What is at navy pier?

What is at Navy Pier?

Located on Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago, Illinois, Navy Pier is a 50-acre lakefront attraction that offers a wide range of activities, entertainment, and dining options for visitors of all ages. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Midwest, Navy Pier attracts over 9 million visitors each year. In this article, we will explore what you can expect to find at Navy Pier and what makes it a must-visit destination.

Attractions and Exhibits

Navy Pier is home to a variety of attractions and exhibits that cater to different interests and age groups. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The Centennial Wheel: A 196-foot tall Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Ride it for breathtaking views!
• The Crystal Gardens: A six-story, 50,000-square-foot indoor garden featuring over 80 trees, 22,000 tropical plants, and a waterfall. Explore the tropical oasis in the heart of the city!
• Polk Bros Park: An 11,000-square-foot park featuring a Great Lawn, a Children’s Play Area, and a seating area for relaxation and enjoyment. Enjoy a picnic or take a break with family and friends!
• Chicago Shakespeare Theater: A professional theater company that produces classical and contemporary plays. Catch a performance and enjoy the majestic views of Lake Michigan!
• The Navy Pier IMAX Theatre: A state-of-the-art theater featuring the largest screen in the city, showcasing educational and entertainment films. Experience the ultimate cinema experience!

Family-Friendly Activities

Navy Pier offers a wide range of activities and events that are perfect for families with kids. Some of the most popular family-friendly activities include:

• Chicago Children’s Museum: A museum featuring interactive exhibits, play areas, and art projects designed for kids of all ages. Engage your little ones in creative play!
• The Polk Bros Park Play Area: An interactive play area featuring play structures, water features, and climbing walls. Let your kids burn off energy and have fun!
• Navy Pier Fireworks: A fireworks display that takes place every Wednesday and Saturday evening during the summer. Witness the breathtaking display of pyrotechnics!

Dining and Nightlife

Navy Pier offers a diverse range of dining options, from classic American fare to international cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants and bars include:

• The Lakefront Restaurant: A restaurant featuring American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a meal with stunning views of Lake Michigan!
• Gino’s East: A classic Chicago-style pizzeria that has been serving up delicious pies since 1966. Indulge in a cheesy, saucy classic!
• Big Bowl: A casual eatery serving up Asian-style noodle bowls and sandwiches. Try their signature noodle bowls!
• The Offshore: A beachside bar featuring cocktails, beer, and snacks. Sip and socialize by the lake!

Shopping

Navy Pier offers a variety of shops and kiosks where you can find unique souvenirs, gifts, and treasures. Some of the most popular shopping options include:

• Navy Pier Shops: A collection of stores featuring souvenir shops, candy stores, and gift shops. Find the perfect memento of your visit!
• The Crystal Garden Gift Shop: A gift shop featuring items inspired by the tropical garden. Take home a piece of the garden!
• The Chicago Shakespeare Theater Gift Shop: A shop featuring items inspired by the theater company’s productions. Support the arts and take home a unique memento!

Concerts and Events

Navy Pier hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, including:

• Navy Pier Summer Concert Series: A series of free outdoor concerts featuring local and national musicians. Enjoy live music by the lake!
• Navy Pier Fireworks and Concert: A special event featuring a fireworks display and live music. Celebrate the 4th of July in style!
• Chicago Air and Water Show: An annual event featuring aerial stunts and water performances. Watch the action unfold from Navy Pier!

Accessibility

Navy Pier is wheelchair accessible and offers a range of services to make your visit more enjoyable. Some of the most important accessibility features include:

• Wheelchair-accessible facilities: Navy Pier’s facilities, including restaurants and shops, are wheelchair accessible.
• Wheelchair rentals: Wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.
• American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation: ASL interpretation is available for select events and attractions.
• Audio description: Audio description is available for select attractions and performances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Navy Pier is a world-class destination that offers something for everyone. From thrilling attractions and exhibits to family-friendly activities and dining options, Navy Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Chicago. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Navy Pier is the perfect place to create lifelong memories with family and friends.

Navy Pier FAQs

• What are the best times to visit Navy Pier?: Peak season is from June to September, but it’s always a good idea to visit during the week and avoid weekends and holidays if possible.
• What is the best way to get to Navy Pier?: Navy Pier is easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. There is also a CTA ‘L’ train stop nearby.
• Is Navy Pier open year-round?: Yes, Navy Pier is open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.

Table: Navy Pier Attractions and Exhibits

Table: Family-Friendly Activities

I hope this article helps you to understand what is at Navy Pier and what makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re interested in attractions, exhibits, family-friendly activities, or simply enjoying the lake views, Navy Pier has something for everyone.