My sister Jean, a faithful Global Traveler reader, knows I love outdoor art. Every year when her hometown, Tinley Park, unveils new Benches on the Avenue, she shares the news with me.
Debuting in 2004, Tinley Park’s Benches on the Avenue is a public art program featuring colorful, themed benches around town. One of the most popular attractions, benches are the work of professional and amateur artists— sponsored by businesses or individuals.
On display May through October, benches have a different theme each year. The theme for 2023 is Industry, Invention and Progress. Each bench honors a creation that changed the world and the way we live. Previous years included Animal Adventure, Heroes and Villains, Classic TV and The Magic of Music.
This year my sister’s granddaughter, Delaney, 5, is old enough to enjoy the fun benches. Although she is too young to understand the concepts, she appreciates the colors and fun designs. Checking out the benches was a fun playdate for the two generations. This is more proof of the benches’ appeal to all ages. On my recent trip to my sister’s, I saw several, but I need a return trip to see all of them.
Like other outdoor art, Benches on the Avenue bring life to otherwise mundane scenery. One other benefit is the benches are functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. Benches on the Avenue, with form meeting function, are the best kind of outdoor art displays.
— John Wroblewski, online writer
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Apr 18, 2024Fort George Hotel & Spa Transforms Belize City from Gateway to Destination
Belize City is better known as a business center and a stop en route to Belize’s lush rural destinations, but Fort George Hotel & Spa promises to change things up and reframe the nation’s capital as a destination in its own right. Located in the city’s Fort George neighborhood, the hotel debuted as the first luxury hotel in Belize City, boasting sophisticated design, elevated culinary offerings, expansive guestrooms and an inspiring wellness program. The hotel also features a branded fitness center, plunge pool and K’IN Spa.
Sponsored Content
Reconnecting the World: GBTA Convention 2023 Spotlights the Vital Role of Business Travel and In-Person Connection
In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Convention remains an indispensable platform for business travel industry professionals seeking to make the most of the power of face-to-face connections. Taking place August 13–15 in Dallas, the 2023 GBTA Convention provides the unique opportunity for professionals and companies to join visionaries, thought leaders and industry experts for meaningful networking, cutting-edge insights and inspiring innovation.
Daily
Apr 18, 2024Explore the Secrets of the Distant Stars with Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas’ New SKY Gurus
Have you ever looked up at the sky and questioned the mysteries of the universe? For travelers looking to learn more about the stars and their secrets, head to SKY at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.
Daily
Apr 18, 2024Exclusive Golf and Tennis Itineraries from Kensington Tours
Kensington Tours recently announced a limited series of luxury itineraries centered on golf and tennis, including world-famous events like Wimbledon.
Sponsored Content
Fill Your Heart with Ireland
Whether it's the people, the craic (fun) or the coasts, travelers always find something to love about the island of Ireland. What fills your heart?
Bhutan
Apr 17, 2024Mindfulness City in Kingdom of Bhutan Unveiled as Future Economic Hub
In front of an audience of 30,000 Kingdom of Bhutan residents and officials, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck presented his vision for a new economic hub in Bhutan. Located between India to the south and China to the north, Bhutan is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Bhutan came late to global tourism. It opened its borders to international visitors in 1974 and, while tourism definitely increased, residents are enduring “light” rush-hour traffic in Thimphu, its capital city, as the only Asian capital without traffic lights.
Amansara Review
eFlyer Reviews
Apr 17, 2024Regent Santa Monica Beach to Debut This Summer
Daily
Apr 17, 2024eFlyer Deals
Apr 17, 2024Birder’s Delight at Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa
Calling all bird lovers! Make for Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa in Mendocino, California, and book the all-new Birder’s Delight offer. Designed for nature enthusiasts, this offer takes two guests on a guided birdwatching excursion.
Sponsored Content
Why Buy Annual Travel Insurance?
One affordable plan can protect an entire year of trips: business or pleasure, short or long, domestic or international.
eFlyer Deals
Apr 17, 2024Love and Let Fly at Sandals, Beaches Resorts
On Feb. 24, American Airlines launched a new, nonstop flight (AA4407) to the Caribbean Riviera. To celebrate the new flight, Sandals and Beaches Resorts launched the Love and Let Fly offer, honoring both spring and a stronger connection between the Caribbean and U.S. travelers.
ShareThis