Your Guide to Visiting Navy Pier for the NFAA Indoor Nationals & The Great Chicago Open

The NFAA Indoor Nationals and The Great Chicago Open are headed to Navy Pier in Chicago, IL, from March 14-16, 2025! As you prepare for an exciting weekend of competition, we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate your trip to Navy Pier, including transportation options, parking solutions, and must-see attractions.

Getting to Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, located right on Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago. Whether you're driving, taking public transportation, or using rideshare services, there are plenty of options to get you there conveniently.

Navy Pier’s Official Travel & Parking Information: Click Here

By Car – Parking Options

Navy Pier has two on-site parking garages, but parking can be costly during peak hours. If you're looking for more affordable parking, consider parking in downtown garages and taking a short CTA, taxi, or rideshare ride to the pier.

Lower-cost parking options near Navy Pier include:

Millennium Park Garage (5-minute drive, CTA options available)
Grant Park North/South Garages (10-minute drive)
InterPark Garages – Various locations in downtown Chicago

Check apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to compare rates and reserve parking in advance.

NFAA Shuttle Bus – Direct Service from Official Hotels!

The NFAA Shuttle Bus will make 30-minute loops between official NFAA hotels (Embassy Suites and Doubletree) and Navy Pier at a low-cost rate for attendees. (ADD LINK WHEN COMPLETE) to learn more and reserve your spot!

Public Transportation (CTA)

Taking the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to Navy Pier. Several CTA bus routes and train stations connect downtown Chicago to the pier.

CTA Bus Routes to Navy Pier: View Routes Here

Route 29 (State) – Runs from Union Station to Navy Pier
Route 65 (Grand Avenue) – Connects from Grand Red Line Station
Route 66 (Chicago Avenue) – Runs east-west across the city
Route 124 (Navy Pier Express) – Direct route from train stations to the pier

Other Transportation Options

Taxi Services – Available throughout downtown Chicago
Uber & Lyft – Rideshare services are a quick and easy way to get to the pier

Navigating Navy Pier & Festival Hall

Once you arrive at Navy Pier, you'll need to find Festival Hall, where all NFAA Indoor Nationals and Great Chicago Open events will take place.

Directions to Festival Hall:

Main Entrance: Enter Navy Pier and walk straight down the main promenade.
Elevators & Stairs: Follow signs for Festival Hall A & B, located on the east end of the pier.
Look for Signage: NFAA will have event signage guiding you to the competition area.

View the Navy Pier Map Here: Click Here

What to Do at Navy Pier – Attractions & Dining

Navy Pier isn’t just a competition venue—it’s a top Chicago destination! Make time to explore its restaurants, shops, and attractions before or after your tournament rounds.

Top Attractions at Navy Pier:

Centennial Wheel – Take in breathtaking views of Chicago from this iconic Ferris wheel.
Chicago Children's Museum – A great spot for families attending the event.
IMAX Theater – Catch a movie on the massive screen.
Shops & Boutiques – Browse souvenirs, apparel, and local gifts.

Popular Restaurants at Navy Pier:

Giordano’s – Famous Chicago-style deep-dish pizza ?
Harry Caray’s Tavern – Classic American fare with a sports bar vibe ?
Margaritaville – Fun, tropical-themed restaurant ?
Offshore Rooftop & Bar – The largest rooftop bar in the U.S., offering stunning skyline views ?

Explore More Navy Pier Dining & Attractions: Click Here

Plan Your Trip Now!

With easy transportation, affordable parking options, and plenty to do at Navy Pier, your trip to the NFAA Indoor Nationals & The Great Chicago Open will be seamless and exciting. Book your travel, hotel, and NFAA Shuttle Bus seat today to make the most of your visit!

See you in Chicago!

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