Chicago is a city of world-class status and unsurpassed beauty, drawing visitors from around the nation and the globe. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan in the heart of the Midwest, Chicago is home to the blues, several sports teams, an internationally acclaimed symphony orchestra, spectacular live theater, celebrated architecture, and thousands of restaurants, museums and shopping. Chicago is a major cultural center and has a multitude of attractions for visitors. The city is world-renowned for its diverse collection of museums, which explore a variety of subjects including Chicago history, art, African-American culture, astronomy, natural history and much more. Visitors from around the world come to Chicago, the birthplace of the modern building, to admire its architectural marvels. From historic landmark buildings to contemporary technological masterpieces, Chicago is built of the unique and innovative designs that have shaped American architecture. In addition to world-renowned museums and its architecture, Chicago is home to a variety of spectacular attractions including Navy Pier, the city's lakefront playground and the state's most popular attraction. Navy Pier offers visitors a unique blend of family-oriented attractions from the thrilling ride on the Wave Swinger in Pier Park to the 3-D Time Escape ride. The Pier also boasts the 150-foot high Ferris wheel, a musical carousel, the Chicago Children's Museum, a variety of restaurants and the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. In addition, Chicago's latest showcase - Millennium Park - opened in July 2004. The 24.5-acre park has instantly become a world-class attraction and a Chicago landmark. It contains an outdoor performing arts pavilion, an indoor year-round theatre, restaurant, ice-skating rink, contemporary garden, public art, fountains, promenade area for special events, and landscaped walkways and green spaces. Other attractions not to miss include Buckingham Fountain at Grant Park, the Hancock Observatory, and the Sears Tower Skydeck. Overall, Chicago is a great place to visit anytime of the year.