Navy Pier

Approx. Time: 2 hours
Activity Level: Easiest

Navy Pier was originally designed as a shipping and recreational facility. In 1916 the pier opened to the public. A year later it was used to house many different regiments of military personnel and homeland defense offices. During the war era of the 1940's, pilot-training accidents added to the landscape of Lake Michigan. Now there are remains of over two hundred planes resting peacefully at the Lake bottom.

Because of its extended use, the pier was widened by 100 feet in 1959 and in 1977 it was claimed as a Chicago Landmark. It has evolved into a premiere family entertainment center. It also provides state-of-the-art meeting space perfectly suited for small-to-medium sized trade shows. All of these elements combine to make Navy Pier Chicago's number one tourist destination drawing more than 8 million visitors annually.

There is always something happening at Navy Pier, Chicago's lakefront playground. Offering visitors more than 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, restaurants and attractions. Navy Pier is host to an unparalleled array of family-oriented events and entertainment. For additional information about upcoming events, please call (312) 595-PIER or (800) 595-PIER outside the Chicago area.