Navy Pier is the ultimate Chicago hotspot, and it's been the city's playground for over a hundred years. Thrilling rides, amazing cultural experiences, and tons of delicious food can all be enjoyed in one place. So, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Chicagoan, get ready to discover all the excitement that this lively lakefront destination has to offer. Let's dive into your ultimate guide to the "People's Pier!"
The Absolute Must-Do's at Navy Pier (A First-Timer's Checklist)
Centennial Wheel: To answer one of your first questions, yes, these are climate-controlled gondolas to keep you comfortable no matter what Chicago’s crazy weather is doing. While cozy in a gondola, you can soar to 196 feet in the air for insta-worthy views of downtown Chi-town and Lake Michigan.
Chicago Children’s Museum: With three floors of hands-on exhibits, your little ones can dig for dinosaur bones, splash around in a water playground, or even climb aboard a real-life schooner. Learning has never been so much fun!
Chicago Shakespeare Theater: This cultural institution of Chicago has got it all: award-winning plays and musicals, world premieres, family productions. Their three venues set the stage for unforgettable performances year-round, so find the one that’s right for you.
Boat Rides: Navy Pier boat tours and cruises give you a unique view of the city's skyline and Lake Michigan. Plus, boat rides are always a good time! You can find everything from short, thrilling speedboat rides to longer, more leisurely dinner cruises. Operators like Shoreline Sightseeing depart from Navy Pier on tours that take you up the river for a close-up view, or out on the lake for stunning skyline vistas.
Carousel: This charming, beautifully crafted carousel features 36 hand-painted animals. It’s a whimsical ride that pays tribute to the Pier's history and is a delight for all ages (and a great photo op).
Wave Swinger: Feel the breeze and let your legs dangle as you swing in graceful circles high above the pier! This classic ride offers a gentle thrill and awesome views of the lakefront.
Light Tower: Get ready for a soaring and dropping adventure on the Light Tower! This fun and exciting ride is a blast for the whole family.
Drop Tower: For the ultimate thrill-seekers, the Drop Tower is an exhilarating experience that sends you shooting skyward before a heart-pounding drop back to the ground.
Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze: Laugh and get lost in this wild, self-paced maze. Navigate your way through a funhouse full of mirrors, illusions, and mind-bending surprises.
Fairways Indoor Golf & Play: With indoor golf simulators and other exciting games, it's the perfect spot to practice your swing and have a blast, rain or shine.
Pier Park Mini-Golf: Enjoy a scenic round of mini-golf right on the pier with lake views. This is a great way to challenge your friends and family to a friendly competition while soaking up the vibrant outdoor atmosphere.
Themed and Pop-Up Events: Keep an eye on the calendar for special events like the Lakefront Games. These can include everything from classic arcade games and inflatables to giant lawn games and TV game show-themed challenges.
Artists at the Pier: This is a cool exhibition that spotlights a group of established Chicago-based artists. You'll get to see all kinds of art, from sculptures to paintings, showcasing the incredible talent right here in the city.
Murals and Mosaics: An Exhibition by the Chicago Sun-Times: Get a glimpse into the heart of Chicago with this unique showcase. It features up to 50 photos of different city neighborhoods, each with a story behind the incredible murals and mosaics that make them special.
To Sit A While: This is a thoughtful permanent sculpture of Lorraine Hansberry, the brilliant Chicago-born playwright. The life-sized chairs around her are an invitation for you to sit, reflect, and think about her incredible legacy.
Hebru Brantley's Iconic 'flyboy': Keep an eye out for this super cool, 16-foot sculpture by world-renowned Chicago artist Hebru Brantley. His iconic character, 'flyboy,' is a must-see piece of public art that's full of personality.
"Made in Chicago" Mural by Cookie Kwan: This mural is a true celebration of the city's artistic spirit. With a sleek black-and-white skyline and pops of vibrant color, it tells the story of Chicago's past, present, and future in a fun and creative way.
Summer Fireworks: These dazzling, free fireworks displays light up the sky over Lake Michigan every Wednesday and Saturday night all summer long. And for the best fireworks view, head to 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck.
Live on the Lake!: This free concert series is the perfect way to spend a summer weekend. Grab a drink at the Beer Garden and enjoy live music from local, regional, and national acts.
The Great American Lobster Fest: Feast on fresh lobster flown in from the East Coast, savor other types of food and drinks, and groove to live music at the Midwest's largest seafood festival.
Chicago International Boat Show: Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just love the water, this event is a must-see. Explore a massive collection of boats and yachts and experience hands-on boating demos right on Lake Michigan.
Free Cultural Celebrations: Navy Pier hosts a variety of vibrant cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from Mexican culture to the Chinese Lunar New Year with music, dance, and delicious food.
Navy Pier Food & Drink - A Foodie's Guide
Fine Dining & Sit-Down Restaurants:
Chef Art Smith's Reunion: This restaurant, from the former personal chef to Oprah, serves up amazing dishes like his famous fried chicken and mac 'n' cheese in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to refuel and relax with family and friends after a day of exploring the pier.
Offshore Rooftop & Bar: This is officially the largest rooftop bar in the world, so get ready to be wowed! Sip on amazing cocktails and savor delicious food while taking in incredible, unobstructed views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.
Giordano's: Famous for its legendary stuffed deep-dish pizza, this is the spot to experience a true taste of the city's iconic food scene. Gather your friends and family for some incredible, cheesy goodness and other Italian favorites.
America's Dog & Burger: Take a delicious road trip across the U.S. without leaving the Pier. This spot serves up hot dogs inspired by different cities, plus juicy burgers and tasty chicken.
Big City Chicken: Craving some crispy, golden goodness? Big City Chicken is your go-to for incredible fried chicken, chicken sandwiches, and strips that are sure to satisfy that craving.
Billy Goat Tavern: A true Chicago legend, this is the place to get a "Cheezborger! Cheezborger!" Grab one of their famous burgers and soak in a piece of Chicago history.
Sweets & Snacks:
The Original Rainbow Cone: Get a cone stacked high with five delicious flavors—chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House, pistachio, and orange sherbet—for a unique and colorful treat.
Garrett Popcorn Shops: Grab a bag of their famous Garrett Mix, a can't-miss combo of sweet caramel corn and savory cheese corn.
JoJo's ShakeBAR: This spot serves up decadent milkshakes piled high with all kinds of wild and wonderful toppings.
IT'SUGAR: This massive candy store is a sugar lover's paradise. You'll find every kind of candy imaginable, from nostalgic classics to giant-sized treats that will make your jaw drop.
Planning Your Visit: Essential Tips & Information
Hours & Admission:
There’s no fee to visit Chicago’s Navy Pier! Feel free to wander around at leisure and enjoy the views and fun atmosphere. However, you must purchase tickets to enjoy the pier’s rides and games. This Chicago landmark is open year-round, but hours do vary by season and per attraction. Your best bet is to check their current hours before your visit.
Getting There: Transportation & Parking:
There are two Navy Pier Parking Garages if you’re driving yourself. Parking fees start at $21 for less than one hour and increase the longer you stay. Valet parking service is also available.
If you’ll be taking public transit, Chicago's RTA has a handy, easy-to-use trip planner that helps you plan out when to go and what bus or train to take to get to Navy Pier. While in Chicago, there are 5 bus routes that service Navy Pier. You can also plan your trip within the Chicago area using the CTA trip planner.
Uber or Lyft Pick up and Drop-Off Points
West: Located at the main entrance to Navy Pier
Center: Located at the mid-parking circle
East: Near the east parking circle
Taxi Service to and from Navy Pier
Navy Pier has made it easy for drop-off and pick-up for taxis. There are 3 locations at Entrance 1: The West Entrance closest to Festival Hall, RIVA, and WBEZ Radio.
The West side of Navy Pier is closest to Dock Street and the Family Pavilion.
Entrance 2: The East entrance closest to the east section of Festival Hall, the Beer Garden, and the Grand Ballroom. Taxis in Chicago accept credit cards and cash.
Water Taxi
Arrive in style via a memorable water taxi ride. You can find water taxi docks near some of Chicago’s main attractions, including the Willis (Sears) Tower, Michigan Avenue, Museum Campus, and Union Station. Keep in mind that some of the docks might require climbing/descending stairs as they are not at street level.
Wheelchair Accessibility: The entire Navy Pier complex is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps available throughout. Most attractions, including the Centennial Wheel, are fully accessible.
Wheelchair Rentals: Complimentary wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Guest Experience desks located at the East and West ends of the Pier. A valid ID is required to check one out. It is recommended to reserve a wheelchair in advance.
Accessible Parking: Accessible parking spaces are located in both the West and East parking garages at Navy Pier. The West Garage has accessible spots between doors 1-2 and 5-6, and the East Garage has accessible parking near doors 10, 11, and 12.
Accessible Restrooms: All public restrooms at Navy Pier are accessible and located throughout the campus.
Service Animals: Service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are permitted on the Pier.
Transportation: Paratransit services can drop off and pick up passengers at several locations, including the main entrance, the Family Pavilion entrance, and Entrances 1 and 2, all of which are equipped with ramps.
Individual Attraction Accommodations: Many of the individual attractions at Navy Pier, such as the Chicago Children's Museum, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and Flyover Chicago, also have their own specific accessibility services, including accessible entrances, elevators, and other accommodations. Check with each specific attraction for details.
Why We Recommend Navy Pier
Our Take: Navy Pier remains one of Chicago's best-known tourist attractions for a reason -- it's really worth the visit. From the breathtaking views on the Centennial Wheel to the unforgettable shows at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier is one of those rare places that really does have something awesome for everyone. Delicious eats, thrilling and nostalgic rides and games, compelling art installations, and the list goes on. There’s so much to do that one visit isn’t enough. But don’t worry, the pier will be here, waiting to delight and entertain you again and again!
Experience the stunning views of Chicago by purchasing your tickets today. Witness the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city from this iconic landmark.
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