Mother’s Day Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River

Mother’s Day Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River: A Detailed Review

Planning a special way to honor Mom this Mother’s Day? A brunch cruise along the Chicago River offers a blend of sophistication, stunning city views, and delicious dining—all in a relaxed, scenic setting. While I haven’t personally experienced this particular cruise, I’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you understand what makes it a unique way to celebrate.

One thing I really like about this experience is the combination of fine dining and sightseeing. Imagine savoring chef-inspired dishes while drifting past Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers and historic landmarks—what’s not to love? One potential consideration is that alcoholic drinks are available for purchase only, so if you’re hoping for an inclusive experience, that’s something to keep in mind.

This tour seems best suited for those who appreciate a leisurely meal with beautiful views and a touch of elegance, especially on a special day like Mother’s Day. Whether you’re a local looking for a memorable celebration or a visitor wanting to enjoy Chicago from a different perspective, this cruise offers a refined experience worth considering.

Key Points

• Elegant dining experience with chef-inspired, plated brunch
• Beautiful city views of Chicago’s iconic landmarks from the river
• Live entertainment with DJ and guaranteed table setup
• Flexible options for non-drinkers and wine or cocktails available to purchase
• Ideal for special occasions like Mother’s Day and intimate celebrations
• Departure at the Gleacher Center, close to public transport

The Experience at a Glance

The Mother’s Day Premier Plus Brunch Cruise is a two-hour journey along the Chicago River, hosted by City Cruises. This cruise offers a chance to enjoy a delicious brunch, sip on beverages (sold separately), and delight in the city’s impressive architecture—all from the comfort of a modern vessel.

The meeting point at Gleacher Center is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to access without needing a car. The cruise itself features all interior areas being non-smoking, though smokers can step onto outdoor observation decks. The dress code suggests smart casual attire—think nice pants, sundresses, or collared shirts—helping you look the part for a refined event.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The main focus of this cruise is the scenic journey along the Chicago River, with the boat passing by numerous landmarks visible from the water. The itinerary is straightforward since it’s a sightseeing and dining experience, with no scheduled stops aside from the start/end point.

What makes this special? The views are the star here. Guests will see the city’s famous architecture, from gleaming modern skyscrapers to historic structures like the Tribune Tower and the Wrigley Building. While the tour doesn’t mention specific landmarks, the “all the sights from the river” phrase suggests a rundown of Chicago’s architectural marvels.

Food and Beverage Offerings

The highlight for many guests will be the plated brunch, which features freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts. The emphasis on chef-inspired dishes hints at quality, and with a guaranteed table for your party size, you won’t have to worry about seating arrangements.

Included in the price (which is $0.00, likely as a promotional or special offer) are coffee and/or tea, as well as live DJ entertainment, creating a lively ambiance. Be aware that alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard—this means you can indulge in wine, cocktails, or other beverages if you wish.

Several reviews note the excellent wine selection, which enhances the overall experience, especially during a celebratory occasion like Mother’s Day. The service is generally smooth, and the guaranteed table ensures you can relax and enjoy your meal without the hassle of sharing space with strangers.

What’s Not Included and Practicalities

Since ** hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided**, you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the meeting point. The cruise’s duration of approximately two hours makes it a cozy yet substantial outing.

The experience is weather-dependent; if the weather turns poor, the cruise might be canceled or rescheduled. The good news is that in such cases, you’ll either get a different date or a full refund, adding peace of mind.

The cruise caps at 200 travelers, meaning it’s sizable but not overwhelming, allowing for a comfortable atmosphere with enough space to move around and enjoy the views.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for families celebrating Mother’s Day, couples looking for a romantic yet relaxed outing, or groups of friends wanting to enjoy a special brunch in a scenic setting. If you prefer a quiet, elegant environment with live music and quality food, this cruise ticks those boxes.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who value good food with a view and are happy to purchase drinks separately. The dress code and the presence of live entertainment make it feel like a special event without being overly formal.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Considering the combination of fine dining, scenic sightseeing, and live entertainment, this cruise offers a distinctive way to celebrate Mother’s Day in Chicago. The chef-inspired brunch and the opportunity to see the city’s architecture from the river provide excellent value, especially if you’re seeking a memorable, relaxed experience.

For those who appreciate a refined atmosphere, great wine, and scenic views, this cruise is likely to be a hit. However, if you’re after an all-inclusive experience or prefer more active sightseeing, you might find this tour somewhat limited in scope.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded outing for anyone wanting to combine good food, beautiful scenery, and a touch of elegance in Chicago.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly, though the dress code and ambiance lean toward a more refined crowd.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard, including wine and classic cocktails, but are not included in the price.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is the Gleacher Center at 450 N Cityfront Plaza Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, conveniently located near public transportation.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect duration for a leisurely brunch and sightseeing experience.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dressy casual attire is recommended—nice pants, sundresses, designer jeans, or collared shirts. Casual jeans, t-shirts, athletic shoes, and flip flops are discouraged.

In summary, the Mother’s Day Premier Plus Brunch Cruise on the Chicago River offers a delightful blend of culinary excellence and scenic beauty, making it a compelling choice for those wanting to celebrate in style. With its elegant setting, good food, and stunning city views, it’s likely to turn Mother’s Day into a memorable occasion—especially if you love the idea of dining with a view.