Chicago's Navy Pier: What a Beautiful Place

Chicago's Navy Pier first opened in 1916 as a freight and passenger terminal, under the name Municipal Pier. During World War I, the pier housed soldiers and the Red Cross. In 1927, the pier was renamed Navy Pier in honor of those housed there during World War I.

Today Navy Pier is the #1 tourist attraction in Chicago. Home to a giant 240 person capacity ferris wheel, carousel, The Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows, as well as the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. The pier offers something for everyone no matter age or gender.

Visiting on a beautiful Saturday night in July my boyfriend and I had originally intended to take a cruise on one of the many ships docked at the pier. While we decided against our original choice of ship due to timing. We instead remained at the pier a couple extra hours and took a cruise on Lake Michigan after dark that included a wonderful view of the fireworks that are put on on Wednesday and Saturday nights.

Since our timing wasn't right for the cruise we originally were going to take we had time ride the ferris wheel. I have a fear of heights and amusement park rides of any kind aren't really my idea of fun, but I went anyway. Riding to the top with my eyes closed for what reason's I can't explain since I committed myself by paying for my ticket and getting into the car, I finally opened my eyes when we reached the top. The ride takes seven minutes and makes only one complete revolution. The view from the top was breathtaking, and I was grateful for having decided to take the ride.

Besides the rides, cruises and amusement park fare of ice cream, popcorn and elephant ears, you can visit Billy Goat Tavern, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Market, Charlie's Ale House, and Riva/Riva Cafe, for your dining needs. You can also satisfy your hunger with McDonald's as they are the sponsor of the ferris wheel and have a couple small restaurant stands at the pier.

Another attraction at the pier that shouldn't be missed is The Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows. While many of the windows are religious in nature, many are not. The beauty of the windows is spectacular and makes you appreciate the time, creativity and work that it takes someone to create it.

While at the pier you can pick up souvenirs of your trip, as well as other items, such as sunglasses, toys, jewelry, and Build a Bear Workshop.

So, if you are visiting Chicago and looking for someplace fun to go during the day or at night stop by Navy Pier, you won't be disappointed.