A conference at Chicago’s Navy Pier earlier this year reminded me of how much the area has to offer. Once the weather got much warmer, I returned to spend a day exploring and enjoying all.

Opened in 1916 as Municipal Pier, it was originally used as a dock and exposition space. Renamed Navy Pier in 1927, it later served as a jail for draft dodgers, a Naval training center, a University of Illinois remote classroom and more, until it was redeveloped, the first phase of which opened in 2016.

Now Navy Pier is a destination for locals and tourists. With about 10 million annual visitors, it is Chicago’s second-most visited attraction, trailing only Millennium Park. One of the best features is the design. Despite having so many entertainment options, there is a lot of green space, and even at its most crowded, it still feels roomy.

The Centennial Ferris Wheel, at 196 feet tall, is the centerpiece of Pier Park, a mini-amusement park. There’s also a beautiful carousel and several other fun rides for all ages.

Photo 13268539 © Elegeyda | Dreamstime.com

Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze is 4,000 square feet of tunnels and mazes. It is self-paced and a full sensory experience. Dozens of wacky mirrors will confuse and amuse you, but you won’t get too lost, except in fun.

For nature lovers there is Crystal Gardens. A one-acre botanical garden inside a six-story glass atrium, it houses dozens of live plants, including 80 palm trees, along with hanging twinkle lights and dancing “leapfrog” fountains.

Entertainment meets education at The Chicago Children’s Museum. A perfect field trip for students, there are plenty of displays for adults to learn a thing or two.

Photo 147813758 © Cheri Alguire | Dreamstime.com

Art turns indoor passage ways from mundane functionality to destination spots. Even usually commonplace ads are interesting pieces of art.

With all this and more, I couldn’t possibly do everything in one day. This day was simply a reconnaissance mission for future trips. I made mental notes of which friends I will invite for which activities. I am on a mission to try as many attractions at Navy Pier as I can squeeze into the summer.

— John Wroblewski, online writer