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Chicago Lunch Cruises

Gourmet meals
Gourmet meals
Stunning views
Stunning views
Onboard entertainment
Onboard entertainment
Chicago Lunch Cruises
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Overview

  • Cruise options: 2-3-hour lunch and sightseeing cruises, on the Chicago River or Lake Michigan, with plated meals or a buffet, and an option to include an architecture tour with the lunch cruise
  • Menu format: Plated 3-course meals and buffet options 
  • Boats & seating: Climate-controlled interiors and glass-window boats for year-round cruising, as well as an open upper deck 
  • Boarding points: Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue/River Esplanade 
  • When to book: Cruises sell out fast on weekends, in the summer, and during the holiday season, so booking 2-3 weeks in advance is highly recommended
  • Good to know: Unlimited tea, coffee, and sodas are included with the lunch. Cocktails and other alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the bar with a valid ID. Each cruise has a dress code (casual/cocktail attire)

Your Chicago lunch cruise options explained

CruiseBoarding pointCuisineDurationInclusionsDress codeGuided architecture tourAdd-ons

Lake Michigan Premier Lunch Cruise

Navy Pier

3-course plated lunch with modern American cuisine

2 hrs

Sightseeing, plated lunch, unlimited tea, coffee, iced tea, water, onboard DJ

Cocktail attire

❌

Onboard bar (available for purchase)

Lake Michigan Signature Lunch Cruise

Navy Pier

Buffet lunch with global fusion dishes

2-3 hrs

Sightseeing, buffet lunch, unlimited tea, coffee, iced tea, water, onboard DJ

Casual attire

❌

Onboard bar (available for purchase)

Chicago River Architecture Plus Premier Lunch Cruise

River Esplanade (near Michigan Avenue docks)

3-course plated lunch with contemporary American cuisine

2 hrs

Guide, sightseeing, plated lunch, unlimited tea, coffee, iced tea, water

Cocktail attire

✅

Onboard bar (available for purchase)

What to expect on your Chicago lunch cruise

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Scenic cruise routes across the lake and the river

You can choose between cruising on Lake Michigan or along the Chicago River, each offering a distinct perspective of the city. Lake cruises highlight skyline views, while river cruises take you through the heart of downtown. Depending on your route, you’ll pass major landmarks and waterfront sights.

Iconic Chicago sights along the way

Enjoy uninterrupted views of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks throughout your cruise. Expect to see the skyline, Navy Pier, towering structures like Willis Tower, the Adler Planetarium, and more. River cruises go even deeper, covering over 50 architectural landmarks along multiple branches.

Choice of plated or buffet dining experiences

You can select between a refined plated meal or a more casual buffet-style lunch. Premier cruises typically offer a 3-course plated menu with contemporary American flavors, sometimes with Mediterranean influences. Signature cruises feature a buffet with a variety of global fusion dishes.

Comfortable indoor seating with climate control

Dine and relax in climate-controlled interior decks designed for comfort in all weather conditions. Large windows ensure you don’t miss the views while staying indoors. This setup makes the cruise enjoyable year-round, regardless of outside temperatures.

Onboard entertainment and lively ambiance

Experience a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere enhanced by onboard entertainment. Many cruises feature a live DJ, adding energy without overwhelming the setting. The environment is social and welcoming, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups.

Beverage options and onboard bar service

You’ll have access to unlimited non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water throughout the cruise. An onboard bar is also available, offering cocktails, wine, and beer for purchase. This allows you to customize your experience based on your preferences.

Flexible durations and dress code options

Choose a cruise that fits your schedule, with durations typically ranging from two to three hours. Dress codes vary by experience, ranging from casual attire to more formal cocktail wear on premier cruises. This flexibility allows you to plan according to the occasion, whether it’s a relaxed outing or a special event.

Things to know before booking your Chicago lunch cruise

  • Sightseeing vs guided cruises: 
    • The Chicago River Architecture Plus Premier Lunch Cruise is the only lunch cruise that comes with a guided tour of Chicago’s architecture highlights. 
    • The Lake Michigan Signature and Lake Michigan Premier lunch cruises are not guided tours, but they offer a more relaxed sightseeing experience of Chicago and Lake Michigan’s sights.
  • Menus and dietary accommodations: Your cruise offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to suit different preferences. If you have allergies such as shellfish or nuts, or any specific dietary requirements, inform your server/the staff in advance.
  • Onboard drinks and bar access: Alcoholic beverages like cocktails, wine, and beer are not included in your ticket but are available for purchase onboard. The full-service bar is open to guests aged 21 and above who carry a valid ID.
  • Departure locations and routes: Your cruises depart from either Navy Pier or near Michigan Avenue at the River Esplanade. 
    • Navy Pier: Routes from Navy Pier typically head out onto Lake Michigan.
    • Michigan Avenue/River Esplanade: These cruises focus on the Chicago River and include a guided architecture tour.

Departure locations for your Chicago lunch 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 lunch cruise menus

Lake Michigan Signature Lunch Cruise (buffet)

Salads (served with fresh bread and butter)

  • Greek salad 
  • Roasted vegetables and grains 
  • Sun-dried tomato pasta salad

Mains

  • Baked orecchiette pasta 
  • Birria-style chicken 
  • Sesame-glazed Atlantic salmon 
  • Caribbean jerk braised pork

Complements

  • Curried cauliflower blend
  • Roasted tri-color potatoes 
  • Roasted fall vegetables 

Dessert

  • Signature dessert station: Individual desserts and seasonal fruit

*Menu items are subject to change.

Lake Michigan Premier Lunch Cruise (plated)

Starters (choice of one)

  • Honeycrisp apple salad
  • Corn and potato chowder

Mains (choice of one)

  • Pan-seared chicken breast
  • Smoked chili-rubbed Atlantic salmon 
  • Seasonal potato gnocchi 

Dessert (choice of one)

  • Chocolate toffee crunch cake
  • Spanish 'Basque-style' cheesecake 
  • Mixed berries and pineapple

*Menu items are subject to change.

Chicago River Architecture Plus Premier Lunch Cruise (plated)

Starters (choice of one)

  • Butternut squash and kale salad 
  • Cauliflower and leek chowder

Mains (choice of one)

  • Buttermilk-brined chicken breast 
  • Atlantic striped bass 
  • Potato gnocchi with tomato ragu 

Dessert (choice of one)

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

*Menu items are subject to change.

Highlights of your Chicago lunch cruise

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Soak in Chicago’s skyline views from the water

Glide past Chicago’s striking skyline, framed by shimmering waters and open skies. From this vantage point, you clearly spot landmarks like Willis Tower rising above the cityscape.

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Plan your visit

  • Lake Michigan Signature Lunch Cruise: 12:30pm 
    Duration: 2-3 hours
    Boarding begins 45 minutes before departure

  • Lake Michigan Premier Lunch Cruise: 12:30pm
    Duration: 2 hours
    Boarding begins 1 hour before departure

  • Chicago River Architecture Plus Premier Lunch Cruise: 11:30am 
    Duration: 2 hours
    Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure

Please note: Cruise timings may change based on the season.

  • Peak season: Late spring to early fall (May to September) is the most popular time, with warm weather, clear skies, and lively waterfront activity along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Expect the best views and atmosphere, but also larger crowds and higher demand.
  • Shoulder season: April and October offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed cruise experience. You still get good visibility and pleasant conditions, though it can be cooler on the water.
  • Low season: November to March sees the fewest visitors due to cold weather and shorter daylight hours. While indoor, climate-controlled decks keep you comfortable, outdoor views may be limited, and some departures may be reduced.
  • Accommodations for dietary restrictions: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available on most cruises. Inform the staff in advance about allergies or specific dietary needs so they can assist you appropriately.
  • Infants under two cruise free: Children under the age of two can join the cruise at no cost, making it a convenient option for families traveling with young kids.
  • Guaranteed table: You are assigned a table based on your group size, ensuring your party is seated together for a comfortable dining experience.
  • Climate-controlled interior decks: Indoor seating areas are fully climate-controlled, allowing you to enjoy the cruise comfortably in both hot summers and cold winters.
  • Open-air decks: Outdoor decks give you the option to step out, take in fresh air, and capture unobstructed views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.
  • Onboard full-service bar: A full-service bar is available onboard, offering cocktails, wine, and beer for purchase. Guests aged 21 and above can access the bar with a valid ID.
  • Carry a valid ID for bar purchases: If you plan to order alcoholic beverages, bring a valid government-issued ID. Bar service is available only to guests above the legal drinking age.
  • Follow crew instructions at all times: Listen carefully to safety briefings and follow directions from the crew throughout the cruise. This ensures a smooth and safe experience for everyone on board.
  • Supervise children at all times: If you’re traveling with children, keep them under close supervision, especially on open-air decks. Safety railings are in place, but active supervision is essential.
  • Stay within designated guest areas: You should remain in public guest areas and avoid restricted sections of the vessel. This helps maintain both safety and operational efficiency.
  • Practice caution on outdoor decks: Deck surfaces may become slippery, especially near railings or in windy conditions. Hold onto railings and move carefully when outside.
  • Arrive early for a smooth boarding: Plan to reach the departure point at least 30 minutes before boarding time. This gives you enough time for check-in, seating, and settling in before the cruise begins.
  • Dress for both comfort and style: Follow the dress code mentioned on your ticket: casual or cocktail attire, depending on the cruise. Bring a light jacket, as it can feel cooler on the water even in warmer months.
  • Check the menu in advance: Review the menu ahead of time, especially if you have dietary preferences or restrictions. Inform the staff early so they can accommodate your needs without delays.
  • Step out for the best photos: While indoor decks offer great views, head to the open-air deck for clearer, unobstructed shots of the skyline. Midway through the cruise is often the best time for lighting and views.
  • Keep your essentials handy: Carry sunglasses, sunscreen, and your phone or camera for photos. A small bag is ideal, as table space may be limited during dining.

Frequently asked questions about Chicago lunch cruises

Cruises on Lake Michigan focus on wide, panoramic skyline views and a more open-water experience. Cruises on the Chicago River are more immersive and include a detailed architecture narration as you pass iconic buildings.

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