Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a long recreational pier projecting into Lake Michigan from Chicago’s lakefront, originally opened in 1916 for civic and commercial uses. The pier today is a mixed-use public destination with attractions, dining, theaters, and seasonal events.

Major draws include the waterfront promenade, the large observation Ferris wheel, cultural venues such as the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, family attractions, boat tours, and regular festivals and fireworks. The pier’s public spaces and entertainment venues make it a year-round destination for tourists and locals.

Constructed in the early 20th century as a municipal pier, its role shifted over time from transportation and shipping to entertainment and cultural use; the current mix of attractions has been developed and renovated through late 20th- and early 21st-century projects. The Centennial Wheel and other modern installations were added to strengthen the pier’s role as a leisure destination.

Navy Pier sits on Chicago’s Near North Side, extending east from the lakefront into Lake Michigan just north of the Loop. It is reached from downtown by road and public transit and serves as a prominent focal point on the city’s lakefront.

• Pier length: The pier extends roughly 3,300 feet into Lake Michigan, providing panoramic views of the city skyline and lakefront.
• Best time for views: Sunset and evening visits offer strong photographic views of the Chicago skyline and reflections on Lake Michigan from the pier's western edge.

What to See #

• Centennial Wheel: A large observation Ferris wheel known as the Centennial Wheel that rises above the pier and provides views of Chicago's skyline and Lake Michigan.
• Theaters and museums: Cultural venues including the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and family attractions such as the Chicago Children's Museum and seasonal exhibition spaces lining the pier.