The Bean is back! Iconic sculpture reopens after months-long construction

Chicago’s famed tourist attraction, “The Bean” has reopened in Millennium Park nearly a year after closing for construction.

Construction began on the iconic sculpture, officially titled “Cloud Gate”, in August of 2023, according to NBC. Since then, The Bean has been outfitted with restorations to its surrounding plaza and podium, including updated accessibility features, new stairs, refurbished pavement, and a waterproofing system.

The Bean draws massive crowds to downtown Chicago throughout the year, especially during the summer, and its presence has been sorely missed by longtime residents and traveling visitors. With its newly restored plaza, the sculpture will be able to continue delighting tourists and residents alike for decades to come.