Millennium Park

Downtown's Millennium Park, a 24-plus-acre space, showcases Chicago's art, architecture and music in a beautifully landscaped park. Highlights include the the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Crown Fountain and The Bean. The Pavilion, which is one of the most sophisticated outdoor venues in the United States, features a variety of free concerts throughout the year. During the dog days of summer, visitors can't resist dipping their toes in the Crown Fountain while watching images of Chicagoans' faces flash before them on 50-foot towers. The Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately dubbed The Bean, offers amazing reflections of the city skyline and draws kids to its funhouse-mirror effect. And be sure to take some time to stroll through the 5-acre Lurie Garden, which pays homage to Chicago's motto, "Garden in the City."