5 things every parent should know before visiting Flyover Chicago at Navy Pier

From ticket costs to motion effects, here’s what families can expect.

Flyover Chicago, located at Navy Pier, is a ride that takes families on a simulated flight over the city using motion seats along with mist and wind effects. The attraction lasts around 30 minutes. Tickets begin at $38, and a family of four should expect to spend about $150 plus parking. School-age kids may enjoy the experience, but parents of younger children should note that the motion and sensory elements could be overwhelming.

Updated September 2025 — check back for updates as hours and ticket prices can change seasonally

Is Flyover Chicago kid-friendly?

Flyover Chicago is an immersive ride at Navy Pier that uses motion seats, visuals, scents and mists to simulate flying over Chicago. The motion isn’t extreme like a roller coaster, but it could still be intense for young children or those sensitive to motion. The official FAQs note effects like wind and mist are part of the experience. There is a height restriction of 40 inches for riders, according to Flyover Chicago FAQs.

How do we get there with kids?

The attraction is located at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Navy Pier has parking, transit options and walking access from downtown. It’s wise to arrive early, especially with children, to secure parking, visit restrooms and check in. Families can also use CTA bus routes that stop directly at Navy Pier, according to Navy Pier public transportation info.

What will my family actually experience?

Flyover Chicago offers a multi-step experience: a pre-show gallery, a storytelling video chamber and then the flying sequence on a wraparound spherical screen, according to Flyover Chicago’s official description.

The signature ride, Believe Chicago, shows aerial footage of landmarks and neighborhoods with sensory effects. Families can choose the flight length and experience their own immersive tour.

How much are tickets and when should we go?

Ticket prices start around $38 per person, though discounts and promo codes (like weekday or early-bird rates) are often available, according to Flyover Chicago’s ticket page. The experience takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, according to Tripadvisor’s 2025 product review.

Because time slots can fill up, booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends or during peak tourist season. Summer tourist season and holiday weeks are the busiest; weekdays and mornings are less crowded, according to Navy Pier. A family of four should plan for about $150 plus parking and possible online fees.

What should parents know before bringing kids?

Motion, lights and visuals might be overwhelming for very young children or those prone to motion sickness, according to Flyover Chicago’s FAQs. Parents should review the height, health and sensory disclaimers on the official site beforehand.

Also plan for extra time for younger kids to move through queues, rest and adjust before the show. Restrooms and changing tables are available within Navy Pier. Parents should plan stroller storage since strollers are not allowed inside the ride area, according to Flyover Chicago FAQs.

Plan It:

  • Location: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
  • Hours: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday to Saturday, according to Flyover Chicago’s official site 
  • Tickets: Adults from $38, kids pricing slightly lower; family of four estimate about $150 before fees. Online booking fees may apply, according to Flyover Chicago’s ticket page
  • Parking: Navy Pier garages are available on-site with posted hourly rates (for example, $21 for up to one hour and $35 for up to two hours), according to Navy Pier’s parking page
  • Transit: Several CTA bus routes, including the No. 29, No. 65, No. 66 and No. 124, stop directly at Navy Pier, according to Navy Pier public transportation info
  • Accessibility: Stroller parking is available outside the ride area. The attraction has elevators and ramps, but motion seating means some accessibility restrictions. Restrooms and changing tables are located inside Navy Pier. No strollers are allowed in the ride chamber, according to Flyover Chicago FAQs. Navy Pier also provides accessibility maps that highlight low-sensory and high-sensory areas for families who need them, according to Choose Chicago
  • Booking: Tickets must be reserved online in advance at the official Flyover Chicago ticket page.
Andreas Mørk-Barrett
Andreas Mørk-Barrett
Andreas Mørk-Barrett is a content coordinator for Chicago Parent. He has a passion for storytelling and connecting with local communities. When he’s not writing, he enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisement -

LATEST STORIES

These are the 10 best places to raise a family in Chicagoland

Explore the top family-friendly suburbs in Chicagoland with great schools, low crime rates and affordable housing.

What makes O’Hare International Airport one of the best airports for breastfeeding travelers?

Flying into Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) isn’t just about big terminals and bustling crowds any more — thanks to the forward-thinking folks at...

26 Thanksgiving side dishes ranked from healthiest to unhealthiest

Find out which Thanksgiving side dishes are the healthiest and unhealthiest. Hers analyzed recipes to help you make smarter holiday choices.
- Advertisement -


- Advertisement -