The Navy Pier in Chicago

Written by Julie Greiner

The Navy Pier is located on Lake Michigan east of the downtown area. The Pier first opened in 1916 and was intended to be a shipping and entertainment area. During World War I and II, the pier was used as a military training site. Today the Navy Pier is a showcase of unique restaurants, shops, exhibition facilities and an entertainment area second to none. The "Gateway Park" consisting of some 19-acres has been developed just west of the Pier.

Crystal Gardens at the Navy Pier in Chicago

The Crystal Gardens are located on the east end of the Family Pavilion. View of the Ferris Wheel at the Navy Pier in Chicago

The Garden is a one-acre indoor palm court enclosed in a glass atrium. The 70 plus palm trees, flora and seating all provide a relaxing atmosphere to relax and view the Pier, ferris wheel, Chicago skyline, musical carousel and the "leap-frog" fountains. The Crystal Garden tent is available for private parties and events with a capacity of up to 150 people.

Navy Pier Ferris Wheel and Carousel

McDonalds sponsored the 150-foot high Ferris Wheel. The Pier's wheel has 40 gondolas which seat six passengers each. In the evening the 40 spokes of the wheels are illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights... spanning a diameter of 140 feet. The Ferris wheel is open year-round, with weather permitting. The musical carousel which was designed exclusively for the Navy Pier is located near the Ferris wheel. and is fashioned from Navy Pier in Chicago

the 1920's. There are 36 hand-painted animals, horses, chariots, frogs, and more. The musical carousel is 44-foot high.

Skyline Stage Ice Skating Rink and Putt Putt Golf at the Navy Pier

The new Skyline Stage ice skating rink is a covered roof structure towering 100-feet in the air. Whether a beginner or a professional skater... this is the perfect place no matter the weather. The rink is open daily with skate rentals available. The Pier's new 18-hole miniature golf course is placed at the base of the Ferris wheel. Included in the fair is a Loews cinaplex IMAX Theatre, Chicago's Children's Museum, the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows (first museum in the United States featuring just stained glass windows) and many various restaurants and eateries. The Shakespeare Theater opened in 1999. This theater has been designed in the image of the Swan Theatre in London with a 525-seating capacity. There is a courtyard-styled theater, an English-style pub, a studio theater, bookstore, Resource Center and and an English Garden. For more information information call: (312) 595-5200.