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.
Cloud Gate is an iconic Chicago sculpture located in Millennium Park. Designed by artist Anish Kapoor, its highly reflective surface appears to be seamless but is actually made up of 168 stainless steel plates that were welded together. Its legume-like shape has earned it the nickname "The Bean" among Chicago residents. It is interesting to note that a massive droplet of liquid mercury is the inspiration for this structure which tends to spark curiosity among visitors. The Bean is a must-see attraction while in downtown. Admire the unique structure and make sure you take a picture with this architectural marvel for social media.
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.
Representing the spirit of American shopping, this well-known stretch of Michigan Avenue has something for everyone in hundreds of trendy stores, one-of-a-kind galleries, Chicago souvenir shops, mouth-watering bakeries, fine restaurants, and cafes selling anything and everything. A sight worth seeing during the holiday season, check out the decorations that make the mile look even more magnificent. Hardcore shoppers will want to start at the north end, a cluster of malls: Water Tower Place and the 900 North Michigan Shops. Store hours vary.
Formerly the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower stands proud at a towering 1450 feet (442.1 meters). The 108 storied landmark was a pinnacle of modern architecture when it was completed in 1973 and held the title of the Western Hemisphere's highest skyscraper till 2014. The top of the building's 1353-foot (412.4 meters) Skydeck on the 103rd floor features bird's eye views of Lake Michigan, both the North and South Sides of the city, the surrounding suburbs and on clear days, parts of Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. The Skydeck Tour also includes a multimedia presentation and an exhibit with information on the Willis Tower and other architecturally significant buildings.
The Merchandise Mart is one of the world's largest commercial centers and largest wholesale design centers. The enormous property sits on 42,000,000 square feet (3901927 square meters) and is one of Chicago's premier international business locations. The upper levels of office space, designer showrooms, and conference center space are closed to the general public. The first two floors, however, have been converted into a full retail mall that includes specialty stores and a food court. For more information, visit the website.
The magnificent baroque church of St. John Cantius, is one of the city's most prominent Polish churches. The church was constructed over a period of five years ending in 1898, and was designed by the architect Adolphus Druiding. Stunning pieces of sacred art adorn every wall, dazzling the observer with vivid depictions of biblical tales, while rich and intricate carvings evoke a sense of the sacred. An ornately decorated bell tower rises above the church and beckons to the devout, calling them to prayer. The church is not only known for its magnificent and remarkably well-preserved historic beauty, but also for the solemn religious services held here. The church also offers an exceptional liturgical music program. St. John Cantius Church falls under the guidance and leadership of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago and is located close to Downtown Chicago.
Established in 1874, Holy Trinity church is a perfect reflection of tradition and modernity, with weekly sermons and Sunday services held in the traditional church setting, with a lively combination of music, sermon and liturgy. The building itself features several interesting features to explore, including the stained glass windows and the Gothic-style organ that dominates the worship space. An integral part of the local community, the church features several outreach ministries and opportunities to get involved in the community through volunteering as well as special events, baptism class and a spiritual life center. The church welcomes an eclectic and inclusive array of church goers and is open to all those seeking spiritual haven from the chaos of daily life.
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.
Lurie Garden has become a trademark of the city of Chicago. This beautiful park is home to hundreds of species of flowers and plants such as tulips, wild white indigo, calamint, and many more in addition to herb gardens. Another feature of the garden is its shoulder hedges, which pays tribute to Chicago's nickname- 'City of Big Shoulders.' This wilderness in the middle of the city also affords stunning views of the Lake Michigan nearby and is popular for its walking trails, picnic areas and interactive sessions among visitors.
One of the largest enclosed gardens in the world, this historic landmark on the West Side was created by landscape architect Jens Jensen. He patterned the conservatory after the large domed haystacks that dot the Midwestern countryside. Inside the two-acre glass and steel structure, many plant collections and flower gardens are showcased in their natural settings. Some highlights include the Palm House, the Fern Room, a Koi Pond, Children's Garden as well as a few glass sculptures from renowned artist Dale Chihuly in the Persian Pool. Outside of the magnificent conservatory, Garfield Park holds more than 12-acres to explore while the Chicago Park District hosts a number of educational programs and family activities throughout the year.