11.01.2024 |
As an Aqua Lakeshore East resident, you already enjoy living in one of Chicago's most iconic modern architectural gems. But did you know that the spirit of innovation and grandeur that makes Aqua special has roots going back to the 1893 World's Fair? This pivotal event, which helped shape Chicago’s global reputation, lives on today through two iconic museums: the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.
The Museum of Science and Industry: Innovation Through the Ages
Originally built as the Palace of Fine Arts for the 1893 World’s Fair, the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) is the only remaining structure from the event that stands in its original form. Unlike many temporary buildings of the fair, this one was built with sturdy materials to showcase global art collections. It’s an impressive piece of history that continues to inspire visitors over a century later.
Visiting MSI feels like stepping into a piece of that same legacy. The museum’s permanent exhibits—like the U-505 submarine and a working coal mine—blend science, technology, and history, much like Aqua combines elegance, comfort, and cutting-edge design.
2024 Highlight: Special Exhibition for History Enthusiasts
This year, MSI’s Columbian Gallery exhibition brings back the charm of the 1893 fair with replicas of original art pieces, interactive displays, and digital reconstructions of what the Palace of Fine Arts looked like during its glory days. It's a chance to walk through history while appreciating how innovation has driven both the past and present.
The Art Institute of Chicago: A Cultural Legacy Just Around the Corner
The Art Institute of Chicago, just a short stroll from Aqua Lakeshore East, was originally constructed to host the World’s Congress Auxiliary, where scholars and thinkers from around the world gathered during the World’s Fair. It was a hub of intellectual exchange, embodying the forward-thinking spirit that Aqua residents embrace today.
The Art Institute complements this with its exquisite collections of art, from classics by Monet and Van Gogh to contemporary masterpieces. It's the perfect place for a leisurely weekend, allowing you to unwind and get inspired, much like the serene views from Aqua’s curved balconies.
2024 Highlight: World’s Fair Redux Exhibition
For 2024, the Art Institute’s World’s Fair Redux exhibition features rare artifacts, vintage photographs, and original artworks from the 1893 exposition. You can explore how the fair shaped Chicago’s cultural landscape and the way it set the stage for the city to become a major art hub. Exclusive guided tours are available on weekends, making it easy to plan a sophisticated outing that’s perfect for Aqua residents looking to deepen their appreciation of local history.
Connecting Aqua’s Modern Spirit to Chicago’s Historical Roots
From Aqua’s cutting-edge architecture to the innovative exhibits at MSI, there’s a clear connection between Chicago’s historic commitment to progress and the modern lifestyle you enjoy as an Aqua resident. Plus, both museums are easily accessible via the Lakeshore East shuttle or a pleasant walk along the lakefront—perfect for a weekend escape that’s close to home.
Whether you’re looking for an enriching solo outing or planning a cultural weekend with friends or family, these museums offer the perfect mix of history, art, and innovation that aligns beautifully with the Aqua lifestyle. And with your central location, you’ll never have to travel far to see the best of what Chicago has to offer.
