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Chicago Brunch Cruises

Mimosas
Mimosas
Sightseeing
Sightseeing
Entertainment
Entertainment
Chicago Brunch Cruises
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Overview

  • Cruise options: 2-hour brunch cruises of Lake Michigan with breakfast and savory options, with a cruise including a guided architecture tour of the Chicago River
  • Menu format: Plated dishes and buffet options with breakfast staples
  • Boats & seating: Climate-controlled interiors and glass-window boats for year-round cruising, as well as an open upper deck that is accessible with good weather
  • Boarding points: Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue/River Esplanade 
  • When to book: Cruises sell out fast on weekends and in the summer, so booking at least 2 weeks in advance is highly recommended
  • Good to know: Unlimited tea, coffee, and sodas are included in the cruise brunch menu, and cocktails and other alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the bar with a valid ID. All brunch cruises have a dress code (casual/cocktail attire)

Your Chicago brunch cruise options explained

CruiseBoarding pointCuisineDurationInclusionsDress codeGuided architecture tourAdd-ons

Lake Michigan Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise

Navy Pier

Buffet with breakfast options, lunch-style options, a carving & dessert station

2 hrs

Unlimited mimosas, brunch buffet, sightseeing, a DJ, unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water

Cocktail attire

❌

Onboard bar (available for purchase)

Lake Michigan Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise

Navy Pier

Buffet with breakfast staples & savory mains

2 hrs

Unlimited mimosas, brunch buffet, sightseeing, a DJ, unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water

Casual attire

❌

Onboard bar (available for purchase)

Chicago River Premier Plus Bottomless Mimosa Architectural Brunch Cruise

River Esplanade (near Michigan Avenue docks)

Plated menu with European & American classics and contemporary breakfast and lunch-style options

2 hrs

A guide, unlimited mimosas, a plated brunch menu, sightseeing, unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water

Cocktail attire

✅

Onboard bar (available for purchase)

What to expect on your Chicago brunch cruise

Tourists serving themselves at an all-you-can-eat buffet with diverse dishes.
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A brunch menu that blends breakfast and lunch favorites

Enjoy a thoughtfully curated brunch menu that combines classic breakfast items with more substantial lunch-style dishes. Choose between a plated meal or buffet, with a mix of sweet and savory options, including carving stations and desserts on select cruises. The variety ensures there’s something to suit every taste.

Unlimited mimosas throughout your cruise

Sip on bottomless mimosas as you take in the views, adding a celebratory touch to your experience. Relax and enjoy your meal without interruptions. Non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, and water are also included with your cruise tickets.

Scenic cruising on Lake Michigan or the Chicago River

Sail along either Lake Michigan or the Chicago River, each offering a distinct perspective of the city. Lake cruises give you wide, open views of the skyline, while river cruises bring you closer to architectural landmarks. The ever-changing views make the journey as engaging as the brunch itself.

Live narration on architecture-focused river cruises

Gain deeper insight into the city’s design through live expert commentary on a Chicago River brunch cruise. Learn about over 50 buildings along the river, adding context to what you see, turning the cruise into both a sightseeing and learning experience.

Comfortable interiors with access to outdoor views

Sit in climate-controlled indoor decks that keep you comfortable regardless of the weather. Large windows ensure uninterrupted views while you dine, with the option to step out onto open-air decks to take photos and enjoy fresh air.

Convenient departure points in central Chicago

Board from easily accessible locations like Navy Pier or the River Esplanade near Michigan Avenue. These central starting points make it simple to plan your day around the cruise, since they are located close to other major attractions and transport options.

Flexible experiences to match your style

Choose between cocktail-attire cruises and relaxed, casual options. Premier cruises offer a more upscale setting with plated meals, while signature cruises focus on a laid-back buffet experience. Pick an experience that fits your plans and preferences.

Things to know before booking your Chicago brunch cruise

  • Sightseeing vs guided cruises: 
    • The Chicago River Premier Plus Bottomless Mimosa Architectural Brunch Cruise is the only brunch cruise that comes with a guided tour of Chicago’s architectural highlights. 
    • The Lake Michigan Signature and Lake Michigan Premier brunch cruises are sightseeing cruises focused on a relaxed experience around Chicago and Lake Michigan’s sights.
  • Age requirements: All guests need to carry a valid ID stating they are 21 or older to have the mimosas. 
  • Menus and dietary accommodations: If you have allergies such as shellfish, dairy, or nuts, or any specific dietary requirements, inform the staff in advance, and they will try their best to accommodate you.
  • Onboard drinks and bar access: Alcoholic drinks such as cocktails, wine, and beer are not included with your ticket but can be purchased onboard. The full-service bar is available to guests aged 21 and above who present a valid ID.
  • Departure locations and routes: Cruises depart either from Navy Pier or near Michigan Avenue at the River Esplanade. 
    • Navy Pier: Departures from here typically cruise out onto Lake Michigan for open-water skyline views. 
    • Michigan Avenue/River Esplanade: These routes explore the Chicago River and usually include a guided architecture experience.

Departure locations for your Chicago brunch cruises

Address: Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 | Find on Maps

  • Closest bus stop: Navy Pier Terminal (1-min walk)
  • Closest subway station: Grand (1 mile)

Address: City Cruises, 455 N Cityfront Plaza Dr, Chicago, IL 60611 | Find on Maps

Your Chicago brunch cruise menus

Lake Michigan Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise (buffet)

Early Riser

  • Breakfast pastries 
  • Scrambled eggs 
  • Breakfast meats (applewood smoked bacon, pork sausage links)
  • Breakfast potatoes 
  • French toast bake 

Late Risers

  • Greek salad 
  • Kale and blueberry salad 
  • Sun-dried tomato pasta salad
  • Roasted fall vegetables 
  • Birria-style chicken 
  • Sesame-glazed Atlantic salmon
  • Hand-carved tri-tip steak 

Dessert

  • Signature dessert station: Individual desserts and seasonal fresh fruit

*Menu items are subject to change.

Lake Michigan Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise (buffet)

Early Riser

  • Breakfast pastries 
  • Scottish smoked salmon display
  • Scrambled eggs 
  • Breakfast meats (applewood smoked bacon, pork sausage links)
  • Breakfast potatoes 
  • French toast 

Late Risers

  • Greek salad 
  • Roasted vegetable and grains salad 
  • Sun-dried tomato pasta salad
  • Baked orecchiette pasta
  • Roasted fall vegetables 
  • Birria-style chicken 
  • Sesame-glazed Atlantic salmon
  • Hand-carved tri-tip steak 
  • Kid's station: chicken tenders and french fries

Dessert

  • Signature dessert station: Individual desserts and seasonal fresh fruit

*Menu items are subject to change.

Chicago River Premier Plus Bottomless Mimosa Architectural Brunch Cruise (plated)

Starters (choice of one)

  • Butternut squash and kale salad 
  • Greek yogurt and granola parfait

Mains (choice of one)

  • Buttermilk-brined chicken breast
  • Scrambled eggs 
  • Brioche French toast 
  • Potato gnocchi with tomato ragu

Dessert (choice of one)

  • Tiramisu 
  • Mixed berries and pineapple 
  • Basque 'Spanish-style' cheesecake

*Menu items are subject to change.

Highlights of your Chicago brunch cruise

Pouring champagne into a glass of orange juice for mimosas.

Sip unlimited mimosas as you cruise

Enjoy bottomless mimosas throughout the journey, adding a festive touch to your brunch. The steady flow lets you relax and enjoy the cruise as you take in the views.

Buffet lunch selection during Pamukkale & Hierapolis Day Trip.
Friends clinking champagne glasses at a celebration.
Adler Planetarium by Lake Michigan, Chicago, with Big Bus tour stop nearby.
Chicago River cruise boat with city skyline, part of 90 Min Chicago River and Lake Michigan Architecture Cruise.

Plan your visit

Visitors on Chicago River architecture cruise viewing skyscrapers.

  • Lake Michigan Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise: 12:30pm, Sunday 
    Duration: 2-3 hours
    Boarding begins 45 minutes before departure

  • Lake Michigan Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise: 12:30pm, Sunday
    Duration: 2 hours
    Boarding begins 1 hour before departure

  • Chicago River Premier Plus Bottomless Mimosa Architectural Brunch Cruise: 11:30am, Saturday and Sunday 
    Duration: 2 hours
    Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure

Please note: Cruise timings and availability may vary based on the season.

Chicago skyline with boats on the river during architecture cruise.
  • For fewer crowds: Late fall (Oct-Nov) and early spring (Mar-Apr) offer a quieter experience. You still enjoy scenic cruising on Lake Michigan or the Chicago River, but with a more relaxed atmosphere and easier availability.
  • For intimate celebrations: Cooler months tend to be less busy, giving you a calmer setting for birthdays, anniversaries, or special occasions.
  • For festivities: Summer (Jun-Aug) is the most vibrant time, with lively crowds, upbeat music, and an energetic onboard atmosphere. 
  • For sightseeing: Late spring to early fall (May-Sep) provides the best weather and visibility for skyline views. Clear skies and longer daylight hours make it easier to fully enjoy landmarks and architectural details along your route.
People enjoying a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan with a view of a lighthouse and Chicago skyline.
  • Accommodations for dietary restrictions: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available on most brunch cruises. Inform the crew in advance about allergies or specific dietary needs so they can accommodate you.
  • Unlimited mimosas: Bottomless mimosas are included throughout the cruise, adding a celebratory touch to your brunch experience. Non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, and water are also available.
  • Infants under two cruise free: Children under the age of two can join the cruise at no cost, making it convenient for families traveling with young kids.
  • Guaranteed table: You are assigned a table based on your group size, ensuring your party is seated together comfortably during the cruise.
  • Climate-controlled interior decks: Indoor seating areas are fully climate-controlled, allowing you to stay comfortable in all weather conditions while enjoying views.
  • Open-air decks: Outdoor decks let you step out for fresh air and unobstructed views of Lake Michigan or the Chicago River.
  • Onboard full-service bar: A full-service bar is available for purchasing cocktails, wine, and beer. Guests aged 21 and above can access the bar with a valid ID.
Know the rules" written on a chalkboard.
  • Carry a valid ID for alcohol service: You must be 21 or older and present a valid ID to access mimosas or purchase drinks from the bar. Staff may request ID at any time.
  • Follow boarding and departure timings strictly: Cruises depart on schedule and cannot wait for late arrivals. Plan your journey to the dock in advance to avoid missing your cruise.
  • Respect onboard safety instructions: Listen to crew announcements and follow all safety guidelines during boarding, cruising, and disembarking. This ensures a safe experience for all guests.
  • Consume alcohol responsibly: While mimosas may be unlimited, you are expected to drink responsibly. The crew reserves the right to refuse service if necessary.
  • Remain mindful of shared spaces: Keep noise levels and movement respectful, especially in dining areas. This helps maintain a pleasant environment for all guests.
  • Supervise children at all times: If you’re traveling with kids, ensure they remain seated or accompanied, particularly on open-air decks.
  • Do not bring outside food or beverages: Outside items are generally not permitted onboard. All dining and drinks are provided as part of the cruise experience or available for purchase.
Chicago River cruise boat passing under a bridge with city skyline.
  • Arrive early for smooth boarding: Plan to reach your departure point, often Navy Pier, at least 45 minutes in advance. This gives you enough time to check in, board comfortably, and settle in before brunch service begins.
  • Choose your cruise type based on experience: Pick a Lake Michigan cruise for open skyline views or a Chicago River cruise for closer architecture and narration. Your choice will shape the overall vibe of your brunch.
  • Dress according to the cruise style: Check your ticket details for dress code guidance. Premier brunch cruises usually lean toward cocktail attire, while signature cruises are more relaxed and casual.
  • Step out for the best photo opportunities: Take advantage of open-air decks for clear, unobstructed photos. Mid-cruise often offers the best lighting for skyline shots.
  • Pace your food and drinks: Start light and explore the menu gradually, especially on buffet cruises. This helps you enjoy both the food and unlimited mimosas without feeling rushed.
  • Inform staff about dietary needs early: Let the crew know about any allergies or dietary preferences as soon as you board. This ensures you get suitable meal options without delays.

Frequently asked questions about Chicago brunch cruises

Yes, mimosas are served continuously throughout the cruise duration. Service may pause briefly during boarding or docking, but you can expect refills during most of your dining experience.

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