The Bean: A Chicagoland Question of Epic Proportions
Ah, the Bean. Chicago's beloved giant reflective legume, a tourist magnet, and a source of endless amusement (because, really, it's a giant bean). So, the burning question on your mind is: can you see the Bean right now?
Well, buckle up, my friend, because the answer is both a hilarious maybe and a cautionary tale.
Hold on, isn't the Bean, you know, always there?
You'd think so, right? It's a giant bean, not a shy hermit crab. But plot twist! Our beloved Bean is currently undergoing some serious spa time.
Since August 2023, the plaza surrounding the Bean has been under construction for some much-needed TLC. This means getting up close and personal with the Bean for that perfect selfie might be a challenge.
But can I even SEE the Bean?
There is a glimmer of hope, my friend! Construction isn't exactly a fortress around the Bean. You can likely still catch a glimpse of its glorious, reflective surface. Just imagine it winking at you from behind a fence, like a celebrity hiding from paparazzi (because, let's face it, the Bean is a celebrity in the Chicago art world).
Is it worth seeing the Bean during construction?
Honestly, that depends on your level of Bean obsession. If you're absolutely dying to see the Bean and can't wait, then sure, head on over. But if you're expecting unobstructed Bean glory, you might be a tad disappointed.
Here's the real pro-tip:
Wait until construction is done! The City of Chicago says the whole thing should be wrapped up by spring 2024, which is basically any day now. Then you can see the Bean in all its shiny, reflective splendor.
In the meantime, here are some alternative activities:
- Channel your inner child and climb Crown Fountain. Just be prepared to get sprayed!
- Get lost in the Lurie Garden. It's a horticultural masterpiece, and way more fragrant than a giant bean.
- Pretend you're a sophisticated art critic at the Art Institute of Chicago. Who needs beans when you have Van Gogh, right?
So, there you have it. The saga of the Bean and its temporary construction woes. But hey, at least you can say you braved the elements to catch a glimpse of Chicago's most famous legume. Now go forth and conquer your Chicago adventure!
