A Chicago not-for-profit organization has transformed part of Michigan Avenue into what they’re calling the “Chicago Cultural Mile” to recognize cultural institutions and historic buildings along the stretch.
The Cultural Mile starts at the Chicago River and extends south to Roosevelt Road and east to the Museum Campus. On a map, it appears to be an extension of Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile, which begins at Oak Street and ends at the river.
Bronze signs announcing the boundaries of the Cultural Mile will be placed in medians on Michigan Avenue at Wacker Drive and Roosevelt Road this month. Owners of buildings along that stretch will also be provided with flags bearing the name “Chicago Cultural Mile” to hang from their buildings.
Cultural institutions along the mile include The Art Institute, The Field Museum, Millennium Park, the Symphony Orchestra and the headquarters of such Chicago social clubs as The Chicago Club, The Executives’ Club and The University Club.
The Chicago Cultural Mile Association is a not-for-profit organization working to market and brand the Chicago Cultural Mile as a destination and create networking opportunities for businesses and institutions along the mile.
To commemorate the inaugural year of the Chicago Cultural Mile, the nonprofit is also beginning an initiative called “2nd Fridays” that gives discounts on entertainment, dining and other events along the Cultural Mile to tourists and residents on the second Friday of each month.
The first 2nd Friday event happens May 9 and includes discounts at the Park Grill in Millennium Park, 20 percent off tickets at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, free performances at the American Rhythm Center and entry into the usually members-only Chicago Cliff Dwellers headquarters.
