Could Your Vision Redesign Chicago’s Navy Pier? Here’s How to Try

Chicago’s Navy Pier, one of the state’s most visited attractions, is preparing for a bold transformation, and the opportunity is now open to developers with big ideas. The nonprofit Navy Pier Inc. is seeking concepts to reimagine the pier’s eastern facilities, an area that has remained largely unchanged since the 1990s.

Navy Pier Redevelopment Opportunity

The request for concepts invites developers or teams to propose a new vision that could revitalize Festival Hall, the Terminal and Shelter buildings, adjoining beer gardens, and the Aon Grand Ballroom. For context, all but Festival Hall were part of the original 1915 construction, while Festival Hall and adjacent structures were added during the pier’s 1990s redevelopment.

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Festival Hall and Chicago Attractions

Two scenarios are open for consideration, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Scenario A focuses on Festival Hall and its adjoining kitchen, loading dock, and back-of-house spaces. Scenario B widens the scope to include Festival Hall plus additional square footage in the Terminal and Shelter buildings, outdoor beer gardens, and 60,000 square feet of the Aon Grand Ballroom.

The Future of Navy Pier

Navy Pier Inc. has called the project a “once-in-a-generation invitation” to make a lasting mark on “The People’s Pier.” With the recently opened marina already drawing interest, the eastern end redevelopment could further transform this iconic Chicago destination.

How to Submit a Proposal

Interested developers have until November 3 to submit their concepts, with questions accepted in advance. This is the first step before Navy Pier issues formal requests for proposals.

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