Millennium Park

Chicago's Loop neighborhood is home to Millennium Park, a public park run by the city's Department of Cultural Affairs. The park, which is an important municipal hub close to the city's Lake Michigan waterfront and occupies a 24.5-acre (9.9 hectare) piece of northwestern Grant Park, was created to commemorate the third millennium.

Prior to its 2004 opening, the location was home to a park, the Illinois Central train yards, and parking lots. The park is bordered by East Monroe Drive, Columbus Drive, Randolph Street, and Michigan Avenue and offers a variety of outdoor areas, events, and public art. The Cloud Gate sculpture, sometimes known as "The Bean," the Crown Fountain, and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, all created by Frank Gehry, are all located in this park.

Even in the winter months, there are many reasons to visit the Millennium park, since it offers a wide range of free programs throughout the summer. Visit local artists' sculpture installations, watch skaters spin by on the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, or go for a stroll around the 3.5-acre Lurie Garden's dormant but still magnificent landscapes.

Location: 55 N Michigan Ave, Chicago
Web: http://millenniumpark.org/
Ticket: Free
Opening time: Daily 8am–9pm.