The Umbrella Sky Project has returned to downtown Elmhurst for its second year. The whimsical art installation features three colorful canopies that cover pedestrian walkways and green spaces.
Through mid-September, families can take a scenic (stroller-accessible) stroll through downtown Elmhurst and gaze up in wonder at the colorful displays. The route is just over half a mile and takes visitors through the charming downtown.
Quick details about Umbrella Sky Project
- Locations: Schiller Court at Schiller and York Streets; Cultural Campus at 110 South Cottage Hill, Elmhurst; and North York Stage at 254 North York St., Elmhurst
- Cost: Free!
The Umbrella Sky Project has installations at Schiller Court, North York Stage and Cultural Campus, just east of the Elmhurst Public Library and north of the Elmhurst Art Museum.
Elmhurst is the sixth U.S. city to welcome the Umbrella Sky Project, following installations in Coral Gables, Florida; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Pensacola, Florida; Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; and Batesville, Indiana. The art installation began in Portugal and has since expanded to more than 170 international locations, including installations in France, Japan, Spain and Norway.
The Umbrella Sky Project debuted in Elmhurst last year. The installation will update annually through 2025.
Is Umbrella Sky worth it?
After seeing Umbrella Sky all over my Instagram feed, I decided to drive out to Elmhurst and make a solo day trip out of the attraction.
I took a walk at the Wilder Park Conservatory and stopped at the library before I started my colorful journey. It was a windy day, which made the “Color Rain” installation at Cultural Campus come to life. The installation features colorful ribbons that ripple in brilliant waves in the wind.
Next, I walked north down York Street to Schiller Court where more than 300 umbrellas created a bright covered walkway. The alley was filled with visitors snapping selfies and families hanging out under the umbrellas.
A bit further down York was my final stop, “Layers.” Although there are nearly 200 Umbrella Sky Project installations worldwide, “Layers” is the first of its kind. Waves of fabric cover a small green space with concrete steps, making it a great place to take a break from walking and play under the colorful canopy.
In July, a new color palette will replace the blue, green and white displays, so I plan on visiting again to take in the new color scheme. On my next visit, I plan to recruit some friends and family and make a day out of our Umbrella Sky excursion. If you’d like to do the same, check out these fun suggestions for exploring Elmhurst with the kiddos.
Other things to do in Elmhurst with kids
After you’ve snapped the perfect Umbrella Sky photo and spent some family time under the colorful canopies, check out these exciting places to explore with kids in Elmhurst.
- The Elmhurst Public Library is a great starting point for your family’s Umbrella Sky journey. The bright Kids’ Library and indoor Learning Garden are tons of fun for littles, and there are dedicated spaces for middle schoolers and high schoolers, too. On a nice day, be sure to visit the Children’s Reading Garden.
- Play at The Hub at Berens Park. The exciting outdoor center offers a playground and sprayground, batting cages, mini golf and a water play area.
- Take a walk at the Wilder Park Conservatory. This free conservatory is small, but it’s a great place to enjoy the sunshine and snap some cute photos of the kids.
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