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

A river cruise in Chicago isn’t just about the views—although, let’s be honest, the city’s skyline is spectacular enough to make anyone pause. It’s also about the experience, the food, and the stories told along the way. This review covers the City Cruises Chicago experience, which offers a 2-hour luxury cruise with options for brunch, lunch, or dinner, all set against the backdrop of some of the most iconic architecture in the United States.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines excellent food with unparalleled views and informative commentary. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective, especially if you’re curious about Chicago’s architectural marvels. A possible drawback? The price point of $135 per person might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the quality of the meal, the scenery, and the service, it’s a solid value—assuming you enjoy a leisurely, upscale dining experience with your sightseeing.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a mix of culinary indulgence and sightseeing. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a memorable way to explore Chicago, this experience hits many marks—so long as you don’t mind dressing a little dressy and leaving the large bags at home. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and well-rounded outing, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Unbeatable Views of Chicago’s Architecture: The glass-enclosed dining area offers a panoramic view of the skyline and riverfront.
• Gourmet Dining Onboard: Expect a chef-prepared, three-course meal with options for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• Informative Commentary: For brunch and lunch cruises, you’ll get engaging narration about the architectural highlights.
• Options for Nighttime Entertainment: Dinner cruises feature a DJ and, on summer nights, you can enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks.
• Dress Code & Practicalities: Dress elegantly casual; jeans and athletic shoes are discouraged.
• Great for Special Occasions: Perfect for celebrating or simply indulging in a luxurious sightseeing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure and Setting

One of the first things you’ll notice about this cruise is its convenient departure point near the NBC Tower, right on the Chicago River Esplanade. The Odyssey Chicago River is easy to spot thanks to its distinctive glass-enclosed design, which promises views in every direction. Arriving early is recommended to check in smoothly and settle into your table. When you arrive, you’ll walk down to the dock, where the crew greets you warmly and takes a moment to capture the group photo—an excellent memento of the day.

The Vessel: An Architectural Showcase

The Odyssey itself is a highlight, with its sleek, modern look that fits perfectly with the theme of Chicago’s architectural innovation. As the boat glides along, you’re treated to panoramic views of skyscrapers like the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and other notable structures. The glass walls mean you can stay cozy inside while still feeling immersed in the scene outside, or step outside to feel the breeze and snap some photos.

The Dining Experience

What sets this cruise apart from a typical sightseeing tour is the quality of the meal. The menu changes slightly depending on whether you’re on a brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise, but all options are thoughtfully prepared onboard by a professional chef. For brunch, you might start with a Caesar salad, Scottish smoked salmon toast, or Greek yogurt with granola, followed by hearty mains like cannellini bean shakshuka or maple-glazed chicken. Desserts are equally tempting—think cheesecake, sorbet, or decadent chocolate cake.

On dinner cruises, the menu elevates with options such as lobster soup, jumbo crab cakes, braised beef short rib, or forest mushroom ravioli. The presentation and freshness consistently impress, with reviews praising the food’s quality and visual appeal. Many mention the excellent service, with staff attentive to details—from refilling drinks to ensuring your meal arrives hot and well-presented.

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Drinks & Bar

The fully-stocked bar is a significant perk, with options to purchase cocktails, wine, or beer. For brunch, the bottomless mimosas are a crowd favorite, adding a festive touch to the meal. During dinner, a DJ provides music, creating a lively yet refined atmosphere. It’s a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment, especially when enjoying Chicago’s skyline lit up at night.

Narration and Commentary

For brunch and lunch cruises, the onboard narration offers insights into Chicago’s architectural history and the significance of various buildings along the river. Reviewers frequently note that the guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the scenery more meaningful rather than just a pretty picture. This commentary enriches the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with Chicago’s architectural evolution.

The Fireworks & Special Events

On select summer evenings—Wednesday and Saturday—this cruise offers the chance to watch the Navy Pier fireworks right from the river. This feature adds a spectacular visual element and is highly praised by past guests who call it a highlight of the experience. It’s a great way to combine a meal, sightseeing, and a bit of spectacle into one relaxing evening.

Duration and Practical Details

The 2-hour cruise is an ideal length—long enough to enjoy the scenery and meal without feeling rushed. Boarding is straightforward, and the cruise operates morning and evening, giving flexibility for your schedule. The dress code is dressy casual; casual jeans or athletic shoes are discouraged, ensuring the atmosphere remains upscale.

Cost & Value Analysis

Priced at $135 per person, this experience is an investment in both culinary quality and scenic beauty. Past reviews consistently mention that the food and service exceed expectations and that the views are “first-rate.” For travelers looking for a special occasion outing or a luxurious way to see Chicago, many find it well worth the price. The inclusion of unlimited drinks (for brunch), narration, and the fireworks viewing on summer nights all add to the overall value.

Authenticity & Authentic Local Flavor

While it’s a refined experience, it remains authentic in its focus on Chicago’s architecture and riverfront. Many reviews mention how the guides make the tour informative and engaging, adding layers of context to your sightseeing. The relaxed yet elegant atmosphere makes it suitable for a variety of travelers—from couples and families to groups celebrating a milestone.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This cruise is a great pick for visitors who appreciate good food and beautiful scenery. If you’re looking for a romantic outing, the evening dinner with music and fireworks is unbeatable. Families or groups can enjoy the informative narration and stunning views without sacrificing comfort and style. Those seeking a luxury experience or celebrating a special occasion will find this cruise hits the right notes.

However, if your budget is tight or you prefer a more casual, low-key sightseeing trip, this might feel a little overpriced. The dress code and upscale environment also suggest it’s best suited for those comfortable with a slightly more formal atmosphere.

The Sum Up

The City Cruises Chicago experience offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, fine dining, and engaging commentary. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience Chicago’s skyline in a relaxed, elegant way, especially if you enjoy good food and a touch of entertainment. The views are truly spectacular, with many reviewers citing the quality of the food and service as standout features. The addition of fireworks viewing in summer months makes it even more memorable.

While the price might seem high, the overall value for a 2-hour upscale dining cruise is clear. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a unique sightseeing experience, this cruise delivers a memorable slice of Chicago life from the water.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $135 per person?
It covers a 2-hour cruise, a three-course meal, unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, and, for dinner cruises, an onboard DJ. For brunch and lunch, you also get architectural narration. The price includes a service fee, but alcohol and photos are available for purchase separately.

Are there options for different meal times?
Yes, you can choose to join a brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise, each with its own menu and atmosphere, depending on what works best for your schedule and preferences.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, the cruise encourages dressy casual attire. Casual jeans, T-shirts, athletic shoes, or flip-flops are discouraged to maintain the upscale atmosphere.

Can I see Chicago’s fireworks from the cruise?
Yes, on Wednesday and Saturday evenings during summer, the cruise offers a view of Navy Pier fireworks, which many guests find to be a highlight.

How do I know where to board?
Board on the Odyssey Chicago River at the dock near NBC Tower on the Chicago River Esplanade, between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive. The vessel is easily recognizable with its glass design, and the check-in takes place at the ticket booth.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for many travelers with mobility needs.

Can I bring large bags or luggage?
Large bags and luggage are not allowed, so pack accordingly and bring only what you need for the trip.

In essence, this cruise offers a well-rounded, upscale way to enjoy Chicago from the water, combining scenery, storytelling, and excellent food in one elegant package.

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