Construction at “The Bean” in Chicago’s Millennium Park to limit access for months

Tourists hoping to take a reflective selfie at “The Bean” in Millennium Park may soon have to opt for a picture at another mirror instead.

Access to the iconic downtown sculpture, officially called Cloud Gate, will be limited for months starting Tuesday as construction begins around it, according to the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

Grainger Plaza, the space surrounding The Bean, will undergo construction set to “continue through the spring of 2024, the department’s website said.

“During this time, public access and views of Cloud Gate will be limited,” the department wrote.

The “necessary maintenance” project will include repairs, accessibility upgrades and paver replacements, the statement said.

Since the sculpture designed by artist Anish Kapoor was first unveiled in 2004, it has quickly become as essential destination for tourists visiting Chicago and symbol of the city.

The glassy, stainless steel artwork attracts 20 million visitors to Millennium Park each year, a DCASE spokesperson told the Tribune in February. It is the No. 1 attraction in the Midwest and No. 7 in the United States, the spokesperson added.

The construction will “to enhance the nearly 20-year-old Park’s appearance, visitor experience, and position as the #1 attraction in the Midwest,” the department said.