Chicago’s dinner cruises combine sightseeing with dining along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Most tours last 2-3 hours and include a three-course meal with city views. The Odyssey and Spirit of Chicago vessels are standouts, offering the best mix of good food and professional service.
I’m particularly fond of the Fireworks Dinner Cruise – the timing is perfect to catch Navy Pier’s spectacular show while enjoying dinner. For special occasions, the more intimate Odyssey cruise wins points with its attentive service and better food quality.
Basic cruises start at $80 per person, with holiday and special event cruises ranging higher. Book at least two weeks ahead in high season (June-August). Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome on all major cruise lines.
Let’s explore Chicago’s best dinner cruise options, ranked by value and experience.
Key Points
- Chicago offers a variety of gourmet dinner cruises on Lake Michigan, featuring seasonal 3-course plated meals, open bars, and stunning skyline views.
- Special occasion cruises cater to events like Christmas Eve, Mother’s Day, and New Year’s Eve, with themed menus and entertainment.
- Dinner cruises provide an intimate dining experience with live DJ entertainment, wheelchair accessibility, and options for families with children.
- Customers praise the cruises for their good value, with unlimited beverage options and panoramic views of iconic Chicago landmarks.
- Pricing for dinner cruises varies, with options ranging from $202.96 per person for a Christmas Eve cruise to $409.93 per person for a New Year’s Eve event.
Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
What better way to experience the stunning Chicago skyline than aboard the Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan? This 2.5-3 hour cruise offers a 3-course plated dinner, attentive service, and entertainment from an onboard DJ.
With a maximum capacity of 19 travelers, it’s an intimate dining experience. The seasonal menu features freshly prepared hors d’oeuvres, entrees, sides, and desserts. Beverages like coffee, tea, and water are included, while a full-service bar offers alcohol for purchase.
The cruise departs from Navy Pier, offering views of the Shedd Aquarium and Navy Pier. Though reviews are mixed, the cruise is a unique way to celebrate special occasions while taking in the city’s iconic sights.
Read our full review: Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan Review
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Chicago: Christmas Eve Gourmet Dinner Cruise Lake Michigan
The Chicago: Christmas Eve Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan offers a unique and festive way to celebrate the holiday season.
Priced from $202.96 per person, this 2.5-hour cruise departs from Navy Pier and features a 3-course plated dinner with choices like turkey, salmon, and gnocchi.
The cruise also includes unlimited coffee, tea, and scenic views of Chicago’s iconic skyline. Guests can enjoy onboard DJ entertainment and the comfortable indoor and outdoor seating areas.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and infants 0-2 can attend for free.
With a perfect 5/5 customer rating, this Christmas Eve cruise promises an unforgettable dining experience on the waters of Lake Michigan.
Read our full review: Chicago: Christmas Eve Gourmet Dinner Cruise Lake Michigan Review
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Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise With Buffet
For those seeking a unique and festive way to experience Chicago’s renowned fireworks displays, the Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise with Buffet offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Departing from Navy Pier, this 4-hour cruise includes a buffet dinner, live entertainment, and stunning views of the city’s skyline.
While reviews on the food quality have been mixed, the fireworks and staff service have been consistently praised.
Guests should note the dress code and seating policies, as well as the fact that the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise With Buffet Review
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Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise
Offering a unique dining experience on the scenic waters of Lake Michigan, the Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise provides guests with 360-degree views of the city’s iconic skyline.
Priced from Kč 2,882 per person, the 2-hour cruise departs from the Navy Pier and features a non-refundable cancellation policy.
Guests can choose from a buffet-style brunch, lunch, or dinner, with a menu that includes seasonal fruit, breakfast pastries, seafood, and desserts.
The cruise also offers live DJ entertainment, games, and a lively atmosphere.
With a customer rating of 4.1/5, the cruise is wheelchair accessible and recommends comfortable attire.
Read our full review: Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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Premier Chicago River Dinner Cruise
What makes the Premier Chicago River Dinner Cruise a standout dining experience? This 2.5 to 3-hour cruise along the Chicago River offers a maximum of 15 travelers an intimate, upscale setting to enjoy a 3-course plated dinner.
With breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Tribune Tower and Willis Tower, guests can indulge in an array of beverages and live DJ entertainment.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though some have reported temperature discomfort inside.
Read our full review: Premier Chicago River Dinner Cruise Review
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Chicago: Tapas & Flamenco Dinner in Ukrainian Village
Tucked away in the vibrant Ukrainian Village neighborhood, Chef Carla’s intimate culinary experience immerses guests in the rich flavors and captivating rhythms of Spain.
Visitors dine on a delectable 4-course tapas menu prepared by a Michelin-trained master chef, complemented by flowing wine and sangria.
During the meal, they’re treated to a mesmerizing Flamenco performance by host and dance instructor Ronaldo, who also provides an introduction to the history and passion of this art form.
Located just a short walk from the Blue Line, this 2-hour experience accommodates groups of 3 to 12 people and can be booked with a flexible reservation policy.
Read our full review: Chicago: Tapas & Flamenco Dinner in Ukrainian Village Review
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Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
Sailing aboard a luxury yacht, the Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan provides a gourmet dining experience set against the stunning backdrop of the city’s skyline.
Theres some good a three-course plated meal with attentive tableside service, complemented by unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. Those seeking a more indulgent menu can opt for a surf and turf upgrade.
The cruise culminates in a dazzling fireworks display, weather permitting. While reviews are mixed, with some citing issues with food quality and service, the cruise’s picturesque setting and festive atmosphere are widely praised.
Departing from Navy Pier, the cruise is accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-pushing guests, though smoking is limited to outdoor decks.
Read our full review: Chicago Fireworks Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan Review
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Chicago: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise
One of Chicago’s most popular river cruising experiences, the Chicago: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise offers guests a chance to savor chef-prepared meals while taking in the city’s stunning riverfront architecture.
Priced from $146.24 per person, the 2-2.5 hour cruise provides sightseeing of notable landmarks like the Wrigley Building, Trump Tower, and Navy Pier.
Diners can enjoy unlimited coffee, tea, and iced tea, as well as bottomless mimosas on brunch cruises.
The dress code is dressy-casual, and the cruise has an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 81 reviews praising the excellent food and service.
Read our full review: Chicago: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise Review
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Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
The Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan provides Chicago visitors a chance to celebrate the holiday with a scenic tour and delectable dining.
Priced from $129.70 per person, the cruise features a delicious buffet-style dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, along with unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
Passengers can enjoy live DJ entertainment as they take in views of the city skyline and local landmarks.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and allows service animals.
With a maximum capacity of 150 travelers, the cruise departs from and returns to the City Cruises Chicago Navy Pier location.
Read our full review: Mothers Day Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan Review
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Chicago: Fireworks Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
For an unforgettable evening on the waters of Lake Michigan, the Chicago Fireworks Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a unique opportunity to indulge in a multi-course culinary experience while taking in stunning views of the city skyline.
Priced from $193.94 per person, the 3-hour cruise features a bountiful buffet with a selection of salads, entrees, and desserts. Guests can enjoy live DJ entertainment, rooftop games, and the best views of the Navy Pier fireworks, weather permitting.
While the non-refundable cancellation policy is strict, the cruise’s overall rating of 3.8/5 suggests a well-organized event with good value for money and transportation.
Read our full review: Chicago: Fireworks Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan Review
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New Years Eve Plated Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
On New Year’s Eve, travelers can embark on a memorable four-hour plated dinner cruise along the waters of Lake Michigan. The cruise, operated by City Cruises, departs from Navy Pier and features a maximum capacity of 300 guests.
The dining experience includes a 3-course gourmet meal with attentive tableside service, as well as unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. For those looking to enjoy adult libations, the Silver Package offers a Platinum Open Bar.
Throughout the evening, guests can groove to music from a live DJ and take in the stunning skyline views illuminated by the city’s lights. With an overall rating of 5.0 based on a recent review, this New Year’s Eve cruise is sure to be a highlight of the holiday season.
Read our full review: New Years Eve Plated Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan Review
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Premier Chicago River Fireworks Dinner Cruise
Travelers seeking a unique evening excursion can embark on the Premier Chicago River Fireworks Dinner Cruise.
The cruise offers panoramic views of Chicago’s architectural marvels while guests indulge in a gourmet, 3-course meal. Live entertainment, including a DJ and fireworks displays on Wednesdays and Sundays, enhances the festive atmosphere.
The cruise includes unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Witness a spectacular 30-minute pyro-musical fireworks display against the Chicago Skyline backdrop.
The cruise departs from Navy Pier, with local parking available. Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled cruise time, and the cruise accommodates a maximum of 100 travelers.
Read our full review: Premier Chicago River Fireworks Dinner Cruise Review
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Fathers Day Plated Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River
The Fathers Day Plated Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River offers a unique way to celebrate the special day.
Travelers can enjoy a delicious plated dinner with fresh entrees, salads, and desserts, accompanied by unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. The cruise features a live DJ for entertainment, providing a lively atmosphere.
The meeting point is at 455 N Cityfront Plaza Dr, and the cruise returns to the same location. Local parking is available at 219/225 E. North Water Street, LOWER level for Odyssey Chicago River.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, and allows service animals. Infants must sit on laps.
The price starts from $207.61 per person with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Fathers Day Plated Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River Review
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New Years Eve Chicago River Plated Dinner Cruise
As the clock strikes midnight, travelers on the New Year’s Eve Chicago River Plated Dinner Cruise will witness a dazzling fireworks display over the city skyline.
This 3.5-hour cruise includes a 3-course, chef-prepared plated menu and a sparkling wine toast for guests 21 and over. With a maximum capacity of 200 travelers, the cruise offers an intimate setting to ring in the new year.
Guests will enjoy DJ entertainment, complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and infants are welcome to sit on laps.
Priced from $409.93 per person, this New Year’s Eve experience provides a memorable way to celebrate in Chicago.
Read our full review: New Years Eve Chicago River Plated Dinner Cruise Review
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Recap
Chicago offers a variety of dinner cruises on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, providing stunning views and gourmet dining experiences. From Christmas Eve to New Year’s Eve, there are options for special occasions and year-round enjoyment. Whether you prefer a buffet, plated meal, or a cruise with fireworks, you’ll find the perfect dinner cruise to make your visit to the Windy City unforgettable.