City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise

If you’re looking to combine sightseeing, good food, and a fun atmosphere all in one outing, the Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise by City Cruises Chicago is worth considering. While we haven’t personally sailed this route, reviews and descriptions suggest it offers a lively, scenic experience perfect for those who want to see the Windy City from a unique vantage point.

What we love about this cruise is the panoramic 360-degree views of Chicago’s iconic skyline—a photographer’s dream—and the variety of meal options that suit different times of day. The onboard entertainment, especially the live DJ and games, adds a lively vibe that keeps passengers engaged. On the flip side, the price point of $93 per person can seem steep if you’re just after a simple sightseeing tour, but for those wanting a full dining experience combined with entertainment, it offers strong value.

This experience is best suited for couples, friends, or families looking for a relaxed yet lively way to enjoy Chicago’s waterfront. If a scenic cruise with a delicious buffet and entertainment sounds appealing, this is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that it’s a social event rather than a quiet, contemplative tour—so if you’re after a serene, educational cruise, there might be better options.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Chicago’s skyline from all decks, especially on the rooftop.
• All-in-one experience: buffet meal, live DJ, games, and scenic cruising.
• Suitable for all ages, with entertainment and activities to keep everyone engaged.
• Quality food and drinks: freshly prepared buffet, cocktails, wine, and beer.
• Flexible options: brunch, lunch, or dinner cruises to fit your schedule.
• Good reviews highlight helpful staff and a vibrant atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction

This Lake Michigan cruise, operated by City Cruises Chicago, offers a lively way to see the city’s most famous sights while enjoying a meal and some fun. It’s a two-hour voyage that promises stunning views, delicious food, and lively entertainment on the water—exactly the kind of outing that turns a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

Two things we especially appreciate are the panoramic rooftop deck views—ideal for taking photos of Chicago’s skyline—and the variety of buffet options that cater to different tastes and times of day. Whether you’re after a hearty lunch, a brunch with bottomless mimosas, or a dinner with a more substantial menu, there’s a package to suit. The onboard DJ and games like giant Jenga or shuffleboard keep the atmosphere upbeat and engaging.

A potential consideration is the cost—at around $93 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see Chicago, but it does combine multiple experiences into one ticket: dining, entertainment, and sightseeing. This cruise works best for travelers who enjoy social outings, good food, and panoramic vistas, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a relaxed way to enjoy the city’s waterfront.

What makes this cruise stand out?

Scenic Chicago Skyline and Landmarks

One of the main attractions of this cruise is the spectacular view of Chicago’s famous landmarks. From the deck, you’ll see the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, Aon Center, Trump Tower, and the Adler Planetarium. The cruise gives you a unique perspective of the city’s impressive skyline, especially with the 360-degree views from the rooftop deck. Reviews consistently mention how stunning the vistas are, with one guest describing it as “an impressive way to see the city from the water,” while another noted that the views of the skyline are “breathtaking even on a cloudy day.”

Food and Beverage Offerings

The buffet menu is designed to satisfy a variety of tastes, featuring freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. The brunch menu, for instance, includes seasonal fruit, breakfast pastries, scrambled eggs, and breakfast meats. Lunch and dinner options switch to heartier fare like oven-baked Atlantic flounder, honey sesame chicken, and carved strip loin. The desserts are appealing, with options like raspberry mousse, lemon pound cake, and chocolate chip brownies.

For those on the brunch cruise, bottomless mimosas add a celebratory touch, making it an ideal choice for special gatherings or breakfast with a view. The buffet’s quality is praised in reviews, with guests mentioning how “the food was good,” and some noting the variety of entrees and desserts kept everyone satisfied.

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Entertainment and Activities

Onboard, the live DJ provides a soundtrack for dancing, creating a lively, party-like atmosphere. The dance floor is prominent, and reviews highlight how much guests enjoy dancing away as they cruise along Lake Michigan. Besides music, there are games like giant Jenga and shuffleboard, which add a playful element to the experience, appealing especially to families or groups of friends.

Service and Atmosphere

Reviewers tend to praise the friendly, accommodating staff, with some mentioning their servers by name—such as Jacky—who made the experience even more enjoyable. The climate-controlled interiors ensure comfort regardless of the weather, but the open-air rooftop deck offers an unbeatable view when the weather is clear.

Practicalities and Considerations

The cruise departs from Navy Pier, a central and convenient location. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure, and arriving on time is recommended—especially since some reviewers noted that the cruise starts promptly. The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

The cost covers the cruise, buffet, entertainment, and guaranteed table size—though alcohol (other than mimosas on brunch) and souvenirs are sold separately. You’ll want to bring your ID or passport and dress comfortably but casually, with some guests opting for light layers or jackets for the outdoor decks.

The Itinerary and Experience

While the cruise’s main draw is the scenic sailing and viewing of Chicago’s landmarks, here’s what you can expect in more detail:

Boarding at Navy Pier: After check-in at the Spirit of Chicago ticket booth, you’ll be greeted and encouraged to take some photos—many guests enjoy capturing this moment. Boarding typically begins 30 minutes before departure.

Departure and initial views: As the boat pulls away from Navy Pier, you’ll immediately start seeing Chicago’s skyline unfold, with the city’s towering buildings rising dramatically against the sky. The interior decks are climate-controlled, providing comfort for those who want to stay indoors, while the rooftop deck offers unobstructed vistas.

Cruising past iconic landmarks: The cruise meanders along Lake Michigan, with views of the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and the Adler Planetarium. The captain and crew often provide commentary, giving context about the city’s architecture and history, although some guests mention that the experience is more about the visual spectacle and lively atmosphere.

Dining: Once underway, guests are seated at their tables, where a buffet awaits. The menu varies depending on your booking—brunch, lunch, or dinner—but all feature fresh entrees, salads, and sweets. Guests appreciate the quality and variety, with one reviewer stating, “The menu was impressive, and the food was tasty.”

Entertainment and games: After eating, it’s time to hit the dance floor or socialize. The live DJ keeps the energy high, and the games like giant Jenga or shuffleboard provide a break from dancing. Several reviews mention how fun and friendly the atmosphere is, with one guest describing it as “good vibes and good drinks.”

Return to Navy Pier: After approximately two hours, the boat gently returns to the dock. Guests often feel that the experience was a balanced mix of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment—a great way to cap off a day in Chicago.

Pricing and Value

At $93 per person, the cruise isn’t a bargain-basement activity, but it packs in several elements for that price: a scenic cruise, buffet meal, live DJ, games, and guaranteed seating. Many reviewers feel the value justifies the cost, especially considering the quality of the food and the spectacular views.

The brunch cruise, with bottomless mimosas, is particularly popular for celebrations or leisurely mornings. For dinner, the menu becomes more substantial, making it a suitable option for a relaxing evening out. Be aware that alcoholic drinks are available for purchase separately, but the fully stocked cash bar ensures you can indulge in wine, beer, or cocktails if you prefer.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This cruise suits anyone who enjoys a social, lively environment with a side of sightseeing. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic yet fun outing, friends wanting a relaxed party atmosphere, or families seeking entertainment for all ages. If you’re after a serene, educational tour, this might not be it—this experience leans more toward entertainment and atmosphere.

Those who appreciate good food, live music, and scenic views will find plenty to enjoy. Also, if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to make your visit to Chicago memorable, this cruise offers a charming, upbeat way to experience the city’s waterfront.

The Sum Up

The Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise by City Cruises Chicago delivers a combination of stunning skyline views, tasty buffet dining, and lively entertainment. It’s well-suited for those who want a fun, social outing on the water that’s both relaxing and engaging. With friendly staff and a professional setup, it can turn a typical sightseeing trip into a highlight of your Chicago visit.

While the price might seem a bit steep for some, the all-in-one format—dining, dancing, and scenic views—delivers solid value for travelers who want a memorable, festive experience. Whether you choose brunch with bottomless mimosas or a hearty dinner, you’ll leave with plenty of photos and stories to share.

This cruise is best for those who enjoy good company, great views, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re seeking a relaxed, quiet cruise, you might want to explore alternative options. But for a joyful, scenic, and delicious way to see Chicago from the water, this experience hits the mark.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, though some variations may extend slightly up to 3 hours.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Navy Pier, at the Spirit of Chicago dock located on the south side of the pier.

Is there a dress code?
Most guests opt for comfortable, casually stylish attire. Some recommend bringing a light jacket or blazer, especially for outdoor decks.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the cruise states they do their best to accommodate dietary restrictions—just inform your server or call ahead.

Can I bring children?
Yes, children are welcome, including infants who are free but require a ticket. Keep in mind that the atmosphere is lively, and some reviews suggest it’s more suited for families and groups of adults.

Are drinks included?
The buffet includes unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase from a full cash bar, except for brunch, where bottomless mimosas are included.

What about accessibility?
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Is parking available nearby?
Most guests find Navy Pier accessible by public transportation or parking nearby, but specifics depend on your plans—check local options before your visit.

The Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise offers a lively, scenic, and tasty way to experience Chicago’s waterfront. Perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with celebration, it’s an enjoyable outing for a wide range of travelers.

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