The pier used to hold flight exercises for the Air Force. According to the information desk, there are still crashed planes at the bottom of the lake to this day. But today it's just a great attraction for the family: kiosks, shops (love the Build-a-Bear) and a good food court with options. Joe's Be-bop has great Southern food and live jazz. The Ferris Wheel can be seen from miles away, and the upper deck has many rides. There's an enclosed botanical garden, the site of many a wedding reception. The Shakespeare Theatre is, for some reason, housed nearby. The Skyline Stage is a covered, open space that hosts many great acts in the summer months. Fireworks every Wednesday (9:30) and Saturday (10:15) from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Free admission is the best part: just hang out and get a great view of the Chicago skyline!
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