What to Do on Navy Pier: A Guide to Chicago’s Iconic Lakefront Attraction
Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing in millions of visitors each year. Located on Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this 50-acre pier offers a wide range of activities, entertainment options, and stunning views of the city skyline. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Navy Pier has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the many things to do on Navy Pier, from outdoor adventures to family-friendly fun and cultural experiences.
Outdoor Activities
Navy Pier is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of opportunities for walking, jogging, and taking in the views of Lake Michigan. Here are a few outdoor activities to consider:
- Walk or Bike the Pier: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the pier, enjoying the sights and sounds of the lakefront.
- Kayak or Paddleboard: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the waters of Lake Michigan.
- Fishing: Try your hand at fishing from the pier or take a fishing charter boat tour.
- Picnic: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the pier’s grassy areas or on the beach.
Family-Friendly Fun
Navy Pier is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep kids of all ages entertained. Here are a few family-friendly options:
- The Centennial Wheel: Take a ride on this 196-foot tall Ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the city.
- The Crystal Gardens: Explore this seven-story, indoor botanical garden, which features over 80,000 plants and a stunning glass ceiling.
- The Polk Bros Park: This new park area features a playground, splash pad, and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation.
- The Navy Pier Park: This park area offers a playground, a beach volleyball court, and a splash pad for kids to cool off during the summer months.
Cultural Experiences
Navy Pier is also home to several cultural attractions and events. Here are a few cultural experiences to consider:
- The Chicago Shakespeare Theater: Catch a performance by this renowned theater company, which produces a wide range of productions throughout the year.
- The Polk Bros Park Performance Pavilion: This outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the summer months.
- The Navy Pier Art Festival: This annual festival features local and national artists, live music, and food vendors.
- The Navy Pier Fireworks: Watch the fireworks display on the pier, which takes place every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer months.
Dining and Shopping
Navy Pier is also a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. Here are a few dining and shopping options to consider:
- The Navy Pier Dining: There are several dining options on the pier, including restaurants, cafes, and food stands.
- The Navy Pier Shopping: The pier is home to several shops, including souvenir stores, clothing boutiques, and specialty stores.
- The Crystal Gardens Gift Shop: This gift shop is located in the Crystal Gardens and features a wide range of unique and souvenir items.
Events and Festivals
Navy Pier hosts a wide range of events and festivals throughout the year. Here are a few upcoming events to consider:
- Summer Concert Series: Catch a free concert on the Polk Bros Park Performance Pavilion every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer months.
- Navy Pier Fireworks: Watch the fireworks display on the pier every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer months.
- Navy Pier Art Festival: This annual festival features local and national artists, live music, and food vendors.
- Chicago Jazz Festival: This annual festival features live jazz performances by local and national musicians.
Getting There and Parking
Navy Pier is easily accessible by public transportation or car. Here are a few options to consider:
- CTA Bus: Take the CTA bus #290 or #146 to the Navy Pier stop.
- CTA Train: Take the CTA Red Line train to the Grand station and then transfer to the #290 bus.
- Driving: There are several parking options available near Navy Pier, including the Navy Pier Parking Garage and the Grand Plaza Parking Garage.
Conclusion
Navy Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Chicago. With its stunning views of Lake Michigan, outdoor activities, family-friendly fun, cultural experiences, and dining and shopping options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an action-packed adventure, Navy Pier has it all. So why not plan a visit today and see what all the fuss is about?
