1. Snap a pic by Cloud Gate (a.k.a. The Bean)
Plug #Chicago into Instagram and the first image you’ll likely see is “The Bean.” This stunning piece of public art, which was created by Indian-born British artist Sir Anish Kapoor is actually called Cloud Gate, is a must-see for families coming to Chicago. Kids will love making funny faces in the bean’s curvy mirrored surface, and walking underneath it can be an experience in and of itself. The plaza around the bean is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and it gets pretty busy during the day, so if you’re hoping for a shot sans the crowds (and you happen to have a family full of early risers), it’s best to head out to see it in the morning before 10 a.m.
Photo: Courtesy of Choose Chicago 2. Explore Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park
Just past The Bean are Millennium and Maggie Daley parks. Millennium Park is home to a large amphitheatre that hosts concerts, workout classes and other special events throughout the year. Check the park’s events calendar beforehand to see what’s happening at the park during your trip. At Maggie Daley Park, you can let your kids explore the large Play Garden, which features six distinct play areas filled with slides, play structures, interactive installations and lots of space to run around. In the colder months, the skating ribbon, an outdoor rink that loops around the park’s rock climbing structure, is a family must-do.
Photo: Kevin John Siazon
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