Millennium Park, Chicago

Other than the beautiful landscape, the new home of the Chicago Blues Fest may not have taken into account the crowd draw that this event brings. Seems that the layout is a bit cramped. Grant Park offered a spacious venue​ even with the large draw the event brings, you could move freely from stage to stage with ease. In Millennium Park this was clearly not the case. Moving from one location to another was at times a real challenge. Large crowds cramped the through fares so tightly that only a conga line could make it through. The smaller venues had their performers and of course people stopped to check them out causing a mess to get through. Add in beautiful weather and heat, overcrowding becomes an issue rather quickly. I attend the Chicago Blues Fest every year and have performed there for 5 years straight and I gotta tell you I was physically beat after a few hours. All in all if large crowds in a cramped environment doesn't deter you then by all means go and enjoy. The acts and performers are absolutely great. But I would like to see this event moved back to Grant Park. Will I come back next year? Probably, but my family would rather stay home.

Such a beautiful oasis in the heart of downtown! Chicago is very proactive with preserving their open space. Love walking through and seeing all of the people and activities! Love the Bean and the Fountains. So much to see - we could spend hours here. This time of year there were so many red-winged black birds! Love it!

Great place to visit in the middle of the city. There is an artificial waterfall which is digital and shows smiley faces. Fun for kids to watch and to play in the water. There is also a big bean in the north side of the park which is fun to watch. Parking is underground and costs around thirty dollars. Park itself is free.

Millennium Park is perhaps the most grossly overrated attraction in the city. It is well situated on the lakefront and is very attractive as an open space however there is nothing to do. Once you have seen the video wall and the giant bean you've pretty much seen everything there is to see. Yes there is a playground for children but it is over attended and I have yet to take a child there that can be entertained for more than 20 minutes. The results or artwork but nothing that would warrant a trip. The artwork is typical for what you will find in city parks these days. If you're coming to Chicago just to walk through the park then your expectations are realistic. Beyond that I would take a pass if you are coming more than an hour's distance away. If you do decide to come come during the winter when you will at least be able to skate on the ice ribbon.

An amazingly well kept park with ample space and great locations to hang out with friends, family, and others. The only downside was the ridiculously priced food around there. I would recommend you eat before/after or bring your own unless you want to pay $4 for a mediocre hot dog.