Navy Pier

Navy Pier's signature landmark, the 150-foot-high Ferris wheel, signifies the grand scale of this family entertainment center, which attracts more than 8 million visitors each year. Couples, families, out-of-towners and locals alike stroll, bike and rollerblade along the pier, watching free performances, and stopping to shop and eat. Weekly fireworks illuminate the sky and water each Wednesday and Saturday nights during summer.

Special attractions include Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Chicago Children's Museum, Amazing Chicago, Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows, IMAX Theater, and Skyline Stage.

A variety of dining options--from fast food to upscale-- include Billy Goat Tavern. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Charlie's Ale House, Haagen-Dazs and Riva. The centrally located food court offers the standard fare: hot dogs, sandwiches, Chinese food, popcorn, fast food, gyros, burritos, gourmet coffee and more.

Navy Pier also acts as a stepping stone to several dinner and tour cruise options, including Tall Ship Windy, Seadog, Shoreline Sightseeing, Spirit of Chicago, and Mystic Blue. Private charters include El Presidente and Anita Dee Yacht Charters.

Look for the "Navy Pier Trolley Stop" for free transportation between Navy Pier and State Street along Grand Avenue and Illinois Street. Daily service runs approximately every 20 minutes.
Summer trolley
10 a.m.-11 p.m. (Sun.-Thurs.) and 10 a.m.-1 a.m. (Fri.-Sat.)
Winter trolley
10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Sun.-Thurs.) and 10 a.m.-11 p.m. (Fri.-Sat.)

See more:

Streeterville stores, Chicago stores, Chicago stores, Bookstore stores