Monument with Standing Beast - a black and white photo of the great pyramid of giza
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Monument with Standing Beast

4.7
·93 reviews·Chicago, United States

Jean Dubuffet's monumental 'Monument with Standing Beast' sculpture, a quirky Chicago icon offering stunning skyline and lake views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evening strolls

Golden hour city views

CrowdMedium
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Monument with Standing Beast - a black and white photo of the great pyramid of giza

Monument with Standing Beast

Best Time

Evening strolls

Golden hour city views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Jean Dubuffet's monumental 'Monument with Standing Beast' sculpture, a quirky Chicago icon offering stunning skyline and lake views.

4.7
(93 reviews)

"A beautiful sculpture and a fantastic location along the lake with one of the best views of the Chicago skyline."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Nickname Fun

This sculpture is affectionately known as 'Snoopy in a Blender'! :smiley:

🚶‍♀️ Lakefront Path

The adjacent Lakefront Trail is perfect for walks, biking, and enjoying cityscapes. :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Monument with Standing Beast

Monument with Standing Beast

Outside the James R. Thompson Center

Jean Dubuffet's massive, abstract sculpture is a Chicago landmark. Its unique form sparks conversation and offers incredible photo opportunities.

Chicago Skyline Views

Chicago Skyline Views

Lakefront Trail

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the city's iconic skyline from this picturesque location on the north side.

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Adjacent to the sculpture

Relax by the water's edge, watch the waves, and soak in the serene atmosphere of Lake Michigan.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Art & Architecture

This iconic sculpture, officially titled 'Monument with Standing Beast,' is a must-see. Its unique, abstract design has earned it nicknames like 'Snoopy in a Blender.' Plan to spend time appreciating its scale and the surrounding architecture of the James R. Thompson Center.

Location & Views

Situated along the Lakefront Trail near Lincoln Park, this sculpture offers more than just art. It provides stunning panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, making it a perfect spot for an evening stroll or cityscape photography.

Best Times

When
Evening strolls
Why
Golden hour city views
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime exploration
Why
Appreciate the sculpture's details
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Isle of Lewis in Scotland is home to Callanish’s standing stones, one of the best preserved and most complete Neolithic monuments in Europe. The purpose, construction, and meaning of these megaliths remain a mystery They are an extraordinary collection of stones believed to have been erected at least 5,000 years ago. They predate England’s famous Stonehenge monument and even the pyramids of Gi...
@andy_highlander
48.2K likes • 444.3K views

📸 Nickname Fun

This sculpture is affectionately known as 'Snoopy in a Blender'! :smiley: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Lakefront Path

The adjacent Lakefront Trail is perfect for walks, biking, and enjoying cityscapes. :athletic_shoe:

Only a 1 hour drive from Athens the Temple of Poseidon built in the 5th century BC is one of the most important monuments from the Golden Age of Athens. It is positioned on the edge of a cliff with 16 of the original 38 columns still standing today. 🎟️Tickets: admission is €8 with reduced or free tickets for EU member states ⏰ Times: 9:30am-Sunset in winter and 9:00am-Sunset in summer ℹ️ Info: Loc...
@zarahoneysuckleandjoe
34.7K likes • 293.1K views
Did you know Jean Dubuffet’s Monument with Standing Beast was nicknamed“Snoopy in a Blender”? It is said to be heading to the Art Institute of Chicago as Google continues working on revamping the old Thompson Center #citywalkinggirl #chicago #everydaycityscenes
citywalkinggirl
0 likes • 2.8K views

🏙️ Skyline Photos

Capture stunning cityscape shots with the sculpture as a unique foreground. :camerawithflash:

🛋️ Relaxing Spot

Find seating along the ledges to watch the lake and enjoy the city ambiance. :wave:

Come explore Jean Dubuffet’s Monument with Standing Beast outside the James R. Thomson Center #art #chicagoart #jeandubuffet
cambriachicagoloop
21 likes • 430 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Nickname Fun

This sculpture is affectionately known as 'Snoopy in a Blender'! :smiley: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Lakefront Path

The adjacent Lakefront Trail is perfect for walks, biking, and enjoying cityscapes. :athletic_shoe:

🏙️ Skyline Photos

Capture stunning cityscape shots with the sculpture as a unique foreground. :camerawithflash:

🛋️ Relaxing Spot

Find seating along the ledges to watch the lake and enjoy the city ambiance. :wave:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(93 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Monument with Standing Beast as a unique artistic landmark offering stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. It's praised as a picturesque spot for walks, photography, and relaxation, providing a delightful blend of art and natural beauty along the Lakefront Trail.

"Wonderful place to take a evening walk and stroll around and beautiful view of the skyline"

Avin BB

"This spot is like a little park within a park. There is some seating. There are also great views of the lake and city if you follow the path down by the water. The lakefront path never disappoints."

Molly S

"Picturesque spot on the Lakefront trail near Lincoln Park. Great for some instagram cityscape shots. Backdrop of the city and lakeshore looks stunning."

Archit Jha

What People Like

Unique sculpture design
Spectacular skyline views
Picturesque lakefront location

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Monument with Standing Beast is located outside the James R. Thompson Center in Chicago. It's easily accessible via public transportation, including the 'L' train. Many visitors also enjoy walking or biking along the Lakefront Trail to reach it. :train: Instagram

While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the sculpture, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the surrounding downtown Chicago area. Consider public transport to avoid parking hassles. :car:

Absolutely! The Lakefront Trail is a popular route for cyclists and offers beautiful views. You can rent bikes or use a bike-sharing service to reach the sculpture. :bike:

The area around the sculpture and the Lakefront Trail are generally accessible. The Thompson Center itself is also accessible. :wheelchair:

Combine your visit with a stroll along the Lakefront Trail to enjoy the lake and skyline views. It's a great way to see more of Chicago's waterfront. :walking:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Monument with Standing Beast is an outdoor public art installation and is free to view and access. :ticket:

As an outdoor sculpture, it can be viewed at any time. However, the surrounding area and pathways are best enjoyed during daylight hours and early evening for the best views. :clock:

The Monument with Standing Beast is located outside the James R. Thompson Center. While the exterior is publicly accessible, entry into the building may have its own access policies. :building_construction:

Many Chicago architecture and art tours may include this sculpture. It's worth checking with local tour operators for specific itineraries. :map:

Yes, photography is encouraged! It's a popular spot for capturing unique cityscape and art photos. :camerawithflash:

🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience

It's a large, abstract sculpture by French artist Jean Dubuffet, known for its unique, almost whimsical form. It's a prominent piece of public art in Chicago. :art:

Locals and visitors often affectionately call it 'Snoopy in a Blender' due to its distinctive shape. :smiley: Instagram

Experiment with different angles! The best shots often incorporate the Chicago skyline or the lake in the background. Try getting close to appreciate its scale. :iphone:

Yes, there are ledges and seating areas along the Lakefront Trail nearby, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the views. :chair:

Explore the Lakefront Trail, visit nearby Lincoln Park, or head towards Millennium Park to see other famous Chicago landmarks like Cloud Gate (The Bean). :parkwithtrees:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the sculpture is located in a vibrant area of Chicago with numerous dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You'll find plenty of choices nearby. :forkandknife:

While there aren't designated picnic tables right at the sculpture, the Lakefront Trail offers many scenic spots where you could enjoy a picnic. Remember to clean up after yourself. :sandwich:

The area offers a diverse culinary scene, including American, Italian, and international cuisines. You're likely to find something to suit any taste. :pizza:

Yes, several cafes are located within walking distance, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a light snack while enjoying the views. :coffee:

Absolutely! With the beautiful skyline views and proximity to many restaurants, it can be a lovely spot for a romantic evening. :couplewithheart:

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers beautiful light for capturing the sculpture and skyline. Evenings provide stunning city lights. :sunriseovermountains:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire sculpture and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the skyline. :camera:

Try shooting from the Lakefront Trail to include the water and skyline. Getting closer to the sculpture reveals its intricate details and scale. :arrow_right:

Drone usage in Chicago is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check current FAA and city ordinances before flying a drone in this area. :drone:

Its abstract and imposing form, combined with the dynamic Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan backdrop, creates unique and visually striking photographic opportunities. :art:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Monument with Standing Beast is a fantastic spot for families. Its quirky, larger-than-life appearance is sure to capture children's imaginations, and the nickname 'Snoopy in a Blender' often gets a giggle. Instagram The adjacent Lakefront Trail provides ample space for kids to run around, and the open views of Lake Michigan offer a chance for them to enjoy the water and watch boats. It's a great, free outdoor activity that combines art appreciation with active play. Consider bringing a frisbee or ball for some fun on the grassy areas nearby. :child:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Monument with Standing Beast is a dream location. The sculpture itself offers endless angles and compositions, especially when framed against the iconic Chicago skyline. Instagram The Lakefront Trail provides elevated perspectives and the opportunity to capture the vastness of Lake Michigan. Golden hour and twilight are particularly magical times, with the city lights beginning to twinkle and the sky painted in warm hues. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the artwork and its surroundings. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Art & Architecture Buffs

This sculpture is a must-visit for anyone interested in modern art and public installations. Jean Dubuffet's bold, abstract style is a key example of post-war art. Instagram The James R. Thompson Center, with its distinctive postmodern design, provides a fascinating architectural backdrop. Exploring the interplay between the sculpture and the building offers a rich experience for those who appreciate urban design and artistic expression. :building_construction:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Jean Dubuffet

The Monument with Standing Beast is a significant work by the renowned French artist Jean Dubuffet. Created in the late 1980s, this monumental sculpture is part of his 'Art Brut' (raw art) movement, which celebrated unconventional and outsider art forms. Dubuffet's style is characterized by its bold lines, abstract shapes, and a playful, almost childlike aesthetic. The sculpture's imposing size and unique form are designed to provoke thought and conversation, challenging traditional notions of public art. Instagram+1

Its placement outside the James R. Thompson Center, a building known for its distinctive postmodern architecture, creates an interesting dialogue between the two structures. The sculpture's nickname, 'Snoopy in a Blender,' highlights its unconventional and memorable appearance, making it a beloved, albeit quirky, landmark for many Chicagoans. Instagram

Visitors often find themselves drawn to its sheer scale and the intricate details that emerge upon closer inspection. It’s a piece that encourages viewers to engage with art in a public space, transforming the everyday environment into an open-air gallery.

Experiencing the Lakefront Trail

The Monument with Standing Beast is perfectly situated along Chicago's famous Lakefront Trail, a paved path that stretches for miles along the shores of Lake Michigan. This trail is a vital artery for recreation in the city, used by runners, cyclists, skaters, and walkers alike. Instagram

From this vantage point, you get unparalleled views of the Chicago skyline, especially from the north side where the sculpture is located. The juxtaposition of the abstract art with the classic urban architecture creates a visually dynamic scene. The trail itself is well-maintained and offers a refreshing escape from the city bustle, with the calming presence of the lake always nearby. Reddit

Whether you're looking for a leisurely evening stroll, a scenic bike ride, or simply a beautiful spot to sit and people-watch, the Lakefront Trail near the Monument with Standing Beast offers a quintessential Chicago experience. It's a place where art, nature, and urban life converge harmoniously.

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