No Blues About It: A Day In Chicago’s Millenium Park

I hope you all had a lovely Thanksgiving weekend! Mine was spent with my parents who came to visit me here in Chicago. We could not have asked for nicer weather for the end of November…sunny and in the 40’s and 50’s. I will take that when I can get it. It’s always nice to spend time in my city – especially with family, especially over a long weekend and especially when I have been on the road a lot.

One of my favorite places to go in the city, and a favorite of all of my guests, is Millenium Park. Lucky for me, my office sits right at the base of the park, and I have a desk that overlooks it all. (More of that view to come later this week!) Being able to look out the window, while in the midst of sending emails, and see the southern half of Chicago and all of Millenium Park, Grant Park and Lake Michigan is pretty amazing. I have to remind myself of how lucky I am to have that view.

Shifting focus back to Millenium Park – if you live in Chicago you likely have been many times and if not, it is a must for a visitors checklist. Situated between Lake Michigan and the old-time skyscrapers of the Loop is the lush greenery of the park, which offers so much to see and do. Here you will find the iconic Bean (properly known as Cloud Gate), which is a long standing artistic landmark in Chicago. You will also find Pritzker Pavilion where many concerts and movies take place over the summer months. In winter, the ice rink is a popular destination, as well as a glimpse of the city’s official Chrsitmas Tree. Popular year round is Maggie Daley Park, which offers a huge jungle gym, an ice-skating ribbon and rock climbing. See, I told you there is a lot to see and do! And this is just what’s available in the park – steps away you will find many more top Chicago destinations!

Maybe even more important than visiting the park is what you will wear to the park! Okay, probably not for everyone, but for some. I mean, you will want to look good for all those photos you will be taking in front of the Bean, right?! As you know, I love my colorful winter coats, so one of those is a no-brainer for a day at the park. Add in a colorful hat and scarf, with cozy gloves and you will be a warm, and happy camper. Comfy shoes will be needed as you will likely be covering a lot of ground. Boots that you can comfortably walk in are perfect, since they add some extra warmth on a chilly day. (It is it the windy city after all, so that should be expected.) A great bag, with room for all your essentials (again, a camera for those pictures) is a must. And on the chance you happen to spend a sunny day in the park, you will need a great pair of sunglasses. Mine are from Nectar, and not only look good, but support a wonderful cause. [Hint – They are the bees knees.}