Navy Pier Things To Do

Navy Pier, located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois, is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. This lakefront attraction has been a staple of Chicago's entertainment scene for over a century, offering a wide range of activities and events for visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides and games to cultural exhibitions and stunning views of the city skyline, Navy Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chicago.

With its rich history dating back to 1916, Navy Pier has evolved over the years to become a vibrant hub of entertainment, education, and recreation. The pier stretches over 3,300 feet into Lake Michigan, providing breathtaking views of the city and the lake. Visitors can stroll along the pier, take in the sights and sounds, and enjoy the various attractions and activities on offer. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or entertainment, Navy Pier has something for everyone.

Navy Pier is also a great place to learn about Chicago's history and culture. The pier is home to several museums and exhibitions, including the Chicago Children's Museum, the Navy Pier Auditorium, and the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows. Visitors can explore these attractions to gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Additionally, Navy Pier hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the city's diverse music, dance, and art scene.

Introduction to Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a vibrant and dynamic destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. From thrill rides and games to cultural exhibitions and stunning views of the city skyline, Navy Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chicago. The pier is also home to several restaurants, bars, and cafes, offering a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets.

History of Navy Pier

Navy Pier has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to 1916. The pier was originally designed as a shipping and recreation facility, but it quickly evolved into a popular entertainment destination. During the 1920s and 1930s, Navy Pier was a hub of activity, with amusement parks, dance halls, and other attractions drawing visitors from all over the city. Today, Navy Pier is a thriving destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.

Things to Do at Navy Pier

There are plenty of things to do at Navy Pier, including:

Taking a ride on the Centennial Wheel, a 196-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city skyline
Exploring the Chicago Children's Museum, which features interactive exhibits and play areas for kids
Visiting the Navy Pier Auditorium, which hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year
Shopping and dining at one of the many restaurants, bars, and cafes on the pier
Taking a boat tour of Lake Michigan, which offers a unique perspective on the city's skyline and landmarks

Attractions and Exhibitions

Navy Pier is home to a wide range of attractions and exhibitions, including: * The Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows, which features a stunning collection of stained glass windows from around the world * The Chicago Shakespeare Theater, which hosts a variety of productions throughout the year * The Navy Pier Polk Bros Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and events, including concerts, festivals, and fitness classes * The Chicago Sports Hall of Fame, which honors the city's rich sports history and heritage

Cultural Events and Festivals

Navy Pier hosts a wide range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including:

The Chicago Air and Water Show, which features a variety of military and civilian aircraft performing aerial stunts and maneuvers
The Chicago Jazz Festival, which showcases the city's rich jazz heritage and features performances by local and national jazz musicians
The Chicago Food Festival, which celebrates the city's diverse culinary scene and features a variety of food vendors and restaurants
The Navy Pier Fireworks, which take place every Wednesday and Saturday evening during the summer months and feature a stunning display of fireworks over Lake Michigan

Food and Drink

Navy Pier is home to a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes, offering a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some popular options include: * The Billy Goat Tavern, which is famous for its cheeseburgers and has been a Chicago institution for over 80 years * The Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse, which offers a variety of Italian-American cuisine and has a fun, lively atmosphere * The Navy Pier Beer Garden, which features a variety of craft beers and offers stunning views of the lake

Shopping and Entertainment

Navy Pier is a great place to shop and be entertained, with a wide range of stores, restaurants, and attractions to choose from. Some popular options include:

The Navy Pier Arcade, which features a variety of video and arcade games
The Chicago Sports Store, which offers a wide range of sports-themed merchandise and apparel
The Navy Pier Marina, which offers boat tours and rentals, as well as stunning views of the lake

Getting There and Getting Around

Navy Pier is located at 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. The pier is easily accessible by car, with several parking garages and lots located nearby. Visitors can also take public transportation, including buses and trains, to get to the pier. Once you arrive, there are plenty of ways to get around, including walking, taking a taxi or ride-share, or using the pier's convenient shuttle service.

Tips and Insights

Here are some tips and insights to help you make the most of your visit to Navy Pier:

Plan ahead and check the pier's website for hours, prices, and special events
Arrive early to beat the crowds and take advantage of shorter lines
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a lot of walking
Take advantage of the pier's many dining and shopping options
Don't miss the stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Navy Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chicago. With its rich history, stunning views, and wide range of attractions and activities, the pier has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in culture, entertainment, food, or recreation, Navy Pier is a great place to spend the day. So why not plan a visit and see what all the fuss is about?

Navy Pier Image Gallery

What are the hours of operation for Navy Pier?

Navy Pier is open from 10am to 10pm, Sunday through Thursday, and from 10am to 12am, Friday and Saturday.

How do I get to Navy Pier?

Navy Pier is located at 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. You can take public transportation, including buses and trains, or drive and park in one of the nearby garages or lots.

What are some of the attractions and activities available at Navy Pier?

Navy Pier offers a wide range of attractions and activities, including the Centennial Wheel, the Chicago Children's Museum, and the Navy Pier Auditorium. You can also take a boat tour, go shopping, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes.

Are there any special events or festivals at Navy Pier?

Yes, Navy Pier hosts a variety of special events and festivals throughout the year, including the Chicago Air and Water Show, the Chicago Jazz Festival, and the Navy Pier Fireworks.

Can I bring my pet to Navy Pier?

No, pets are not allowed at Navy Pier, with the exception of service animals.

We hope you've enjoyed this article about Navy Pier and all it has to offer. Whether you're a local or just visiting Chicago, Navy Pier is a must-see destination that's sure to delight and entertain. With its rich history, stunning views, and wide range of attractions and activities, Navy Pier is the perfect place to spend a day or evening. So why not plan a visit and see what all the fuss is about? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below, and don't forget to share this article with your friends and family who might be interested in visiting Navy Pier.