- Chicago mayor Carter Harrison, Sr. proposes a municipal pier to attract tourists and businesses.
- The pier’s original mission is to serve as a civic promenade, with a focus on recreation and entertainment, and to provide cargo shipping facilities.
1916:
- The pier hosts its first major exhibition: the Electrical Show.
- Over the next few decades, Navy Pier becomes a popular destination for trade shows and conventions.
1933-1934:
- During the Great Depression, the pier is used as a temporary shelter for the homeless and unemployed.
- The federal government provides funding for a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project to renovate and expand the pier.
- The pier’s buildings are rebuilt in the Art Deco style.
1941-1945:
- During World War II, the pier is used as a naval training base.
- Over 30,000 sailors receive basic training at the pier before being deployed to the Pacific Theater.
1950s-1970s:
- Navy Pier continues to be a popular destination for trade shows and conventions.
- The pier also becomes a popular tourist attraction, with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
1980s-1990s:
- The pier begins to decline due to competition from other tourist attractions and convention centers.
- The Chicago Park District takes over management of the pier in 1995 and begins a major renovation project.
2000s-Present:
- Navy Pier reopens in 2006 after a $150 million renovation.
- The pier is now a major tourist destination, with over 9 million visitors each year.
- Navy Pier is home to a variety of attractions, including the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse, and the Centennial Wheel.