Navy Pier is the quintessential summer tourist destination in Chicago. It has countless restaurant and entertainment options for all ages and interests. PLUS it hosts Cirque Shanghai every year, which is a can't miss event! You can literally fill an entire day with great activities at Navy Pier. If you're looking for something fun to do for little cost, it's the perfect location to spend a fair weather afternoon.

Last June I was on vacation in Chicago for the first time and off course me and my friends were going to visit the Navy Pier. The first thing I saw was the Ferris Wheel, and one friend told me to go in there so I could see the whole skyline of Chicago and a view on Michigan Lake. Now you must know that I'm afraid of heights so there was NO WAY I would go in that Ferris Wheel. Then my friend Derrick said he would join me, not to worry, it would be beautiful. And it was beautiful, I was so afraid but I went into that Wheel and I saw the whole overview of the Skyline and the Lake, it was awesome and I will never forget the experience.
Maybe I will get in the Ferris Wheel next time I'm going to visit Chicago cause I will be back one day.

Anja Pietersen, the Netherlands

i love chicago. We've lived here for almost 3 years now and it is one great city. Navy pier is really a nice place to see the lake, eat some great food (specially the hot dogs) and to do some touristy shopping. I've been here for all 4 seasons, and would recomend to avoid the summer. It is way too crowded to enjoy yourself. Still fun though. i'd say check it out if you are a first timer in the city. =)

The Navy Pier is best enjoyed from afar. From the giant ferris wheel, to the arched main atrium, and the fireworks in the summers, it's a thing of beauty. Up close, it's a bit too crowded. It's great for a stroll, but the shops and dining options aren't all that impressive. The one exception is if you're up for a good old Chicago-style hotdog. The ballroom is fun but can be too large for some events (been there for company outings mostly).

Going to the Navy Pier was fun. It seemed to me all you could really do was walk around, visit a few shops, and eat. It was fun looking at the boats, but they were expensive to go on.