Built in 2004 to much controversy and cost overruns, Millennium Park easily became Chicago's newest civic center and an icon of the city. Pitzker Pavilion, located within the 24-acre park, was designed by world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. The pavilion consists of massive titanium panels which resemble a flower in bloom. It is home to the Grant Park Music Festival, the only free, municipally-supported, outdoor, classic music series.

AT&T Plaza is home to Could Gate, a highly polished, 3-story, 110-ton steel sculpture, a piece by artist Anish Kapoor. It is meant to resemble a drop of mercury hovering at the point of landing on the plaza. Also on display is Crown Fountain, designed by artist Jaume Plensa, which consists of two enormous 50-foot towers with LCD displays that show the faces of thousands of Chicagoans to showcase the city's diversity.

The park also includes the BP Bridge, the Chase Promenade, the Boeing Galleries, the Exelon Pavilions, the Joan W. and Irving B. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, the Lurie Gardens, the McCormick Tribune Plaza & Ice Rick, Wrigley Square and the McDonald's Cycle Center.

Other nearby attractions include Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago Neighborhood Tours, Waves Spa, Chicago Opera Theater and Joffrey Ballet of Chicago.

After all the sightseeing enjoy Chicago's pride and joy, the deep dish pizza, at nearby Giordanos (312-616-1200), or sip some fine Russian tea in traditional Eastern ambiance at Russian Tea Time (312-360-0000). Govnors Pub is a busy Irish bar in the neighborhood where you can enjoy dark beers and meet new people.

The Fairmont Chicago is a 4 star hotel near the park. The in-house restaurants serve top quality international cuisine. Other options include the Hotel Burnham - a Kimpton Hotel or the Hotel Monaco Chicago, located on the banks of the Chicago River, near trendy shopping and the theater district.

Click here for a full list of hotels near Millennium Park.

Hours:
Mon - Sun 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Admission:
Free

Tel: (312) 742-1168

Web address: http://www.millenniumpark.org