1926 view of Edward Bennett's Peristyle in Grant Park Chicago

Wrigley Square

Visiting Millennium Monument in Chicago: Hours, Tickets, and Tips

Date: 31/07/2024

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Millennium Park, the Millennium Monument, also known as the Wrigley Square Monument, stands as an iconic symbol of history, art, and community spirit. Announced by Mayor Richard M. Daley in March 1998, Millennium Park aimed to transform a blighted area east of Michigan Avenue into a vibrant cultural hub. The park’s ambitious vision included the construction of the Millennium Monument, a tribute to the original peristyle that once graced Grant Park (Chicago Magazine). Designed by the architectural firm OWP/P, now known as CannonDesign, the monument features a semicircular row of Doric-style columns made from Indiana limestone, reflecting Chicago’s rich architectural heritage.

The Millennium Monument was dedicated on July 16, 2004, during the grand opening of Millennium Park. Despite facing significant financial challenges, including a cost overrun from the initial $150 million budget to $490 million, the park’s development was made possible through a combination of public and private funding (Chicago Magazine). Today, the monument serves as a northern gateway to Millennium Park, welcoming visitors with its grandeur and historical significance. It stands as a testament to Chicago’s commitment to public art and green spaces, offering a serene and culturally rich experience for both locals and tourists alike.

Introduction
Origins and Initial Vision
Design and Construction
Financial Challenges and Overruns
Dedication and Public Reception
Architectural Significance
Role in Millennium Park
Cultural and Social Impact
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Events and Activities
Dining Options
Safety and Security
FAQ
Conclusion

Origins and Initial Vision

The concept of Millennium Park, including the Millennium Monument, was first publicly announced by Mayor Richard M. Daley in March 1998. The initial vision for the park included a $150 million budget, with $120 million sourced from parking revenue bonds and the remaining $30 million from private donations (Chicago Magazine). The park was intended to transform a blighted area east of Michigan Avenue, previously a gravel parking lot marred by defunct railroad tracks.

Design and Construction

The Millennium Monument was designed as a tribute to the original peristyle that stood in Grant Park from 1917 to 1953. The new peristyle, a semicircular row of Doric-style columns, was constructed to honor the donors who contributed to the creation of Millennium Park. The architectural firm OWP/P, now known as CannonDesign, spearheaded the design. Construction began in the late 1990s and was completed in time for the park’s grand opening in July 2004.

Financial Challenges and Overruns

The construction of Millennium Park, including the Millennium Monument, faced significant financial challenges. Initially estimated at $150 million, the total cost ballooned to $490 million by the time the park opened in 2004. This increase was due to various factors, including construction blunders, contract disputes, and the need for additional funding beyond the initial budget (Chicago Magazine). The city had to dip into Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds, totaling $95 million, to cover some of the overruns.

Dedication and Public Reception

The Millennium Monument was dedicated on July 16, 2004, during the park’s grand opening. The dedication ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Mayor Daley and representatives from the Wrigley Company, which had made significant contributions to the park’s funding. The monument quickly became a symbol of Chicago’s civic pride and a testament to the city’s commitment to public art and green spaces.

Architectural Significance

The Millennium Monument is a faithful recreation of the original peristyle that once graced Grant Park. The structure features 12 pairs of Doric columns, each standing 40 feet tall, arranged in a semicircle. The design pays homage to classical Greek architecture, reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage. The columns are made of Indiana limestone, chosen for its durability and historical significance.

Role in Millennium Park

As the northern gateway to Millennium Park, the Millennium Monument welcomes visitors with its grandeur and historical significance. It is located in Wrigley Square, a beautifully landscaped area that includes a reflecting pool and lush gardens. The monument’s inscription honors the donors who made the park possible, serving as a lasting tribute to their generosity.

Since its dedication, the Millennium Monument has become a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists. It is often used as a backdrop for wedding photos, public events, and cultural celebrations. The monument’s presence underscores Chicago’s commitment to creating inclusive public spaces that celebrate art, history, and community.

Visitor Information

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit the Millennium Monument are early in the morning or late in the evening. These times offer a more serene experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the monument’s architectural beauty without the distraction of large crowds. The park is beautifully illuminated in the evening, providing a different but equally captivating perspective (Uncle Hams).

Getting There

Millennium Monument is located at the northeast corner of Millennium Park, at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street. Here are some convenient ways to reach the monument:

Public Transportation: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers several options. The nearest ‘L’ train stations are the Red Line’s Lake Station and the Blue Line’s Washington Station. The Metra Electric District Line stops at Millennium Station, right across from the park (Wanderlust America).
Walking: If you are staying in downtown Chicago, walking to the park is a convenient and scenic option.
Driving: There are several parking garages around Millennium Park, including the Millennium Park Garage. Parking fees range from $20 to $40 (Your Chicago Guide).

Navigating the Park

Millennium Park is a pedestrian-only space, so no pets, bikes, skateboards, or rollerblades are allowed (Lattes and Runways). The park is relatively small, covering just under 25 acres, making it easy to explore on foot. Here are some tips for navigating the park:

Entrances: The main entrances are along Michigan Avenue, Randolph Street, and Monroe Street. Security checks are conducted at these entrances, especially during events (Chicago Government).
Accessibility: All entrances have ramps, and the park is wheelchair accessible. For more information on accessibility, visit the Millennium Park website.

What to Bring

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit, consider bringing the following items:

Comfortable Shoes: The park is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Dress in layers, especially during the spring and fall, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
Camera: Capture the beautiful architecture and scenic views.
Picnic Supplies: The Great Lawn is a perfect spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages (Your Chicago Guide).

Nearby Attractions

The Millennium Monument is part of the larger Millennium Park, which is packed with attractions. Here are some nearby highlights:

Cloud Gate (The Bean): This iconic sculpture by Anish Kapoor is a must-see. Its reflective surface offers unique photo opportunities (Culture Trip).
Jay Pritzker Pavilion: Designed by Frank Gehry, this outdoor concert venue hosts free concerts and events throughout the year (Your Chicago Guide).
Crown Fountain: This interactive fountain features LED screens displaying the faces of Chicagoans, with water spouting from their mouths during the summer (Your Chicago Guide).
Lurie Garden: A beautiful, five-acre garden that offers free guided tours and events (Your Chicago Guide).

Events and Activities

The Millennium Monument often serves as a backdrop for various events and activities in Millennium Park. From concerts at the nearby Jay Pritzker Pavilion to seasonal events like the lighting of the Chicago Christmas tree, the monument is a central feature in many of the park’s happenings. These events provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the monument in a lively and festive atmosphere (TripSavvy).

Dining Options

While there are no dining facilities directly at the Millennium Monument, there are several options within Millennium Park and nearby:

Park Grill: Located near the Cloud Gate, this restaurant offers American cuisine and a large outdoor patio.
Momentum Coffee: Situated under Cloud Gate, this café serves coffee, pastries, and Chicago-style hot dogs (Chicago Government).
Nearby Restaurants: The park’s central location means you are just a short walk away from numerous dining options along Michigan Avenue and in the Loop neighborhood.

Safety and Security

Millennium Park is a safe and welcoming space for everyone. Here are some safety tips:

Security Checks: Bag checks and security screenings are conducted at park entrances, especially during events (Chicago Government).
Youth Escort Policy: Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult after 6 PM from Thursday to Sunday (Chicago Government).
Lost and Found: If you lose an item, contact the Welcome Center at 312-742-1168 (Chicago Government).

FAQ

What are the visiting hours for Millennium Monument? The monument is open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM.
Is there an admission fee? No, admission to Millennium Monument is free.
Are guided tours available? Yes, free walking tours are offered by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) from April to October (Chicago Government).
Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, all entrances have ramps, and the park is wheelchair accessible.
Can I bring my pet to the park? No, pets are not allowed in Millennium Park.

Conclusion

The Millennium Monument in Chicago’s Millennium Park is more than just a historical structure; it is a living symbol of the city’s resilience, creativity, and community spirit. Since its dedication in 2004, the monument has become a beloved landmark, drawing millions of visitors each year. Its architectural beauty, cultural significance, and role in promoting accessibility and inclusivity make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Chicago.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to relax, the Millennium Monument offers something for everyone. From its origins and initial vision to its design and construction, the monument embodies the collaborative spirit that brought Millennium Park to life. As the park continues to evolve with new public art installations and cultural programming, the Millennium Monument remains a cherished landmark, celebrating Chicago’s dedication to public art and urban beautification (Chicago Magazine, Chicago.gov, TripSavvy).