





Family Fun Centers
Navy Pier
📍 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611🕐 Hours
| Monday | 11 AM–8 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–9 PM |
Quick Facts
- Best For
- all ages
- Party Packages
- private event venues available for weddings, corporate retreats, festivals, trade shows
- Food
- Chef Art Smith's Reunion, Harry Caray's Tavern, Offshore Rooftop, Giordano's, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Bar and Grill, Ben & Jerry's, I Dream of Falafel
💡 Did You Know?
- Navy Pier attracts nearly 9 million annual guests, making it one of the most visited attractions in Chicago and a major destination on Lake Michigan
- The venue features the iconic Centennial Wheel, a modern ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, with wait times typically between 10-30 minutes
- Navy Pier is a former Navy training center that has been transformed into a 50-acre entertainment destination, representing a significant historical conversion of military infrastructure into public recreation space
- The venue offers year-round 'Light Up The Lake' fireworks displays and seasonal water taxi service (May-September), providing multiple transportation and entertainment options for visitors
- Navy Pier includes an on-site Sable hotel and hosts major events including Mexico Fest and various cultural celebrations, combining overnight lodging with event hosting capabilities in one location
💬 What Visitors Say
- Visit on weekdays to enjoy shorter wait times for the Ferris wheel (typically 10-30 minutes) and a more relaxed atmosphere, especially if traveling with young children.
- Consider purchasing a Pier Passport annual pass for free parking discounts and complimentary Centennial Ferris Wheel tickets, which provides excellent value if you plan multiple visits.
- Time your Ferris wheel ride for sunset to experience the most breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline; make reservations in advance during peak times.
- Plan to spend 3-4 hours exploring the pier's diverse attractions including lake cruises, food vendors, shops, and live performances; check the event calendar for free public programs available year-round.
- Bring younger children to the Children's Museum, but be aware admission is $21 per child; look into membership options if planning repeat visits for better value, and expect younger kids may lose interest within 1-2 hours.
About Navy Pier
Destination with rides, shops & food. Former Navy training center draws crowds with carnival rides, restaurants, shops & fireworks.
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