The most visited attraction in Chicago is Navy Pier, a mile-long pier jutting out into Lake Michigan at Grand Ave and Illinois Street.
A lively area filled with restaurants, bars and various fairground attractions, it wakes up after noon and becomes more lively as the evening progresses.
The south end of Navy Pier offers a nice view of Chicago's skyline, while on the other side of the pier you'll find the smaller Ohio Beach.
Attractions and theme park
Navy Pier is an entertainment venue and its main landmark is the scenic Ferris wheel, but there are many other attractions. They are usually open from 10:00am to 8:00pm or 9:00pm.
For a list of all the attractions, including the ability to purchase tickets online, visit navypier.org/rides-and-games.
Examples of prices:
- Ferris Wheel - 18 usd
- Carousel - 5 usd
- Drop Tower - 9 usd
- Miniature Golf - - 5 usd
Museums and theatres
Navy Pier also offers a glimpse of museums, theatres and concert halls.
- Children's Museum - chicagochildrensmuseum.org
- Chicago Shakespeare Theatre - chicagoshakes.com
- Navy Pier Auditorium (lecture and concert hall)
For a list of events and activities, visit navypier.org/events.
How to get there
Navy Pier is located in the northern part of Downtown in the Streeterville area.
The nearest Metro station , Grand, is more than a mile away, so you'll want to take the bus routes that go to Navy Pier Terminal from those directions:
- Downtown/Riverwalk - Line 2
- Cloud Gate - Line 124
- Grand Metro Station - lines 29, 65
- John Hancock Center - line 66
Accommodation at Navy Pier
The area around the pier is one of the most touristy in all of Chicago, making it a strategic place to stay if you're heading into the city for fun.
Right on Navy Pier, stay in a luxurious and highly rated Sable At Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection By Hilton ****.
You can also stay at other luxury hotels in the adjacent neighborhood within a 10-minute walk:
What to see around
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