Chicago: Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise

Thinking about a fun, laid-back way to see Chicago from a different angle? The Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise offers just that—an easygoing cruise along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan with a drink in hand. This experience is designed for those who want to combine sightseeing with a casual brunch vibe, all while taking in the city’s impressive skyline.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is its simple charm: a floating tiki bar with great music, friendly staff, and an atmosphere that encourages unwinding. Plus, the water-based perspective offers some of the best views of landmarks like the Willis Tower and the historic bridges. However, since it’s a relatively short cruise—just 1.5 hours—it’s best suited for those looking for a quick, relaxed outing rather than a comprehensive tour.

One thing to keep in mind is that the price is quite reasonable at $41 per person, but alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price—drinks can be purchased on-site if you want to indulge. This setup keeps it flexible and affordable, especially for travelers who prefer to decide how much they want to spend on drinks. This tour is ideal for casual daytime visitors, friends catching up, or anyone wanting a different view of Chicago without overloading their schedule.

Key Points

• Relaxing water experience with scenic city views
• Affordable price point offers good value for a short cruise
• Casual atmosphere with music and friendly staff
• Great photo opportunities of Chicago’s iconic skyline and architecture
• Flexible options for purchasing drinks on-site
• Ideal for laid-back daytime outings or celebratory afternoons

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise takes place on a floating tiki bar, providing a truly distinctive way to see Chicago’s landmarks. The cruise lasts around 1.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely break in your travel plans. Whether you prefer cruising along the Chicago River to see the city’s architectural marvels or taking a longer trip on Lake Michigan, this experience offers flexible options depending on your mood and schedule.

The journey begins at a designated meeting point—though the specific location might vary based on your booking. Once aboard, you’re greeted by friendly staff who set a lively tone with music and a relaxed environment. The boat itself is designed to evoke a tropical tiki vibe, adding a touch of fun and escapism to your Chicago adventure.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out

The big draw here is the chance to sip on refreshing mimosas and Bloody Marys while taking in views you simply can’t get from land. Watching the city’s skyscrapers light up as the sun shines on the water is a highlight, especially from the vantage point of a boat.

Reviewers frequently mention the stunning skyline views as a key reason to choose this tour. One pointed out, “We loved the way the cityscape shimmered as we cruised past the buildings,” highlighting how memorable the scenery can be. Others appreciated the casual, friendly environment — “Music and good drinks made the experience feel like hanging out with friends,” a reviewer noted.

While the $41 per person price makes it a budget-friendly outing, it’s worth noting that the drinks are not included in the ticket, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge. You can purchase them on board, which offers flexibility but might add up if you go all out.

Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise typically departs from a central location along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan. The route offers a glimpse of Chicago’s famous architecture, such as the Willis Tower and historic bridges, which are especially photogenic from the water.

As you glide through the water, you’ll enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with music and friendly staff. The ambiance is lively but not overwhelming, making it a comfortable option for singles, friends, or even couples. The boat’s design and music create a relaxed, party-like atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

For those opting for the river route, you’ll pass under some of Chicago’s iconic bridges—each with its own story and style—adding character to your photos. If you choose the lake option, the water stretches out in front of you, giving a panoramic view of the city’s skyline, especially impressive during sunset or late afternoon.

What to Expect During the Cruise

You’ll start by boarding the tiki bar, where the crew will greet you with a smile. The cruise is self-paced in terms of drink purchases, so you can enjoy your beverage of choice while marveling at the scenery. Expect lively music and a friendly crew that makes the experience feel welcoming and fun.

The views of Chicago’s architecture are particularly striking. From the water, you see the buildings’ impressive height and unique designs, many of which are illuminated beautifully when the city lights come on. For photographers, this is a splendid opportunity to get some memorable shots.

The cruise concludes back at the starting point, leaving you free to explore more of the city’s attractions or take a leisurely stroll along the riverwalk. It’s a perfect interlude—short but sweet—giving you a taste of Chicago’s vibrant water scene without taking up your entire day.

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Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

Though this cruise is designed for fun and relaxation, it doesn’t skimp on the spectacular views that make Chicago famous. Multiple reviews praise the scenery, with one noting, “The skyline from the water is just stunning, especially with a drink in hand.” It’s an experience that captures the energy and beauty of Chicago in a casual setting.

However, it’s important to note that this experience is more about ambiance and scenery than detailed architectural commentary. If you’re after an in-depth exploration of Chicago’s history or architecture, you might prefer a guided tour with more narration. But for a laid-back, photo-friendly outing, this cruise hits the sweet spot.

Practical Details and Tips

• The duration is 1.5 hours, usually in the afternoon, perfect for a relaxed outing.
• The price of $41 is quite reasonable, considering the scenic value and the lively atmosphere.
• Drinks are not included but available for purchase on the boat. Budget accordingly if you wish to indulge.
• Meeting points may vary, so double-check your booking details.
• Dress comfortably and consider the weather—bring layers if needed, especially if it’s cooler or windy on the water.
• The group size tends to be moderate, fostering a friendly environment without feeling crowded.
• The cruise is rated 3.8 out of 5, indicating generally positive reviews with some room for improvement, especially in consistency.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a casual, fun outing rather than a formal tour. It’s perfect for friends celebrating, couples wanting a romantic yet relaxed experience, or solo visitors wanting a taste of Chicago’s waterfront vibe. It’s also a great way to kick back after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Since the cruise is short and affordable, it’s an excellent option for those with limited time or budget. It’s especially appealing during sunny afternoons when the city’s skyline is at its most photogenic.

The Sum Up

The Chicago Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise offers a breezy, enjoyable way to see the city from a perspective that many visitors overlook. With its lively ambiance, stunning skyline views, and wallet-friendly price, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a lighthearted water adventure. While it doesn’t provide an in-depth architectural tour, it compensates with its fun vibe and picture-perfect scenery.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to relax, take photos, and enjoy a drink or two without the fuss of a formal guided tour. It’s a simple pleasure—delivering a memorable slice of Chicago’s waterfront charm in just 1.5 hours.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for all weather conditions?
You should check the weather forecast before booking. Dress comfortably and bring layers, especially if it’s cooler or windy on the water. The cruise is best enjoyed in mild, dry weather.

Can I buy drinks on board?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase during the cruise, but they are not included in the ticket price. Budget accordingly if you want to indulge.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll get great views of Chicago’s skyline, including famous buildings like the Willis Tower, along with historic bridges if you take the river route.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon, making it a perfect short escape.

Is this experience family-friendly?
The description suggests a lively, friendly environment, suitable for friends and couples. Check with the provider if traveling with children, as policies may vary.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Bring layers if needed, as it can get breezy on the water.

Is there a particular time of day that’s best?
Afternoon cruises often offer the best lighting for photos and a relaxed atmosphere. Sunset cruises might also be a beautiful option if available.

With its combination of scenic water views, lively music, and affordability, the Chicago Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise gives you a fun, uncomplicated way to enjoy Chicago’s waterscape. Whether you’re celebrating or simply looking for a different perspective, this cruise offers an easygoing slice of city life on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby