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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Top ways to experience Navy Pier
The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Near North Side
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Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
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2,466 within 3 miles
Attractions
846 within 6 miles
See what travellers are saying
- Beachcomb_33Eaton, Ohio723 contributionsCheck It Out!It's worth checking out at least once. There are tons of shops and restaurants inside. Great views of the city outside and, of course, the famous ferris wheel. Good place to just take some time and explore.Visited March 2023Travelled soloWritten 29 March 2023
- 2BEis2SKICharlotte, North Carolina1,389 contributionsJust walked it, didn't eatAs a scenic spot, it's a nice stopover. We were walking the waterfront and walked down to the end. Never went inside. Great views of the city facing back west. There's not really any point in walking all the way to the end.Visited February 2023Written 31 March 2023
- EvaBothell, Washington171 contributionsIconic landmark with amazing views of Chicago!I remember coming to Navy Pier when I first moved to Chicago in 1997. I used to visit if often, just to sit by the water, trying new restaurants that opened and take all my out of town guests to experience it. It was always a treat. This time I took my daughter for the first time and suffice to say, she loved it! It’s easy to navigate, very organized and even with the crowed, it didn’t feel as busy as some other tourist attractions which was very pleasant. Great shops that helped get some fun memorabilia. You know it was memorable when she’s asked about it days later.Visited April 2023Travelled with familyWritten 15 April 2023
- 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 8 May 2023
- Ashley PWinnipeg, Canada541 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 2023Travelled with familyWritten 10 May 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 2023Travelled with familyWritten 22 May 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 26 May 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 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 30 May 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 10 June 2023
- DeanneB969Littleton, Colorado74 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 2023Travelled with familyWritten 29 June 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.0
15,167 reviews
Excellent
6,074
Very good
4,895
Average
3,037
Poor
879
Terrible
284
Shirley from Chicago
4 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
Is there anything worse than losing your phone?? Well yes there is but it's really stressful. When I got home from my Navy Pier evening I realized that I lost my phone at Navy Pier. I had very little hope of getting it back but I filled out the lost property report. 2 days later I decided to go to the pier. I started with the two people at the front desk and they were lovely and helpful. Then Greg from the office came out to help. This guy spent a lot of time helping me and happy day - I left with my phone. I highly recommend Navy Pier! Great attraction and great experience, great employees. PS Let's not forget to mention the good and honest samaritan who turned in my phone. Wish I knew who it was but THANK YOU to all you honest people out there! Life is good!
Written 18 March 2024
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.
litaker4
Concord, AR4 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Perfect time to go is in November. The weather was perfect- it wasn’t crowded. The views were spectacular. Book a stay at the sable and you have access to the whole navy pier area indoors.
Written 17 March 2024
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.
Life2Travel
Denver, NC1,599 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
We enjoyed a nice scenic walk along Navy Pier. The ferris wheel was operating and when the weather improves, there are more amusement rides outside. You can get a scenic boat or dinner tour from this location. Inside Navy Pier is a whole different experience with restaurants and shops. The Chicago Children's Museum is located here as well as the new Flyover Chicago attraction. Parking at Navy Pier is expensive.
Written 16 March 2024
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.
Mrudula
128 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
Navy pier is super fun. You can ride ferris wheel and see whole city from the top. The carousel is also cool, especially for kids. There are lots of yummy food options, like ice cream/ juice and don't miss the garret popcorn. It is place to relax and view the lake Michigan in the evening. I liked walking along the pier and watching boats go by. It is must visit if you are visiting chicago and there will be crowd during summer. So plan your trip accordingly.
Written 19 February 2024
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.
anonymous
Chicago, IL8 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
Walked all over at Navy Pier. We absolutely loved it. Loved the vibe and energy. They had some good food too. A nice Saturday afternoon with the wife.
Written 4 January 2024
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.
Johnny Trekkie
San Diego, CA9,336 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Me and my 3 men took a walk...we all thought this was pretty lame. We knew it was a tourist trap, but it was lifeless in October. Don't go unless you have run out of things to do.
-Food Hall, includes lots of chains. Tourist Trap restaurants.
-Touristy Chicago ouvenir shops
-Basic Carnival Rides...great if you have kids?
-Beer Garden at the very end...serving up mainly national beers you can find anywhere. Way overpriced
-Views...pretty views I suppose
-Food Hall, includes lots of chains. Tourist Trap restaurants.
-Touristy Chicago ouvenir shops
-Basic Carnival Rides...great if you have kids?
-Beer Garden at the very end...serving up mainly national beers you can find anywhere. Way overpriced
-Views...pretty views I suppose
Written 21 November 2023
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.
Rylen
11 contributions
Dec 2022 • Family
Very nice. Good selection of food and dining. Fun activities in winter such as indoor sledding, ice skating, etc. The Ferris wheel was enjoyable.
Written 19 November 2023
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.
RM
3 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
I was disappointed in the Navy Pier. Really nothing to see. Just bars and restaurants. No shops. If you like to drink and party, you will like it.
Written 19 November 2023
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.
matt w
Boston, MA3 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
While the wife was doing a little shopping, a Pier worker kept me occupied with my touristy questions. I believe his name was George he's very informative and friendly!!
Written 17 November 2023
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.
Stevan M
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Friends
Navy Pire is nonprofit organization but everything you must to pay, they don’t pay any taxes and is private property(criminal)
Written 14 November 2023
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 States11,036 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 States11,036 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, Canada3,670 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 (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Navy Pier
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Navy Pier:
- Go City: Chicago Explorer Pass with Up to 7 Attractions (From £65.81)
- Chicago Architecture River Cruise (From £36.82)
- Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour (From £38.08)
- 30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride (From £32.59)
- Big Bus Chicago Sunset Tour (From £35.26)
- Hotels near Navy Pier:
- (0.12 mi) Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton
- (0.87 mi) Hotel EMC2, Autograph Collection
- (0.76 mi) Loews Chicago Hotel
- (1.04 mi) The Gwen, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Michigan Avenue Chicago
- (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