Navy Pier’s Ferris Wheel and rides are classic Chicago fun—but the excitement doesn’t end there. Just a few steps away, you’ll find a lively waterfront filled with boat tours, parks, museums, restaurants, and skyline views. Whether you're in the mood for fast-paced thrills, peaceful strolls, a family-friendly meal, or a casual cocktail, this area is packed with options to round out your day. Here are 20 top things to do near Navy Pier’s amusement zone.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Just a short walk from Navy Pier, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is a must for anyone craving a creative reset. It’s home to bold, rotating exhibitions from some of the world’s most talked-about contemporary artists, with past showcases including names like Takashi Murakami and Virgil Abloh. The galleries are spacious, the layout is easy to navigate, and the vibe feels more cool and curious than academic. There’s also a peaceful sculpture garden and a bright café if you want a quiet break from the waterfront energy. Whether you’re a casual viewer or an art aficionado, it’s a refreshing way to spend an hour or two in the city.
Shoreline Architecture River Cruise
Navy Pier is one of the main departure points for the Shoreline Architecture River Cruise—and it’s one of the most relaxing ways to see the city. You’ll hop on a comfortable, open-air boat and cruise past towering skyscrapers while expert guides narrate Chicago’s rich design history. It’s equal parts chill and informative, offering insights into everything from Gothic Revival to postmodern glass giants. The pace is perfect for a mid-afternoon break, and there are covered seats if the weather’s iffy. Book around golden hour for stunning skyline views as the sun sets behind the buildings.
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Located at the top of the John Hancock Center, 360 CHICAGO is a short ride from Navy Pier and offers a fresh perspective—literally. You’ll head 94 floors up to an observation deck with wraparound views of Lake Michigan, the Magnificent Mile, and the city grid stretching far beyond. For thrill-seekers, there’s TILT—a moving glass platform that gently tips you over the edge. Prefer to keep your feet planted? The on-site bar serves local beers and cocktails with unbeatable views. It’s a slick, modern space that feels more lounge than lookout, and makes a solid contrast to the buzzy boardwalk atmosphere down at the Pier.
Bike and Roll Chicago Rentals
Bike and Roll Chicago Rentals
Just outside Navy Pier, Bike and Roll Chicago offers an easy and scenic way to explore the lakefront. You can rent bikes, e-bikes, or even surreys and cruise along the 18-mile Lakefront Trail, which winds past parks, beaches, and skyline views. The process is quick, the bikes are well maintained, and staff are happy to recommend routes based on your time and mood. It’s a great way to stretch your legs after queuing for rides, and perfect if you want to see more without hopping on the CTA. Whether you head toward Museum Campus or up to Lincoln Park, the route is flat, breezy, and filled with fresh-air photo ops.
Chicago Children’s Museum
Tucked inside Navy Pier itself, the Chicago Children’s Museum is one of the best indoor activities for families with kids under 10. It’s colorful, engaging, and designed to let kids climb, splash, build, and discover. Highlights include a life-size firetruck, a tinkering lab, and an interactive dinosaur dig. There’s enough here to keep little ones busy for a couple of hours, especially on a rainy day or when they need a sensory-friendly break from the outdoor rides. It’s also stroller-friendly, with plenty of rest zones for parents to recharge. A lifesaver for families looking to break up the day.
Polk Bros Park
Right at the entrance to Navy Pier, Polk Bros Park is an underrated gem. With wide open lawns, interactive fountains, public art, and a stage that hosts live music and dance in the warmer months, it’s a great place to pause before or after your Pier visit. Kids can splash around in the water jets while grown-ups relax on benches or in shaded spots. It’s one of those “hangout and watch the city go by” places, offering great people-watching and even better skyline views. If you're lucky, you might catch a free performance or pop-up event.
Olive Park
Olive Park is just a short walk from Navy Pier, but it feels like a quiet escape from the crowds. Tucked behind the Ohio Street Beach and Chicago’s water filtration plant, this little oasis is ideal for a picnic or a moment of calm. You’ll find winding paths, benches with lakefront views, and a unique sightline that frames the skyline perfectly. Locals love it for the peace and space—it’s rarely busy, even in summer. Bring snacks, stretch out on the grass, and let the Ferris Wheel glow in the distance while you unwind with the breeze.
Ohio Street Beach
Ohio Street Beach
Craving some sun and sand? Ohio Street Beach is the closest beach to Navy Pier—just a five-minute walk away. It’s small, accessible, and set against a backdrop of skyscrapers, which makes it feel both urban and laid-back. There’s calm water for swimming, a paved path for joggers and cyclists, and even kayak rentals nearby if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a great place to take a dip or simply relax on a towel with lake views after an energetic Pier visit. Plus, being so central, it’s easy to pop in for just an hour or two.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater
You’ll find this award-winning theater right on Navy Pier, and it’s well worth planning your visit around a show. The Chicago Shakespeare Theater offers a lively mix of classic and contemporary productions, often with surprising twists and inventive staging. Even if you’re not a huge Shakespeare fan, the performances are engaging, approachable, and often tailored for a wide audience—including families. The venue is modern and intimate, and its location makes it a perfect pre-dinner or post-rides activity. If you’re looking to squeeze in some culture between the popcorn and paddleboats, this is the spot.
Centennial Wheel
Let’s not skip the centerpiece—the Centennial Wheel itself. This towering attraction is more than a photo backdrop; it’s a smooth, enclosed ride with unbeatable skyline and lake views. Whether you hop on during the day or at night when the city lights up, it’s a peaceful, panoramic experience. Each gondola is climate-controlled and offers a slow, steady rotation that gives you time to soak it all in. Lines move quickly, and it’s a hit with everyone from kids to couples. Plus, you can see fireworks from the top during summer evening shows, adding a little extra magic to your spin.
Offshore Rooftop
Offshore Rooftop is North America’s largest rooftop bar—and it’s perched right at the end of Navy Pier. With sweeping lake and skyline views, plush seating, and seasonal cocktails, it’s a relaxed yet stylish place to unwind. There’s a retractable roof, so you’re covered rain or shine, and the menu mixes light bites with hearty dishes like fish tacos and lobster rolls. It’s especially popular around sunset or just after the fireworks. Whether you want a romantic vibe or a low-key group hang, this spot delivers both atmosphere and scenery in spades.
Pier Park Rides
In addition to the Centennial Wheel, Pier Park offers a carousel, climbing walls, a light-up swing ride, and mini-golf—making it a go-to for families and fun-seekers alike. The rides are accessible, wallet-friendly, and offer just enough thrills to keep younger kids entertained without overwhelming them. It’s easy to hop from one to the next or take a breather between rides while grabbing a snack or snapping pics. Whether you’re wrapping up your Navy Pier visit or squeezing in one last hurrah, this little amusement zone packs in plenty of charm.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo
Just a short ride north from Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest free zoos in the country—and a great spot to slow the pace a little. You’ll find everything from big cats and gorillas to penguins and red pandas, all in thoughtfully designed enclosures. The grounds are lush, walkable, and easy to navigate, with spots to grab snacks or relax in the shade. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a no-pressure activity that still offers plenty to see. Plus, it’s nestled within a beautiful park with lakefront trails and gardens nearby.
Navy Pier Beer Garden
The Beer Garden at the far end of Navy Pier is a great casual hangout for drinks, sunshine, and live music. Expect rotating local brews, lake views, and a laid-back vibe that draws both tourists and Chicagoans. It’s a solid spot to cool off after a ride or show, and during summer weekends, you’ll usually catch a live band or DJ. The seating is open-air, the crowd is friendly, and the whole thing feels like a mini festival right on the water. Great for groups and easygoing afternoons.
Milton Lee Olive Park Fountain
This tranquil fountain and memorial area is a quiet counterpoint to the energy of Navy Pier. It’s tucked behind the beach and often missed by the crowds, making it a great stop if you need a reflective moment or a shady bench. The views here are spectacular—downtown to your west, Lake Michigan to your east. Bring a coffee, your camera, or just your thoughts. It’s a peaceful little loop that’s worth seeking out when you want to catch your breath.
Tock's—A Montreal Deli
If you’re ready to eat something hearty, head a few blocks west to Tock's. This cozy spot specializes in Montreal-style smoked meat sandwiches—thick, juicy, and packed with flavor. The vibe is casual, with warm lighting, friendly staff, and a menu that balances indulgence with comfort. Try the classic Reuben or the smoked meat poutine if you’re feeling bold. It’s a welcome change from Pier fare and perfect for refueling before heading back out.
Navy Pier has the rides, the views, and the energy—but that’s just the beginning. From calm park strolls to rooftop drinks, creative museums to casual beach dips, there’s plenty to explore within walking distance. Whether you're visiting with kids, on a date, or flying solo with a camera in hand, the area around Navy Pier offers something for every mood and moment. So once you’ve done your loop on the Centennial Wheel, stick around—there’s a lot more to enjoy beyond the boardwalk.
First time in Chicago? Here's an itinerary you'll love! And don't forget to check out our guide on things to do near Skydeck.
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