What year did Navy Pier open?

1916
Navy Pier, Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination, has gone through an exciting evolution over the last 100+ years! Let’s revisit the amazing developments the Pier has experienced, starting with its 1916 opening as part of Daniel Burnham’s plan for Chicago.

What is the history of Navy Pier Chicago?

The Pier played an important role in World War I. When the pier opened in 1916, it was called Municipal Pier. It was meant to provide a place for public recreation and to serve as a shipping hub for both cargo and passenger ships. But less than a year later, the U.S. declared war on Germany, and the Pier adapted.

What is Navy Pier famous for?

Completed in 1916, Navy Pier is undeniably one of Chicago’s top attractions. Stretching into Lake Michigan, this year-round destination truly comes to life in the summer, with fireworks displays, live music, theatre, and cruises setting sail daily.

What happened to the old Ferris wheel at Navy Pier?

76 main drag in Branson, Mo., the wheel has been rebuilt, with a new main axle and bearings, repainted, and adorned with tens of thousands of LED lights. But it remains fundamentally the same wheel that was a leading attraction in Chicago and on Navy Pier, serving up about 750,000 rides a year.

When did the Navy leave Navy Pier?

1946
In 1946, as the Navy was winding down from its mission, the University of Illinois at Chicago held classes at the pier. As the maximum capacity was exceeded, the school outgrew the pier and the university relocated to Circle Campus in 1965.

Why is the Navy Pier called the Navy Pier?

Initially, it was known as the Municipal Pier and was given its current name in 1927, honouring the Navy personnel housed there during the Great War (as World War I was called back then). The Navy Pier was actually designed by one of the most famous architects of the dawn of the 20th century, namely D. Burnham.

What was Navy Pier before?

Municipal Pier
Navy Pier opened to the public on July 15, 1916. Originally known as the “Municipal Pier”, the pier was built by Charles Sumner Frost, a nationally known architect, with a design based on the 1909 Plan of Chicago by Daniel Burnham and Edward H.

What was the Navy Pier in Chicago used for?

Navy Pier Chicago served as a temporary home for military personnel during the two world wars. It housed some soldiers, Red Cross and Home Defense back in World War I, and it served as barracks for recruit as well.

Is Navy Pier man made?

Military usage Navy Pier opened to the public on July 15, 1916. Originally known as the “Municipal Pier”, the pier was built by Charles Sumner Frost, a nationally known architect, with a design based on the 1909 Plan of Chicago by Daniel Burnham and Edward H.

What is the building at the end of Navy Pier?

One of the Jewels of Navy Pier With a sweeping 80-foot domed ceiling and panoramic views of the lakefront, the Aon Grand Ballroom capitalizes on timeless architecture and the beauty of Chicago and the city itself.