Little dreamers who spend their day imagining what it would be like to play with unicorns in an enchanted forest can stop daydreaming, because Unicorn World is coming to Navy Pier! From Jan. 26-28, families can create magical memories by interacting with animatronic unicorns.
When guests arrive at Unicorn World, they’ll be greeted by rainbow arches that guide them into the Enchanted Unicorn Forest, a place where life-size unicorns roam. Let the fairies guide you out of the forest and into the arts and crafts area for a story time and colorful crafting session.
Next up is a trip to Rainbow Acres, the unicorn stables where excited guests can meet the unicorns, learn about their personalities and take plenty of cute photos. To wrap up the day, head to the rainbow dance floor and indoor playground to fly around, or play some unicorn-themed lawn and carnival games.
Quick details about Unicorn World
Jan. 26-28, 2024
- Address: 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
- Cost: $46+ for attendees 2 and older. Free for little ones under 2 years old.
- Getting there: The 2, 29, 65, 66 and 124 CTA buses have drop-off points near Navy Pier.
- Parking: Self-park options range from $18-55, depending on the length of your visit. Valet options range from $20-55
Tickets include access to the Enchanted Forest, unicorn stables, Unicorn World story time, crafts, games and an indoor playground. There will also be free bounce houses and a play area for kids under 2.
Unicorn rides, bounce houses, face painting and photo packages are available for purchase at the event. Refer to the Unicorn World website for the most current information.
Tips for families when visiting Unicorn World
- Tickets must be purchased ahead of time online. All ticket holders must select a timed-reservation slot, so budget in some extra travel time if you think you may run into traffic or trouble parking downtown.
- Unicorn World is a cashless event, so be sure to bring a card or alternate form of payment if you plan to make any purchases.
- If your little one will be interested in some of the premium activities, purchase those add-ons online ahead of time to get access to special unlimited passes and other deals.
- There are no dedicated sensory-friendly time slots, but the event organizers say that time slots later in the day tend to be less busy.
- Unicorn World is wheelchair accessible.
- Make sure your phone is charged before heading to Unicorn World — there’s 10 unique photo ops you won’t want to miss!
Experiencing the enchantment of Unicorn World will take about 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on how quickly your family moves through the event. Your magical day doesn’t have to end once you leave, though! Check out these family-friendly suggestions at Navy Pier and around downtown to keep the fun going.
Things to do near Navy Pier
- Navy Pier is a tourist hotspot for shopping, dining and, of course, the iconic Centennial Wheel. Make a fuzzy new friend at Build-A-Bear Workshop, or dine at classic Chicago eateries like Billy Goat Tavern, Giordano’s, Rainbow Cone, Harry Caray’s Tavern and more.
- Enjoy a scenic walk along the Chicago Lakefront Trail, offering gorgeous views of Lake Michigan, its beaches and the city skyline, without the fuss and the crowds of Navy Pier.
- Explore Lake Michigan with Shoreline Water Taxis, a sightseeing company that offers tours of Chicago’s famous landmarks while making it easy and exciting to get around town.
- Introduce your unicorn lovers to some of the city’s iconic landmarks, like the Willis Tower (we still call it the Sears) or the Bean in Millennium Park.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
