Navy Pier: Chicago's Iconic Waterfront Playground
Explore Navy Pier, Chicago's premier destination for entertainment, dining, and unforgettable views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
Navy Pier is a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub in Chicago, offering stunning lakefront views, amusement rides, and a variety of dining options. This iconic destination is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, making it a must-visit during your stay in the Windy City.
A brief summary to Navy Pier
- 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, Streeterville, Illinois, 60611, US
- +1312-595-7437
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-9 pm
- Thursday 11 am-9 pm
- Friday 11 am-10 pm
- Saturday 11 am-10 pm
- Sunday 11 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Check the event calendar on the official Navy Pier website for seasonal activities and free events.
- Consider arriving early to secure parking or use public transportation to avoid parking fees.
- Bring a light jacket for evening visits, as it can get breezy along the lakefront.
- Take a ride on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city and lake, especially stunning at night.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From anywhere in Bolingbrook, head to the nearest bus stop that services the Pace Bus. You can take Pace Route 834 to the 'Bolingbrook Metra' station. Once you arrive at the station, transfer to the Metra train on the Heritage Corridor line towards Chicago Union Station. After approximately 30 minutes, disembark at the 'Union Station' stop. From Union Station, you can catch the 'Navy Pier Shuttle' bus or take the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) bus #124 towards Navy Pier. The bus will take you directly to Navy Pier. The total travel time from Bolingbrook will be around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on waiting times.
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Train and Walking
Make your way to the nearest Metra train station in Bolingbrook. Board the Metra train on the Heritage Corridor line towards Chicago Union Station. The train ride will take about 30 minutes. Once at Union Station, exit the station and walk to the Jackson Boulevard bus terminal, which is about a 10-minute walk away. From there, take the CTA bus #146 or #124 towards Navy Pier. After a short ride, you will arrive at Navy Pier. The total travel time is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
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Rideshare Service
If you prefer a more direct option, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your destination to 'Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611'. The driver will pick you up from your location in Bolingbrook and take you directly to Navy Pier. Depending on traffic, the ride can take anywhere from 40 minutes to 1 hour.
Discover more about Navy Pier
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