Cloud Gate (The Bean)

Overview

Cloud Gate, also known as 'The Bean,' is a striking, mirror-like sculpture located in Chicago's Millennium Park. This iconic piece of public art, designed by Anish Kapoor, reflects the city's skyline and offers unique photo opportunities.

Cloud Gate is one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of contemporary public art.

Public Art Sculpture

Location

Address

201 E Randolph St., Chicago, Illinois

Neighborhood: The Loop

Coordinates

41.878900, -87.624000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May and September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Fewer crowds and better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half day (including nearby attractions)

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm, occasional rain

• Blooming flowers in Millennium Park
• Mild weather perfect for outdoor activities

summer

Warm to hot, humid

• Outdoor concerts and events
• Extended daylight hours

autumn

Cool, crisp air, occasional rain

• Fall foliage in Millennium Park
• Cooler temperatures

winter

Cold, occasionally below freezing

• Holiday lights and decorations
• Occasional snow

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Free admission
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
No tickets required

What to Bring

essential

Comfortable shoes Camera Water

seasonal

Jacket (spring/fall) Warm coat (winter) Umbrella (rainy days)

not allowed

Alcohol Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low, easy walking on flat surfaces

• Stay hydrated in summer
• Dress warmly in winter

Medical facilities: First aid available at Millennium Park visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $0 (street parking available)

food $10-$25

souvenirs $5-$50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing and shoes, Weather-appropriate clothing, layers recommended, Comfortable walking shoes, None, but respectful attire appreciated

Booking Tips

• Not required, but check for special events
• Chicago Park District website
• N/A
• N/A

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Millennium Park App

Size: 25 MB

Features: Park map, Event schedules, Art information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Millennium Park visitor center, Nearby cafes and restaurants

Charging Stations: Available at the visitor center and nearby restaurants

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Distance: 28 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

taxi

$50-$70 45-60 min

public_transport

$5 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2-5 km

metro

$2.50 15-25 min

bus

$2.25 20-30 min

taxi

$10-$15 10-20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: A unique, iconic piece of public art that's free and accessible to everyone

Historical Significance: Represents Chicago's commitment to public art and contemporary sculpture

Insider Tips

Best photo ops are early in the morning or late in the afternoon
Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Art Institute or Maggie Daley Park

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Art Institute of Chicago
• Explore the Chicago Riverwalk
• Try deep-dish pizza at nearby Lou Malnati's

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, Multiple others (tour guide services)

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Underneath Cloud Gate

Best Time: Golden hour (sunrise or sunset)

Tips: Low angle for the reflection

Result: Iconic 'Bean' reflection shot

#CloudGate #TheBean #Chicago #MillenniumPark #PublicArt

From the south side of the park

Best Time: Midday with clear skies

Tips: High angle for the full view

Result: Clear view of the entire sculpture

#CloudGate #TheBean #ChicagoSkyline #Architecture

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas, including underneath Cloud Gate

prohibited areas None, but respect other visitors' space

flash photography Not recommended (can cause glare on the sculpture)

commercial photography Permit required for professional shoots

drone policy Prohibited without special permit

tripod policy Allowed, but be mindful of crowds

selfie sticks Allowed, but use responsibly

Nearby Attractions

Art Institute of Chicago

Distance: 0.3 km

Walking: 5 min

Type: Museum

Maggie Daley Park

Distance: 0.5 km

Walking: 10 min

Type: Park

Chicago Architecture Center

Distance: 0.4 km

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Chicago Cultural Center

Distance: 0.6 km

Walking: 12 min

Type: Cultural Center

Millennium Park Gardens

Distance: 0.1 km

Walking: 2 min

Type: Garden

Reviews

4.8

Based on 50,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit early in the morning for the best photos"
"Combine with a visit to the Art Institute"
"Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park"

Contact Information

+1 312-742-1168

info@millenniumpark.org

www.millenniumpark.org

Social Media

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