Seadog Chicago

When someone is new to Chicago and they talk about local hot spots, first of all that crosses my mind is Navy Pier. There is something about this dynamic area, where locals and tourists all come together to play, eat and enjoy the incredible view that says: "It's in Chicago!"

This pier 3,300 feet long was built along the shore of Lake Michigan in 1916. It has been designated as a cargo facility for freighters and provided berths for passenger steamers. As land transport has become increasingly popular, the pier was used less for industrial purposes, and has evolved into a public gathering space. Finally, he served as a campus for the University of Illinois and was booming with activity. This was short lived, however, in 1965, the University changed its location and because of lack of use, the battery fell into ruin. The '70s brought a renewed interest in this historic and funds have been allocated for its reconstruction.

Today, you will not find a better way of a whole afternoon was beautiful, then at Navy Pier. With over 50 acres filled, shops, restaurants, rides and attractions for all ages and levels of thrills, this benchmark for everyone. Ride a Ferris Wheel, a guided tour of Chicago on a Segway, rent a bike, or see an IMAX film. Experience a trip to the moon race in the Grand Prix by the FX Transporter, a virtual reality attraction.

You'll be entertained by a steady stream of musical and theatrical performances, including jugglers, magicians, and dance and seasonal music from around the world. Fireworks fill the sky every Wednesday and Saturday evenings during the summer months.

theater lovers will appreciate the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, a glass building of seven floors featuring a theater of 510 seats, rehearsal spaces, an English style pub, a resource center for Shakespeare, and collection areas, with a view on Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. So, this facility is impressive, it has received the 2008 Tony Award for excellence in regional theater.

After several hours of walking, take a break and refresh yourself at Chicago's Navy Pier Beer Garden. Order a drink on the terrace overlooking the lake and enjoy the best views of the fireworks during the summer months. Bud Light stage serves Featured entertainment from Wednesday to Sunday from some of the most popular bands in Chicago, and there is never any entrance fee. The beer garden is also an ideal venue for a private party, with the space and catering available for 20-500 people.

When you're ready for a meal, you will find everything from food court to eat at the Restaurant - there are restaurants for every taste and budget. Take in some jazz and Chicago-style ribs hickory smoked at Joe's Be-Bop Cafe & Jazz Emporium and refuel every style imaginable shrimp dish at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. For a memorable evening with views Breathtaking, try Riva, a Phil Stefani Signature restaurant seafood, steaks and a selection of wines.

The best way to display side of Chicago is water, and is an easy task with one of the many cruises available on Navy Pier's Dock Street. Enjoy a trip on the Tall Ship Windy, a 148-foot, four-masted schooner, or take a turn at high speed sensation on one of the fastest boats in the country with the cruise sea dog Go on relaxing dinner cruise on a yacht of 600 passengers, or whoop it up on a boat party until the morning.

Navy Pier is open all year except Christmas and Thanksgiving Day. It is located at 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, and is easily accessible by car or public transit, and offers free parking on site.