Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most iconic lakefront destinations, with more than 50 acres of attractions, theaters, restaurants, shops, boat tours, and seasonal festivals drawing heavy crowds throughout the year. Because it is set at the end of Grand Avenue on a busy stretch of the downtown waterfront, traffic in the area can be slow and congested, especially around peak visitor times, weekends, and holidays, so planning your arrival and parking in advance helps keep your visit relaxed and enjoyable.

Navy Pier is part of a larger complex with popular venues like Chicago Shakespeare Theater and Chicago Children’s Museum, and most visitor parking is handled in large structured garages rather than on nearby streets, where legal spaces can be limited, metered, and subject to Chicago’s strict enforcement rules and time limits. Reserving parking near Navy Pier before you drive in lets you avoid circling for a spot, better estimate your total trip time and costs, and focus on taking in the skyline views instead of watching the clock on a meter. Always review the latest official guidance on parking regulations, rates, and any local restrictions before your visit, as Chicago parking rules can change and are enforced closely.