Explore Chicago with Navy Pier Marina boater resources
Explore
Our Endless Offerings
When you dock with Navy Pier Marina, you gain access to a bounty of potential Chicago experiences. Whether you’re stopping in for a meal or ready for a night out to see a show, the resources below will help you plan the best stay imaginable! Learn more about local cultural touchstones and boater safety.
The People’s Pier offers a diverse and eclectic range of activities and experiences that ignite the imagination, stimulate the senses, and allow your spirit to soar. It’s no surprise it’s a place that continues to inspire discovery and wonder after more than a century. Find out what it has to inspire you!
From cultural programming to seasonal celebrations, fireworks, and more, there is always something happening at Navy Pier. Discover fun and free events for everyone all year long.
See Marina staff for the code.
Exclusive Boater Benefits
As a Navy Pier Marina guest, you’ll unlock exclusive offers with our on-site partners, including Flyover Chicago, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and the Sable Hotel.
Sable Hotel
Located on Chicago’s Navy Pier, this unique hotel offers incredible views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. Sable is within 10 minutes of iconic attractions like Cloud Gate, Magnificent Mile, and the Wrigley Building. Enjoy several parks, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues in the heart of Chicago, just a few minutes away.
Flyover Chicago
Discover absolute awe at Flyover. Our exhilarating immersive journeys connect you with our planet like never before. Soar over iconic locations including Chicago, dive into authentic stories and lose yourself to an adventure unlike any other. Find us inside Navy Pier and experience Flyover for yourself.
For more information visit: experienceflyover.com
See Marina staff for your discounted tickets.
Chicago Shakespeare Theatre
Chicago Shakespeare Theater is a leading international company and the nation’s largest year-round theater dedicated to Shakespeare. Led by Artistic Director Edward Hall and Executive Director Kimberly Motes, CST creates bold, engaging performances that reflect the richness of our world. With contemporary voices in the spotlight, CST brings unforgettable stories to life across three dynamic venues on Navy Pier: The Yard, the Courtyard Theater, and the Thoma Studio.
For more information visit: chicagoshakes.com
See Marina staff for your discounted tickets.
From Pilsen to Wrigleyville to Lincoln Square and everywhere in between, Chicago’s culinary scene offers guests exciting and authentic restaurant choices, starting at Navy Pier. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or an upscale night on the town, there’s no wrong way to experience the flavors of Chicago.
A Taste of Southern Hospitality
Chef Art Smith’s Reunion
Chef Art Smith’s Reunion Restaurant on Navy Pier is a celebration of comfort food, Southern hospitality, and the joy of coming together over a great meal. What sets Reunion apart is their commitment to genuine hospitality—a place where every guest feels like family.
Chef Art Smith, known for his time as Oprah Winfrey’s personal chef and his renowned restaurants across the country, created Reunion as a tribute to family, tradition, and the comfort of Southern cooking. Inspired by the idea that food has the power to bring people together, Reunion offers a welcoming retreat where guests can enjoy heartfelt dishes crafted with love.
Experience Reunion with an Exclusive Navy Pier Marina Discount. Show your server your Marina reservation and receive 20% off all food items (tax, gratuity, and alcohol excluded)
For more information and a full menu visit: reunionrestaurants.com
Discover Chicago
Old Town Chicago
Explore Old Town’s vintage charm, beautiful boutiques, and late-night buzz.
The Museum Campus
Generations of Chicagoans and visitors have explored the Museum Campus to engage with Chicago’s prime cultural, nature, and sporting offerings. Situated in the heart of Chicago adjacent to the Loop’s business and entertainment district, the site occupies an urban lakefront oasis unique among the world’s global cities.
The Loop
Welcome to the Loop, Chicago’s official downtown and everyone’s neighborhood. From shopping on State Street—“that great street”—to wandering into one of the country’s largest art museums, the Loop has something for everyone.
11 Must-See Museums Near the Chicago Loop
The Loop’s major museums are among the largest of their kind in the country, home to collections you won’t see anywhere else in the nation. In other words, whether you’re in love with all things art or hopelessly devoted to science, these museums are can’t-miss stops during any Chicago visit.
Sports Venues in Chicago
Chicago is one of the top sports cities in the country, attracting fans from all over the world to come cheer for our teams. While you’re here, check out upcoming games and historic venues.
Official Guide to Illinois Travel
Welcome to your Illinois adventure! We’re a state of world-famous sights, friendly folks, unforgettable experiences, and your journey of a lifetime.
Chicago Big Boat Rentals
The best options for charters, boat rentals, service, and value are available at Chicago Sailboat Charters. BIG BOAT accommodates up to 36 people for shoreline cruising, sunbathing, swimming, fireworks displays, cocktail parties, river trips, and more, every day of the week.
Come Sailing Charters
Come Sailing is Chicago’s premier sailing experience and private sailing charter offering a variety of boat rides, sailing charters, sightseeing tours, swimming trips, and customized private charters for smaller groups on Lake Michigan. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a person looking to try something new with the family, you’re going to love sailing in Chicago!
On A Boat Sailing
With over 500 5-star reviews, On A Boat Sailing is the premier purveyor of private sailing charters and cruises for intimate celebrations in Chicago. Enjoy world-class sailing and luxury, all-inclusive amenities on board a 37-foot, French-built sailing yacht, captained by a service-oriented crew.
Yachts Chicago
Discover the world of Yachts Chicago, a full-service luxury yachting house for water enthusiasts in search of bespoke experiences and lifelong adventures. Rated Top Luxury Yacht in Chicago 4 years in a row, discerning clients and parties up to 12 are invited to enjoy the Chicago coastline like never before.
Resources
Boating Safety Education Resources
In Illinois, persons born on or after January 1, 1998, may operate a vessel powered by a motor of more than 10 horsepower only if they have a valid Boating Safety Certificate accepted by the Department of Natural Resources.
Safe Boating Council Resources
National Safe Boating Council
Chicago Harbor Safety Committee Resources
The Chicago Harbor Safety Committee (CHSC) promotes safety, security, and environmental stewardship on the waters of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan by fostering partnerships between the private sector and government agencies. The CHSC plays a pivotal role in representing the diverse users of the increasingly active Chicago Waterway.
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary offers free vessel safety checks and both in-person and virtual Safe Boating Classes nationwide.
Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats
A Boater’s Guide: Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats. This guide contains information about federal laws and equipment carriage requirements for recreational vessels of the United States.
Illinois Boating Laws & Responsibilities
The Handbook of Illinois Boating Laws and Responsibilities
Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
Our mission is to preserve, restore, and celebrate the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse for future generations.
For more than a century, the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse has guided sailors and provided security to those on the water. Now, it is our turn to return this magnificent structure to its original beauty.
