Places to Visit in Chicago's Streeterville and Navy Pier Neighborhoods

Best Sights and Attractions in Chicago's Streeterville and Navy Pier

Streeterville is a popular neighborhood for tourists in Chicago. It's where you'll find the historic Navy Pier, the Museum of Contemporary area, and the Chicago Children's Museum. This family-friendly area sits on the edge of Lake Michigan and offers all kinds of activities for people of all ages. They often show outdoor movies and Navy Pier is filled with amusement rides including the 200 foot Centennial Wheel. There are also a number of boat cruises that leave from the area. Restaurants of all types are nearby, many with kid-friendly menus. Below are some of the popular sights and attractions in the neighborhood.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier
The Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions. It opened in 1916 as an amusement and entertainment area and today it includes about 50 acres of gardens, parks, restaurants, shops, and concert venues. One of the most iconic parts of the Navy Pier is the 150 foot ferris wheel, which offers breathtaking views over the city and lake. There's also a classic historic carousel in Navy Pier Park. Head hear to pick up a boat tour as well.
600 East Grand Avenue, Streeterville, Chicago, IL
Ohio Street Beach
Ohio Street Beach
Walking distance from Navy Pier, Ohio Street Beach is small and shallow. If you're looking for a comfortable place to relax by the water, then this beach is convenient. There's a cafe with snacks, beer, and cocktails. This is also a popular training spot for triathletes.
600 North Lake Shore Drive, Streeterville, Chicago, IL, 60611
If you're looking for more information about Chicago, read The Best Things to do in Chicago and Famous Skyscrapers to See in Chicago.
Nicholas J. Melas Centennial Fountain
Located on the north bank of the Chicago River, Nicholas J Melas Centennial Fountain is a unique fountain that shoots an arc of water across the river every 5 minutes.
Streeterville, Chicago, Illinois
Museum of Contemporary Art
This museum houses an impressive permanent collection with more than 2,500 pieces on display on a rotational basis. The works span the 1920s through present day. There are also a number of summer events hosted here including Tuesdays on the Terrace which offers free live jazz performances in the museum gardens. On summer mornings there are weekly farmer's markets.
220 E Chicago Ave, Streeterville, Chicago, IL, 60611
Centennial Wheel
Centennial Wheel was built in 1995 and offers a classic Chicago experience along the Navy Pier. It reaches a height of 200 feet and offers 360 degree views of the city and Lake Michigan. The ferris wheel has large enclosed gondolas with very open city views. The enclosed space offers reassurance so even those with a fear of heights can enjoy the experience.
Navy Pier, Streeterville, Chicago, IL, 60611
Chicago Children’s Museum
The Chicago Children's Museum is a world class kid's museum located at Navy Pier. With a Tinkering Lab, WaterWay playground, and the Treehouse Trails, kids can play, build, explore and immerse themselves in a world of imagination. These exhibits are perfect for young kids whose imagination guides their play, and exploration is how they learn.
700 E Grand Ave, Streeterville, Chicago, IL, 60611
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