Navy Pier, Chicago

A cool place to visit with an amazing view of the Chicago skyline either on a warm or cold day. A good place for a photo op. Variety of shops and food available for everyone inside. During the holidays they have a winter fest held there that kids will definitely love. As of 2017, the pier went under some changes and renovation.

This review written on December 4, 2017. A good part of the pier's indoor area is closed for remodeling. A selected number of attractions are open. So, check before you go for your favorite attraction or eating place. Most restaurants are open but a few are closed because of construction, as well. Winter Wonderland is open in the exhibits area and is worth a visit. Depending on weather conditions, the large ferris wheel and some of the boating attractions may be closed.

Wow - what colors during sunrise. If you are a morning person and into photography, this is a location not to be missed. The sunrise colors are phenomenal - bright red, gold, yellow - you name it - it's a photographers paradise. There is hardly anyone at 6 am in the morning and you can get your photos without worrying about people getting on your photos. One of the best locations for long exposure photos of the Chicago landscape besides Adler Planetarium and The Cloud Gate.

Fantastic views of Lake Michigan & Chicago city scape. Kid friendly with lots of fun things to do for the whole family from the Children's Museum, Shakespeare Theater, ice skating rink and ferris wheel. Excellent selection of restaurants to choose from fast food to five star. Take a three hour cruise along Lake Michigan or shorter cruise down the Chicago River.

The Pier is currently under renovations, and the portions that have been completed are beautiful and are a welcome refresh to one of Chicago's most popular destinations. We parked at the entrance 1 valet (and after at DMK for validation) - great experience! We stayed warm, it was super convenient and a reasonable price. The Children's Museum was fun for my 4yo.