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.
Only by being a Navy Pier Marina guest can you unlock substantial savings on your entire stay!
Exclusive Marina Guest Discounts
Receive 20% off admissions; contact us for details OR show ticket office evidence of being a Marina guest.
Restaurants
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.
Receive 20% off by showing your server proof of marina reservation. Tax and tip excluded.
Receive 20% off by showing your server proof of marina reservation. Tax, tip, and alcohol excluded.
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.
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.
The best options for charters, boat rentals, service, and value are available at Chicago Sailboat Charters.
Come Sailing is Chicago’s premier sailing experience and private sailing charter.
On A Boat Sailing is the premier purveyor of private sailing charters and cruises for intimate celebrations in Chicago.
Discover the world of Yachts Chicago, a full-service luxury yachting house for water enthusiasts.
Experience the city from its best vantage point aboard Tilly’s Dream, a premier 40-foot Coast Guard-certified vessel.
We’re not in the boat charter business—we’re in the hospitality business, just on the water.
At Signature Yacht Co., we curate elevated charter experiences for business owners, athletes, professionals, and private clients,
YACHTI offers reliable, on-demand water taxi service between Navy Pier Marina, the Playpen, and surrounding harbors.
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.
