Get up close to more than 75 species of exotic butterflies and stunning bird species at the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. Find some from the Southern hemisphere in a 2,700 square-foot greenhouse filled with pools of water, flowers, tropical trees and 1,000 butterflies, including those never seen before in our region at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.
Take a swing at an 18-hole game of golf at Harborside International Golf Center. The course offers a gorgeous peek at the Chicago skyline from its highest tees, among sculpted greens and fairways. If the game works up your appetite, grab a bite to eat at one of the course's on-site restaurants.
Navy Pier was built on the shoreline of Lake Michigan in 1916 and has since become the No. 1 tourist attraction in Chicago. At the time it was built, it was the largest pier in the world. The pier extends 3,300 feet over the lake and was designed to be used as docking space for passenger excursion steamers and a cargo facility for lake freighters. Navy Pier was also utilized in both World Wars for things like military housing, the Red Cross, Home Defense, Navy training center and more. When it wasn't providing military service, the pier had its own streetcar line, theater, emergency room, picnicking areas, dance hall, auditorium, children's playground and more. Navy Pier and its surrounding lands occupy about 50 acres on the lake front with its lawn showcasing sculptures, and sprawling to create parks and gardens. The attraction is home to many shops and restaurants as well. Boat parades, air shows, sightseeing tours, festivals and fireworks are Navy Pier favorites.
Whether you are a tourist or a local you will enjoy fine dining at the Signature Room at the 95th. Providing a romantic intimate atmosphere and the best view for lunch, dinner, or brunch.