Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Chicago River

Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Chicago River

Imagine celebrating Thanksgiving with a feast while drifting past Chicago’s iconic skyline — sounds pretty special, right? That’s exactly what the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise offers. This two-hour cruise on the Chicago River combines fine dining, scenic views, and a touch of holiday festivity. Though it might not be the cheapest way to spend Thanksgiving, it’s certainly a memorable way to combine a meal and sightseeing in one elegant package.

What we love about this experience is its spectacular 360° views of some of Chicago’s most famous landmarks. From the Willis Tower to Navy Pier, every turn offers a picture-worthy moment. Plus, the inclusion of a gourmet, chef-prepared 3-course meal elevates the standard river cruise. One potential drawback is that the experience may feel a bit formal or crowded, especially if your group isn’t into dressed-up events or if you’re expecting a relaxed, casual vibe. It’s best suited for those looking to combine a festive meal with sightseeing in a stylish setting.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a special Thanksgiving celebration without the hassle of cooking or hosting. It warmly appeals to couples, families, or friends eager for a unique way to mark the holiday with good food, good views, and a lively atmosphere.

Key Points

• Spectacular architecture views from both indoor and outdoor decks
• Gourmet 3-course plated Thanksgiving meal with traditional favorites
• Festive cocktails and unlimited tea/coffee included in the price
• Live DJ music adds a fun, lively mood, perfect for dancing
• Elegant dress code (cocktail attire) enhances the festive atmosphere
• Price point around $116 per person offers a premium experience, considering both dining and sightseeing
• Limited duration (2 hours) makes for a concise, enjoyable outing
• Accessible and family-friendly with wheelchair access and infant tickets

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Setting and Departure Point

The cruise departs from The Odyssey Chicago River dock, conveniently located near the NBC Tower on the Chicago River Esplanade between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive. This location is easy to find with its distinctive glass-enclosed vessel design that contrasts with traditional boats. The process of getting on is straightforward — visitors are advised to arrive a little early, especially if it’s your first time, to locate the ticket booth and get settled.

The Cruise Itinerary

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy the glassed-in interior that offers panoramic views of the city’s most renowned buildings. These views are especially captivating around Thanksgiving when the city’s skyline is illuminated and bustling. The cruise’s route ensures you get close-up sights of landmarks like the Merchandise Mart, DuSable Bridge, and the Willis Tower, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

The Dining Experience

The highlight for many is the gourmet 3-course plated lunch. The menu features traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey with gravy, garlic mashed potatoes, and stuffing. There are also options like pan-roasted cod, braised short ribs, and a fall vegetable ragu, catering to various tastes. The starter choices include beet and arugula salad or seafood chowder, both light yet flavorful. For dessert, a seasonal station offers cakes, brownies, and fresh fruit.

One reviewer noted that the food was “decent,” and appreciated the inclusion of wine and creative cocktails, which add to the festive vibe. However, another guest expressed disappointment about the dessert, mentioning their pumpkin pie was frozen in the middle — a reminder that food quality can vary, especially during busy holiday service.

Atmosphere and Entertainment

The cruise employs a live onboard DJ, whose tunes set a lively, upbeat tone that encourages dancing and keeps the energy high. This is a significant plus for those who enjoy a fun, party-like atmosphere rather than a quiet dinner. The crew also provides light narration, enriching the experience without overwhelming it.

Service and Comfort

Guests consistently mention friendly staff and impeccable service, which enhances the overall experience. The vessel is air-conditioned, making it comfortable regardless of outside weather, but guests also have access to the outdoor deck for unobstructed views and fresh air. The dress code is cocktail attire, which might surprise some — it’s a step above casual, but it adds to the special occasion feel.

Value for Money

At $116 per person, considering the included multi-course meal, drinks, live music, and sightseeing, the experience offers good value for a holiday event. It’s not just a meal; it’s a combination of dining, sightseeing, and entertainment. For those seeking a memorable, scenic way to celebrate Thanksgiving without the prep work, this cruise checks many boxes.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point: Near NBC Tower on Chicago River Esplanade. Arrive early to avoid missing the departure time, especially considering some reviews mention confusion over signage.
• Duration: 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits into a holiday schedule.
• Availability: Check ahead for specific departure times, as they vary.
• Accessibility: The vessel is wheelchair accessible, and infants (0-2) can attend free with a separate ticket.
• Dress code: Cocktail attire (think collared shirts, dresses, blazers). This elevates the experience but might not be suitable if you prefer casual holiday wear.
• What to bring: Passport or ID, especially for check-in.
• Food allergies: Notify the staff beforehand, as menus can change.
• Alcohol: Not included — drinks are available for purchase.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

One traveler happily described their experience as “awesome service, friendly staff, beautiful views, and fun music.” They appreciated the wine selection and enjoyed the lively atmosphere, which made the cruise feel festive and lively.

Another guest was disappointed, citing poor directions and customer service that led to missing the cruise altogether. This underscores the importance of arriving early and double-checking instructions, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

A common theme is that the views are genuinely stunning — especially in good weather — and that the live DJ adds a fun, party-like vibe, making it ideal for those wanting a celebration with a bit of a dance floor. On the flip side, some found the dress code and food choices to be inconsistent with expectations, so it’s wise to dress up and be prepared for possible menu variations.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cruise is perfect if you’re after a festive, elegant way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Chicago. It’s well-suited for couples, families, or groups of friends wanting a special holiday outing that combines sightseeing with a gourmet meal. If you enjoy dining with a view and a lively atmosphere, you’ll find this cruise engaging and memorable.

However, if you’re seeking a relaxed or casual gathering, or if you’re on a tight budget, this experience might feel a bit formal or pricey. Also, travelers who dislike crowds or strict dress codes might prefer a different type of celebration.

Final Thoughts

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River offers a blend of scenic architecture, top-notch dining, and festive music — perfect for those wanting a sophisticated way to mark the holiday. While the price might seem steep, the combination of gourmet food, iconic views, and lively entertainment makes it worthwhile for many.

It’s a great choice for celebrating Thanksgiving in style and creating special memories with loved ones, especially if you’re keen on avoiding the hassle of cooking and want to experience Chicago from a different perspective. Just remember to arrive early, dress sharply, and take in the stunning sights along the way.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, infants (0-2 years) can attend for free with a ticket, making it family-friendly. Just keep in mind the dress code and the festive atmosphere.

What is the meal like?
The meal is a 3-course plated dinner featuring traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey with gravy, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. There are also other options like cod, short ribs, and a fall vegetable ragu.

Can I buy alcohol onboard?
Alcoholic drinks are not included but are available for purchase during the cruise.

What should I wear?
Cocktail attire is recommended — think dresses, blouses, slacks, or button-up shirts. This elevates the event and matches the festive environment.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts for approximately 2 hours, with departures scheduled based on availability.

Where do I meet the cruise boat?
At the dock near NBC Tower on the Chicago River Esplanade. Arrive early to find the ticket booth and avoid missing the departure.

Is the cruise accessible?
Yes, the vessel is wheelchair accessible.

Will I see the city’s landmarks?
Absolutely. Expect to see iconic sights like the Merchandise Mart, Navy Pier, DuSable Bridge, and Willis Tower from close-up angles.

What if I have food allergies?
Inform the staff before ordering — menus are subject to change, and they can accommodate dietary restrictions where possible.

This experience offers a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving with a twist — combining spectacular views, delicious food, and festive fun in one elegant package. Perfect for those looking to make holiday memories with a view.