Navy Pier reached capacity of more than 100,000 people about an hour ahead of its annual Fourth of July fireworks display.
Gates closed at the Pier just before 8:30 p.m. Its parking lots filled earlier in the afternoon. This is the tourist attraction's biggest night of the year.
The Pier worked with Chicago police to provide tight security on the holiday. Visitors saw uniformed police officers and K-9s on patrol, as well as 14 security checkpoints where people were wanded and bags were checked. Several restrictions also were in place to make it a safe day for everyone.
"It would be advisable to leave your cooler at home," Navy Pier spokesman Jon Kaplan said. "And also again for comfort and safety, please do not bring a bicycle, skateboard, hover board or roller blades. No pets unless they are service animals."
Navy Pier was expected to reach capacity before the 9:30 p.m. fireworks. Typically that means more than 100,000 people on the premises, but Kaplan said capacity isn't attached to a number, but rather a judgment by the Fire Marshal.
In past years, capacity has been reached by 2 p.m. This year likely will be closer to 8 p.m. or 9 p.m., but spectators are encouraged to arrive early to guarantee a spot.
The fireworks show will last 15 minutes, and the new Centennial Wheel will be lit up in red, white and blue.
