Located in Grant Park, it's unique and stunning architecture is a sight to see. Be sure to come on the hour to see the water display as it shoots out water 150 feet in the air for 20 minutes.  

Chicago Architecture Foundation
224 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60604

The Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) offers a 88 different tours in total. You can explore the city by bus, boat, bike on foot or even via a segway.Get a glimpse of what's going on at the CAF in this great video!

Chicago Line Cruises
455 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611

Premier boat-based tour service offering cruises focused on architecture, history, or private charters, serving complimentary coffee and muffins.  Group rates available, and tickets available online.  

Chicago Symphony Orchestra
220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60604

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is the heartbeat of Chicago. The CSO has numerous concerts and special events throughout the year. See the full list at their website. Tickets range from $10 to $200.

Day Frog
233 E. Erie St., Chicago, IL 60611

Chicago's downtown is more kid friendly than ever with Day Frog, the indoor play facility exclusively for children 6 and under.  

John Hancock Observatory
875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

See Chicago from the top of the John Hancock Center in the heart of downtown. The John Hancock Observatory offers Chicago views at their finest and their new Cafe Espression by Lavazza is one of the most high altitude coffee purveyors in the world.

Kayak Chicago
1501 N. Magnolia Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

Looking for a truly unique way to see Chicago? Try one of several kayak tours offered by Kayak Chicago, and paddle your way to dynamic views on this adventurous tour.   

Lincoln Park Zoo
2200 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago, IL 60614

Lincoln Park Zoo, located in Chicago, is among the oldest zoological gardens in the country (established in 1868) and is also among the most modern. Generations of Chicago kids and visitors to the city alike take the time to stand face to face with apes and even go palm-to-palm with them through the glass. Human-to-animal interaction is mixed with the heavily scientific- and research-based initiatives here.

Macy's On State Street
111 N. State St, Chicago, IL 60602

A Chicago landmark department store since 1852, Macy's Chicago provides locals and visitors alike with top quality service and merchandise.

Millennium Park
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60610

Millennium Park has become Chicago’s newest main stage attractions. Aligned with the city’s emphasis on architectural innovation, this 24.5-acre phenomenon integrates historical significance with contemporary style from a number of international players. It is bordered by Michigan Avenue to the west, Columbus Drive to the east, Randolph Street to the north and Monroe Street to the south.

Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60605

Navy Pier, one of the top tourist attractions in Chicago and the country, is visited by almost nine million visitors per year. From dining to shopping, boat tours to countless entertainment options, Navy Pier in Chicago is a must-stop for a wide range of visitors--Chicago residents already know and love it!Watch our latest video offering and take a quick, two-minute narrated tour through the highlights at Navy Pier, stern to bow.

Ravinia Festival
418 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035

A lineup of pop, classical, folk, jazz and other musical performances under the stars or an open-air pavilion. Concerts March through Sept.

Soldier Field
1410 South Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, IL 60605

Historic home of the Chicago Bears, Soldier Field is sacred space to Chicago's legions of Bears fans.      

The Joan W. and Irving B. Harris Theater for Music and Dance
205 E. Randolph Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

Chicago's newest theater venue features music and dance performances. Call for schedule and tickets.>

The Morton Arboretum
4100 Illinois Highway 53, Lisle, IL 60532

A top Chicago nature site, The Morton Arboretum boasts more than 3,000 trees, shrubs, and other vegetation across its 1,700-acre site.

Hotel Blake
500 S. Dearborn St., Chicago, IL 60605

This unique hotel is a restoration of the 19th-century Morton Salt Building packed with modern rooms. Located in the Printer's Row neighborhood of Chicago, in the burgeoning South Loop, there's plenty to do nearby and the full-scale glory of the heart of Chicago's Loop neighborhood is just to the north.

John Hancock Observatory
875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

See Chicago from the top of the John Hancock Center in the heart of downtown. The John Hancock Observatory offers Chicago views at their finest and their new Cafe Espression by Lavazza is one of the most high altitude coffee purveyors in the world.

Bike Chicago Rental & Tours
239 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601

Bicycle rental, bicycle tours, segway tours, and in-line skate rentals make Bike Chicago a key attraction in the city. Bike Chicago has five locations scattered throughout the Chicago area, which is convenient for tourists and locals alike. 

Bobby's Bike Hike
465 N McClurg Court, Chicago, IL 60611

Guided bike tours, (bicycles provided), that are definitely family friendly. Tours are designed for riders of all ages and fitness levels. A great way to learn about Chicago’s past, as well as insight into current events around the city. Bike rentals are also available for riders looking to explore the nearby Lakefront Bike Path. 

Chicago Line Cruises
455 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611

Premier boat-based tour service offering cruises focused on architecture, history, or private charters, serving complimentary coffee and muffins.  Group rates available, and tickets available online.  

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Co.
401 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60609

For just $29 hop-on, hop-off all day and explore Chicago at your own pace. Expert and entertaining guides share little known facts about Chicago.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car
65 E. Lake St., Chicago, IL 60601

Stop in at the many Enterprise Rent-A-Car locations if you need a Chicago rental car; they will even pick you up.

Windy City Limousine
9377 W. Grand Ave., Franklin Park, IL 60131

This all-purpose limo company focuses on efficiency, customer service and convience. They can accommodate any size group and have an impressive record of quality service and experience.