A trip to Chicago is not complete without a visit to Lake Michigan. While there are many ways to make a stop at the lake happen, one that guarantees a good time is a visit to Navy Pier, located right there on Lake Michigan.
Opened in 1916, the Navy Pier has played host to a number of different occupants, including the United States military and the University of Chicago. Neither remained, and in the early 1990 s, the Pier was renovated to become the entertainment and recreation complex it is today.
Restaurants, shopping, rides and shows, the Navy Pier has a little something for everyone. Staying at a downtown Chicago hotel means the Pier is just to the East and will be easy to enjoy! If the weather s right, the Pier is walking distance from most hip Chicago hotels.
Not up for a stroll? Catch a free ride on one of the city s many trolleys or hop in a taxi. The concierge at any hotel in downtown Chicago will be able to give you simple, easy directions as you head out for adventure near the lake.
Exploring Navy Pier:
Seeing Navy Pier for the first time can be a great adventure. First, you ll come across the water display at the fountain always a pretty site, and a fun spot for children to splash in when the weather s hot. Strolling onto the Pier, the Family Pavilion is next up. There, both kids and grown ups will find options sure to please. Wandering through a children s museum and catching an Imax movie are perfect ways to get young minds thinking, and not to shabby for grown ups, either!
Those without kids in tow might want to spend their time exploring the many shops and boutiques that the concierge at any luxury hotel in Chicago is quick to recommend. When it s time to grab a bite to eat, this area offers several restaurant choices. As you leave the pavilion, take note of the lovely blooms at the Pier s botanical center.
Dock Street, not open to vehicles, is the perfect path for a meandering walk alongside the lake. Street entertainers, like jugglers, mimes and singers, are often set up in certain areas along the street, which makes for a fun walk, since you never know just what you ll stumble across! One evening, set out from your downtown Chicago hotel and visit Dock Street for a stunning fireworks exhibit. The show happens twice a week, and is a booming display that shouldn t be missed.
The dramatic fireworks set a fun scene that s a perfect compliment to time spent at the Pier s amusement park area. Giant Ferris wheels, swing rides and a traditional carousel all provide an opportunity to have a little innocent fun. Miniature golf is also available, for those with a competitive streak.
If you re in the mood for a performance, there are several options that fit the bill at the Pier. Free performances by singers, dancers, comedians, theater groups and cultural celebrations take place at one venue, while big name, national stars perform at another location. Other than the Imax theater, there s also a playhouse dedicated to Shakespeare s works that can be a fun night out, especially if you stop at the English pub nearby.
No Pier experience is complete without a trip around Lake Michigan on one of the many vessels docked at the Pier. Recommended by many Magnificent Mile hotels, the different boat tours and cruises are a great way to experience Chicago.
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