Navy Pier

Most Chicago sightseeing tours (by foot, bike, bus, or Segway) include a stop at Navy Pier, which buts right up against the Streeterville neighborhood and the distinctive Chicago skyline—and is one of the largest entertainment complexes in the United States. The pier is also a departure point for the must-do Chicago architecture river cruises and classic lake tours. For kids, Navy Pier features the Chicago Children’s Museum, plus a collection of high-tech rides, hands-on fountains, kid-focused educational exhibits, restaurants, and trinket vendors that will transport your child into the realm of overstimulated joy. Adults will appreciate the lakefront views, cool breezes, and a ride on the gigantic Ferris wheel or classic carousel. Skyline Stage, a 1,500-seat rooftop venue under a canopy, plays host to a variety of shows throughout the summer; and on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the pier puts on a whopping fireworks show.

• Navy Pier is a must-do for families visiting Chicago with children.

• For a unique view of Navy Pier or the fireworks show, book a dinner cruise.

• The Chicago Explorer Pass includes admission to several Navy Pier attractions, including the Ferris wheel and miniature golf.

• Most attractions and businesses on Navy Pier are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

Located east of the Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier is easy to get to by bus and El trains from anywhere in the city, including on the free pier trolley bus. In summer, Shoreline Sightseeing runs a handy water taxi between Navy Pier, the Sears Tower, and the John G. Shedd Aquarium.

Although Navy Pier is open year-round, it really comes alive in the summer—in fact it can get mobbed, so arrive early and take public transportation. An IMAX Theater and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater are both good cold-weather options, and there is a winter festival held every year.

Originally named the Municipal Pier, it was renamed Navy Pier in 1927 in honor of the naval veterans from the First World War. During World War II, the pier was used as a naval training facility, where about 10,000 people lived, worked, and trained.

Yes, Chicago’s Navy Pier is definitely worth visiting, and it’s one of the city’s top attractions. It serves various interests, with rides, amusements, and attractions such as the Centennial Wheel, Pier Park, boat rides, museums, and restaurants. There are also seasonal attractions, including outdoor events and fireworks in summer.

Chicago’s Navy Pier is free to visit, so it is budget-friendly, especially if you just want to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. However, some of the Navy Pier’s many individual attractions have their own entry fees, and there are restaurants and shops where you can spend money.

Plan to spend at least half a day at Navy Pier. There are many attractions here, so you could spend a day or more on the rides and at the museums, restaurants, and exhibits. Most visitors find plenty to occupy them for a few hours at any time of day.

Chicago’s Navy Pier has had three Ferris wheels throughout its history. The original wheel was built in 1893 and was the tallest, measuring 264 feet (80 meters). A second was built in 1995. The present-day wheel, built in 2016, measures 200 feet (60 meters) tall and has enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas.

Yes, free seasonal trolleys still operate in Chicago. In summer, a free trolley runs to the Navy Pier from downtown on a loop that travels along East Illinois Street and East Grand Avenue via North State Street. A free winter holiday trolley runs in the central city in late December.

Yes, it’s generally safe to walk to Navy Pier from other parts of downtown Chicago. There are busy roads in this area, so take care when getting there on foot. Alternatively, take a bus or water taxi, use the bike-share service, or drive and park at the on-site parking garages.