PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

There is simply nothing like strolling through the hallowed halls of the Art Institute with a date, taking in the cool marble statuary and breath taking paintings while whispering sweet nothings to each other. The themes change from classic to contemporary to playful, from famous artists and periods from all over the world, each exhibit sure to inspire and draw up feelings you may have been repressing deep within your subconscious.

There is no way to pinpoint a favorite stop, as art is something unique to each individual. However, points of interest for many include the armory area and the ancient sculptures. Of course, those who love canvassed mediums will find themselves to be completely overwhelmed by the collections lovingly cared for all over the museum, be it classical, surreal, abstract or even decorative. Budding architects and engineers will admire examples by Frank Lloyd Wright and more. The Thorne Miniature Rooms downstairs may look like little doll houses to some, but are actually scaled period quarters dating back from the 13th to 20th centuries, painstakingly crafted to help observers imagine what it was like to live in such times.

Personally, I find the best time to go is on the Free Thursday evenings, not because of the price, but because of the hours. The field trips, tourists and families have all gone home, allowing those who want to have some quiet time for appreciating art in all its guises to truly do so. Of course, three hours may or many not be enough time to take in all the museum has to offer, depending on your tastes, but if you work nearby, you can always stop by again after you clock out.

On that tangent, if you and your date both happen to work downtown, there is no better place to spend your lunch hour during the summer months than in their tucked away garden! The trees and bushes seem to magically block out the hustle and bustle of the city, where a boring, brown bagged lunch takes on an entirely new form. Besides, where else in the city will you find common pigeons actually roosting in trees? Oh and also, Chicago residents who have a library card can stop by the library and check out a museum pass at the counter! It’s good for 4 people, gets you in for free and lets you bypass the lines!