Posted 4 years ago
Press contact: Jessica Cabe | PR and Communications Manager, Chicago Loop Alliance jessica@chicagoloopalliance.com | 815-713-8909
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | March 24, 2020
CHICAGO—As of 5 p.m. March 21, Illinois residents are under a statewide order to stay at home unless traveling for essential needs or business. The order is an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19 and will remain in place until April 7, unless extended. Exercise has been deemed an essential activity, and in the interest of keeping Chicagoans’ bodies and minds healthy in this stressful time, Chicago Loop Alliance has compiled a list of the best places to go for a walk in the Loop.
“The architecture, the public art, the parks, the river, the lake—all of these Loop assets are a feast for the senses, especially in a time like this,” said Michael Edwards, Chicago Loop Alliance President and CEO. “Chicagoans need beauty and hope right now, and the Loop—famously built and rebuilt after the Great Chicago Fire—offers a lot in the way of optimism. All of the information we have now from public officials says being outside is not only allowed, but encouraged, as long as everyone maintains 6 feet of space between themselves and others. Given that pedestrian activity has been down about 60-70 percent every day in the past week compared to 2019, it’s safe to say maintaining 6 feet of personal space in the Loop should not be a problem at the moment.”
The Chicago Riverwalk has quickly become a favorite spot among residents, workers and visitors alike. While the bars and restaurants are closed to dine-in customers at this time, the 1.25-mile Riverwalk is a beautiful place to take a stroll. Bonus: Cycling enthusiasts might actually be able to comfortably ride it in these quiet times.
Chicago’s Lakefront Trail offers separated bike and pedestrian paths perfect for cyclists, runners, roller bladers, folks out for a nice stroll and anything in-between. Running from Ardmore Avenue on the north to 71st Street on the south, the 18-mile trail is one of the most beloved public spaces in the city. Check the Lakefront Trail’s website for severe weather-related closures, but for now, the section in the Loop is open.
State Street has always been one of the biggest retail corridors in the city of Chicago, bustling with nearly 85 million pedestrian impressions per year. How often do you get a chance to take a deep breath and take in the sights in a quieter environment? Stare in awe at the Sullivan Center. Consider the history of the buildings that now house Macy’s or The Palmer House. Note the dancing lights of Lightscape, Chicago Loop Alliance’s art installation in the planters along the street. Take a selfie with just you and the Chicago Theatre marquee. Better yet, do all of the above.
Millennium Park is home to great works of art like the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and Cloud Gate Plaza. Although these features are closed during the “shelter in place” order, you can still take them in from afar with a walk around the park. Millennium Park also provides the perfect view of Chicago’s skyline.
Maggie Daley Park features 22 acres of an urban retreat. Although the play garden and fieldhouse are closed, the park is open for a stroll.
Like an outdoor museum, the Chicago Loop is host to a stellar public art collection. It’s no surprise the arts in the Loop is a major economic driver, bringing $2.25 billion in revenue each year to the area and the city. Use this list to take a self-guided tour.
About Chicago Loop Alliance
Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA)’s mission is to create, manage and promote high-performing urban experiences, attracting people and investment to the Loop. CLA is a membership organization as well as the sole service provider for Special Service Area#1-2015, and the Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation produces public art projects and events. For more information, please visit www.loopchicago.com.
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