Centennial Wheel

The Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most recognizable attractions, offering nearly 200-foot-high, climate-controlled gondola rides with sweeping views of the skyline and Lake Michigan. Located within the busy Navy Pier entertainment complex, it draws steady crowds of tourists, families, and groups, which can make nearby streets and drop-off areas particularly congested during weekends, holidays, and peak travel seasons.

Because the Wheel is inside Navy Pier, most visitors use the on-site garages and nearby downtown parking, which fill up quickly and can involve higher short-term rates and tight maneuvering in multi-level structures. Street parking in the surrounding Streeterville and lakefront area is limited, often metered, and subject to Chicago’s residential permit zones and strict enforcement, so relying on curbside spaces alone is risky. Booking parking near Centennial Wheel in advance helps avoid circling for a spot, cuts down on arrival stress, and gives you more time to enjoy the pier, dining, and other attractions. Always review the latest official guidance on parking rules, rates, and restrictions before you set out.