An exciting entertainment area filled with rides, shops, museums and restaurants Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s biggest attractions. Sightseeing boat tours and lakeshore dinner cruises are also available from the pier offering a fantastic view of the city skyline day or night. Every Wednesday and Saturday night from May to September the Navy Pier fireworks display lights up the sky and is especially memorable when viewed from a boat out on the lake. Navy Pier is always a great family day out and there is never an admission fee.
Completed in 1914, the pier was originally used as a docking area for Great Lakes shipping while warehouses occupied its space. During the two world wars it was used as a navy training facility and the pier got its name from the navy personnel who trained there in the difficult days of World War I.
Extending out into beautiful Lake Michigan, today’s Navy Pier is like an urban amusement park. The giant Ferris wheel is a relaxing way to enjoy a birds-eye view of the skyline and a number of other rides are also featured on the pier. Although a ride of a different kind but just as exciting is the Navy Pier IMAX Theatre featuring excellent 2D and 3D productions on its giant screen. If you’re looking for just the right Chicago souvenir some of the best souvenir shops can be found at Navy Pier. From clothes and accessories to gifts and collectibles there are many shops to enjoy. When hunger sets in, Navy Pier offers something for every craving, mood or price range – including a beer garden and tavern and grill.
Navy Pier is a short distance from downtown’s North Michigan Avenue and a quick taxi ride away. Taxis may be hailed from any location. CTA bus service is available on route numbers 29, 65, 66, and the 124 Navy Pier Express (serving METRA lines, Millennium Park/Randolph St., and Union Stations).
