Guests will no longer have to show proof of vaccination to dine or drink indoors at Navy Pier.
Starting Monday, February 28th Chicagoans will no longer have to wear a mask or present a vaccine card when entering most public spaces in Chicago. Mayor Lori Lightfoot last week revealed that the mask and vaccine requirements will be lifted for all gyms, bars, restaurants, and indoor settings where food is served. To celebrate Navy Pier has announced that it will be giving free rides on the iconic Centennial Wheel to guests who “flash their long-hidden smiles”.
Guests will be able to ride the wheel from 11 am to 7 pm today and will receive a free souvenir photo. These will then be displayed on the hub of the Centennial Wheel and other screens at Navy Pier to participants who sign a photo release granting Navy Pier permission to use their photo.
“The lifting of the COVID mandates, which helped keep us safe for so long, is worthy of a big smile,” said Navy Pier President and CEO Marilynn Gardner. “We could all use a smile, so Navy Pier is encouraging guests to show off their toothy grins, sly smirks, and all-out ear-to-ears for the entire city to see.”
“Being able to safely lift COVID-19 mandates and take a ride on the famous Centennial Wheel is certainly something to smile about,” said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “I thank President and CEO Gardner and her team for taking initiative and helping to bring some joy to residents and visitors alike. I also look forward to seeing Navy Pier’s attractions, restaurants and businesses be patronized by visitors once more.”
According to Navy Pier, Individual businesses on the pier may still require mitigations if they choose to do so and visitors and employees may of course choose to continue wearing masks as they see fit.