Encompassing Millennium Park (including Cloud Gate), The Art Institute of Chicago, Buckingham Fountain and the Museum Campus, Grant Park is expansive, beautiful and adaptable.
And that's why in Chicago, G is absolutely for Grant Park.
Statue of Major General John A. Logan
found near Grant Park's southern boundary
The park sits on what is actually "fill" from the Chicago fire. As the city cleaned up after the tragedy, debris was pushed into Lake Michigan creating the land fill that is now Chicago's front yard. In 1901 the park was officially named Grant Park after the 18th president of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. The park's current landscaping is based on guidelines outlined in Daniel Burnham's 1909 plan for Chicago.
Over the years, it's been home to several historic events including President Barack Obama's Election Day victory speech in 2008. Each summer the park plays host to some of the city's biggest events including The Taste of Chicago, the Grant Park music festival, Lollapalooza and the start and finish of the Chicago marathon.
Grant Park is Chicago's playground and I'm looking forward to soaking up another summer filled with memorable events.
If you're a Chicagoan, what's your favorite Grant Park event?
If you're not, tell me about your city's "front yard"...
