There's gobs of beauty in the city no matter where you look. While we often like to boast about our green space and natural attractions, there are seven man made wonders of Chicago that deserve your attention. From incredible architecture to engineering marvels, Chicago is a true wonderland of sights. Check out these miraculous attractions.
1. Union Station
The United States' third most used train terminal began operations in 1925 after replacing an old station from 1881. It is well known for its architecture, which includes Beaux-Arts facades, huge Corinthian columns, and a skylight in the Great Hall. It takes up nine and a half city blocks, mostly underground.
2. Millennium Park
Millennium Park is actually full of many man made wonders. This iconic tourist attraction began as a project to extend Grant Park and re-utilize old rail lines and parking lots. It opened in 2004 and features Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and the Pritzker Pavilion.
3. The Baha'i House of Worship
One of only seven in the entire world, The Baha'i House of Worship in Chicago is the only temple of its kind in North America. It is open to anyone and is welcoming of all faiths. In addition to fascinating architecture, the picturesque gardens will make you want to stay all day. Learn more about this incredible temple in our previous feature article here.
4. Willis (Sears) Tower
As the tallest building in Chicago, this iconic skyscraper is hard to miss. Construction was completed on the 1,450-feet-tall, 110-story-high structure in 1974, and it was designated as office space. This is still the case today, though the very top is now reserved for tourists interested in the Skydeck, which is a wonder in and of itself.
5. The "L"
Short for "elevated train," The "L" is one of the most necessary components of Chicago life. Originally running from downtown to Jackson Park on the South Side, our train system now spans throughout the city with various color designations for the different lines. Operations began in 1892, but the underground portions didn't come into use until the 1930s.
6. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Located in nearby Bartlett, this is one of Chicagoland's most impressive man made wonders. It opened in the spring of 1953 and is one of many traditional Hindu temples around the nation. It is made from hand-carved Italian marble and Turkish limestone. You can't help but take hundreds of photos.
7. The Chicago River
This wonder is both man made and natural. Of course, the river was created here by Mother Nature, but in 1900, the Sanitary District of Chicago reversed its flow. Engineers developed a system of canals that connected to major waterways like the Mississippi River in order to achieve this feat. The project helped clean up the city's water supply and prevent sewage from leaking into the streets.
Speaking of wonders, there's a secret garden hiding in plain sight in Chicago, and you have to see it.
What other man made wonders in Chicago do you love? Share your favorite places with us!
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