Navy Pier
A vibrant entertainment hub on Lake Michigan, offering iconic Ferris wheel rides, cruises, dining, and spectacular fireworks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Navy Pier
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant entertainment hub on Lake Michigan, offering iconic Ferris wheel rides, cruises, dining, and spectacular fireworks.
"Navy Pier is one of those places that feels like it was made for wandering and our day there was nothing short of amazing."
🎯 Book Ferris Wheel in Advance
Save time and potentially money by booking Centennial Wheel tickets online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking a lot! Prioritize comfort for exploring the entire pier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Centennial Wheel
Navy Pier
Soar 200 feet for breathtaking panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
Fireworks Displays
Navy Pier
Spectacular free fireworks light up the sky on select summer nights and holidays.
Chicago Children's Museum
Navy Pier
An interactive and engaging space for kids to learn and play, offering hands-on exhibits.
Lake & River Cruises
Navy Pier
Embark on scenic tours offering unique perspectives of the city's architecture and waterfront.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating Navy Pier
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ferris Wheel in Advance
Save time and potentially money by booking Centennial Wheel tickets online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking a lot! Prioritize comfort for exploring the entire pier.
💰 Parking is Pricey
Consider public transport or rideshare to avoid high parking fees.
🎆 Fireworks Viewing Spots
For best views, consider a tour boat or find a spot away from the immediate pier crowds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ferris Wheel in Advance
Save time and potentially money by booking Centennial Wheel tickets online.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking a lot! Prioritize comfort for exploring the entire pier.
💰 Parking is Pricey
Consider public transport or rideshare to avoid high parking fees.
🎆 Fireworks Viewing Spots
For best views, consider a tour boat or find a spot away from the immediate pier crowds.
💧 Bring a Light Sweater
Even in warmer months, the lake breeze can be cool.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Navy Pier's stunning lakefront location, offering beautiful skyline views and a lively atmosphere. The Centennial Wheel is a must-do, providing breathtaking panoramas. It's a versatile destination suitable for families, couples, and solo explorers, with plenty of dining and entertainment options. Some find the attraction prices and parking fees to be on the higher side.
"A beautiful place in the banks of Lake Michigan. An excellent tourist location to get a glimpse of the city and it's beauty. Navy Pier is well lit and has a clean and maintained pathways. Many city cruises and dinner cruises start from here. Plenty of food and snack options along the pier. Loved all the benches, chairs and seats to soak in the beauty of Chicago."
Manikandan Nambiar
"Navy Pier was adorable and so pretty! It wasn’t crowded at all, which made walking around really enjoyable. They have a nice food court, some cute souvenir shops, and of course the big Ferris wheel. The ride is a bit pricey, but the views are absolutely worth it. Lovely experience overall!"
Bruna Mormilo Borges
"Navy Pier is an excellent destination for a family outing, offering plenty of fun for kids and adults alike. A long building extends down the length of the pier, housing a wide array of shops and restaurants where you can explore local food and browse for souvenirs. You'll find everything from casual bites to more upscale dining options.
For a fun time, head to the second floor near the entrance to find a small playground and a carousel, perfect for keeping young children entertained. Outside the building, you can board one of several boats for a scenic cruise.
You won't have to worry about finding food, drinks, or gifts, as there are many options to choose from inside the building. The pier also has some great beer stands where you can grab a local brew to enjoy while you walk. It's a nice perk that you're allowed to drink on the pier itself, as long as you finish your beverage before you leave."
Nan Liu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Navy Pier is accessible via public transportation, including buses and the 'L' train. Many visitors opt for rideshares or taxis. Parking is available in the onsite garage, but it can be expensive.
The address for Navy Pier is 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611.
Yes, Navy Pier is a pleasant walk from many downtown Chicago hotels and attractions, offering scenic views along the way.
Navy Pier has a large parking garage. Rates vary based on duration, with longer stays being quite costly.
Several Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) bus routes stop at or near Navy Pier, making it an accessible option. Check the CTA website for specific routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Navy Pier is free to enter. However, individual attractions like the Centennial Wheel, museums, and boat tours require separate tickets.
Tickets for the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier vary in price. It's recommended to check the official Navy Pier website for current pricing and consider booking in advance.
Tickets for most attractions can be purchased online through the official Navy Pier website or at the individual attraction's ticket booth on the pier.
Navy Pier hours vary seasonally and by day of the week. Generally, it's open from late morning to evening. Check the official Navy Pier website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, Navy Pier often hosts free events, including spectacular fireworks displays on select summer nights and holidays. 
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Top activities include riding the Centennial Wheel, exploring the Chicago Children's Museum, taking lake or river cruises, and enjoying the fireworks. There are also shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. +1
The Centennial Wheel offers stunning panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. It's a highlight for many visitors.
While the Centennial Wheel is the main attraction, Navy Pier also features other family-friendly entertainment and activities, including a carousel and playground.
Yes, you can drink alcohol on Navy Pier, provided you finish your beverage before leaving the pier. There are beer stands and bars available.
Absolutely! Navy Pier is a fantastic family destination with attractions like the Children's Museum, carousel, and the Ferris wheel, plus plenty of food options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Navy Pier offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries and a food court to sit-down restaurants, including Zabiha Halal options.
Yes, several dinner cruise companies operate from Navy Pier, offering a dining experience with scenic views of the city.
Certainly! You'll find numerous snack vendors and casual spots throughout the pier, perfect for a quick bite.
Yes, Navy Pier has several bars and beer stands where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the views.
Popular spots include Giordano's for deep-dish pizza and various casual eateries in the food court.
📸 📸 Photography
The Centennial Wheel, the Chicago skyline from various points on the pier, and the lakefront views offer excellent photo opportunities. Sunsets are particularly stunning.
Golden hour, just before sunset, and during the evening when the pier and skyline are lit up, provide beautiful lighting for photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted in crowded public areas like Navy Pier for safety and privacy reasons. Check local regulations.
The Centennial Wheel itself, with the city skyline in the background, is an iconic photo opportunity. The pier's architecture and the lakefront also make for great shots.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide skyline shots and details. A wide-angle lens is ideal for the Ferris wheel and expansive views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Centennial Wheel is a hit with all ages, providing gentle rides with amazing views. Many of the restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the pier's open spaces are perfect for little ones to explore. Consider a Navy Pier boat tour as a fun and educational activity for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look out for free events at Navy Pier, especially the summer fireworks shows, which are a major highlight. Pack your own snacks or enjoy affordable options from the food court to save on dining costs. Consider using public transportation to reach the pier to avoid expensive parking fees.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along the pier, perhaps with a drink from one of the bars. Consider a Navy Pier dinner cruise for a truly special date night, combining fine dining with spectacular city lights. The summer fireworks are also a perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Centennial Wheel Experience
Many visitors find the Centennial Wheel tickets to be a worthwhile splurge for the panoramic vistas. It's particularly magical during sunset or at night when the city lights twinkle. For the best experience, consider booking your tickets in advance online to potentially save time and secure your preferred ride slot.
While the wheel itself is a highlight, the surrounding area of Navy Pier offers plenty of other activities to complement your visit. Combine a ride on the wheel with a leisurely stroll along the pier, a delicious meal, or even a fireworks show for a complete Navy Pier adventure.
Navy Pier Fireworks: A Spectacle of Light
Finding the best view of Navy Pier fireworks is key to enjoying the show. While the pier itself offers a vantage point, it can get crowded. Some visitors recommend booking a spot on a Navy Pier tour boat or a dedicated firework cruise for an unobstructed and immersive experience. Alternatively, consider viewing from nearby parks or waterfront areas for a different perspective.
Beyond the summer, Navy Pier also hosts special fireworks for holidays, such as New Year's Eve. Checking the official Navy Pier schedule is essential to catch these dazzling events. The events at Navy Pier are a fantastic way to experience the pier's vibrant atmosphere.
Dining and Culinary Delights at Navy Pier
For those seeking a unique dining experience, Navy Pier dinner boats provide an opportunity to enjoy a meal while cruising along Lake Michigan or the Chicago River. These cruises offer stunning city views alongside delicious cuisine.
Beyond full meals, Navy Pier also has numerous snack vendors and bars. It's a pleasant perk that you can enjoy a beverage purchased on the pier while strolling along its length, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit