City Cruises Chicago: Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise

City Cruises Chicago: Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to see Chicago from a fresh perspective, a river cruise with City Cruises could be just what you need. These cruises combine a relaxing 2-hour journey along the Chicago River with delicious, chef-prepared meals and great views of the city’s iconic architecture. Whether you prefer a leisurely brunch, a mid-day lunch, or an elegant dinner, there’s an option to suit your schedule and taste.

What really makes these cruises stand out are two things in particular: the spectacular views through the glass-enclosed dining area and the quality of the onboard food and beverages. The ability to sit back, sip a crafted cocktail, and soak in the Chicago skyline is pretty unbeatable. That said, the price point of $135 per person isn’t cheap, but for the quality of experience, many find it to be good value.

A potential consideration is the dress code—dressy-casual attire is expected, so casual outfits like flip-flops or athletic shoes aren’t suitable. Also, if you’re hoping for a lively party atmosphere, keep in mind that the cruise’s charm lies more in the scenic beauty and fine dining than in party vibes. This experience is ideal for those wanting a sophisticated way to enjoy Chicago’s architecture while indulging in a good meal. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The glass-enclosed dining area offers uninterrupted cityscape vistas.
• Varied Dining Options: Choose from brunch, lunch, or dinner menus, all with freshly prepared food.
• Architectural Highlights: Narration during lunch and brunch cruises helps you understand the city’s architectural gems.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The cruise is more about leisurely enjoyment than high-energy entertainment.
• Quality Food & Drinks: Enjoy a three-course meal with options like seafood, chicken, beef, and desserts, plus a fully-stocked bar (alcoholic drinks available for purchase).
• Special Occasions: On Wednesday and Saturday evenings, you can watch the Navy Pier fireworks display, adding a festive touch to your evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting and Duration

At just about 2 hours, the cruise offers an ideal balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery and a good meal, but not so lengthy that it feels like a commitment. The boat, Odyssey Chicago River, departs from the Chicago River Esplanade near the NBC Tower, a central and easily accessible location.

The vessel’s design is particularly noteworthy. Its glass-enclosed structure means you can admire the city’s architecture from nearly every angle, even on a rainy day or if the weather isn’t cooperating. This feature is a real plus, especially when the Chicago skyline is bathed in sunlight or lit up at night.

The Meal: A Highlight

One aspect that travelers consistently praise is the quality and presentation of the onboard food. The menus are thoughtfully curated, with options for every preference. The dinner menu, for example, offers appetizers like Caesar salad or lobster soup, main courses such as crab cakes, glazed chicken breast, or braised short ribs, and decadent desserts like cheesecake or warm butter cake.

Brunch options include scrambled eggs, French toast, or smoked salmon toast, complemented by fresh fruit and parfaits. The presentation is often described as impressive, which adds to the upscale feel. People like Sandra from Australia specifically mentioned, “The food and service was excellent,” and Jessica appreciated that they still allowed her on the cruise after running late.

The Drinks: Cheers to That

While the cruise doesn’t include complimentary alcohol, the fully-stocked cash bar is a big hit. During dinner, you can purchase creative cocktails, wine, and beer, which makes the experience feel slightly more special. Brunch cruises even feature bottomless mimosas, which many guests find adds a fun, celebratory element.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Narration and Views

For lunch and brunch cruises, the onboard commentary is informative, offering insights into Chicago’s architecture and history. This makes the cruise not just a sightseeing trip, but also an educational one. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable the guides are—Lis from the US said, “The whole ride is absolutely worth it – a complete and memorable experience,” thanks to attentive staff and interesting commentary.

The Fireworks

A real treat during the summer months are the Navy Pier fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. Imagine enjoying your meal as the sky lights up with colorful bursts—this feature elevates the evening cruise from merely scenic to truly spectacular.

Service and Atmosphere

Guests often mention the professional, attentive staff. From the reception to the crew, everyone seems dedicated to creating a smooth experience. Edgar from the US called out the crew as “amazing,” and many reviews applaud the excellent service. The atmosphere is elegant but relaxed, perfect for celebrating special moments or just enjoying a peaceful afternoon or evening.

The Price and Value

At $135 per person, the cruise is on the higher end, but many reviewers feel the experience justifies the price. You’re paying not just for the meal, but also for the views, the ambiance, and the architectural narration. It’s a good way to combine a city tour with fine dining—something that feels special but isn’t overly expensive compared to other luxury experiences.

Practical Tips

• Dress code is dressy-casual; avoid jeans or athletic shoes.
• Arrive early for check-in at the ticket booth near NBC Tower.
• You’ll want to make one reservation for your entire group to ensure everyone stays together.
• Passports or IDs are needed to board.
• Infants can join free of charge if you select the free ticket, which is handy for families.
• Remember, photos aren’t included but can be purchased afterward if you want a souvenir of your trip.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic views, good food, and a touch of elegance. It’s ideal for couples celebrating an anniversary, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a peaceful way to see Chicago from a different angle. If you’re a foodie and architecture lover, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here. If fireworks viewing sounds fun, plan your cruise on a Wednesday or Saturday evening in summer.

While it may not be the best for those seeking a lively party or casual outing, it offers a refined, memorable experience that combines sightseeing with dining—perfect for making your visit to Chicago a little more special.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, infants can join for free if you select the appropriate ticket. However, the dress code and atmosphere are more suited to adults or couples looking for a relaxed, upscale experience.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts for approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery, eat, and relax without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from the bar. The cruise does include unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, which are complimentary.

What is the dress code?
The cruise calls for dressy-casual attire. Casual clothing like jeans, T-shirts, athletic shoes, or flip-flops are discouraged to maintain the upscale vibe.

Can I see fireworks from the cruise?
Yes, on Wednesday and Saturday evenings in summer, you can enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks display, which many reviews describe as a highlight.

What are the meal options?
The menus include a variety of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. For dinner, options include seafood, chicken, beef, and vegetarian choices. Brunch features lighter fare like eggs, French toast, and smoked salmon.

Where does the cruise depart from?
Board at the Chicago River Esplanade near NBC Tower, a central location on the riverfront. The vessel is recognizable by its glass-enclosed design.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a sophisticated way to take in Chicago’s skyline, this river cruise offers a blend of sightseeing, fine dining, and architecture education that many find rewarding. It’s especially appealing for those celebrating something special or just wanting an elegant, relaxing experience. The panoramic views through the glass, combined with quality food and attentive service, make it a memorable activity that stands out among Chicago’s many attractions.

While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the overall experience delivers good value for a leisurely, scenic outing with tasty food and a chance to see the city’s best architecture from the water. For travelers who love a refined, scenic cruise, this is a solid choice that combines comfort, culture, and a touch of luxury.

You can check availability for your dates here: