What is there to do in navy pier?

What is there to do in Navy Pier?

Located on Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois, Navy Pier is a 50-acre lakefront attraction that offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or outdoor adventures, Navy Pier has something for everyone.

Entertainment Options

Navy Pier is home to several entertainment options that are sure to thrill visitors. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Chicago Shakespeare Theater: This world-renowned theater company produces classic and contemporary plays, with a focus on Shakespeare’s works.
• IMAX Theatre: Catch a movie in IMAX format, with seats that tilt and move to simulate the action on screen.
• Cirque du Soleil: Navy Pier is one of the few permanent homes of Cirque du Soleil in the United States, with their own custom-built big top.
• Polk Bros Park: This outdoor park hosts various events and concerts throughout the year, including the annual Navy Pier Summer Concert Series.

Dining and Shopping

Navy Pier offers a diverse range of dining and shopping options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants and boutique shops. Here are some of the top picks:

• Billy Goat Tavern: This casual eatery is famous for its Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
• Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse: Enjoy a fine dining experience with a focus on Italian-American cuisine and steaks.
• Gino’s East: This classic Italian restaurant is known for its deep-dish pizza and lively atmosphere.
• The Chicago Children’s Museum: While not strictly a shopping destination, this museum offers interactive exhibits and play areas for kids.
• Polk Bros Park: This outdoor park has several food and drink vendors, including a wine and beer garden.

Outdoor Adventures

Navy Pier offers several outdoor activities that take advantage of its stunning lakefront location. Here are some of the top options:

• The Centennial Wheel: Take a ride on this 196-foot tall Ferris wheel, with enclosed gondolas that offer stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.
• Lake Michigan Cruises: Choose from a variety of cruise options, including architectural tours, sightseeing cruises, and sunset cruises.
• Boat Rentals: Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or boat and explore Lake Michigan at your own pace.
• Fishing: Navy Pier is a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of species available including salmon, trout, and bass.

Events and Festivals

Navy Pier hosts a wide range of events and festivals throughout the year, including:

• Summer Concert Series: Enjoy live music from local and national acts every Friday and Saturday night from June to August.
• Navy Pier Fireworks: Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan.
• Winter WonderFest: Enjoy a winter wonderland experience, complete with ice skating, a holiday market, and hot chocolate.
• Luminaries: A spectacular light show that illuminates the pier and surrounding area.

Special Experiences

Navy Pier offers several special experiences that are sure to make your visit even more memorable:

• Dinner and a Show: Enjoy a meal at one of Navy Pier’s restaurants and then catch a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater or the IMAX Theatre.
• Private Events: Navy Pier offers several private event spaces, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and other celebrations.
• Guided Tours: Take a guided tour of the pier and learn more about its history and significance.

Getting Here and Parking

Getting to Navy Pier is easy, with several transportation options available:

• Public Transportation: Take the ‘L’ train (red line) to the Grand Station, which is a short walk from Navy Pier.
• Bus: Several bus routes stop near Navy Pier, including the #290 bus from downtown Chicago.
• Car: Parking is available in several garages and lots near Navy Pier, including the Navy Pier Parking Garage.

Conclusion

Navy Pier is a world-class destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in entertainment, dining, shopping, or outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do. With its stunning lakefront location and variety of activities and events, Navy Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Chicago.

Navy Pier at a Glance

By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to Navy Pier and experience all that this iconic lakefront attraction has to offer.