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Parking Your Butt to See the Bean: A Guide for the Clueless
So, you're finally making the pilgrimage to Chicago to behold the majesty that is The Bean. Bravo! You've made a wise choice. But let's address the elephant in the room (or should I say, the bean in the park?): parking.
Where to Park Your Ride (or Rent a Goat)
Parking in Chicago is like trying to find a decent parking spot in New York – a frustrating, soul-sucking experience. But fear not, intrepid Bean-seeker! We've got you covered.
- The Obvious Choice: Millennium Park Garages. There are a few scattered around the park, but be prepared to pay a king's ransom (or at least a Chicagoan's ransom). It's like paying a toll to enter the Louvre, but hey, you're seeing a piece of modern art, right?
- The Sneaky Smart Choice: Street Parking. If you're feeling adventurous (or broke), you can try your luck with street parking. But beware the dreaded "No Parking" signs, the evil meter maids, and the possibility of getting your car towed faster than you can say "deep dish pizza."
- The Uber/Lyft Option: If you're not a fan of parking drama, consider taking an Uber or Lyft. It's more expensive, but you'll save your sanity and maybe even make some small talk with your driver about the best hot dog spots.
Tips for Surviving the Bean Parking Saga
- Arrive Early: This is especially true on weekends and holidays. The Bean is a popular attraction, and parking spots fill up faster than a deep dish pizza on a Friday night.
- Use a Parking App: There are several apps that can help you find available parking spots, like SpotHero and ParkWhiz. These apps can save you time and money.
- Walk, Don't Drive: Once you've parked, consider walking around the area. There's plenty to see and do in the vicinity, and you'll burn off some calories before indulging in Chicago's famous food scene.
How to...
- How to avoid getting a parking ticket: Pay attention to signs, feed the meter, and don't park illegally. It's not rocket science.
- How to find the cheapest parking: Use parking apps, arrive early, and be willing to walk a bit.
- How to survive the crowds: Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and be patient.
- How to get the best photo of the Bean: Experiment with different angles and lighting. And don't forget to clean your camera lens!
- How to enjoy your Chicago visit: Relax, take it all in, and savor the experience.