Navy Pier Chicago

Navy Pier: A Century of Chicago History and Entertainment

Navy Pier, Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination, has been a popular landmark among Chicago locals and visitors for years.

Navy Pier has history going back a century. As of today from its origins as a bustling shipping hub to its current status as a vibrant entertainment center, Navy Pier has undergone a remarkable transformation.

I would say today, it stands as a great example of Chicago’s rich history. Being great spot on the lakefront, Navy Pier has many options to see, eat and drink for family entertainment.

Navy Pier History

For those who likes to know the history, Navy Pier’s story begins in 1916, when it was built to serve as a mixed-use facility for freight and passenger traffic, as well as recreational space.

It was designed by renowned architect Charles Sumner Frost, the pier was originally named “Municipal Pier” and spanned an impressive 3,000 feet into Lake Michigan.

During World War I, the pier was utilized as a training center for the US Navy, and it was also used as a hospital for wounded soldiers.

In the 1920s, Navy Pier became a popular destination for entertainment and recreation, hosting concerts, dances, and sporting events.

The pier’s fortunes declined during the Great Depression, but it experienced a resurgence during World War II, when it was again used as a naval training center.

Truth is that after the war, Navy Pier was supposed to get demolished. But, somehow remained untouched.

Navy Pier’s Transformation into Entertainment Center on the Lakefront

In the 1990s, the City of Chicago initiated new renovation project to repurpose Navy Pier.

The pier was transformed into entertainment landmark with recreational activities, museum, dining and shops.

The renovation also included the addition of the iconic Navy Pier Ferris wheel, which quickly became a symbol of the pier and the city.

Today, Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. It is home to a wide variety of attractions, including following popular attractions:

• Centennial Wheel: This 196-foot-tall Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Wheel moves slowly, from where you can enjoy great views of Chicago downtown skyline.
  
  Admission to centennial wheel is included with Go City Pass Chicago.
  
  
• Chicago Children’s Museum: I would say families with young kids can take advantage of Chicago Children’s Museum. This interactive museum features exhibits that encourage children to learn through play.
• Chicago Shakespeare Theater: This Tony Award-winning Theater Company produces world-class performances of Shakespeare’s plays.
• IMAX Theater: This state-of-the-art theater shows the latest Hollywood blockbusters and educational films.
• Pier Park: This outdoor amusement park features rides, games, and a carousel. Yes, Centennial Wheel is located in the pier park.
• Polk Bros Park Performance Lawns: These expansive 13 acres park host a variety of free events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and movie screenings. So if you are visiting Navy Pier on one of their scheduled events, then make sure to check it out.

Navy Pier is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and boat tours.

I recommend visitors to grab a bite and enjoy a view at one of the pier’s many restaurants.

Also, if you are looking for Chicago souvenirs, then you can check out souvenirs shops at Navy Pier.

One of my favorites, boat rides from Navy Pier. Take a boat tour to see the city from Lake Michigan. Following are few of the popular boat tours from Navy Pier.

Chicago: Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise

Chicago: 1.5-Hour Lake and River Architecture Cruise

Chicago Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride from Navy Pier

More than Just Tourist Place

Navy Pier is more than just a tourist destination. It is also an important part of the Chicago community.

The pier hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and educational programs.

It is also home to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and the Chicago Children’s Museum. Chicago locals or travelers can consider to visit Museum as it is educational and filled with fun.

Navy Pier is a true reflection of Chicago’s vibrant spirit. It is a place where people from all walks of life come together to enjoy the city’s beautiful lakefront, experience world-class entertainment, and create lasting memories.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a lifelong Chicagoan, Navy Pier is a one of the must-see landmarks in Chicago.

Tips for Visiting Navy Pier

• Plan your visit: Navy Pier is a large and popular landmark in Chicago, so it is important to plan your trip to Chicago in advance to spend time efficiently at Navy Pier during your stay.
  
  Decide which attractions you want to see and make reservations for any shows or tours that you are interested in.
  
• Arrive early: Navy Pier can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and to ensure that you have time to see everything that you want to see.
  
  Personally I have noticed that during summer peak season, Navy Pier gets crowded. If you are visiting during Spring, Fall or Winter season, you will not face the crowd.
  
• Take advantage of the free activities: Navy Pier offers a variety of free activities, such as the Polk Bros Park Performance Lawns and the Crystal Gardens. Be sure to take advantage of these free activities to save money.
  
• Fireworks at Navy Pier: Enjoy a free 15 minutes long fireworks show at Navy Pier.
  
  During summer season fireworks shows are scheduled every Wednesday at 9pm and Saturday at 10pm, from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
  
  During winter season fireworks is scheduled every Saturday at 9pm
  
  
• Consider purchasing a Chicago Attraction Pass: If you are planning to visit several of Chicago’s top attractions, consider purchasing either Go City Pass Chicago or CityPASS Chicago. This pass will give you discounted admission to several attractions, including attractions on Navy Pier.
  
  Admission to Navy Pier is free, but attractions such as Ferris wheel ride requires tickets. With Go City Pass Chicago, admission ticket to Ferris wheel is included.
  
• Dress for the weather: Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to dress for the weather. In the summer, it can be hot and humid, so be sure to wear light clothing and sunscreen. In the winter, it can be cold and snowy, so be sure to bundle up for cold weather.
  
• Have fun! Navy Pier is a great place to have fun and create lasting memories. Relax, enjoy the views, and experience all that the pier has to offer.
  
  I highly recommend to first time Chicago travelers to consider to take boat ride to enjoy the breathtaking views of Chicago skyline.

Navy Pier Annual Pass

Chicagoans if you plan on visiting few times a year then I recommend to consider purchasing Navy Pier annual pass.

Navy Pier annual pass comes with exclusive discounts and perks while supporting the mission of Navy Pier. Annual pass holders get discounted parking, free tickets to Centennial Wheel along with other discounts around the Pier.

In my opinion, considering Navy Pier’s rich history, attractions, and stunning lakefront location, Navy Pier is a true gem of Chicago.

Whether you are a Chicago local or visitor, if you are seeking entertainment, activities, or simply a beautiful place to spend the day, Navy Pier is one of the best places to in Chicago.

So Chicago travelers, the next time you are in Chicago, be sure to add Navy Pier to your itinerary and discover all that this iconic destination has to offer.