Millennium Park is one of the newest additions to Chicago's many wide-open urban spaces and is host to a range of indoor/outdoor activities for the entire family. You can listen to top musical events at the outdoor pavilion, or glide across the bustling ice skating rink come winter. For a bit of the park's history, be sure to take a peek at the Peristyle. While in the park one cannot afford to miss the Cloud Gate Sculpture, built with 110 tons (99,790 kilograms) of steel. It is called The Bean by the residents. Meandering through the park, you'll encounter the serene beauty of Lurie Garden, a breathtaking botanical haven. The Pritzker Pavilion and Crown Fountain are also to look out for. Whether you're a local seeking solace or a traveler eager to immerse yourself in the essence of Chicago, Millennium Park warrants a visit.
The origins of this huge downtown park date back to the 19th Century. Spread across 319 acres (129 hectares), Grant Park is nestled between Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan. Inspired by French parks, it has geometric layouts that are entwined by bridges, huge lawns, trails, artworks, monuments, marinas, sports fields and many gardens. The iconic Buckingham Fountain, Millennium Park, Museum Campus and Petrillo Music Shell are some of its popular attractions. Grant Park is also home to major festivals and cultural events in the city.
Not only a beloved Chicago showcase, The Second City is now treasured by the world, as well. Many a legendary comedy career began here; perhaps you will catch tomorrow's star in tonight's review. This is the place that gave a major impetus to sketch comedy, the type of humor that spawned such shows as Saturday Night Live and The Kids in the Hall. Many favorite SNL comedians got their start here. John Belushi, Bill Murray, Jerry Stiller, and Elaine May are just a handful of those who went on to national fame. Be sure to check out all the photos on the wall while you wait to be seated--cabaret style, of course. The drinks are good, the price is right, and the comedy and satire are unbeatable. This is an unforgettable end to an evening out in Old Town.
Amazing and beautiful! That will be your initial impression when you arrive at this breathtaking architectural structure where history, music, and drama echo. "The best of both worlds" is the phrase that best summarizes this classic Loop theater. It is opulent enough to appeal to the most discriminating of tastes, but refined enough to satisfy the most discerning theatergoer. The concerts are frequent, and an occasional movie is shown here on its giant screen. The lower level of this theater has only 281 seats, making it more intimate than other nearby theaters.
Established in 1897, the Chicago Cultural Center is a prominent landmark that is operated by Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Every year, the cultural center features several programs and exhibitions covering a wide range of arts, including literary and visual. The magnificent art-deco building is attractive in and of itself, its interiors being equally ornate and regal. A particular architectural highlight is the two stained-glass domes within the building, which never fail to mesmerize visitors who pass beneath its massive expanse. Be it for the cultural program roster or simply its artistic beauty, the Chicago Cultural Center continues to be a tourist hot spot.
From its versatile journey as a crucial dock for freights to becoming a training complex for the Navy during World War II and to finally being redeveloped as a massive one-stop entertainment destination on Chicago's Lake Michigan shoreline, the Navy Pier has served diverse functions over the centuries. This 3,300-foot-long (1,010 meters) pier named in honor of the Great War's naval veterans hosts a legion of recreational options that span museums, restaurants, retail, entertainment, and outdoor activities. A whirlwind attraction that juts out into the Great Lake, the pier's highlight is the iconic Ferris Wheel that spins against the Chicago skyline. Dinner cruise ships ply the waters around the pier, inviting visitors to step aboard a vibrant extravaganza. The pier is also home to the botanical Crystal Gardens, Chicago Children's Museum, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater that showcases Shakespearean productions.
Center Portion the brainchild of couple Sheila Donahue and Gregory Scott, is a lively art venue located in Chicago. This non-profit organization organizes theater events, plays, poetry and book reading sessions on a regular basis. A large number of interesting paintings and sculptures are also on display here.
Land and Sea Dept, in West Town area of Chicago is a unique entertainment space. A cultural hub that caters to diverse genres and disciplines of art, it offers a wide range of programs and events throughout the year. Their event schedule is an eclectic mix of music and band events, art exhibitions and festivals, contemporary theater performances and also, supper-club series that includes some of the most popular restaurants in the city. If cultural enrichment and meeting like-minded is what you seek, you should visit them! Check their website for the range of events they offer.
Canvas Chicago is a production ground for aspiring artists like international musicians, comedians and actors. The organization produces the work of these artists and publishes interesting content for people. The space is also used as a practice ground and occasionally runs events here. Their space can be rented for any technical workshops or private events.