The Burning Question: Can You Actually Visit the Bean in Chicago (and Get That Insta-worthy Shot)?
Ah, the Bean. Chicago's beloved legume (or is it a beanbag? A giant chrome kidney bean?) Regardless of its confusing legume status, Cloud Gate (its much more sophisticated real name) is a must-see for any tourist. But my friend, before you pack your selfie stick and dream of perfectly capturing the Chicago skyline reflected in its shiny surface, there's a crucial question we need to address.
Is the Bean Open for Business (and Selfies)?
Hold your horses (or should we say, soybeans?) Buckle up, because this is where things get interesting. As of May 5, 2024, The Bean is undergoing some much-needed construction. Fear not, fellow selfie enthusiasts! This isn't a permanent hiatus. It's more like a spa day for a giant bean. Imagine the stainless steel polish and buffing involved!
Here's the scoop: The construction on Grainger Plaza, the area surrounding The Bean, is expected to be completed sometime in spring 2024. That means there's a chance you could catch a glimpse of the newly buffed Bean in all its glory during your visit!
However, if you're reading this after that glorious spring day, you might be out of luck for getting up close and personal. But don't fret! There are still ways to experience the magic of The Bean, even from afar.
Bean There, Done That (Even from a Distance): Alternative Bean Adventures
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Channel your inner detective: Put on your trench coat and fedora (optional, but highly encouraged) and try to catch a peek of The Bean from across the street at Cindy's Rooftop Bar. It might not be the perfect photo op, but hey, mystery and intrigue are always fun!
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Go retro: Embrace the vintage postcard vibe and grab a postcard of The Bean from a nearby souvenir shop. Sure, it won't win you any Instagram awards, but it'll be a charming reminder of your trip (and way less crowded).
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Embrace the Bean's spirit animal: Head to the Lincoln Park Zoo and shower some love on their legume-loving residents, the capybaras. They might not be made of reflective steel, but they're darn cute and surprisingly good at chilling (just like The Bean during construction).
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Get your skyline fix elsewhere: The Bean might be famous for its reflections, but it's not the only game in town. Head to 360 CHICAGO for breathtaking panoramic views of the city from a much higher vantage point. You might even see The Bean from up there – who knows, it could be its chance to shine (literally).
So, there you have it. While visiting The Bean might be on hold for now, there are still plenty of ways to experience its quirky charm. Remember, a little construction shouldn't stop you from having a bean-tastic time in Chicago!
