The transformation continues as Navy Pier steps boldly into its second century. Exciting new spaces and dynamic new programing continue to wow the millions of guests who visit the Pier each year. As the People’s Pier, we’ve been expanding our dining, retail, and entertainment offerings and evolving the Pier into an accessible, year-round centerpiece for Chicago’s diverse arts and cultural landscape.
What’s New?
Navy Pier is welcoming guests like never before in newly designed spaces that meet guests with a fresh aesthetic and Chicago flair.
The newly renovated Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion serves as a robust marketplace representing the best of Chicago’s culture and hospitality, featuring an assortment of restaurants, shops, and entertainment for all to enjoy.
The newly constructed Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion in Polk Bros Park serves as a graceful beacon surrounded by lush, green landscaping, inviting all guests.
Tech Specs
These new spaces also feature cutting-edge technology including the Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion’s interactive digital screens; featuring 14 monitors placed along a 20-foot stretch of wall, inspired by Chicago’s connection to water; the Concierge Hub featuring four screens anchored by Navy Pier’s Guest Experience Staff Members ready to orient and assist guests; and the People’s Energy Welcome Pavilion’s expansive screen display, highlighting Navy Pier’s history and welcoming guests in various languages. And of course, there’s Navy Pier’s greatest technological marvel of all, the Centennial Wheel, offering year-round enjoyment for guest of all walks of life with breathtaking views from nearly 200 feet in the air.
What’s Next?
Work is underway on a 220-room hotel that will sit adjacent to Festival Hall, providing guests with unparalleled views of the city and lake during their stay at the Hilton-operated hotel. A new rooftop venue will also come online, offering guests year-round, 360-degree views of Chicago’s iconic lake and skyline views. Along with the hotel and rooftop, a transient marina and boat slip will create new dining and entertainment elements that are sure to elevate the Pier’s social scene. Of course, Navy Pier’s programmatic offerings will continue to expand in 2018 and beyond as the Pier remains committed to offering free, one-of-a-kind arts and culture experiences designed to inspire, educate, and connect guests from across the city and globe.
This year, enjoy free dynamic performances with Sequence Ch!cago. Presented by the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, this series showcases local artists, musicians, and cultural organizations. Navy Pier will display Chicago’s diverse arts scene over the course of 10 dates this fall and winter. Experience captivating free public art installations such as Fields of Battle, Lands of Peace: The Doughboys 1917-1918, a powerful WWI outdoor photography exhibition generously supported by the Robert R. McCormick Foundation. And you can’t forget timeless classics like the Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest. Back for its 18th year, this delightful family tradition features 170,000 square feet of rides, giant slides, an ice skating rink, and holiday decor that is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. Experience this festive event Nov. 30 through Jan. 6.
For more information, visit navypier.org or download the free Navy Pier app for Android and iOS device users, now available in the App Store.
