Ultimate Guide to Visiting Navy Pier Chicago illinois

Navy Pier Chicago Located along the stunning shoreline of Lake Michigan is one of the city’s most iconic and entertaining destinations. Originally built in 1916, this historic pier has transformed into a vibrant, family-friendly attraction that draws millions of visitors each year.

From the towering Centennial Wheel to the interactive Chicago Children’s Museum, Navy Pier offers something for everyone. Stroll along the scenic boardwalk, catch a live show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, or enjoy a boat cruise with breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Food lovers will appreciate a wide range of dining options, from quick bites to lakefront restaurants. During the summer, Navy Pier comes alive with fireworks, outdoor concerts, and festivals, while winter brings dazzling light displays and cozy indoor attractions like the Crystal Gardens.

Easily accessible from downtown, Navy Pier is the perfect addition to any Chicago itinerary — whether you’re visiting with kids, planning a romantic evening, or exploring solo. With its blend of culture, entertainment, and lakefront charm, Navy Pier is a must-see stop in the Windy City.

Rides and Games at Navy Pier chicago: Fun for All Ages

The Centennial Wheel:

The Centennial Wheel is among Navy Pier’s most recognizable attractions. At 200 feet, it provides stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.. A ride on this giant Ferris wheel is perfect for those who want to experience the city from a new perspective.

Wave Swinger and Carousel: For those seeking classic carnival fun, the Wave Swinger and Carousel provide nostalgic thrills. The Wave Swinger sends riders soaring in the air while taking in lakefront views, while the Carousel is a favorite for younger children with its colorful, charming horses.

Family-Friendly Games and Arcades: Navy Pier also has an array of arcades and games for those looking to challenge themselves. The Play Around the Pier offers everything from mini-golf to basketball hoops, and the mini bumper cars are perfect for little ones.

Chicago Children’s Museum:

One of the top attractions for families, the Chicago Children’s Museum offers a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages. With interactive exhibits focused on science, art, and imagination, children can engage in hands-on learning while exploring exciting exhibits like the Dinosaur Expedition and Waterways.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater:

For theater enthusiasts, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier provides world-class performances. This award-winning theater hosts both classic Shakespearean plays and modern adaptations, making it a great destination for cultural immersion and a night of entertainment.

Crystal Gardens:

The Crystal Gardens, a hidden gem inside Navy Pier, is a peaceful indoor environment with lush plants, waterfalls, and palm palms set against a gorgeous glass atrium. It’s free to visit and offers a peaceful escape, perfect for art lovers and those looking for a quiet moment in the middle of the bustling pier.

Navy Pier’s Public Art:

Throughout the pier, visitors can enjoy a variety of public art installations. From sculptures to temporary exhibits, Navy Pier showcases Chicago’s vibrant art scene and its dedication to creativity.

Riva Crabhouse:

For those looking for a fine dining experience with a spectacular view, Riva Crabhouse is a must-visit. Located directly on the pier, this upscale seafood restaurant offers fresh fish, lobster, and of course, its famous crab cakes. With large windows overlooking the lake and the Chicago skyline, Riva’s atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. Don’t miss their signature cocktails and elegant desserts like key lime pie.

Giordano’s: No trip to Chicago is complete without experiencing its iconic deep-dish pizza, and Giordano’s is one of the best spots on the pier to get it. Their famous stuffed deep-dish pizza is filled with gooey cheese, fresh tomato sauce, and a flaky crust that’s sure to leave you craving more. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try their thin-crust pizza or a hearty Italian sandwich.

Shake Shack: If you’re after a more casual dining experience, Shake Shack is a popular choice for visitors craving delicious burgers, hot dogs, and shakes. This beloved fast-casual chain uses high-quality ingredients to craft juicy burgers and crispy fries that are perfect for a quick bite. Grab a table by the lake and enjoy their ShackBurger or a refreshing frozen custard for a sweet treat.

The Billy Goat Tavern: For a true taste of Chicago’s history, head to The Billy Goat Tavern. This legendary tavern, famous for its cheeseburgers and fries, has been serving Chicagoans since the 1930s. Situated on the pier, it’s the perfect place to grab a casual, classic Chicago-style meal. The cheeseburger and fries combo is a crowd favorite, and the greasy spoon charm of the tavern is a unique part of Chicago’s culinary culture.

Dock Street Coffee: For a quick coffee fix or a light breakfast, stop by Dock Street Coffee. Located near the entrance of the pier, this cozy coffee shop serves up fresh brews, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. Whether you’re in need of a latte to start your day or a cinnamon roll to snack on, Dock Street is the perfect spot to fuel up before exploring more of Navy Pier.

Navy Pier Food Court: If you’re looking for a variety of options in one place, the Navy Pier Food Court has a wide range of fast and convenient choices. From Asian cuisine and salads to hot dogs and pretzels, there’s something to satisfy every craving. It’s a great spot for families and groups who want to enjoy a quick, affordable meal while taking in the sights of the pier.

Oyster Bah:

Oyster Bah is a must-visit place for seafood lovers. This lively seafood bar and grill offers a variety of fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and clam chowder. It’s the perfect spot for a casual, coastal-inspired meal with a great atmosphere. Be sure to try their oyster sampler to get a taste of different varieties from both coasts.

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Summer Fireworks Spectacular:

One of Navy Pier’s most beloved seasonal events is its summer fireworks display, held every Wednesday and Saturday evening from Memorial Day to Labor Day. These fireworks light up the sky over Lake Michigan and are a must-see experience for anyone visiting the pier during the summer. The vibrant colors, synchronized with music, create an unforgettable show that attracts visitors from across the city.

Winter WonderFest:

When the weather turns cold, Navy Pier transforms into a winter wonderland with Winter WonderFest. Held from late November through early January, this annual festival offers ice skating, rides, games, and festive holiday decorations. Inside the Pier, you’ll find a giant indoor ice rink, holiday-themed rides, and plenty of fun activities for kids and families. The event is perfect for creating lasting memories during the holiday season.

Chicago Air and Water Show:

Every August, Navy Pier serves as a prime viewing location for the Chicago Air and Water Show, one of the largest and most exciting air shows in the country. The blue skies above Lake Michigan come alive with aerial stunts, flyovers by military jets, and breathtaking water stunts performed by professional pilots and daredevils. The show is free to the public, but it’s best enjoyed from Navy Pier for its panoramic views.

Fall Harvest Festival: when the weather cools down, Navy Pier celebrates the Fall Harvest Festival, which takes place in October. The festival features fun activities like pumpkin decorating, corn mazes, and harvest-themed treats. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the season with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and seasonal food like caramel apples and warm cider.

Holiday Lights Festival:

In addition to Winter WonderFest, Navy Pier hosts a stunning Holiday Lights Festival. From November through January, the pier is decked out in millions of twinkling lights that create a magical atmosphere for visitors.

Cultural Festivals: Throughout the year, Navy Pier also hosts a variety of cultural festivals, including Chinese New Year celebrations, Latin music festivals, and Independence Day festivities. These events celebrate the diverse cultures that make Chicago so vibrant, offering music, food, and performances that highlight different traditions.

Navy Pier’s Iconic Shops: Navy Pier is home to several one-of-a-kind boutiques and specialty stores that reflect the city’s spirit. From Chicago-themed T-shirts and mugs to locally made art and jewelry, these shops offer the perfect keepsakes to remind you of your time in the Windy City. Be sure to stop by stores like Navy Pier Gift Shop and Chicago’s Best to pick up souvenirs that showcase the essence of Chicago’s history, architecture, and culture.

Handmade Local Crafts:

For those who appreciate artisanal goods, Navy Pier has a variety of stores showcasing locally crafted items. From handmade candles and art prints to customized pottery and handcrafted jewelry, there’s a great selection of unique, locally produced pieces. These items make wonderful gifts or personal mementos that support local artists and creators.

Specialty Stores: Navy Pier also offers a range of specialty stores, including fashion-forward boutiques and sports gear shops. Whether you’re in the market for stylish apparel, Chicago Bears or Cubs memorabilia, or the latest outdoor gear, you’ll find plenty of options. Many stores also offer seasonal items like cozy sweaters and scarves in winter or beach gear in summer.

Lakeside Market: Throughout the year, Navy Pier hosts pop-up shops and seasonal markets, where vendors set up booths selling everything from fresh local produce and handmade crafts to food trucks and Chicago-themed goods. These markets add an extra layer of excitement to your shopping experience, providing new and interesting items with every visit.

Millennium Park:

Just a short walk from Navy Pier, Millennium Park is home to the famous Cloud Gate(The Bean). This stunning sculpture is a popular photo op, and the park also features the beautiful Lurie Garden, Crown Fountain, and a summer concert series at the Pritzker Pavilion. It’s a perfect spot to relax or enjoy public art and music.

Chicago Riverwalk:

The Chicago Riverwalk stretches along the Chicago River and is a beautiful place to stroll, bike, or even take a boat tour. With outdoor cafes, public art, and great views of the city’s architectural wonders, it’s an ideal spot for a scenic walk, just a short distance from Navy Pier.

The Art Institute of Chicago: Only a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute walk away, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s oldest and largest art museums. Home to iconic works such as Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” the museum offers visitors an unparalleled cultural experience.

The Magnificent Mile:

A must for shopping lovers, the Magnificent Mile is a world-renowned stretch of Michigan Avenue, lined with high-end stores, restaurants, and landmarks. Just a short distance from Navy Pier, it’s a great place to enjoy a shopping spree or a gourmet meal.

The Langham, Chicago:  

Just a short distance from Navy Pier, The Langham offers a luxurious experience with stunning views of the Chicago River and skyline. Known for its impeccable service, this 5-star hotel features spacious rooms, a full-service spa, and fine dining. It’s perfect for those looking for an upscale stay close to the action.

Hotel Chicago Downtown:

Located just a 10-minute walk from Navy Pier, Hotel Chicago Downtown offers modern accommodations with easy access to Chicago’s top attractions. This trendy hotel features stylish rooms, a rooftop bar with panoramic views, and a location that’s central to dining, shopping, and entertainment.

 The Sheraton Grand Chicago:

For families and business travelers alike, the Sheraton Grand Chicago is an excellent option. Situated along the Chicago River, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a heated indoor pool, and beautiful views of the city. It’s only a short walk to Navy Pier, making it a convenient and comfortable choice.

Getting to Navy Pier: A Complete Guide to Reaching This Iconic Chicago Destination

By Public Transportation:

CTA Buses

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers several convenient bus routes that serve Navy Pier, making public transportation a great option for visitors. The most popular routes are:

• #29 State Street Bus: This bus runs along State Street and drops you off just a short walk from Navy Pier.
• #65 Grand Avenue Bus: Another excellent option, this bus stops near the intersection of Grand Avenue and Lake Shore Drive, just a few minutes from the pier. CTA ‘L’ Trains: While Navy Pier doesn’t have a direct ‘L’ station, it’s easily accessible from several nearby stations. The closest Red Line station is Grand, located a short 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can catch the Brown Line at State/Lake Station or the Orange Line at Clark/Lake. From these stations, you can hop on a bus or take a pleasant stroll to the pier.

By Car: If you prefer driving, Navy Pier is easily accessible by car, though parking can be challenging during peak times. Navy Pier Garage is the largest parking facility, offering more than 2,000 spaces, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. The parking rate is typically higher during busy seasons, so be prepared to pay for convenience

For a more affordable option, consider parking at nearby garages or street parking, though availability might be limited. Using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft can be a hassle-free choice to avoid parking altogether.

By Bike: Chicago is a bike-friendly city, and Navy Pier is no exception. If you enjoy cycling, you can take advantage of the Divvy Bike Share Program. The program offers bike stations throughout the city, with several located near Navy Pier. It’s a quick and eco-friendly way to explore Chicago, and there are plenty of bike racks around the pier for secure parking. The Lakefront Trail, which runs along Lake Michigan, offers a scenic and safe route to Navy Pier.

By Water Taxi: For a more scenic and unique option, consider taking the Chicago Water Taxi to Navy Pier. Water taxis run along the Chicago River, providing an enjoyable and picturesque way to travel. You can board at several stops, including Union Station or the Chicago Riverwalk, and take a leisurely boat ride to the pier. It’s a relaxing option that offers beautiful views of the lake and Chicago’s iconic skyline.

Walking from Nearby Attractions: Navy Pier is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, making it an easy walk from several famous attractions. If you’re staying in the Loop or exploring nearby landmarks like Millennium Park or the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier is within walking distance. The scenic walk along the lakefront provides stunning views of the water and the city, making it a great way to enjoy the sights while getting to your destination.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: If you prefer not to deal with parking or public transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are always an option. These services are readily available throughout Chicago, and they can drop you off directly at Navy Pier’s entrance.