Millennium Sundial - a close up of a metal clock with numbers on it
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Millennium Sundial

4.6
·491k reviews·Grande Prairie, Canada

A functional art piece in Chicago's Millennium Park, the Sundial offers a unique way to tell time and a peaceful spot for reflection.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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Millennium Sundial - a close up of a metal clock with numbers on it

Millennium Sundial

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A functional art piece in Chicago's Millennium Park, the Sundial offers a unique way to tell time and a peaceful spot for reflection.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A charming, free art installation in Millennium Park that offers a unique perspective on time."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Shadow

Wait for the sun to cast a clear shadow to see the sundial in action! Best for photos.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking in Millennium Park, so wear comfy shoes.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sundial Itself

The Sundial Itself

A unique, functional sundial that tells time with a shadow. A fascinating blend of art and science.

Architectural Details

Architectural Details

Admire the intricate design and craftsmanship of the sundial's base and surrounding elements.

Park Views

Park Views

Enjoy picturesque views of Millennium Park and the Chicago skyline from this vantage point.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Millennium Sundial is a popular spot, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid crowds and get the best photos, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. TikTok

Free to Explore

Good news for budget travelers! Access to Millennium Park, including the Millennium Sundial, is completely free. No tickets are required, making it an accessible attraction for everyone. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Top Things to do at Millennium Park in Chicago👇 SAVE this post for later! 1️⃣ Crown Fountain 2️⃣ Cloud Gate aka The Bean 3️⃣ Lurie Garden 4️⃣ Millennium Monument at Wrigley Square 5️⃣ Jay Pritzker Pavilion 6️⃣ Boeing Galleries & exhibitions 7️⃣ BP Bridge that connects to Maggie Daley Park 💰 Free admission! ⏰ Open from 8:00a.m.- 9:00p.m. daily 🚫 At this time, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, the Welcom...
@globetraveler
1.1K likes • 40K views

📸 Capture the Shadow

Wait for the sun to cast a clear shadow to see the sundial in action! Best for photos. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking in Millennium Park, so wear comfy shoes. TikTok

А ви вже пробували? 🍫 #рекомендації #міленіум #шоколад #огляд #verypery @Шоколад Millennium
@coder_tastes
91 likes • 6.8K views

📱 Check the Time

It's a sundial, so it works best on sunny days! Bring your phone for backup time. TikTok

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Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Shadow

Wait for the sun to cast a clear shadow to see the sundial in action! Best for photos. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking in Millennium Park, so wear comfy shoes. TikTok

📱 Check the Time

It's a sundial, so it works best on sunny days! Bring your phone for backup time. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the Millennium Sundial as a unique and free attraction within the larger, vibrant Millennium Park. It offers a quieter, more contemplative experience compared to other famous landmarks, making it a pleasant spot for a quick photo or a moment of reflection. Some find it less visually striking than other park features, but its functional art aspect is often highlighted.

What People Like

Free admission
Unique art installation
Quieter atmosphere

What People Dislike

Less visually iconic

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Millennium Sundial is located within Millennium Park in Chicago. You can easily reach it by public transportation, including the 'L' train (various lines stop nearby) or bus routes. Driving is also an option, with several parking garages in the vicinity. TikTok

Yes, Millennium Park is very well-served by public transportation. Several 'L' train lines and numerous bus routes stop within walking distance of the park and the Millennium Sundial. TikTok

From downtown Chicago, you can walk, take a short bus ride, or hop on the 'L' train to reach Millennium Park. It's a central location, making it easy to access from most parts of the city. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages surrounding Millennium Park. However, parking can be expensive, especially during peak hours. Consider public transport for a more budget-friendly option. TikTok

Absolutely! Millennium Park is bike-friendly, with bike racks available. It's a great way to explore the city and arrive at the sundial. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Millennium Park and all its attractions, including the Millennium Sundial, is completely free. You don't need to purchase any tickets. TikTok

The Millennium Sundial is located in Millennium Park, which is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Millennium Park website for any seasonal changes or special event hours. TikTok

There is no admission fee for Millennium Park. It's a public space designed for everyone to enjoy. TikTok

While Millennium Park is open until 9:00 PM, the sundial's functionality depends on sunlight. For the best experience and to see it tell time, visit during daylight hours. TikTok

The Millennium Sundial itself doesn't typically host specific events, but Millennium Park frequently has events at the nearby Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Check the park's schedule for concerts, festivals, and other happenings. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Millennium Sundial is a functional sundial located in Millennium Park, Chicago. It's an artistic installation that uses the sun's shadow to indicate the time. TikTok

Millennium Park is home to many iconic attractions, including Cloud Gate (The Bean), Crown Fountain, Lurie Garden, and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The Millennium Sundial is just one of many points of interest. TikTok

You can see and appreciate the Millennium Sundial in just a few minutes. However, you might want to spend more time in Millennium Park exploring its other famous landmarks. TikTok

Yes, the Millennium Sundial offers unique photo opportunities, especially when the sun casts a clear shadow. It's a less crowded spot than The Bean, offering a different perspective. TikTok

Restrooms are available within Millennium Park. You can find them near the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and other central areas. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography at the Millennium Sundial. The 'golden hour' light creates a beautiful atmosphere. TikTok

The sundial itself is a great subject. You can also frame it with the Chicago skyline or other park elements for varied shots. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in Chicago parks, including Millennium Park, for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check the official park regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Any camera, from a smartphone to a DSLR, can capture great shots. Consider a wide-angle lens to include more of the park in your photos. TikTok

While specific tours for the sundial are rare, many Chicago photography tours of Millennium Park will likely include it as part of their itinerary. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Millennium Park is a fantastic destination for families. While the Millennium Sundial offers a quiet moment of discovery, the Crown Fountain is a guaranteed hit with kids, featuring interactive water jets that mimic faces. The open spaces are perfect for running around, and the nearby Maggie Daley Park offers playgrounds and climbing walls. TikTok

Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are concessions, having your own can save time and money. Comfortable shoes are a must for little feet exploring the vast park. The free admission makes it an ideal budget-friendly outing for the whole family. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Millennium Sundial offers a unique photographic subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light is soft and the shadows are long. It provides a less crowded alternative to the ever-popular 'The Bean' for capturing interesting compositions. TikTok

Beyond the sundial, Millennium Park is a photographer's dream. Cloud Gate offers incredible reflection shots, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion provides striking architectural lines, and the Lurie Garden presents opportunities for nature photography. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the park and its various installations. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, the Millennium Sundial is a perfect spot for a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the city buzz. It’s a chance to appreciate a unique piece of public art without the pressure of group activities. TikTok

Millennium Park itself is very safe and easy to navigate solo. You can spend hours exploring its diverse attractions at your own pace, from the iconic 'The Bean' to the serene Lurie Garden. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Chicago. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Millennium Sundial

The Millennium Sundial is more than just a decorative element; it's a functional timepiece designed to engage visitors with the concept of time and the sun's movement. Located within the expansive Millennium Park, it offers a quieter, more contemplative experience compared to some of the park's more boisterous attractions. Its design often incorporates artistic elements, making it a point of interest for both art enthusiasts and those curious about its practical use. TikTok

Visitors often find the Millennium Sundial to be a charming spot for a quick photo or a moment of reflection. Unlike digital clocks, it relies on the natural progression of the sun, encouraging a slower pace and an appreciation for celestial mechanics. Its presence in the park adds a layer of historical and scientific interest to the modern landscape of Chicago's urban oasis. TikTok

While it might not be the most famous landmark in Millennium Park, the Millennium Sundial provides a unique perspective on timekeeping and a peaceful escape. It’s a testament to how art and science can coexist, offering a subtle yet engaging experience for those who take the time to notice it. TikTok

Exploring Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a world-renowned public space in Chicago, celebrated for its innovative architecture, public art, and vibrant atmosphere. Beyond the Millennium Sundial, the park is home to iconic landmarks like Cloud Gate (affectionately known as 'The Bean'), where visitors can capture stunning reflections of the city skyline. Another must-see is the Crown Fountain, an interactive video sculpture featuring the faces of Chicagoans. TikTok

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the Lurie Garden offers a beautifully landscaped oasis, providing a serene escape from the urban bustle. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion, designed by Frank Gehry, is a striking architectural marvel and a popular venue for concerts and cultural events throughout the year. The BP Bridge offers a unique pedestrian walkway, connecting Millennium Park to Maggie Daley Park and providing elevated views. TikTok

Navigating Millennium Park is straightforward, with well-maintained paths and clear signage. It's a place where art, nature, and urban design converge, offering something for every visitor. Whether you're interested in photography, art, relaxation, or simply enjoying the city's energy, Millennium Park delivers a memorable experience. TikTok