Midway Plaisance, Chicago

For an impressive introduction to the University of Chicago, take a stroll along the Midway Plaisance, a lengthy verdant stretch that once served as the location for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. During that time, the Midway was transformed into a bustling showcase of life-sized model villages from various corners of the world, including an Irish market town and a replica of Cairo complete with belly dancers. Today, it primarily serves as a thoroughfare for joggers and a recreational spot for students enjoying games of Frisbee.

Despite its name blending contrasting elements of the mundane and the refined, the Midway Plaisance is, in fact, a spacious boulevard with a vast sunken grassy median that traverses the southern portion of the University campus, providing a striking view of the historic buildings on the way. Its entire length of the Midway is flanked by trees and adorned with landscaping that enhances its overall appeal.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the boulevard is situated adjacent to several vital components of the University of Chicago campus: the Graham School of Liberal and Professional Studies, the Harris School of Public Policy, the School of Social Service Administration, and the University of Chicago Law School.

In the 21st century, developments on the Midway have introduced an ice rink and a warming house (in 2002), while the Midway Crossings (2010–13) at Ellis, Woodlawn, and Dorchester Avenues stand as towering light installations, visually connecting the campus' northern and southern sections. Additionally, you can discover an older statue honoring botanist and zoologist Carl Linnaeus, as well as a statue depicting the Blanik Mountain Knight – a monumental symbol of eternally valid ideals: freedom, democracy and humanity.