What’s Happening at Navy Pier Today?
Navy Pier, a iconic lakefront attraction in Chicago, Illinois, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and endless entertainment options, Navy Pier has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore what’s happening at Navy Pier today, from its current events and attractions to its future developments.
Current Events and Attractions
Navy Pier is always bustling with activity, and there’s always something new to see and do. Here are some of the current events and attractions you can enjoy:
- Summer Concert Series: Navy Pier’s Summer Concert Series features free outdoor concerts every Thursday evening from June to August. This year’s lineup includes performances by popular artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, and Chicago.
- Fireworks Displays: Navy Pier’s fireworks displays are a must-see during the summer months. Catch the spectacular display every Wednesday and Saturday evening from June to September.
- Polk Bros Park: This new park is a must-visit attraction at Navy Pier. The park features a beautiful lawn, a playground for kids, and a stage for live performances.
- Crystal Gardens: This seven-story indoor garden is a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling pier. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful plants and water features.
- The Chicago Shakespeare Theater: This world-renowned theater company performs a variety of productions throughout the year, from classic Shakespeare plays to modern works.
Future Developments
Navy Pier is constantly evolving, with new developments and attractions being added all the time. Here are some of the exciting projects currently underway:
- Polk Bros Park Expansion: The park is being expanded to include more green space, a new playground, and a splash pad for kids.
- The Pier’s New Hotel: A new hotel is being built on the pier, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
- The Polk Bros Park Pavilion: This new pavilion will feature a stage for live performances, a food and beverage area, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
- The Navy Pier Ferris Wheel: A new Ferris wheel is being installed on the pier, offering breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan.
Dining and Shopping
Navy Pier is a shopper’s paradise, with a variety of stores and restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the highlights:
- The Crystal Gardens Food Court: This food court features a variety of restaurants, including fast food, fine dining, and everything in between.
- The Navy Pier Marketplace: This shopping center features a variety of stores, including souvenir shops, clothing stores, and specialty stores.
- The Polk Bros Park Food and Beverage Area: This area features a variety of food and beverage options, including a beer garden and a wine bar.
Getting There
Navy Pier is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. Here are some of the best ways to get there:
- Driving: Navy Pier is located at 600 E. Grand Ave. in Chicago, Illinois. Parking is available in the Navy Pier Parking Garage.
- Public Transportation: Navy Pier is accessible by the CTA’s Red Line, with the Grand Station located just a block away.
- Bus: Several bus routes stop near Navy Pier, including the #29 State Street bus and the #65 Grand Avenue bus.
Conclusion
Navy Pier is a must-visit destination in Chicago, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and endless entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an action-packed adventure, Navy Pier has something for everyone. From its current events and attractions to its future developments, Navy Pier is a place that’s always evolving and always exciting. So why not head down to Navy Pier today and see what all the fuss is about?
Table: Navy Pier Attractions
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Summer Concert Series | Free outdoor concerts every Thursday evening from June to August |
| Fireworks Displays | Spectacular fireworks displays every Wednesday and Saturday evening from June to September |
| Polk Bros Park | New park featuring a lawn, playground, and stage for live performances |
| Crystal Gardens | Seven-story indoor garden with beautiful plants and water features |
| The Chicago Shakespeare Theater | World-renowned theater company performing a variety of productions |
Table: Navy Pier Dining and Shopping
| Dining and Shopping | Description |
|---|---|
| The Crystal Gardens Food Court | Variety of restaurants, including fast food, fine dining, and everything in between |
| The Navy Pier Marketplace | Variety of stores, including souvenir shops, clothing stores, and specialty stores |
| The Polk Bros Park Food and Beverage Area | Variety of food and beverage options, including a beer garden and a wine bar |
Table: Getting to Navy Pier
| Transportation | Description |
|---|---|
| Driving | Parking available in the Navy Pier Parking Garage |
| Public Transportation | CTA’s Red Line, with the Grand Station located just a block away |
| Bus | Several bus routes stop near Navy Pier, including the #29 State Street bus and the #65 Grand Avenue bus |
