About Us

About Navy Pier

Our mission: Navy Pier is the People’s Pier, Chicago’s lakefront treasure, welcoming all and offering dynamic and eclectic experiences through partnerships and programs that inspire discovery and wonder.

Navy Pier is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation established in 2011 to maintain Navy Pier and oversee the redevelopment of one of the most important civic landmarks in the United States and one of the top-visited leisure and cultural destinations in the world. In anticipation of the Pier’s 100th anniversary, celebrated in 2016, Navy Pier created The Centennial Vision, a framework for reimagining Navy Pier. Grounded in the noble principles of its founding designers, The Centennial Vision adds a visionary and contemporary lens for the future. 

Navy Pier’s mission is to be a world-class public place that celebrates and showcases the vitality of Chicago and provides for the enjoyment of Chicago-area residents and visitors year-round. Navy Pier manages Navy Pier within a business framework that provides for its long-term financial stability.

While looking forward to what is relevant for Chicagoans today, Navy Pier leadership is ever conscious of famed architect Daniel Burnham’s vision to transform the lakefront into attractive and useful public space for active recreation and social interaction – a source of pride and common ground that fosters a sense of community within the city’s diverse population.

Navy Pier’s objectives for the future remain consistent with Burnham’s enduring values for the ‘People’s Pier’ to be a place where local residents and visitors from around the world come to experience the natural beauty of the lakefront and Chicago’s magnificent skyline.

Values

Excellence
We strive to offer:

• Exceptional service to our guests and partners
• An authentic Chicago experience
• An architecturally stunning environment offering access to extraordinary vistas of the lake, land and skyline

Integrity
We aspire to:

• Deliver high-quality experiences, cultural and educational programs and guest services
• Cultivate a skilled, talented and motivated team
• Best-in-class nonprofit operating standards and financial accountability

Inclusion
We aim to:

• Embrace and celebrate a diverse community and workforce
• Attract dynamic, inventive partners and collaborators
• Offer affordable options and opportunities for engagement to all

Stewardship
We endeavor to:

• Celebrate the Pier’s rich history rooted in the Burnham Plan of Chicago
• Manage our assets and environmental resources with foresight and prudence
• Engage donors and other stakeholders in our efforts