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Navy Pier is a great destination for kids to get out of the house, learn, explore and have a great time! Check out our list of recommended places for children to visit at Navy Pier and plan your next trip to the “People’s Pier” soon to keep your family happy, entertained and active all year long!
Polk Bros Park
Polk Bros Fountain and Plaza at the entrance of Navy Pier greets children with an exciting 12,500 square foot signature fountain (during warm weather) with more than 150 programmable jets that mimic the movements of waves, schools of fish and flocks of birds. While at the park, kids will have fun posing with the vibrant “Meet Me at the ‘P’” art installation.
Centennial Wheel
The Pier’s Centennial Wheel is an iconic part of the Chicago skyline and a treasured piece of the city’s cultural history. Soaring to heights of nearly 200 feet, the Wheel offers guests unparalleled, 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. Kids will have a blast taking in the gorgeous views of the skyline and water. With the climate-controlled, enclosed year-round gondolas, you and your family will be able to visit this kid-friendly spot at the Pier all year long. One more perk: children under the age of 3 get to ride free!
Restaurants & Dining
For sit down kid-friendly options at Navy Pier, try the tasty cheeseburgers at Billy Goat Tavern or a classic slice of deep dish pizza from Giordano’s. Tiny Tavern has a great section for kids aptly named “Tiny Mates,” featuring hot dogs, chicken tenders and ice cream sundaes for children under 10. Counter service restaurants such as Potbelly, Ozzie Pops & Pretzels and Ben & Jerry’s offer quick-stop treats and bites for children, too. Visit Navy Pier’s dining page for a full list of options to see what your kid will love best!
Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze
Another spot kids will love at the Pier is Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze, Chicago’s only self-paced, full sensory maze experience. Children will get a kick out of navigating their way through 4,000 square feet of tunnels, mazes and fun. The Maze has entertained more than 2 million guests from around the world, so we are sure your children will love it.
