Millennium Park

The Basics

There’s a lot to see and do in Millennium Park. Visitors can check out their reflection in the Cloud Gate—a steel sculpture affectionately nicknamed “The Bean” by Chicago locals; catch a live show in Harris Theater or Jay Pritzker Pavilion; visit the curvy, columned Millennium Monument in Wrigley Square; take a stroll down Chase Promenade; watch giant projected videos of facial expressions on the Crown Fountain tower blocks; and explore numerous other outdoor attractions. On sunny days, the Great Lawn and 100-foot (30-meter) Running Table are ideal picnicking spots.

Millennium Park is a true Chicago highlight, so most guided city tours stop there. Visit on a hop-on hop-off bus tour to explore at your own pace, or see the park on an electric bike, segway, or bus tour. Visitors can also admire Millennium Park’s dramatic nighttime lighting on a sunset or evening excursion, or head to the top of Willis Tower’s Skydeck to see the park from above.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There are several concession stands in the park, as well as Park Grill—a 300-seat eatery located in McCormick Tribune Plaza.

• Rollerblading and skateboarding are not allowed in the park.

• The park is fully wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs can be borrowed from the Millennium Park Welcome Center.

How to Get There

Millennium Park is located in downtown Chicago’s Loop district, on the northwest side of Grant Park. It is bordered by North Michigan Avenue, Columbus Drive, Randolph Street, and Monroe Drive. The easiest way to reach the park is by public transit—multiple city buses stop nearby, as does Chicago’s elevated train.

When to Get There

Millennium Park is open year-round, but Chicago’s weather is most pleasant in spring, summer, and fall. Summer visitors can enjoy the park’s concert series and cool off at the Crown Fountain splash park, while winter visitors can skate at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink.

Nearby Attractions

Millennium Park is part of Chicago’s larger Grant Park. Nearby attractions include the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum of Natural History, John G. Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops in the adjacent downtown area.

How long does it take to go through Millennium Park?

If you have a free morning or afternoon, Millennium Park is an ideal stop. On a sunny day, you can fill four hours by taking selfies by the Cloud Gate, strolling around Lurie Garden, and eating at food trucks or picnic spots that dot the park.

How much does it cost to go to Millennium Park?

Entry to the Millennium Park in Chicago is free, although—as with most visits to city parks—you’ll have ample chances to spend on other things such as parking, coffee, and food. Free tours sometimes take place in the park, usually offered by the Chicago Cultural Center’s Greeter Service.

How long do people spend at Millennium Park?

Visitors to Millennium Park tend to stay there for half a day, although there are plenty of temptations to linger longer, especially when the weather is good. A visit to the park’s Harris Theater or the Boeing Galleries can add another couple of hours.

What’s special about Millennium Park?

Millennium Park is a special place for Chicagoans and visitors due to its downtown lakefront location, green spaces, and free admission. It also showcases lots of public art and thought-provoking architecture, along with activities such as rock climbing and ice skating.

Can you walk around Millennium Park?

Yes, Millennium Park is a great place to walk, with lots of trails that are open to walkers and bikers. All park entranceways and walkways have been designed to be wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, making it a walkable place for everybody. (Except maybe dog owners, as only service dogs are allowed.)

Ways to explore

There’s a lot to see and do in Millennium Park. Check out your reflection in The Bean, see a performance at the Harris Theater or the outdoor Jay Pritzker Pavilion, relax in the Lurie Garden, or watch giant faces spout plumes of water at the Crown Fountain. On sunny days, the Great Lawn and 100-foot (30-meter) Running Table are ideal picnicking spots.

Millennium Park is a true Chicago highlight, so most guided city tours stop there. Visit as part of a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or on a bike, Segway, or walking tour. Alternatively, spot it on a Lake Michigan cruise.

Accessibility

All areas of Millennium Park are accessible to wheelchair users, and select park venues offer accommodations for visitors with other disabilities.

Age limits

None, although some park venues or events may operate their own policies.

What to pack

Sun protection, camera, umbrella, picnic supplies

What to wear

Most of Millennium Park’s attractions are outdoors, so come prepared with weather-appropriate gear.

Not allowed

Pets, large bags or coolers, open flames, visitors under 18 exploring without a guardian after 6pm, Friday–Sunday

Amenities

Welcome center, restrooms, food and drink concessions, water fountains

Address

Millennium Park is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Chicago, right on the Lake Michigan waterfront. It’s possible to drive to the park, and make use of area parking garages. Alternatively, use public transit, taxis or rideshare services, or tours with included transportation.

Driving

Millennium Park can be accessed by major thoroughfares including Michigan Avenue and DuSable Lake Shore Drive. A number of paid parking garages are located in the vicinity; rates vary.

Public transportation

Take the Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, or Purple lines of the Chicago L to Washington & Wabash station. Alternatively, take Metra or South Shore Line commuter rail services to Millennium Park station.

Best times to visit

Millennium Park is open daily, from early morning until late at night. Visit during the day to check out its main tourist attractions, drop by at sunset for beautiful lakefront views, or attend an evening show.

Best days to visit

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions, and is especially busy on weekends and during school holidays. Aim for a weekday for a slightly calmer experience.

Best months to visit

Summer is the most popular time at Millennium Park, and when the bulk of its seasonal festivals are held. Alternatively, for slightly fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures, aim for spring or early autumn.

Special events

Millennium Park hosts a number of annual festivals, including summertime favorites such as the Summer Music Series, Summer Film Series, Chicago Jazz Festival, and Chicago Blues Festival.