Chicago's 'Bean' in Millennium Park reopens after completion of renovations

In Chicago, the iconic tourist attraction known as "The Bean" has reopened to the public after undergoing nearly a year of renovations and construction. The sculpture, officially named "Cloud Gate" and created by artist Anish Kapoor, had been closed off to visitors since August last year for the construction work. The renovations included improvements to the plaza surrounding the sculpture such as new stairs, accessible ramps, and a waterproofing system. The reflective surface of the bean-shaped sculpture, inspired by liquid mercury, is a popular spot for tourists to take selfies with views of skyscrapers and crowds reflected on its surface. City officials announced the reopening of the plaza, inviting visitors to come back and enjoy full access to the iconic Cloud Gate. The area surrounding the sculpture, known as Grainger Plaza, underwent significant upgrades during the renovation process, with additional landscaping improvements still to come. Despite ongoing work, access to Cloud Gate will not be limited, allowing visitors to once again experience the popular attraction. The reopening of the plaza coincides with the upcoming 20th-anniversary celebrations of Millennium Park, scheduled to take place from July 18-21. The event will feature various activities, performances, and new public art installations across the park. Millennium Park, where Cloud Gate is located, has been a bustling tourist hub since the sculpture's unveiling in 2004. The reopening of the plaza marks a significant milestone for both locals and visitors who frequent the park. With the completion of the renovations and construction, the public can once again enjoy the unique experience of interacting with the reflective sculpture and capturing memorable moments in front of the iconic landmark.