Chicago's Iconic 'Bean' Sculpture Reopens to Tourists

Visitors take photos of the "Cloud Gate" sculpture, also known as the "bean," at Millennium Park, Sunday, June 23, 2024. (Anthony Vazquez/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)
Visitors take photos of the "Cloud Gate" sculpture, also known as the "bean," at Millennium Park, Sunday, June 23, 2024. (Anthony Vazquez/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)
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Chicago's Iconic 'Bean' Sculpture Reopens to Tourists

Visitors take photos of the "Cloud Gate" sculpture, also known as the "bean," at Millennium Park, Sunday, June 23, 2024. (Anthony Vazquez/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)
Visitors take photos of the "Cloud Gate" sculpture, also known as the "bean," at Millennium Park, Sunday, June 23, 2024. (Anthony Vazquez/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)

One of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions known as “The Bean” reopened to the public Sunday after nearly a year of renovations and construction.
Construction started in August last year, and fencing around the iconic sculpture limited closeup access to visitors. The work on the plaza surrounding the sculpture included new stairs, accessible ramps and a waterproofing system, according to the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
The bean-shaped sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor is formally known as “Cloud Gate” and weighs 110 tons (99.8 metric tons).
It’s a busy tourist hub near Michigan Avenue, particularly for selfies with its reflective surface inspired by liquid mercury. Views of skyscrapers and crowds are reflected on the Millenium Park sculpture.
“Visitors can once again have full access to Chicago’s iconic Cloud Gate by Anish Kapoor,” city officials said in a Sunday statement. “Come back and get your #selfie!”

One of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions known as “The Bean” reopened to the public Sunday after nearly a year of renovations and construction.
Construction started in August last year, and fencing around the iconic sculpture limited closeup access to visitors. The work on the plaza surrounding the sculpture included new stairs, accessible ramps and a waterproofing system, according to the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
The bean-shaped sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor is formally known as “Cloud Gate” and weighs 110 tons (99.8 metric tons).
It’s a busy tourist hub near Michigan Avenue, particularly for selfies with its reflective surface inspired by liquid mercury. Views of skyscrapers and crowds are reflected on the Millenium Park sculpture.
“Visitors can once again have full access to Chicago’s iconic Cloud Gate by Anish Kapoor,” city officials said in a Sunday statement. “Come back and get your #selfie!”



Ethiopian Coffee Featured at Africa Zone during Riyadh Season 2024

In the Africa Zone, coffee is traditionally prepared by manually roasting and grinding the beans - SPA
In the Africa Zone, coffee is traditionally prepared by manually roasting and grinding the beans - SPA
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Ethiopian Coffee Featured at Africa Zone during Riyadh Season 2024

In the Africa Zone, coffee is traditionally prepared by manually roasting and grinding the beans - SPA
In the Africa Zone, coffee is traditionally prepared by manually roasting and grinding the beans - SPA

The "Africa Zone" at Boulevard World is a key attraction for enthusiasts of authentic African culture during Riyadh Season 2024. A standout feature is "Ethiopian Coffee," which embodies hospitality and heritage. It is prepared using traditional methods that vary across the continent. Visitors can enjoy a range of unique flavours, with Ethiopian coffee celebrated for its high-quality beans and rich taste, according to SPA.
In the Africa Zone, coffee is traditionally prepared by manually roasting and grinding the beans, creating a flavorful beverage. It is served in an ambience inspired by African rituals, providing an authentic cultural experience. Live performances of traditional arts and music enrich the atmosphere, making it a vibrant cultural hub for visitors of all ages. The zone's kiosks also offer handcrafted African products, such as accessories and clothing, reflecting traditional craftsmanship and African aesthetics.
This event celebrates African heritage and contributes to Riyadh Season 2024's goal of presenting diverse cultures while positioning the Kingdom as a global tourist destination.
Boulevard World has seen several updates this season, including a 30% increase in size with five new zones: Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Iran, Africa, and Courchevel. This brings the total number of zones to 22, representing various cultures worldwide, alongside 300 restaurants and cafes, over 890 retail shops, and 21 new events for different age groups, including theatrical performances and parades from several countries.