Picasso at Daley Plaza
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Picasso at Daley Plaza

4.6
·1k reviews·Chicago, United States

A monumental 50-ft Cor-Ten steel sculpture by Pablo Picasso, a free and iconic Chicago landmark in Daley Plaza.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Market Days

Lively atmosphere & food

CrowdMedium
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Picasso at Daley Plaza

Picasso at Daley Plaza

Best Time

Market Days

Lively atmosphere & food

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A monumental 50-ft Cor-Ten steel sculpture by Pablo Picasso, a free and iconic Chicago landmark in Daley Plaza.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"It's what art is for, up to the viewer's interpretation."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture unique angles of the sculpture; it looks different from every side!

🚶‍♂️ Walk Around It

Don't just admire from afar, explore the base and sides for hidden details.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Picasso Sculpture

The Picasso Sculpture

Daley Plaza

A towering 50-foot Cor-Ten steel masterpiece by Pablo Picasso, dedicated in 1967.

Instagram
Interpretive Views

Interpretive Views

Around the sculpture

See it from different angles to discover its hidden forms – some say it resembles an Afghan Hound!

Reddit
Daley Plaza Farmers Market

Daley Plaza Farmers Market

Daley Plaza

Enjoy local produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors, especially on market days.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Mystery

This iconic Picasso sculpture is a beloved Chicago landmark. Its abstract design sparks conversation, so come ready to interpret its meaning. It's a free, open-air attraction, perfect for a quick photo op or a moment of reflection. TikTok

Timing is Everything

While the sculpture is always accessible, consider visiting during the Daley Plaza Farmers Market for a lively atmosphere and local treats. Check for special events or performances happening in the plaza. Instagram

Best Times

When
Market Days
Why
Lively atmosphere & food
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Just wanted to show some appreciation for the cool public art of Chicago #chicago #picasso
@bored_in_chicago
1.8K likes • 29.9K views

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture unique angles of the sculpture; it looks different from every side! TikTok

🚶‍♂️ Walk Around It

Don't just admire from afar, explore the base and sides for hidden details. Reddit

Freshly Baked Empanolis at The Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza today from 7-2. #chicagofarmersmarkets, #daleycenterplaza, #celiacsaferestaurant, #glutenfreeempanadas, #glutenfreehandpies, #glutenfreechicago, #picassochicago, #picasso, #daleyplaza
originalempanoli
10 likes • 298 views
The “Picasso” at 📍The Daley Plaza One of the most famous sculptures in Chicago with 50 feet tall and weighing over 160 tons. On August 15, 1967, thousands of people gathered in Daley Plaza to witness the unveiling and dedication of the city’s newest piece of public art. In his dedication letter, Picasso gave the sculpture as a gift to the people of Chicago, without ever explaining what the sc...
laura_toursbarcelona
202 likes • 15.7K views

🍎 Farmers Market Finds

Grab a bite or a unique souvenir at the market on select days. Instagram

🕊️ Pigeon Companions

Be prepared for local feathered friends; they're part of the Daley Plaza experience! Reddit

If you are indowntown #Chicago this Thursday,head on over to the Daley Plaza Farmer’s market @chicagodcase from 12:00-1pm to hear @heart_of_chicago_soul_club DJ Debbie @mollykolly spin some #allvinyl #raresoul in this #beautifulcity on a #beautifulday!! Hope to see you at there and at our #heartofchicagosoulclub #Halloween #Danceparty @co1orclub #northernsoul #chicagosoul #60s #farmersmarke...
heart_of_chicago_soul_club
79 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture unique angles of the sculpture; it looks different from every side! TikTok

🚶‍♂️ Walk Around It

Don't just admire from afar, explore the base and sides for hidden details. Reddit

🍎 Farmers Market Finds

Grab a bite or a unique souvenir at the market on select days. Instagram

🕊️ Pigeon Companions

Be prepared for local feathered friends; they're part of the Daley Plaza experience! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Picasso sculpture at Daley Plaza to be an iconic and thought-provoking landmark. Many appreciate its free accessibility and unique abstract design, which sparks personal interpretation. While some find it a bit stark, its presence is undeniably a significant part of Chicago's public art scene.

"Was trying to find what the sculpture is all about, had the chance to walk from behind it along on of the streets. Was able to see there’s a side view of a man there. Not sure if it was intentional or what. But nevertheless, it’s what art is for, up to the viewer’s interpretation."

Albert Elijah de la Peña

"The iconic sculpture from the blues brothers, complete with pigeons and all!"

JETS

"Not as crowded as Navy Pier for sure. But good to see an iconic location."

Susan M

What People Like

Iconic Chicago landmark
Free public art
Unique abstract design

What People Dislike

Can be seen as stark

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Daley Plaza is centrally located in downtown Chicago, easily accessible by public transportation. Several CTA 'L' train lines stop nearby, including the Washington/Wabash, Monroe, and Jackson stations. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Parking garages are available, but can be expensive. TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages surrounding Daley Plaza. However, parking in downtown Chicago can be costly, so consider public transit if you're on a budget. Reddit

Absolutely! Daley Plaza is a major transit hub. The CTA 'L' trains (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple lines) stop at Washington/Wabash, and the Red Line stops at Monroe. Many bus routes also stop directly at or near the plaza. TikTok

Daley Plaza is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with ramps and paved pathways. The sculpture itself is an outdoor installation, allowing for viewing from various points around the plaza. Reddit

From O'Hare, take the CTA Blue Line train directly into the city to the Washington station. From there, it's a short walk or a quick transfer to another line to reach Daley Plaza. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza is a public art installation and is free to view and admire from the outside. TikTok

Daley Plaza is an open public space and is accessible 24/7. However, surrounding buildings and any specific events within the plaza may have their own operating hours. Reddit

There is no admission fee. The sculpture is a gift to the city and is meant for everyone to enjoy. Instagram

While there are no physical barriers preventing touching, it's generally advised to admire public art from a respectful distance to preserve its integrity. Reddit

While official guided tours specifically for the sculpture might not be common, many Chicago architecture and public art tours include Daley Plaza and the Picasso as a stop. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography. Golden hour can be particularly stunning. TikTok

Yes, photography is generally permitted in Daley Plaza for personal use. Be mindful of any ongoing events or private functions that might have restrictions. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in downtown Chicago areas, especially around public buildings and plazas. It's best to check with local authorities or the City of Chicago for current regulations. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scale of the sculpture. However, even a smartphone can capture its unique form and details effectively. TikTok

Experiment with different angles! Walking around the sculpture and looking up from its base, or viewing it from across the plaza, can yield dramatic shots. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Daley Plaza is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and food options. The Daley Plaza Farmers Market also offers delicious food stalls on market days. Instagram

The market features a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and artisanal products. You might find anything from empanadas to gourmet sandwiches. Instagram

While some restaurants in the immediate vicinity can be pricey, you can find more affordable options by exploring a few blocks away or opting for food stalls at the farmers market. Reddit

Picnicking is generally allowed in public plazas. You can bring your own food or purchase items from nearby eateries or the farmers market. Reddit

The Daley Center building itself has some dining facilities, including cafes and restaurants, though their hours may vary. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Picasso sculpture is a fantastic, free attraction for families. Kids often enjoy the sheer scale of the sculpture and can have fun trying to guess what it looks like from different angles. Reddit It's a great spot for a quick photo op that doesn't require a long attention span. TikTok

Consider visiting on a Farmers Market day Instagram for added entertainment. Children can enjoy browsing the stalls, and there are often food vendors offering kid-friendly snacks. The open space of Daley Plaza also allows for a bit of running around, making it a more relaxed experience than crowded indoor attractions.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Picasso sculpture offers endless creative possibilities. Its abstract form and imposing size make for dramatic shots, especially when captured with a wide-angle lens. TikTok Experiment with different times of day to play with light and shadow; early mornings and late afternoons provide softer, more flattering illumination. Reddit

Don't just focus on the sculpture itself. The surrounding architecture of Daley Plaza, including the Daley Center and City Hall, provides a compelling urban backdrop. Look for interesting reflections in the building windows or capture the sculpture against the city skyline. The farmers market, when active, also offers vibrant scenes and candid moments. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Picasso sculpture is a perfect stop for budget-conscious travelers as it's completely free to view. TikTok It's an iconic Chicago landmark that costs nothing to experience. Reddit

To keep costs down, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the plaza or grabbing affordable eats from the Daley Plaza Farmers Market Instagram on market days. Public transportation is also the most economical way to reach Daley Plaza from other parts of the city. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Story Behind the Sculpture

The Picasso sculpture at Daley Plaza is more than just a striking piece of art; it's a symbol of Chicago's commitment to public art and cultural enrichment. Unveiled on August 15, 1967, this monumental Cor-Ten steel work was a gift from the artist Pablo Picasso to the city. Thousands gathered for its dedication, a testament to the excitement surrounding its arrival. Instagram

Picasso himself never revealed the intended subject of the sculpture, famously stating, 'The critics can say whatever they want. I have given what I have to give.' This ambiguity is part of its enduring appeal, inviting viewers to project their own interpretations onto its abstract form. Some see the head of an Afghan Hound, while others find different meanings, making it a truly interactive piece of art. Reddit

Its placement in Daley Plaza, a bustling civic space, ensures it's seen and experienced by millions annually. The sculpture has become an iconic backdrop for city life, from political rallies to casual strolls, solidifying its place in Chicago's cultural landscape. TikTok

Experiencing Daley Plaza

Daley Plaza is a vibrant public space that serves as the heart of Chicago's civic center. Dominated by the imposing Picasso sculpture, the plaza is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It's a place where art, government, and daily life converge, offering a dynamic urban experience. TikTok

Beyond the sculpture, Daley Plaza hosts various events throughout the year. The Daley Plaza Farmers Market is a highlight, offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and a lively atmosphere on market days. Instagram It's a fantastic opportunity to sample local flavors and find unique goods. The plaza also serves as a venue for seasonal celebrations, public gatherings, and sometimes even musical performances, adding to its energetic ambiance. Instagram

When visiting, take time to appreciate the surrounding architecture, including the Daley Center and City Hall. The plaza's open design encourages exploration, whether you're pausing for a photo, enjoying a quick lunch from a market vendor, or simply soaking in the city's atmosphere. Reddit

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