A Day In The Life Of A Chicago Tourist

     

     Ok, so as you guessed from the title of this post, my dad and I just came back from a 24/h trip to Chicago. Overall the trip was truly amazing. I never thought I would say this but I actually missed how the city felt. The traffic, the smells, the stampede of people moving in different directions, even sirens that go on every couple of minutes (God, I really am a city boy).

     Without any doubt, and just as any perfect tourist stereotypes, the first thing we did is… Well we got lost! But not for long though, after all how hard is it to find your way when all technological gadgets contain a satellite map telling you your exact location and which way to go.

    It wasn’t long till we started our adventure of exploring downtown Chicago by walking through as many streets as possible. About three hours worth of walking and we still haven’t seen it all. However we did get to see most of the Chicago Theatre District along with the Millennium Park.

     One thing that made me drop my jaws in awe was none other than the Crown Fountain. One of the highlights in the Millennium Park, it’s composed of a black granite reflecting pool placed between two 15 meters tall, 71 meters wide glass brick towers.

     Both towers are lit up with LED lighting that shows moving images of Chicago residents’ faces. It amazed me so much I just HAD to research it to get as much information about it as possible!

   

But have no worries, I won’t bore you with all the details. I just want you to imagine how huge the landmark is. Anyway if you’re interested in knowing some more facts, then you’re wasting your time here. Go do your own research (but don’t leave before you finish reading this though).

     Obviously one of the most attractive places in the park, the place was crowded, filled with children. Many of them simply playing in the water, or even trying to stand right under the waterspout. (Oh you still didn’t do your research? Procrastinating again aren’t we?)

     Let me explain then. As I said earlier, the screens show the faces of Chicago residents. Each one lasts for a bout five minutes ending with them squeezing their lips at which point water shoots out from their mouths.

     For your delight, I took a 30 seconds video just to show you a glimpse of what it actually looks like. Mind you, I am no professional cameraman. So, while you’re watching, please don’t mind the finger in the bottom left corner of the video and concentrate on the fountain damn it!

     Long story short, the Crown Fountain is a mesmerizing concept for a sculpture. I can see how it can get old quickly if you live right next to it though. It’s definitely a very relaxing place early in the morning (you know, before the screaming kids show up).

     The place is always kept fresh by the continuous joy that visitors and tourists (such as my dad and myself) show while seeing it for the first time.  It is definitely a stunning public work of art that everyone can enjoy. A must see if you ever get a chance to go the Chicago!