About Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a christmas events for kid in Chicago, IL , rated 4.6 out of 5 by 80,280 families. It's one of seasonal & holiday activities worth knowing about when you're planning a day out with the kids.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families looking for a mix of entertainment, relaxation, and dining.Visitors wanting to experience iconic Chicago attractions in a festive atmosphere.Younger kids (0-5 years) can enjoy the Children's Museum and playground.Older kids (6-12 years) will appreciate the Ferris Wheel and various entertainment options.
Why families love it
- Centennial Wheel provides breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, especially at sunset.
- Chicago Children's Museum is perfect for younger kids with interactive exhibits.
- Crystal Gardens offers a beautiful, quiet spot amidst the hustle and bustle.
- Fireworks on Friday nights add a magical touch to the experience.
- Stunning views from the Ferris Wheel and various dining spots.
- Variety of dining options from casual to fine dining.
Insider tips
- Visit during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Check the schedule for the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and plan to catch a performance.
- Consider dining at restaurants with lake views for a memorable meal.
Good to know before you go
- Weekends and summer months if you prefer a quieter experience.
- Tuesdays when some attractions may be closed.
- Can get crowded on weekends and during summer months, which may be overwhelming for some families.
- Some attractions may not be open on certain weekdays, limiting options.
- Crowds
- Crowded on weekends and during summer; quieter during weekdays and off-season.
- Value
- The Ferris Wheel costs $18 per person, which offers a unique view experience. Dining options vary widely, providing choices for all budgets. Expect potential hidden costs for attractions and dining.
- Food
- No specific food and drink rules mentioned, but a variety of dining options are available on-site.
- Accessibility
- The venue is generally accessible, but specific accommodations for special needs were not mentioned in reviews.
- Safety
- No specific safety measures mentioned, but general public safety protocols are likely in place.
What parents say
"I had a fantastic time at Navy Pier during my recent trip to Chicago. The views of Lake Michigan and the skyline are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s such a peaceful place to walk around and take everything in. The Ferris wheel is definitely a highlight. The view from the top is amazing, especially at sunset. There’s so much to do, whether you’re visiting with family or friends. The Chicago Children’s Museum is perfect for younger kids, and I really enjoyed the Crystal Gardens. Such a beautiful, quiet spot in the middle of everything. If you’re hungry, there are so many great restaurants, ra"
a month ago
"Navy Pier is one of Chicago's top attractions, offering a mix of fun, culture, and relaxation. Stretching out onto Lake Michigan, it's home to a variety of activities and sights. The iconic Centennial Wheel provides stunning views of the city and lake, making it a must-ride. The pier boasts a range of dining options, from casual bites to fine dining, catering to all tastes. Entertainment options abound, with the Chicago Shakespeare Theater offering top-notch performances, and the Children's Museum providing interactive fun for families."
2 weeks ago
"The Navy Pier is basically a lakefront giant fairground, fun park and entertainment venue. There is a huge hotel, The Sable, on site, a children’s museum/playground and many restaurants as well as a theatre. It was not open on the Tuesday I visited though many of the cafes and restaurants were open. The chief attraction is the Ferris Wheel which is beautifully lit up at night. In a nice day this would be a fun place for a family outing. Cruises are also available from the lake front."
4 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.