Begin this tour in Polk Bros Park, the inviting green space in front of Navy Pier. Polk Bros Fountain, with its playful, choreographed water and hundreds of LED lights, is the park's focal point. During the hot summer months, you're sure to see children running and having fun in the water.

The area around the fountain is often the site for pop-up events and exhibitions, so don't be surpised if something interesting is happening as you stroll through.

If you're curious, Polk Brothers was a large home appliance and electronics retailer in Chicago. True to Chicago's retailing heritage, Polk Bros was an industry leader in innovative merchandising and famous for their "let's make a deal" salesmen. Founded in 1935, its first store was located on Chicago's northwest side and called Central Appliance and Furniture. Renamed Polk Bros after its founders, the company became a dominating electronics and appliance retailer in the Chicago market through the 1980s, with 17 stores at its peak. After a terrible warehouse fire in 1987 and the death of its founder in 1988, Polk Bros closed for good in 1992. The Polk Bros Foundation remains today, and is one of Chicago's largest charitable organizations.

On the southern end of the park -- to the right as you face Navy Pier -- you'll find additional green space with two performance lawns, each with sweeping lake and skyline views. These areas are home to music concerts, movie nights, and other performances.

Polk Bros Park is an outstanding place to cool-off during hot summer days, and you're likely to find families and couples relaxing in this pleasant open area.

When done exploring Polk Bros Park and ready to step inside Navy Pier, tap the "Next" button.