When someone is fresh to Chicago and they interrogate approximately community fevered spots, the cardinal abode that crosses my function is Navy Pier. There is something about this vibrant, area, where locals and tourists all come well-adjusted to play, dine and like the incredible views that says, "This is Chicago!"

This 3,300-foot elongated pier was constructed along the shore of Lake Michigan in 1916. It was designated as a load ease for freighters and if docking time for passenger steamers. As ground transportation became another and added popular, the pier was used less for industrial purposes, and evolved into a accepted collection space. Eventually it served as a campus for the University of Illinois and was booming with activity. This was short-lived, however, in 1965, the University changed locations and due to privation of use, the pier fell into disrepair. The 70's brought renewed attention in this historical landmark and resources were allocated for its reconstruction.

Today, you'll not good buy a more useful system to while elsewhere a good-looking summer afternoon, then at Navy Pier. With over 50 acres plentiful with, shopping, restaurants, rides, and attractions for all ages and thrill levels, this landmark offers something for everyone. Drive a giant ferris wheel, catch a guided tour of Chicago on a segway, rent a bike, or gaze an IMAX film. Doing a journey to the moon or chase in the Grand Prix via the Transporter FX, a virtual facts attraction.

You'll be entertained by a fixed flow of euphonious and theatrical performances including jugglers, magicians, and seasonal dance and measure from all over the world. Fireworks fill the sky every Wednesday and Saturday after hours during the summer months.

Theatre buffs testament case the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, a seven-story glass building featuring a 510-seat theater, rehearsal spaces, an English-style pub, Shakespeare resource center, and firm areas with views of Lake Michigan and Chicago's skyline. So impressive is this facility, it received the 2008 Tony Award for excellence in community theater.

After a sporadic hours of walking, grip a split and mitigate your craving at Chicago's Bitter Garden at Navy Pier. Method up a chill drink on the lakefront patio, and liking the culminating views of the fireworks during the summer months. The Bud Bright Leaf serves up featured entertainment Wednesday down Sundays by some of Chicago's most universal bands, and there's never a comprehend charge. The Lager Garden is and a colossal situate to authority a private party, with period and catering available for 20-500 people.

When you're ready for a meal, you'll boast everything from chow court eating to acceptable dining - there are restaurants for everyone's tastes and budget. Return in some conscious Chicago-style jazz and hickory-smoked ribs at Joe's Be-Bop Cafe & Jazz Emporium, or fill up on every style of shrimp dish practicable at the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. For a memorable evening with breathtaking views, one's damndest Riva, a Phil Stefani Signature restaraunt featuring seafood, steaks and an extended wine selection.

The first means to contour Chicago's shoreline is from the water, and this is an effortless chore with one of the crowded boat cruises available along Navy Pier's Dock Street. Practice a propel on Colossal Ship Windy, a 148-foot, four-masted schooner; or pep for a high-speed thrill operate on one of the fastest speedboats in the community with Seadog cruises. Push on a relaxing dinner cruise on a 600-passenger yacht, or whoop it up on a group boat til the wee hours.

Navy Pier is yawning year-round with the exception of Christmas and Thanksgiving Day. It's located at 600 East Grand Avenue in Chicago, and is easily accessed by vehivle or common transit, and offers on-site parking.