This place has really gone to the dogs. There was a time when Navy Pier was a really interesting cultural and historical venue. I don't know what happened, but now it's nothing but a bunch of corporatized ripoffs. Parking prices are absurd, if you can even get there in time to *get* parking. This place is disgusting. It's filthy, constantly under construction, and practically eroding before your eyes. The pier management is continually shooting itself in the foot by closing wonderful businesses in order to install chain restaurants. Not to mention the fact that they give the employees of these businesses little to no notice of the fact that they'll be closing them, which seems to me like it must be violating their leases, if not some basic human courtesies. Honestly, if you want to eat McDonald's and get your wallet stolen, it's a great place. Other than that, I wouldn't bother. The only things worth going to Navy Pier for are the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and the Stained Glass Museum...but, at the rate that miserable pit of a pier is going, they'll have evicted them by the time I'm done writing this. My kids and I have never had a good day here, although for some reason we visit it every time we're in Chicago. I can't believe they'd take advantage of such a landmark to overcharge on food we could buy literally anywhere. If I wanted to get verbally assaulted by drunk people, I wouldn't have gone to an attraction that claims to be family friendly. 0/10; would not recommend, unless you're an arsonist looking for a place no one will miss. read more

Navy Pier is an absolute gem of Chicago! From the moment you step onto the pier, you're greeted with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline that take your breath away. The atmosphere is vibrant, filled with laughter, music, and the smells of delicious food from the various restaurants and vendors. One of my favorite experiences was taking a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel. The views from the top are incredible, especially at sunset when the city lights start to twinkle. There's so much to do here--whether you're exploring the shops, catching a live performance, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. I also loved the gardens and open spaces, which provide a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. And if you're traveling with family, there are plenty of activities for kids, including the Chicago Children's Museum, which is a big hit! Overall, Navy Pier is a must-visit for anyone in Chicago. It beautifully captures the spirit of the city and offers something for everyone. I can't wait to go back! read more

Three adults purchased on line pre paid tickets to lobster fest . This is the biggest mistake I have made in all my years of living in chicago. Upon arriving we were given tokens which I wrongly assumed would allow me to pick up my food. I entered one of five pickup lines waited 15 minutes only to be told that I had to get in the order line give my tokens then get in the pick up line. It took 2 hours to get prepaid preordered lobster. There were not enough cashiers besides the fact that order and pickup were jammed next to each other in a very confined space and no accommodation was made for anyone who pre ordered. It was a mess on so many levels 1) not enough stations 2) Too confined a space causing all kinds of Mis understanding 3) Require people who paid and had tokens to wait to order again Finally when we got our meal we were told they had run out of coleslaw. They had to make it and we could we come back in 15 minutes . Sure I always enjoy a good bowl of coleslaw for desert. Never ever again. One star is too much. read more

I had such a great time at Navy Pier! It's one of those places that really shows off the best of Chicago -- beautiful views, fun attractions, and something for everyone. I rode the iconic Centennial Ferris Wheel, and the views were absolutely stunning. You can see the skyline, the lake, and the whole pier from up high. It's smooth, relaxing, and perfect for photos. I also did the Chicago FlyOver experience, and it was incredible! It feels like you're soaring over the city -- the visuals, the movement, the wind and mist effects... everything was so well done. It's immersive, exciting, and a great way to see Chicago from a whole new perspective. Overall, Navy Pier made for a perfect outing. Clean, well-organized, and full of energy. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it's definitely worth the trip! Highly recommend both the Ferris wheel and FlyOver Chicago! read more

Looking for a stunning spot to add to your Chicago itinerary? Look no further than this gem that's sure to leave you dazzled at any time of day, but especially at night! Take it from us - we recently celebrated our daughter's 16th birthday here with her friends and had an absolute blast. The highlight has got to be the Ferris wheel, which takes you high above the city skyline for unparalleled views of the towering buildings nearby. But that's not all - once you're inside, you'll find yourself spoiled for choice with a Shakespeare theater, IMAX movie theater, museum, botanical garden, restaurants, bars, and vendors selling all sorts of goodies. Trust us, you won't want to leave! Navy Pier is an absolute must-visit destination in Chicago! We highly recommend it and we're already counting down the days till we can return. read more

Not Living Up to the Hype I recently visited Navy Pier in Chicago and I left wondering why it's such a popular tourist attraction. While the views of the lake and the city skyline were undeniably beautiful, the overall experience left much to be desired. One major drawback was the lack of activities. I expected a bit more to do, but the offerings were limited, and it felt surprisingly barren. Even in the summer month of August, the proximity to Lake Michigan made it freezing. Accessing Navy Pier via public transit was semi-convenient, but the truth is, there are so many other vibrant and exciting parts of Chicago to explore. Given the wealth of other options, I'd recommend skipping this attraction on your visit and focusing on the more lively and engaging parts of the city. read more

Chicago Navy Pier...what happened? Gone is the nostalgia of an early 1900 piece of public infrastructure for gathering and entertainment. The new 2015 remodeling has left the once vibrant Navy Pier clinical and gleaming in stainless steel with trees to block the picturesque views. The outdoor kiosks, the family bike rentals, the entertainment stage and virtual reality rides have all disappeared to make way for corporate pizza and Romen style noodles. I actually read a sign that said NO LOITERING! And NO BIKES past this point! Upon leaving, be sure to stand in line for a cab, otherwise the traffic squad will insult your sense of intelligence and adventure for walking to find another way out. read more

A nice little diversion on Navy Pier. Basically for $7 you get one rotation on the giant Ferris Wheel that goes about 2 mph. It is a nice easy ride and you get a great view and a few minutes off your feet. I would say it is maybe a 15 minute ride (it might vary based on how many times they stop it). A few things to know, they don't stop the wheel to let you get on or off (but it is going very slow). There are ticket booths all along the pier and the one right by the wheel seems the busiest (so avoid it). We didn't have any problems with getting our own car (we had 3 ppl), so maybe the 4 person a car depends on how long the line are. At any rate, it was low key fun. read more

Navy Pier is a premier landmark in the City of Chicago. As a native of the city, it is not the highlight of my trip when I return to visit. But it is a fun, interactive place to go with friends, significant others, or family. If I want to be grown and sexy, and I have a lofty amount of money in my pocket, I definitely go on the midnight dinner cruises. The beautiful yachts take you into the Lake of Michigan from like 9pm until midnight. You can eat, drink, dance and/or socialize among the stars. It is very romantic and peaceful. However, Navy Pier has other attractions like the ferris wheel, games, unique recreational stores, movie theater, live shows, and restaurants. read more

This is Chicago's answer to the famous Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. You can run around here and there's lots of cute stuff like jewelry and scarves and sunglasses and airbrush artists and mall food. The neat thing is that it houses all kinds of neat stuff. Crystal Gardens (2 stars), Ferris Wheel (4 stars), Stained Glass Window Museum (5 stars), Food court (3 stars), and the Architectrual Tour (5 stars). It's the one place in Chicago you can find something for everyone of all ages. Sure it's a little expensive, but that's what happens when everyone wants to go there. Definitely a place you have to check out if you're a tourist in Chicago. read more

Could be an amazing place if it weren't run by unethical people who are not in touch with reality. If you are a visitor to Chicago, please don't waste your time here! The restaurants are not that great, the ferris wheel is horribly overpriced, and winter wonder fest is just a giant room with children screaming. It's just like going to a mall. Take your business to some river tours and experience some real restaurants instead! There are so many wonderful things to do in Chicago that don't involve giving your money to this giant cash grab that is in cahoots with the mayor and turns a blind eye to nepotism and other unethical practices. read more

Navy Pier has been in non-profit status, allowing them to avoid paying taxes to the city of Chicago for 13 years. When you wonder why Chicago goes into debt every year, it is because of fraudulent and corrupt organizations like this. Stop the further theft from the citizens of Chicago and the filling of private pockets. Even this children's museum, which can be toured in a few minutes, never offers free admission to Chicago residents. Based on this minimalist museum, they obtain non-profit status, managing to pocket millions and millions of dollars stolen from the citizens of Chicago. read more

Navy Pier is a hidden gem in Chicago! While it's famous for its amazing views of Lake Michigan, what many people don't know is that there's a whole pavilion of shops and food stands inside. Next to the pier is the Children's Museum, so there's something for everyone to do. Even though it was cold and rainy outside, the inside was warm and inviting, with mouth-watering smells wafting from the food stands. You can find everything from fast food chains to unique, locally-owned eateries. Plus, there are plenty of gift shops where you can find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip by. read more

Navy Pier is such a fun and iconic place to visit in Chicago! Unfortunately, the Ferris wheel and most of the children's attractions weren't working during our visit, which was a little disappointing. But honestly, it was still a great experience overall. We took a lovely walk all along the pier, enjoyed the beautiful lake views, and loved the lively atmosphere. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and spots to just relax and take in the skyline. Even without the rides, it's definitely worth visiting , a great place to stroll, take photos, and soak in the Chicago vibes. read more

This is a nice area to come to depending on the season or event. I would say if you plan to come here in the winter then it should only be if there is an event you are interested in. Parking during the off peak season (fall-winter) is $14 on weekdays and $19 on weekends. It is currently under construction (November 2014) and there's really nothing to do here unless there's an event. Summertime would be the best time to visit as there are boat rides and a large Ferris wheel you can ride (dare you ride it in the cold season, I'd be sure to bundle up). read more

I love Chicago. Our visit there is very fun because its fall season. Love the walk along navy pier especially the ferry's wheel. We rode it and we see most of chicago's skyline. Not to mention that its foggy that time too. I like to go inside the navy pier mall where there is a beautiful palm trees and plants. I love the store inside it as well. Don't forget navy pier when you visit Chicago. I love it but there' s not much attractions outside. Like mimes, costumed cos players, artist, musicians etc. But it's clean and breezy, and beautiful. read more

Navy Pier is such a cool place! I have been her probably 10 times. There is so much to do, you can take a ferry ride, get sno cones or margaritas, go to mcdonalds or bubba gump shrimp co., go through a maze, ride a ferris wheel, check out some plant life, see a circus or shop! It is virtually unlimited in the number of things you can do. One time when I was there the Illinois lottery was out there doing a promotion where you spun a wheel for prizes and I won a gift bag with a water bottle, scratch off tickets, a tshirt and a keychain. read more

Ok so when I was little I came here and somebody stole my phone, and now I came here again and somebody stole 140 $ from me, also there's a huge lack of staff and the security guards either messed around or were nowhere present. Please get your stuff together ive been robbed here at your place the two times I've been here, twice ina row. If I ever do come back I don't wanna get robbed again. The only times in my life Ives been robbed is here. Please, hire real people and make sure nobody steals. thanks. read more

Navy Pier was great. We walked over from our hotel and stopped to wade in the lake on the way. We had dinner, rode the ferris wheel (great skyline views at sunset) shopped and stayed for the fireworks. It was a very nice evening. Be aware that leaving after the fireworks can be challenging as we saw people almost coming to blows over a taxi (about 200 or so people lined up and no cabs). Walk back to your hotel if close enough or go have another drink and let the crowd clear out before trying to leave. read more