"Though Navy Pier is a tourist sinkhole that most locals enjoy avoiding, it’s also one of the best places to catch free live outdoor music. From their beer garden to their Wave Wall Staircase, there are performances here every Sunday, Thursday, and Friday. You can hear local rock bands, jazz groups, and a weekend festival in August highlighting the music of the Latin American diaspora. If you get hungry, you can grab a burger or hotdog from the beer garden, or check out one of the not-terrible Navy Pier restaurants like Billy Goat Tavern or Ciccio. Check back here for their event calendar." - john ringor