Navy Pier opened in 1916 as a municipal dock combining freight and passenger shipping with public recreation, later serving as a U.S. Navy training base during World War II before a 1995 redevelopment turned it into Chicago's mixed-use lakefront destination. Anchored by the 196-foot Centennial Wheel, the Chicago Children's Museum, and Chicago Shakespeare Theater, it draws more than 9 million visitors a year, making it one of the Midwest's most-visited attractions. As of July 2026 the pier is running its regular summer schedule, with free fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday nights through Labor Day, so plan at least half a day to combine rides, museums, and lakefront views.
The Centennial Wheel and its nightly light show over Lake Michigan
Panoramic Chicago skyline views from the end of the pier
Chicago Shakespeare Theater's current productions
Polk Bros Park fountain, gardens, and free outdoor performances
Architecture and lake cruises departing directly from the pier
Good to know
SafetyRailings and the pier's edge can get slick after rain or in winter ice, so keep a firm hold on children near the water.
SeasonJuly brings peak-season heat plus strong breezes off Lake Michigan, so a windbreaker is more useful than an umbrella; in winter, some outdoor rides pause during high wind or ice.
RulesLarge bags, coolers, and glass containers may be subject to security screening and weapons are prohibited — check navypier.org for the current bag and security policy before you go.
MannersKeep noise down inside the theater and museum, and follow crew instructions for boarding order on cruise boats and rides.
CautionBuy tickets only from navypier.org or the official on-site box office — street vendors near the pier sometimes push unauthorized 'discount' tickets or paid photos with unofficial costumed characters.
CautionSkip informal street parking touts and confirm rates on Navy Pier's official parking and valet page before you park in the East or West Garage, since curbside 'helpers' can overcharge.
Practical info
From O'Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW), taxis and rideshares take roughly 30–60 minutes, and CTA buses (#124, #29) plus the Chicago Water Taxi also serve the pier; the on-site East and West Garages charge flat hourly and daily fees. Ride, museum, and cruise tickets are sold separately and pricing and hours change seasonally, so verify current admission and hours on the official Navy Pier website before visiting.
On-site reviews📍 Verified on-site
No reviews yet. If you are here, be the first to leave one.
