The Bean of Chicago

Okay, it's really not named "The Bean" as many people call it.  The real name of this sculpture is actually Cloud Gate and was created by Anish Kapoor, an Indian-born British sculptor.  It currently sits at the center of Millennium Park in the wonderful Midwestern city of Chicago, Illinois.

Cloud Gate in Millennium Park

I have had a chance to see Cloud Gate on two different occasions, and while it really is just a large sculpture, its size, style and location in the center of Chicago give it a little more appeal than other sculptures like the Giant Free Stamp in Cleveland.  Standing 33 feet high, the stainless steel sculpture acts as a giant mirror.  With all of its curves, it distorts all the buildings of the Chicago skyline and everything else it reflects.  What's neat about this piece is that you can actually walk up and touch it - even stand underneath it inside.  If you stand in the right place under or near it, you'll get the chance to see your face reflected several times over and bent in all sorts of shapes and sizes - like the ultimate fun-house mirror.  We spent several minutes here, amusing ourselves by looking from several angles.

People All Around

If you're looking to get a picture of Cloud Gate on its own, it may be a challenge.  Since it was put out in 2006, it has become a popular destination for pictures by tourists and locals alike.  Many will stay in front of it or under it for a long time, so don't be surprised if your pictures contain many other people (or if you show up in other people's picture).  Certainly, all of our pictures ended up with people in it.

Pin Stops Ranking: 3 Pins

There's something unique and maybe even romantic about Cloud Gate.  It might be that I'm "clouded" for my love of Chicago, but I think it's worth seeing during a visit to the Windy City.  Its proximity to many other locations (Buckingham Fountain, Shedd Aquarium, State Street shopping, etc.) is a big plus.  Not only that, Millennium Park is not a bad place to check out, especially during the warm weather months.

For more on my Pinstop Rankings, check out this post.