Drinking Beer On A Pier: What's The Legal Ruling?

Whether or not you can drink beer on a pier depends on the specific rules of the pier you are visiting. For example, Navy Pier in Chicago allows open containers on its property, and there are many places to purchase alcoholic drinks. However, at Kure Beach Pier in North Carolina, alcohol is not permitted.

Navy Pier, Chicago, allows open containers of alcohol

Navy Pier, Chicago: Alcohol Consumption Rules

Navy Pier in Chicago is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a wide range of attractions, dining, and entertainment options. When it comes to alcohol consumption, Navy Pier has specific rules in place that allow visitors to enjoy their drinks while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Open Container Policy

As of 2015, Navy Pier implemented a new ordinance that allows visitors to carry open containers of alcohol throughout the pier. This means that you can purchase a beer or other alcoholic beverage from one of the pier's restaurants or kiosks and walk around the pier while enjoying your drink. However, it's important to note that the alcohol must be in a disposable cup with the name of the vendor clearly labelled on it.

Where to Purchase Alcoholic Beverages

Navy Pier offers a variety of dining and drinking establishments where you can purchase alcoholic beverages. These include the Sable rooftop bar, Harry Caray's Tavern, Offshore (the largest rooftop deck in the country), and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Bar and Grill, among others. You can enjoy your drinks at these establishments or take advantage of the open container policy and walk around the pier.

Important Restrictions

While Navy Pier allows open containers, there are important restrictions to keep in mind. Firstly, alcohol must be purchased from one of the authorised vendors on the pier. Bringing your own alcohol onto the pier is not permitted, and attempting to sneak alcohol into the parking garage can result in steep fines or even jail time. Additionally, it is important to act responsibly and not cause any disturbances while consuming alcohol on the pier.

Community Impact

The introduction of the open container policy at Navy Pier was part of a larger redevelopment effort. By allowing alcohol to be consumed throughout the pier, locals and tourists can enjoy a more relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. This change in liquor rules offers a unique experience that further enhances Navy Pier's reputation as a top destination in the Midwest.

The Kure Beach Fishing Pier in North Carolina does not allow alcohol

The Kure Beach Fishing Pier has a long and fascinating history. Built in 1923 by Danish immigrant Hans Kure (or local L.C. Kure), it is the oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic Coast. The pier originally served as a shipping dock for importing goods into Kure Beach. Over the years, it evolved into an entertainment hub, with restaurants and attractions built around it. The pier has withstood many hurricanes and has been rebuilt several times. The current structure, completed after Hurricane Bertha in 1996, is a long wooden pier that sits 26 feet above the ocean. It extends just over 1/8 of a mile into the sea and is 711 feet long.

The pier is a popular destination for visitors from Wilmington and the East Coast. It's known for its fishing opportunities and breathtaking views. Visitors can stroll along the pier for free and take in the scenery, but fishing requires a daily fee. The pier also hosts regular fishing tournaments, such as the Cape Fear Disabled Sportsman's Fishing Tournament, which is held annually in April and attracts nearly 300 entries. In addition to fishing, the pier offers other activities such as an arcade, a game room, and a concession stand. There are also several restaurants within a block of the pier, where visitors can enjoy a hot meal and an ice-cold drink.

While the Kure Beach Fishing Pier does not allow alcohol, there are nearby attractions where visitors can enjoy a drink. Within a short distance of the pier, you'll find a variety of restaurants and bars that offer stunning views of the coastline and a relaxing atmosphere. So, while you can't drink beer on the pier itself, there are plenty of other options to unwind and take in the beauty of Kure Beach. Whether you're an angler, a history buff, or just looking for a fun day out, the Kure Beach Fishing Pier has something for everyone to enjoy. Just remember to leave the alcohol behind and respect the family-friendly nature of this historic landmark.

The Pier in North Carolina is open 24 hours a day

North Carolina is known for its many piers, with over a dozen along its 300-mile coastline. While the majority of these piers are fishing piers, some are also tourist attractions, with restaurants, bars, arcades, and live music.

The rules and regulations regarding alcohol consumption on these piers vary. While some piers, like Kure Beach Pier, have a strict no-alcohol policy, others, like Avalon Pier, are known for their beach bars and wide selection of beers on tap.

One pier in particular, The Johnnie Mercers Pier in Wrightsville Beach, stands out as the only concrete fishing pier in North Carolina. It is open 24 hours a day, offering stunning views of the ocean and a full tackle shop, snack bar, and game area. This pier is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts and tourists alike, providing a unique experience for visitors at any time of day.

Whether you're looking to cast a line, enjoy a drink, or simply take in the beautiful ocean views, The Johnnie Mercers Pier in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, is a great destination, accessible around the clock.

There are bars on the boardwalk at Kure Beach

Whether you're looking for a quiet stroll along a pristine beach or a weekend filled with activities, Kure Beach in North Carolina is the place to be. Located on Pleasure Island, between Carolina Beach and Fort Fisher, Kure Beach offers year-round joy with its warm ocean water and lively surf. The area is known for its unique natural places, such as the Coquina Outcrop, and man-made attractions like the Rocks at Fort Fisher.

The Kure Beach Fishing Pier, the oldest fishing pier on the East Coast, is a highlight of the area. Built in 1923, the pier has been knocked down five times and was once completely destroyed by Hurricane Hazel in 1954. Despite its history of setbacks, the pier stands strong, offering spectacular ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere. There is no charge to walk on the pier, and it's a great spot for fishing enthusiasts, with various tournaments held throughout the year.

The surrounding area also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with bars and restaurants aplenty. The nearby Carolina Beach Boardwalk, just a short drive or bike ride from Kure Beach, offers a variety of dining and drinking options. Enjoy a hand-tossed pizza at Uncle Vinny's Pizzeria & Ristorante, or travel back in time at the 1950s-themed Pop's Diner, where you can play your favourite jukebox tunes while savouring classic burgers and hot dogs. For a cold beer, head to Buzz's Roost or the Fat Pelican, one of the "Diviest Dive Bars in America," offering over 350 beers.

If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar is the perfect spot, with live music and drink specials nearly every night during the summer. For those who prefer wine to beer, Crush & Grind is a cafe-turned-wine-and-bottle shop with a covered balcony for sipping local brews. So whether you're a beer enthusiast or a wine connoisseur, Kure Beach and its neighbouring areas have something to offer.

Navy Pier has a beer garden

Navy Pier Beer Garden

The Navy Pier Beer Garden in Chicago, Illinois, is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan. Open from May to October, the Beer Garden offers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including craft beer, domestic and imported beers, hard seltzers, and Coca-Cola beverages. You can also indulge in a light meal, with options such as hand-tossed pizzas, burgers, and beer-soaked brats.

The Beer Garden is an ideal place to relax and socialise, with lounge chairs and a vibrant atmosphere. Every Saturday and Sunday from May to September, you can enjoy "Live on the Lake", a free live music event featuring local bands and a range of musical genres. The Navy Pier Fireworks Show, voted the best place to see fireworks, illuminates the sky every Saturday night at 10pm, adding to the unique experience.

With its beautiful lakeside location and diverse entertainment offerings, the Navy Pier Beer Garden has become Chicago's premier outdoor entertainment spot. It provides a perfect summer vibe, allowing visitors to relax during the day and enjoy lively evenings filled with music and dancing. The Beer Garden also hosts special events, such as the World Music Festival Chicago's Global Peace Party, creating a well-rounded cultural experience.

The Miller Lite Beer Garden at Navy Pier is a great place to unwind, especially in the evenings when local bands perform live music. With a beautifully lit-up view of the pier and a cold beer in hand, it's an excellent way to end the day. So, whether you're a local or a tourist, the Navy Pier Beer Garden is a must-visit destination when in Chicago.

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