I would like to end this post series about Chicago talking about the city. We had the opportunity to visit the Willis Tower. It was built by Sears, Roebuck & Co. in 1968 when the company was the largest retailer in the planet. Today is the third tallest building in the western hemisphere. The observation deck is located in the 103rd floor.
There are 4 retractable glass balconies or glass boxes where you can enjoy the views from the west part of the city. The first part of the visit occurs in the first floor where there is a small exhibition about the building and the architecture in the city. After the Willis Tower, you should to go to the Millennium Park. The most important and recognizable piece of the park is the “Cloud Gate” the giant chromed bean designed by the British artist Anish Kapoor. The reflections of the skyline of the City in this piece are incredible. Also in this park, there is the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, designed by Frank Gehry. In this outdoor amphitheater, you can enjoy free classical concerts. Not far away from the Pavilion, you will find the Art Institute of Chicago (the new pavilion), designed by Renzo Piano in 2009. Close to those buildings you will find the curious Crown Fountain designed by the Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, two giant boxes with a projection of two faces, one in front of the other one and separated by a horizontal plane of water. During my visit, the blue fighters were practicing some acrobatic flights over the city. It was spectacular! West loop is a great neighbourhood to explore. Also, if you have time and you would like to enjoy part of the Chicago´s gastronomy, you should go to Giordano´s, a cool place to eat some Deep Dish, a thick and nice pizza from the City.
