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

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

Imagine gliding along the calm waters of the Chicago River, your table nestled in a glass-enclosed dining area, with sweeping views of the city’s famous skyline. For about two hours, you can indulge in a gourmet meal while soaking in some of the most stunning architecture Chicago has to offer. The price of $135 per person includes a 3-course meal, unlimited tea and coffee, and the chance to see Chicago from a perspective few get to experience.

This cruise departs from near the NBC Tower, offering a comfortable, elegant way to explore Chicago’s architectural marvels. Whether you opt for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the experience is designed to combine culinary excellence with sightseeing. We love how smoothly everything runs, from the friendly crew to the spectacular views, making it a great option whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or simply want a relaxing way to spend part of your day.

One of our favorite features is the onboard commentary on the architecture—an educational touch that helps you understand the city’s skyline rather than just admire it. Plus, the fully stocked bar offers creative cocktails, wine, and beer, allowing you to toast Chicago’s skyline in style. However, a possible consideration might be that alcoholic drinks are not included in the ticket price, so expect extra costs if you want a drink with your meal.

This cruise appeals especially to those who appreciate spectacular cityscapes, good food, and a touch of luxury. Ideal for couples, families, or groups celebrating a special event, the experience offers a bit of everything without feeling overly formal. If you like a leisurely pace with engaging commentary and gorgeous scenery, this cruise is worth your attention.

Key Points

• Unparalleled views of Chicago’s architecture from a glass-enclosed dining area.
• Chef-prepared meals served onboard, with options for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• Educational commentary (for brunch and lunch cruises) provides insight into architectural highlights.
• Relaxing atmosphere with a fully stocked bar and onboard music (for dinner cruises).
• Flexibility to choose between different meal times, with special summer fireworks on select evenings.
• Good value considering the inclusive 3-course meal and scenic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully designed. You’ll start with a scenic walk along the Chicago Riverwalk, then board the Odyssey Chicago River, a vessel distinguished by its sleek, glass-enclosed design that promises unobstructed views. Boarding is smooth—arrive early and dress dressy-casual, as casual attire like jeans or athletic shoes is discouraged to keep the atmosphere elevated.

Once onboard, you’ll be shown to your table, where you can settle in for the next two hours of gourmet dining and sightseeing. The menu is a highlight, with options that range from lobster soup and Caesar salad to main courses like crab cakes, glazed chicken, or braised beef short ribs. Desserts include classic cheesecakes, seasonal sorbets, or decadent chocolate cakes, offering something for every sweet tooth.

For brunch, the menu covers hearty options like French toast and scrambled eggs alongside lighter choices such as smoked salmon toast and yogurt parfait. Lunch features salmon, ravioli, and hearty beef. The three-course setup ensures you’re well-fed without feeling rushed.

While the meals are prepared onboard, the real star is the view outside. The skyscrapers and historic buildings define Chicago’s unique skyline, and the glass walls make it feel as if you’re floating right among the city’s architectural giants. During the summer months, Wednesday and Saturday evenings include fireworks from Navy Pier, a spectacular bonus that adds excitement to an already memorable experience.

The commentary—available during brunch and lunch cruises—adds context, helping you understand what makes each building special. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides bring the city’s architecture to life, making the cruise both fun and educational.

On the dinner cruises, an onboard DJ sets a lively tone, complementing the elegant meals with music, creating a festive atmosphere. You can purchase cocktails, beer, and wine at the bar, which is fully stocked and conveniently located.

An important detail is the duration—at just two hours, it’s a manageable window for a relaxed outing. The price is worth considering when you factor in the quality of food, views, and service. Many travelers comment on how the value exceeds expectations, especially with the included three-course meal and scenic ambiance.

The Authenticity and Practicality of the Tour

From the reviews, it’s clear that service quality is a standout. Multiple travelers praise the attentiveness of staff, mentioning how even late arrivals are accommodated without fuss, and the cleanliness of the vessel is consistently noted. This level of care makes for a comfortable, stress-free outing.

The dining experience is a core part of what makes this cruise special. The meals are not just a side note; they are thoughtfully curated, showcasing fresh ingredients and appealing presentation. The bottomless mimosas during brunch adds a festive touch, and the quality of the food—from salads to desserts—receives high praise.

What about the architecture narration? For those interested in the city’s design, the commentary is engaging, offering insights into the skyline’s highlights. It’s a clever way to turn a sightseeing cruise into a mini-lesson—perfect for architecture buffs or history lovers.

Accessibility is addressed with wheelchair-friendly options, making it inclusive for a wider audience. The meeting point at NBC Tower is centrally located, and the vessel’s distinctive design makes it easy to find.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, upscale way to see Chicago. It’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion, impressing visiting friends, or enjoying a romantic outing. The combination of scenic views, good food, and attentive service makes it stand out from more casual river tours.

Travelers who appreciate architecture and cityscapes will find the commentary particularly enriching. Those on a limited schedule will appreciate the short, manageable duration—two hours feels just right. Meanwhile, families and groups will enjoy the social atmosphere, especially with the lively music during dinner.

If you’re after a more casual experience or a cheap way to see the city, this may not be the best fit. But if you value quality dining combined with stellar riverfront vistas, this cruise is a delightful choice.

Final Thoughts

The City Cruises Chicago river cruise offers a refined, memorable way to experience the city’s architecture and skyline. The gourmet, chef-prepared meals, combined with the stunning views from the glass-enclosed vessel, make it a standout in Chicago’s many sightseeing options. The professional crew and knowledgeable narration add layers of value, making it more than just a boat ride.

While the ticket price might seem steep at first glance, the quality of the experience—from the food to the scenery—justifies the expense for most travelers. It’s especially recommended if you enjoy casual elegance, scenic dining, and a touch of education on your sightseeing adventures.

This cruise is best suited for visitors who want to indulge in a special meal while taking in Chicago’s architectural grandeur. Whether celebrating a birthday, enjoying a romantic getaway, or simply looking to see the city from a fresh perspective, you’ll leave with great memories—and plenty of stunning photos.

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FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a relaxed window to enjoy your meal and the scenery without feeling rushed.

What meals are included?
A 3-course meal is included, with options varying for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The menus feature starters, main courses, and desserts, all freshly prepared onboard.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the price but are available for purchase at the fully stocked bar. During brunch cruises, bottomless mimosas are offered.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The departure point is from a dock near the NBC Tower on the Chicago River Esplanade, easily recognizable by the distinctive glass vessel.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for changing plans.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, a dressy-casual attire is recommended. Casual jeans, T-shirts, or athletic shoes are discouraged to maintain a refined atmosphere.

To sum it up, the City Cruises Chicago river cruise is a fantastic way to combine culinary delights with sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing, upscale experience with the city’s architecture as a stunning backdrop. Whether for a special celebration or just a leisurely day out, this cruise offers value, comfort, and memorable views—definitely worth considering during your Chicago visit.