A STRUCTURAL CENTERPIECE
Completed in 2004 as part of Millennium Park, the Pritzker Pavilion features an awe-inspiring centerpiece: a soaring brushed stainless-steel bandshell that curves and undulates like a wave frozen in time. With a main stage that can accommodate a full orchestra and chorus of 150 members, the structure elegantly embraces the performers while framing the seating area.
THE GREAT LAWN
The great lawn just beyond the ticketed seating area provides a vast and inviting expanse of green space for audiences to relax, gather, and enjoy performances. Located beneath the lawn is an underground 3 story parking garage, making it the one of the largest green roofs in the United States. A sand-based drainage system below the lawn allows it to dry quickly, even after a rainstorm, allowing people to use the space in a timely manner and provide stability for those using wheelchairs and strollers.
THE TRELLIS
The stunning trellis extending over the great lawn is both architecturally beautiful and acoustically functional. Within the trellis are precision placed speakers which produce an even quality of sound throughout the venue. This offers attendees exceptional sound quality without visual structural obstructions, while clearly defining the concert space. This carefully designed area and state-of-the-art LARES sound system ensure that even those furthest from the stage will feel connected to the performers and their music.
With 4,000 fixed seats and room for more than 7,000 attendees in the great lawn, the Pritzker Pavilion has become a cultural hub, hosting various performances from symphony orchestras and jazz ensembles to world-renowned musicians and local artists. Its open-air design, stunning view of the skyline, and sound comparable to that inside a concert hall has made this a beloved gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
Did you know?
To circumvent historic limitations on the height of buildings in Grant Park, the city classifies the Pritzker Pavilion as a “work of art” rather than a building.
Did you know?
Pritzker Pavilion was recognized by the Paralyzed Veterans of America as the recipient of the 2005 Barrier-Free America Award, described as "one of the most accessible parks – not just in the United States but possibly the world."
Did you know?
Early plans to incorporate a surrounding waterfall were abandoned due to budget constraints.
Did you know?
Frank Gehry also designed the snake-like pedestrian bridge over Columbus Drive to connect Millennium Park to Maggie Daley Park.
Did you know?
Pritzker Pavilion is a home for the Grant Park Music Festival, which began in 1935 in the original Petrillo Music Shell, also located in Grant Park.
