Millennium Park, located in the heart of downtown Chicago, is a must-see destination for any visitor to the Windy City. The park offers a wide variety of things to do, from admiring world-class works of art to enjoying live music performances. The park also offers a wide range of free events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, films, and workshops. Add these top things to do around Millennium Park to your must-see list!
“THE BEAN”
One of the most iconic features of Millennium Park is “The Bean,” formally known as Cloud Gate. This large, stainless steel sculpture is a popular spot for visitors to take photos, as it reflects the city skyline on its shiny surface. Visitors can also walk under the sculpture, where they’ll find an interesting trick of optics that distorts their reflection in interesting ways. Learn more.
CROWN FOUNTAIN
Another popular attraction in the park is Crown Fountain. This interactive sculpture features two 50-foot glass block towers, which display videos of the faces of Chicago residents. Water cascades down the towers, creating a beautiful display that is particularly lovely at night. Visitors can also cool off in the fountain on a hot summer day. Learn more.
PRITZKER PAVILION
The park is also home to the Pritzker Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue that is home to the Grant Park Music Festival, which holds classical music concerts in the summer. The pavilion’s state-of-the-art sound system and striking architecture make it one of the most impressive concert venues in the city. The lawn seating here is one of the best for watching concerts and enjoying the city skyline. Learn more.
MAGGIE DALEY PARK
One of the most recent additions to Millennium Park is Maggie Daley Park. This park is popular among families with kids, with a playground that is one of the most unique around. The playground features a climbing wall and mini-golf course, as well as a playground area with slides and monkey bars. The park also has a skating ribbon, which is open during the winter months and an excellent place for a daytime ice-skating exhibition. Learn more.
LURIE GARDEN
Lurie Garden features a wide variety of native plants and flowers, as well as several works of art to admire. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, and it’s the perfect spot to take a stroll and relax. Learn more.
CHERRY CIRCLE ROOM
Cherry Circle Room is the reinvention of the iconic restaurant that has serviced the Chicago Athletic Association and its members for generations. The James Beard award-winning space, recognized for Outstanding Restaurant Design, has been fully reimagined and restored by Chicago’s own Land and Sea Dept. This intimate setting melds the building’s historic original features with modern design elements, creating a blend of past and present. Swell curves and swank wood panels frame a refined menu featuring throwback cocktails and tableside presentations of the finest meats, firmly rooting the experience in contemporary elegance. Learn more.
CINDY’S ROOFTOP
Soak in the scenic views of Millennium Park, Lake Michigan, and beyond! Perched atop the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel under a glass atrium, Cindy’s welcomes guests with unparalleled views, providing a remarkable backdrop for Top Chef contestant and Executive Chef Kaleena Bliss. Enjoy vibrant service, an all-season terrace, and an extensive beverage menu that harmonizes perfectly with each dish, all while relishing the view. Learn more.
Experience the best of downtown Chicago from our landmark hotel near Millennium Park. Offering luxurious guest rooms with a touch of historic elegance, seven award-winning bars and restaurants—including the year-round rooftop, Cindy’s—and on-site entertainment for all, Chicago Athletic Association is where you want to be in the Windy City.
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