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Navy Pier Reviews

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600 East Grand Ave
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 595-5300

Kathy
Kathy
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Avg. Member Rating
24
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96
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Navy Pier

I've been to Navy Pier numerous times—in warm weather. As any Chicago trip would be less than perfect without a stroll to the end of the Pier, I was determined to go—even in February.

As February is not high tourist time at the Pier, there was a sense of peaceful calm to it all. Unique ice craters covered the shores of Lake Michigan, as a result of the waves, I imagined.

Despite the chilling winds, we made our way to the end of the Pier, in order to savor the sights of flags flying in all of their glory, beautiful views of the Chicago skyline, and of the calm ice covered lake.

As you make your way back up the Pier, I recommend hopping inside to take in the fun and warm up a bit. The botanical gardens, complete with jumping water, were a great way to warm up. If you have kiddos, the Children's Museum is right inside.

Be sure to grab a bite to eat at any magnificent eatery on the Pier (I recommend Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.). And, on your way out be sure to pay a visit to Bob Newhart— wonderfully embodied on the front garden outside of the Pier.

Navy Pier in winter, not to be missed!

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From journal Winter Getaway in the Windy City

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Navy Pier

  • December 18, 2004
  • 5 by c_rau from Denver
Crowded with people, this place is the boardwalk of the Midwest. With a gigantic Ferris wheel, cotton candy, and kitschy souvenir shops, it's a tourist and local favorite.

We enjoyed the Ferris wheel. With its slow-paced rotation, we had plenty of photos ops of the Chicago skyline, and it was quite relaxing just to sit for a while after all the walking we did.

Then we took a high-speed boat ride on Lake Michigan. We went south to the observatory and north to North Beach in only 30 minutes. The sun had just set before the boat ride, so we got to see the city all lit up. We then enjoyed hamburgers and beer from the beer garden while listening to a ‘70s cover band.

As we walked back from the pier's edge, we searched for the five penny machines that were hidden among the souvenir shops. We successfully found all five; however, I was unable to get the last three pennies because I ran out of change again. Begging the store vendors for pennies and quarters didn't get me anything either. They thought I was crazy. Packed with people and lots of things to do, Navy Pier is a must for summer fun in Chicago.

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From journal Weekend in Chicago

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a great spot to go in Chicago. No matter if you are single, dating someone, or married, there is always something to do at the pier. Navy Pier is an excellent experience for everyone out there. It is something you will remember for a long time. I would definitely recommend it to everyone who reads this. It is one of the best ways to spend your time in Chicago. Make sure you don't forget to go on the Ferris wheel, and make sure you check out the magic stand in the indoor section. Overall, this is a fantastic way to spend some time in the great city of Chicago.

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From journal Getaway

Navy Pier

  • October 4, 2005
  • 5 by MJB1103 from Madison Heights, Michigan
I managed to steal my husband away for a few hours of his training program so that we could take a walk on Navy Pier. I hadn't realized how many things were going on down there. There are numerous tour boats and dinner cruises that launch from the pier as well as a small amusement park that holds the ever famous Ferris Wheel as well as a Wave spinner, carousel and mini golf. We took a ride on the Ferris Wheel and the view is Wonderful. You can see for miles and it gives a great perspective of the city. The wheel goes slow enough to take pictures without to much trouble. And the speed almost makes you feel like you barely moving at all. They do take a picture of you before you get on that they will try to sell you after the ride. You have no obligation to do so, so dont feel pressured.

We walked all the way to the lake. There are some plaques that give some history of the pier. We enjoyed the dancing they had going on in the Beer Garden. A band was playing and it didn't seem to matter what kind of music it was because everyone was dancing like crazy. There are lots of side vendors to buy treats and small souviners as well as an indoor type mall with many more vendors with specialty goods.

Parking was a bit obnoxious at a $20 flat rate per car, They certainly could use to lower that cost a hair or two. Or at least have a range of prices to accomidate if you are there only 2 hours compared to 8.

I know that there is a kids museum, maze, resteraunts and Imax theatre which we didn't get to see or do. I guess we'll have to plan that for the next trip. If you get the chance it's worth the trip. A little history and a lot of fun to be had by all.

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From journal I left my money in Chicago

Navy Pier

Wow! This is such a wonderful place. There is a large shopping mall on the pier, as well as a very large Ferris wheel. The Ferris wheel is about $3 per person to ride. You have to board while the wheel is moving, which was a bit shocking to my and my family. The pier really has a lot to offer.

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From journal Chicago, IL

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