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Navy Pier

Write a Review Chicago, Illinois All ages Verified•Theme Park

Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

About Navy Pier

Chicago's lakefront playground stretches six blocks along Lake Michigan with rides, cruises, and shows.

Opened in 1916 and now a 50-acre destination on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier draws nearly 9 million guests a year.

What you'll see and do - Wander attractions, dining, shopping, and sightseeing cruises spread across six city blocks of lakefront. - Enjoy year-round free public programs, from fireworks and live music to art exhibits and kids' activities. - Try newer additions like Flyover Chicago, and explore event venues, the Sable hotel, and the Navy Pier Marina.

Attraction Details

Facilities

  • Parking
  • Food court
  • Gift shop

Events at Navy Pier

  • Light Up The Lake

    An event named by Fodor’s Travel as the best place to see Christmas lights in Illinois, featuring over 600,000 twinkling lights, indoor skating, and an Alpine Pub.

Plan Your Visit

Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Navy Pier.

Who it's for

All ages

Getting there

Navy Pier is at 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.

Pro tip

Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.

Directions

Navy Pier

600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 10/17/2026

Navy Pier Reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • Is Navy Pier worth visiting?

    Navy Pier is a prominent Chicago landmark and is considered Chicago's lakefront treasure. As the top-visited destination in the Midwest, it attracts nearly 9 million guests annually with a wide array of attractions, dining, shopping, cultural experiences, and free public programs.
  • What are the best things to see and do at Navy Pier?

    Navy Pier offers a dynamic array of attractions, dining, shopping, and cultural programming. It features events, free public programs, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing cruises, fireworks displays, live music, art exhibits, and kids' activities, plus new attractions like Flyover Chicago.
  • What are the opening hours at Navy Pier?

    Hours at Navy Pier vary by date. Please check the official site for current date-specific operating hours.
  • Is Navy Pier suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

    Navy Pier is suitable for all ages, offering a wide range of activities and programs that cater to diverse interests, including kids' activities.
  • Is there food available at Navy Pier?

    Yes, Navy Pier offers a wide range of dining establishments, in addition to attractions, shopping, and cultural programming.

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