Chicago Lunch Cruises
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
| Cruise | Boarding point | Cuisine | Duration | Inclusions | Dress code | Guided architecture tour | Add-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
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.
- The Chicago River Architecture Plus Premier Lunch Cruise is the only lunch cruise that comes with a guided tour of Chicago’s architecture highlights.
- 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.
- Navy Pier: Routes from Navy Pier typically head out onto Lake Michigan.
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
- Closest bus stop: Columbus & North Water (1-min walk)
- Closest subway station: Grand (0.3 miles)
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
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.
Plan your visit
Lake Michigan Signature Lunch Cruise: 12:30pm
Duration: 2-3 hours
Boarding begins 45 minutes before departureLake Michigan Premier Lunch Cruise: 12:30pm
Duration: 2 hours
Boarding begins 1 hour before departureChicago 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.
It depends on the cruise type you choose. Premier experiences typically require cocktail attire, while buffet-style or signature cruises are more relaxed and allow casual dress.
Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure, especially at busy boarding points like Navy Pier. This gives you enough time for check-in, boarding, and settling in before the cruise begins.
Non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, tea, and water are included with your Chicago lunch cruise tickets. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase from the onboard bar.
Yes, lunch cruises are a popular choice for celebrations. The combination of dining, music, and skyline views creates a memorable setting, and some cruises offer upgrades or add-ons for special occasions.
Yes, most vessels have open-air decks where you can step out anytime during the cruise (weather permitting).
Yes, lunch cruises welcome guests of all ages. The relaxed daytime setting, comfortable seating, and scenic views make it suitable for families, including those traveling with young children.
