Navy Pier
4
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
About
Opened in 1995, Navy Pier is a 50-acre scenic waterfront destination that’s home to countless restaurants, exhibitions, shops, entertainment, and more. Take a ride on the 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel, explore the interactive Chicago Children’s Museum, enjoy a free concert, or go on an art and mural hunt—all against the spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Adrenaline seekers will love the speedboat tours; otherwise, unwind on a sightseeing cruise. Parking can be rather pricey, so it’s best to make your way there via public transportation. You'll likely pass by the pier on a cruise of the Chicago River. – Tripadvisor
Duration: 2-3 hours
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Address
Neighborhood: Near North Side
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Restaurants
2,421 within 3 miles
Attractions
850 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Josue CNew Haven, Connecticut508 contributionsChicago Icon!!Located right on Lake Michigan the Navy Pier is one of Chicago's iconic places. On my visit it was a hot day, so the scene was crowded, outdoor dining areas were full, the boat tours were buzzing, just a good day to walk and enjoy the buzz. This place has something for every one, a kids museum, a small park with rides, restaurants that are full service, fast food, and street style, countless boat tours, and a few other attractions. This is great place to meet up with friends, grab a drink, enjoy a salsa concert, watch boats pass by, and see the many views of the Chicago skyline. I really my visit to the Navy Pier, and will be stopping by on my next visit to Chicago.Visited August 2022Written May 8, 2023
- Ashley PWinnipeg, Canada566 contributionsWalk along a Great LakeLots to see and do as you walk along one of the Great Lakes. Lots of snack/food options as well. Restaurants have bars set up along the walk if you want to grab a beverage for your stroll.Visited May 2023Traveled with familyWritten May 10, 2023
- T LLa Jolla, California10 contributionsNO BOB NEWHART!!NO BOB NEWHART STATUE. The website needs to be updated. They advertised a statue of famous comedian Bob Newhart. My family and I walked forever to find it. IT WAS NOT THERE!!! Being a big Newhart fan you can imagine my disappointment and on top of that. We walked from Shed Aquarium! That was a long haul for nothing.Visited May 2023Traveled with familyWritten May 22, 2023
- Tom COregon72 contributionsWalkable destination from the city centerThe site has a variety of activities from lake boating tours, oldest site of the city’s Ferris wheel, several restaurants of different values and hotels. On a sunny day this is a welcoming location to see the lake and skyline of Chicago. Good for several hours of exploring, people watching, and exercise.Visited May 2023Written May 26, 2023
- Guide206083461696 contributionsAn enjoyable experienceWe were in Chicago to attend a few games at Wrigley. On the first day we walked to the Navy Pier from our hotel. We walked along the water and saw the Ferris wheel in the distance. Upon arriving at the Navy pier we explored the perimeter with several restaurants and boat rides available for your pleasure. I thought I had done my research but upon entering the lower level we found many eateries and quaint shops to explore. There were a few rides on the upper level with the Ferris wheel being the highlight. We spent about 3 hours at the pier and met several nice people and the security guards were both friendly and informative. Not only about the pier but things to do in Chicago. If you’d like a relaxing few hours to explore this is a good place to visitVisited May 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 30, 2023
- Dave FShotton, United Kingdom188 contributionsWell deserved accolade of being Chicago's No.1 tourist Attraction.This is a major tourist area with a huge Ferris Wheel, loads of bars, shops, cafes and restaurants. Great place to walk. There are plenty of tourist boats to utilise if you want. live music available.Visited June 2023Written June 10, 2023
- DeanneB969Littleton, Colorado75 contributionsGreat place to visit during the summer. Lots for families to do.This is a great family friendly area. Lots of places to eat, rides for the family to enjoy (we went during the summer I am sure some of the rides are closed during winter). There are some indoor activities as well. Nice place get photos of the city.Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 29, 2023
- Brad FBoonville, Indiana16 contributionsNo Free Trolley Available as website states!!!!Big vehicle- park in East garage Bathrooms through door marked 88 but don’t follow through the inside area. Leave parking garage & walk outside. Walk all the way around the pier, it’s huge but worth it. No free trolley as one website stated!!!! Security was clueless about trolley, not helpful!!!!Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 8, 2023
- AdventureMN95Minneapolis, Minnesota127 contributionsFireworks in the waterWe went to Navy Pier to watch the 4th of July fireworks. Which was very nicely done and it wasn’t too long either (about 10 mins). The pier also has a lots of restaurants and shops good place to get dinner or drinks with friendsVisited July 2023Traveled with friendsWritten July 11, 2023
- LMicheleSLa Quinta, California172 contributionsMore for kids or families.Honestly, I think this is aimed more for families with kids. We walked from the Grand Redline subway station...it was a LONG walk - not recommended. Once we got past the kiddie rides and the Ferris wheel it became more interesting. Great view of the lake and cool architecture on the pier. We found the famous Rainbow Cone shop, bought one and had a seat watching the boats come and go while eating it. There wasn't really much to do for two middle aged women. We walked back and caught a pedicab to a nearby beach that was only a few blocks from our hotel. That was probably the most fun we had while in the vicinity.Visited July 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten July 14, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Popular mentions
4.0
15,168 reviews
Excellent
6,075
Very good
4,893
Average
3,039
Poor
879
Terrible
284
Arthur P
Leawood, KS1,382 contributions
Sep 2021
While we were in Chicago we decided to visit Navy Pier since we have not been there in decades. We also wanted to take one of the boat tours which leave from Navy Pier. The boat tour was enjoyable, but we found Navy Pier to be disappointing. We were hoping there were several nice restaurants to have lunch or dinner at, but instead found numerous fast food joints! The parking was a royal pain and expensive, but of course all Chicago Loop area parking is expensive.
They did however do a nice job decorating the area near the Ferris Wheel with beautifully carved pumpkins, which kids really enjoyed seeing.
If not for boarding availability to the Boat Tours, we would not recommend going to Navy Pier. The Chicago City Planners and the developers should put on their thinking caps and start over with a new planning design.
They did however do a nice job decorating the area near the Ferris Wheel with beautifully carved pumpkins, which kids really enjoyed seeing.
If not for boarding availability to the Boat Tours, we would not recommend going to Navy Pier. The Chicago City Planners and the developers should put on their thinking caps and start over with a new planning design.
Written October 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laurie K
West Seneca, NY719 contributions
Nov 2021
I have been to Chicago about 5 times in the last 4 years since my son moved there but had never been to Navy Pier until this last trip. The outside and grounds are very clean and well kept. WE went inside and there are 2 larger restaurants then a corridor full of all types of little shops with wears, t-shirts, clothing, souveniers and other goodies. Then when you go all the way down the hallway there are several eating small little places and drinks, desserts etc. Outside you can go on the jet boat, go into the Shakespere theater or ride the Centennial Wheel which is the huge ferris wheel on the grounds, it was very cool, it goes very slow you barely know you're moving and the view is amazing especially when the water looks so crystal clear blue, and the trees are changing colors.
The Ferris wheel was $19.42 per adult with taxes included, I am not sure child price as I had no kids with me.
There is alot to see and do so plan a couple hours there especially in the summer, spring and fall I am not sure how much stuff is open in the winter. I am sure the inside is still open but the outside activities I'm sure are closed down for the winter.
There is also a huge parking lot if you drive but I have no idea what the parking fee would be.
The Ferris wheel was $19.42 per adult with taxes included, I am not sure child price as I had no kids with me.
There is alot to see and do so plan a couple hours there especially in the summer, spring and fall I am not sure how much stuff is open in the winter. I am sure the inside is still open but the outside activities I'm sure are closed down for the winter.
There is also a huge parking lot if you drive but I have no idea what the parking fee would be.
Written November 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jazzykins87
Snellville, GA133 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
We came to enjoy Winter WonderFest (which was excellent btw) and thought it would be a giant arena that is empty between large festivals and events. We are happy to be very wrong. Situated on Lake Michigan, the Navy Pier has plenty of restaurants with a variety of food, unique shops, and activities to keep you busy for a whole visit honestly. We rode the Ferris wheel at night and the view was phenomenal. We walked along the pier outside and enjoyed the lake at sunset. We made friends with the shop owners because everyone was so friendly and helpful. We will visit again for sure.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris L
Lockport, United States9 contributions
Dec 2019
Highly recommend visiting Riva crabhouse for dinner....especially on a clear night when the sun is just starting to set. Views of the pier and Lake are amazing. The food is phenomenal with several vegetarian options!
Written July 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sameer S
Chennai (Madras), India744 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
We visited on Christmas Day. All the rides were closed but we did not go for the attractions we just wanted to walk near the lake. It was a nice sunny day with a nice breeze. There were very few people around. We had a leisurely stroll and clicked a few pictures. A nice place.
Written January 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Grover R
Pensacola, FL18,123 contributions
Jun 2022
Just about everything said you need to see Navy Pier for a complete visit to Chicago. I knew it had the Centennial Wheel, but I really did not know much else. Let me say we had an incredible evening with so much to do.
One of the great things Chicago did was to envisioned a much more recreational and residential waterfront as opposed to other Great Lake cities like Cleveland. With an industrial waterfront further to the south, Chicago does not really have a place for vessels in the downtown Loop area, except Navy Pier.
Historically built for possible passenger and cargo transport, it evolved into more office usage as the Navy actual user for training in WWII. Afterwards it was part of the University of Chicago and then underutilized until the late 1990s. Then there was a redevelopment idea for an entertainment destination with museum, theater, attractions and rides, along with food and hospitality.
We visited to see what was there and we loved our ride on the Centennial Wheel. However, we were totally unprepared for the number of people we saw only to realize Wednesdays are fireworks. So we stayed and enjoyed views of the city changing from sunset to night as well as fireworks over the lake. Again it was a fun evening. I am so glad we made the visit.
One of the great things Chicago did was to envisioned a much more recreational and residential waterfront as opposed to other Great Lake cities like Cleveland. With an industrial waterfront further to the south, Chicago does not really have a place for vessels in the downtown Loop area, except Navy Pier.
Historically built for possible passenger and cargo transport, it evolved into more office usage as the Navy actual user for training in WWII. Afterwards it was part of the University of Chicago and then underutilized until the late 1990s. Then there was a redevelopment idea for an entertainment destination with museum, theater, attractions and rides, along with food and hospitality.
We visited to see what was there and we loved our ride on the Centennial Wheel. However, we were totally unprepared for the number of people we saw only to realize Wednesdays are fireworks. So we stayed and enjoyed views of the city changing from sunset to night as well as fireworks over the lake. Again it was a fun evening. I am so glad we made the visit.
Written August 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jean S
Chicago, IL12 contributions
May 2019
Time for a facelift for this venue. Parking is difficult and crowds are intense. Since Lake Michigan tour boats doc in that area as well, things get a little crazy when private parties are going on. Better for 20-50ish age range in my opinion.
Written March 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
russianwulfgar
Milwaukee, WI1,607 contributions
Jul 2021
Beautiful day, very hot 4th of July. Nice walk along the pier, but not much to see or do. Strolled the whole thing in under an hour. The Children's museum had a nice garden on the second floor. We sat and watched the boaters at the end of the pier. We saw a poor baby seagull die, though. It must have fallen from the top of the Sable Hotel. It laid on the steps gasping for breath, its neck looked broken. Its parent watched helplessly nearby. We wish we could have helped, but there was nothing we could do, no one we could call. All in all, I guess Navy Pier is good for children, there were lots of kiddie rides. And I suppose if you like jet skiing, there was that, too. Also a bunch of sad boat rides. The teenagers dressed in navy uniforms stood at the boarding ramps listlessly waiting for enough people to buy tickets. They waited a long time. At least there weren't many cheap, gimmicky vendors selling crummy trinkets on the pier. But it was pretty bare. Could have used more attractions.
Written July 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fl&GaHubbyandPops
Lawrenceville, GA44 contributions
Jul 2020
Some places were closed and couldn't take cruise on larger ships due to COVID guidelines, but still worth the trip and visit. Lots of shops and most food vendors were open. Sitting on the boardwalk and just relaxing/watching the seagulls and boats go by was relaxing and felt like we were much further away from the bustle of the city than we were. 5 starts!
Written August 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kenny S
324 contributions
Oct 2021 • Family
Before children a few years ago, Navy Pier seemed a bit run down and past its prime. However when we recently returned now with our young girls in tow, we loved it!! Navy Pier seems to have received a bit of a face lift, and between the huge Ferries wheel, carousel, bands and awesome nighttime view of the city, it was perfect for our young family. It was a blast and we look forward to taking the girls back here on our next Chicago trip!
Written October 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What's the best way to go from Navy Pier to Willis Tower using public transportation (or Uber) in the middle of the afternoon (3pm ish) on a Thursday?
Irina
United States11,142 contributions
The best -- not the cheapest -- way would probably be Uber.
The info on public transportation is available in multiple online sources, via Google.
I have never tried to get from Navy Pier to Willis Tower -- just never planned to.
Have a nice trip.
We are looking into Chicago for a trip in early July. Our hotel is about a 25 minutes walk from the Navy Pier (on Wacker Place) Is it safe for two women to walk this distance in the evening?
Irina
United States11,142 contributions
I only walked to Navy Pier from the Mag Mile during the day time, or in the late afternoon (4 pm), never had any problems. Not sure about the evening, since it's not that very open walk way, both to and back from Navy Pier, some underpasses are involved in crossing Lake Shore Drive. You might call the city authorities and ask them, how safe it is in the evening. Or call the hotel -- they sure must know the best way to Navy Pier, not necessarily through Wacker Drive. (I walked via Ohio Street, that is fairly close and parallel to Wacker Dr). Or, just walk to the Navy Pier during the day/early evening time, may be?
Enjoy your trip and Chicago!
Can l use my foreign passport to purchase alcohol at navy pier?
Kimberly D
South Holland, IL3 contributions
I am sure that you can use your passport to buy liquor in Illinois because it is government issued piece of Identification that displays your date of birth. So, as long as you are at least 21 years of age - it should be o.k. to use your passport to buy alcohol/liquor.
Thiarnaigh K
9 contributions
Maybe going in a few months. Are the rides open?
sunshineinwisconsin
Lodi, WI102 contributions
no, they are not open at this time. and it is 'indefinite' as to when that will change
christy d
441 contributions
Wanted to ride Ferris wheel. I will be solo. Staying at Hyatt on wacker. Will be after dark. Is there’taxi service from there back to hotel? And if so, is it a stand, or do you have to hope for best. I don’t Want to wait by myself in the dark or walk alone looking for a taxi.
Marianne G
Chicago, IL16 contributions
The taxi stand in front of Navy Pier is well lit and busy. You should be fine even late at night
Jill S
Cincinnati, OH9 contributions
Will be in Chicago next Monday evening. Wanted to go check out Navy Pier but I see closes at 8pm. Does that include the pier itself? Was hoping to at least walk around and take photos :(
Cristina D
Naperville, IL27 contributions
Yes it does, unfortunately. The area cannot be accessed after 8pm by vehicle (taxi, personal vehicle, etc).
However, you can get pretty close to the lakefront using LSD (Lake Shore Drive) and definitely take beautiful photos!
Hope you have a wonderful night in Chicago!
tshep42
Halifax, Canada3,678 contributions
Anyone been there for the New Year's Eve Fireworks? Any tips?
monetkids
Surprise, AZ1,206 contributions
book one of the dinner boats at the pier or one of the restaurants at the pier most have patio areas that are heated otherwise get there early or go to the 95th floor in the Hancock either the bar or dinner
nour f
River Grove, IL1 contribution
Is there any free parking near the navy pier ? Like public parks or something ?
TheLocalTourist
Chicago45 contributions
While there isn't any free parking, there are ways to pay less if you're willing to walk a bit. The fee for parking at Navy Pier itself is $28 during the summer and $25 during the winter, but it's for the full day.
If you want to pay less, you can eat at one of several participating restaurants and take advantage of valet parking. However, if you stay longer than six hours, you'll end up paying more than if you'd used the garage without valet!
There are two official remote garages, and those charge $15.
Street parking, while technically an option, is difficult to find and very expensive if you stay more than a few hours.
Your best bet is to use a service like Spothero. During the summer you can park near the Magnificent Mile or the Loop and then catch the free trolley to the Pier. Or, you can walk the River Walk if it's a nice day!
We've got a whole guide on our website. Google "Navy Pier Parking" and we're on the first page of results. (Can't include link due to TripAdvisor's guidelines.)
Sue L
3 contributions
I want to know more about the water taxi tour. Do you have the name of the company? Were did you pick it up and to what destination did you travel to?
JoanieMarieLuke
Phoenix, AZ21 contributions
We took the Shoreline Tour for the Architecture tour. On this tour, you cannot get off or on at different locations. You board and depart the boat from the Navy Pier.
Lorelei P
Woodhaven9 contributions
We are Grandparents of a special needs handicapped grand daughter & will be at the Cheer Competition at Festival Hall. Can we bring water, soda in a small cooler? Since we are seniors are there lots of places to sit down on the pier? About how long is the pier?
ebk16
Oakland, CA328 contributions
We were there in the evening and were mostly inside. I do believe there are benches along the pier. Not sure about bringing refreshments into the hall.
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Claim your listingNavy Pier - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions about Navy Pier
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Navy Pier:
- Go City: Chicago Explorer Pass with Up to 7 Attractions (From $84.00)
- Chicago Architecture River Cruise (From $53.70)
- Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan (From $131.94)
- Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour (From $49.50)
- 30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride (From $41.59)
- Hotels near Navy Pier:
- (0.12 mi) Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
- (0.86 mi) Hotel EMC2, Autograph Collection
- (1.04 mi) The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago
- (0.76 mi) Loews Chicago Hotel
- (1.08 mi) LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Restaurants near Navy Pier:
- (0.00 mi) Kilwins Chocolates Fudge & Ice Cream
- (0.07 mi) Tiny Tavern
- (0.14 mi) Big City Chicken
- (0.15 mi) Frankie's By The Slice - Navy Pier
- (0.14 mi) Lirica
- Attractions near Navy Pier:
- (0.09 mi) Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier
- (0.17 mi) City Cruises Chicago
- (0.17 mi) Tall Ship Windy
- (0.13 mi) Navy Pier Festival Hall Complex
- (0.17 mi) City Experiences By Hornblower