
Picasso at Daley Plaza
A monumental 50-ft Cor-Ten steel sculpture by Pablo Picasso, a free and iconic Chicago landmark in Daley Plaza.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & food

Picasso at Daley Plaza
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & food

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental 50-ft Cor-Ten steel sculpture by Pablo Picasso, a free and iconic Chicago landmark in Daley Plaza.
"It's what art is for, up to the viewer's interpretation."

📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture unique angles of the sculpture; it looks different from every side!
🚶♂️ Walk Around It
Don't just admire from afar, explore the base and sides for hidden details.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Picasso Sculpture
Daley Plaza
A towering 50-foot Cor-Ten steel masterpiece by Pablo Picasso, dedicated in 1967.

Interpretive Views
Around the sculpture
See it from different angles to discover its hidden forms – some say it resembles an Afghan Hound!

Daley Plaza Farmers Market
Daley Plaza
Enjoy local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors, especially on market days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mystery
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture unique angles of the sculpture; it looks different from every side!
🚶♂️ Walk Around It
Don't just admire from afar, explore the base and sides for hidden details.
🍎 Farmers Market Finds
Grab a bite or a unique souvenir at the market on select days.
🕊️ Pigeon Companions
Be prepared for local feathered friends; they're part of the Daley Plaza experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture unique angles of the sculpture; it looks different from every side!
🚶♂️ Walk Around It
Don't just admire from afar, explore the base and sides for hidden details.
🍎 Farmers Market Finds
Grab a bite or a unique souvenir at the market on select days.
🕊️ Pigeon Companions
Be prepared for local feathered friends; they're part of the Daley Plaza experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Picasso sculpture at Daley Plaza to be an iconic and thought-provoking landmark. Many appreciate its free accessibility and unique abstract design, which sparks personal interpretation. While some find it a bit stark, its presence is undeniably a significant part of Chicago's public art scene.
"Was trying to find what the sculpture is all about, had the chance to walk from behind it along on of the streets. Was able to see there’s a side view of a man there. Not sure if it was intentional or what. But nevertheless, it’s what art is for, up to the viewer’s interpretation."
Albert Elijah de la Peña
"The iconic sculpture from the blues brothers, complete with pigeons and all!"
JETS
"Not as crowded as Navy Pier for sure. But good to see an iconic location."
Susan M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Daley Plaza is centrally located in downtown Chicago, easily accessible by public transportation. Several CTA 'L' train lines stop nearby, including the Washington/Wabash, Monroe, and Jackson stations. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Parking garages are available, but can be expensive.
Yes, there are several parking garages surrounding Daley Plaza. However, parking in downtown Chicago can be costly, so consider public transit if you're on a budget.
Absolutely! Daley Plaza is a major transit hub. The CTA 'L' trains (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple lines) stop at Washington/Wabash, and the Red Line stops at Monroe. Many bus routes also stop directly at or near the plaza.
Daley Plaza is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with ramps and paved pathways. The sculpture itself is an outdoor installation, allowing for viewing from various points around the plaza.
From O'Hare, take the CTA Blue Line train directly into the city to the Washington station. From there, it's a short walk or a quick transfer to another line to reach Daley Plaza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza is a public art installation and is free to view and admire from the outside.
Daley Plaza is an open public space and is accessible 24/7. However, surrounding buildings and any specific events within the plaza may have their own operating hours.
There is no admission fee. The sculpture is a gift to the city and is meant for everyone to enjoy.
While there are no physical barriers preventing touching, it's generally advised to admire public art from a respectful distance to preserve its integrity.
While official guided tours specifically for the sculpture might not be common, many Chicago architecture and public art tours include Daley Plaza and the Picasso as a stop.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Yes, photography is generally permitted in Daley Plaza for personal use. Be mindful of any ongoing events or private functions that might have restrictions.
Drone usage is typically restricted in downtown Chicago areas, especially around public buildings and plazas. It's best to check with local authorities or the City of Chicago for current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scale of the sculpture. However, even a smartphone can capture its unique form and details effectively.
Experiment with different angles! Walking around the sculpture and looking up from its base, or viewing it from across the plaza, can yield dramatic shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Daley Plaza is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and food options. The Daley Plaza Farmers Market also offers delicious food stalls on market days.
The market features a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and artisanal products. You might find anything from empanadas to gourmet sandwiches.
While some restaurants in the immediate vicinity can be pricey, you can find more affordable options by exploring a few blocks away or opting for food stalls at the farmers market.
Picnicking is generally allowed in public plazas. You can bring your own food or purchase items from nearby eateries or the farmers market.
The Daley Center building itself has some dining facilities, including cafes and restaurants, though their hours may vary.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a Farmers Market day for added entertainment. Children can enjoy browsing the stalls, and there are often food vendors offering kid-friendly snacks. The open space of Daley Plaza also allows for a bit of running around, making it a more relaxed experience than crowded indoor attractions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't just focus on the sculpture itself. The surrounding architecture of Daley Plaza, including the Daley Center and City Hall, provides a compelling urban backdrop. Look for interesting reflections in the building windows or capture the sculpture against the city skyline. The farmers market, when active, also offers vibrant scenes and candid moments.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the plaza or grabbing affordable eats from the Daley Plaza Farmers Market on market days. Public transportation is also the most economical way to reach Daley Plaza from other parts of the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the Sculpture
Picasso himself never revealed the intended subject of the sculpture, famously stating, 'The critics can say whatever they want. I have given what I have to give.' This ambiguity is part of its enduring appeal, inviting viewers to project their own interpretations onto its abstract form. Some see the head of an Afghan Hound, while others find different meanings, making it a truly interactive piece of art.
Its placement in Daley Plaza, a bustling civic space, ensures it's seen and experienced by millions annually. The sculpture has become an iconic backdrop for city life, from political rallies to casual strolls, solidifying its place in Chicago's cultural landscape.
Experiencing Daley Plaza
Beyond the sculpture, Daley Plaza hosts various events throughout the year. The Daley Plaza Farmers Market is a highlight, offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and a lively atmosphere on market days. It's a fantastic opportunity to sample local flavors and find unique goods. The plaza also serves as a venue for seasonal celebrations, public gatherings, and sometimes even musical performances, adding to its energetic ambiance.
When visiting, take time to appreciate the surrounding architecture, including the Daley Center and City Hall. The plaza's open design encourages exploration, whether you're pausing for a photo, enjoying a quick lunch from a market vendor, or simply soaking in the city's atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit