Millennium Park Chicago is so much more than a park–it's actually the world's largest rooftop garden. Perched atop parking garages and even a rail line, Millennium Park was conceived in 2004 as a way to beautify downtown Chicago. Nearly two decades later, it's become one of Chicago's most popular–and most recognizable–attractions. Planning a trip to the City in a Garden? Here's your guide to things to do in Millennium Park. What is Millennium Park known for? Millennium Park is home to nearly a dozen unique attractions, but it's best known for the Cloud Gate, better known as the “Bean.” More than 12.9 million people visit the park each year, many of whom either pose in front of the Bean or take a mirror selfie in its reflection. Millennium Park is also known for the ice skating rink in the winter and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an outdoor amphitheater. 11 Best Things to Do in Millennium Park Millennium Park is the heart of downtown Chicago. Though it sits at the end of Chicago's Magnificent Mile and alongside famous landmarks like the Willis Tower skyscraper, it's a destination all its own. Here are the 11 best things to do in and around Millennium Park: Cloud Gate, aka The Bean: This is Chicago's favorite place to take a picture. Catch your reflection by walking around it and even underneath it. The curved passage beneath it is actually why it's called the Cloud Gate. Special Events All Year Long: Millennium Park events are a must for any trip to Chicago. Favorites include the summer Film Series and Music Series. Wrigley Square and the Millennium Monument: Wrigley Square is a peaceful corner of the park. It features a small, tree-lined lawn, a row of stone columns, and a fountain. Jay Pritzker Pavilion: This bandshell is one of Chicago's best-known outdoor event venues. Artists of all genres perform here, but classical artists often populate the schedule. Crown Fountain: Cool off in the fountain or simply watch the LED sculpture in the center that projects different faces, creating the illusion that the fountain is flowing from each of their mouths. The Great Lawn: Though this green, grassy lawn becomes the seating for Jay Pritzker Pavilion, on non-concert days it's the perfect place to picnic or play in the shadow of towering Chicago skyscrapers. Lurie Garden: This five-acre botanical garden features trees, flowers, and plants, all of which support the garden's biodiversity. Don't be surprised if some bees buzz by while you're in the park. Millennium Park Ice Rink: Come winter, this is Chicago's favorite place to lace up their skates. Glide across the rink alongside views of the city skyline. Art Institute of Chicago: Though not technically part of the park, the Art Institute of Chicago sits at Millennium Park's southern edge. Peruse collections from around the globe, dating back thousands of years. BP Pedestrian Bridge: This otherworldly metal bridge appears to twist in the air, but it actually offers safe passage to adjacent Maggie Daley Park and its play garden. Ice Skating Ribbon: Skip the rink and skate the ribbon instead, which offers a meandering loop in nearby Maggie Daley Park. Stay Close to Millennium Park With countless things to do and not nearly enough days on your vacation, staying close to Millennium Park just makes sense. Best Western River North Chicago sits just one mile from the park, so you can circle back to Millennium Park as many times as you'd like. Explore our downtown guest rooms with views of the Chicago skyline.