Chicago: Wine & Cheese or Beer & BBQ Thursday Evening Cruise

Spending a picturesque evening on the waters of Chicago is a tempting prospect for both locals and visitors alike. The Thursday Evening Cruise offers a unique opportunity to admire the city’s stunning skyline while indulging in a curated selection of local wine and cheese or beer and BBQ. With knowledgeable guides, guests can explore the city’s architectural marvels and learn about the history and significance of landmarks like the iconic Willis Tower. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply looking for a memorable experience, this cruise promises to delight the senses and provide a captivating glimpse into the heart of this vibrant metropolis.

Key Points

• A 2-hour cruise on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, offering a choice between a wine & cheese or beer & BBQ experience.
• Includes 4-6 tastings of local wine or craft beer, accompanied by a cheese table or BBQ meal.
• Provides stunning views of the iconic Chicago skyline from the open-air decks or climate-controlled interiors.
• Minimum age requirement is 21 years old, with valid photo identification required for attendance.
• Flexible cancellation policy, including full refunds up to 24 hours before departure and rescheduling options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Event Details

The 2-hour cruise traverses the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, offering passengers a choice between a wine and cheese or a beer and BBQ experience.

Lasting for two hours, the cruise departs from the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue (DuSable) Bridge.

Guests can savor 4-6 tastings of wine or local beer while enjoying the breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Those opting for the wine and cheese package will be treated to a cheese table, while the beer and BBQ package includes a delicious BBQ meal.

Regardless of the option chosen, a knowledgeable guide will be on hand to enhance the experience.

Passengers must be at least 21 years old, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Cruise Inclusions

Passengers on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan cruise can expect 4-6 tastings of either local wine or beer, complemented by a cheese table or a BBQ meal, depending on the package they choose. The cruise also includes a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience. Whether guests opt for the wine and cheese or the beer and BBQ, they’ll be able to pair their beverages with delectable pairings as they take in the stunning city skyline views from the open-air decks or climate-controlled interiors.

Package Options	Tastings	Meal
Wine & Cheese	4-6 wine tastings	Cheese table
Beer & BBQ	4-6 beer tastings	BBQ meal

City Skyline Views

Guests aboard the Chicago River and Lake Michigan cruise can admire the city’s striking skyline, which boasts an array of iconic architectural marvels.

From the open-air decks or climate-controlled interiors, travelers enjoy unobstructed panoramic views of the towering skyscrapers, historic buildings, and bustling urban landscape that define the Windy City’s distinctive silhouette.

The cruise offers the perfect vantage point to take in landmarks like the Willis Tower, Aon Center, and John Hancock Center, which soar above the cityscape.

As the boat glides along the waterways, passengers can snap photos and marvel at the stunning juxtaposition of modern and classic styles that make Chicago’s skyline so instantly recognizable.

Wine and Cheese

For the wine and cheese option, passengers can savor 4-6 tastings of expertly curated wines from renowned local and international vineyards.

The cheese table features an artisanal selection of creamy, tangy, and nutty varieties that perfectly complement the wine pairings, allowing guests to indulge in a refined and elevated tasting experience.

The onboard guide provides expert insight into the wine and cheese pairings, sharing tasting notes and the unique stories behind each selection.

Passengers can sip and savor as they take in the stunning Chicago skyline, creating a memorable pairing of flavors and views.

This option offers a sophisticated and delightful way to experience the city’s architectural beauty and culinary delights.

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Beer and BBQ

Beer enthusiasts and barbecue aficionados can indulge in a dynamic pairing of locally-sourced brews and mouthwatering grilled fare during the 2-hour cruise. Guests can sample 4-6 tastings of craft beers from renowned Chicago breweries, each carefully selected to complement the robust flavors of the BBQ menu. An onboard guide provides tasting notes and insights into the unique brewing processes, allowing passengers to deepen their appreciation for the city’s vibrant beer culture as they take in the stunning views of the Chicago skyline.

Beer Pairings	Tasting Notes	Brewery	ABV
Smoked Porter	Rich, roasted malt flavors	Goose Island	6.5%
Pale Ale	Citrusy, floral hoppiness	Revolution Brewing	5.7%
Amber Lager	Caramel malt sweetness	Half Acre Beer Co.	5.2%
Hazy IPA	Juicy, tropical fruit notes	Lagunitas	6.2%

Meeting Point

Passengers are instructed to present their timed tickets at the northwest corner of the Michigan Avenue (DuSable) Bridge, which serves as the designated meeting point for the Chicago River and Lake Michigan cruise.

This convenient location allows guests to easily find the departure point and board the boat without any hassle. The bridge’s iconic architecture and proximity to other notable landmarks, like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower, make it an ideal starting point for the two-hour excursion.

Arriving at the meeting point a few minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth check-in process before setting sail and enjoying the included wine or beer tastings, cheese or BBQ meal, and guided tour of the city’s stunning skyline.

Minimum Age Requirement

The minimum age requirement for this Chicago River and Lake Michigan cruise is 21 years old. This age restriction ensures all attendees can legally consume and enjoy the included wine or beer tastings, which are a central part of the event’s experience.

Passengers must present valid photo identification to confirm they meet the 21+ age requirement when checking in at the meeting point. This policy is strictly enforced for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Cancellation Policy

Up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, guests can cancel their reservations for this Chicago River and Lake Michigan cruise and receive a full refund with no penalty fees. This flexible cancellation policy allows attendees to adjust their plans if unexpected conflicts arise, providing peace of mind when booking their tickets. By offering this hassle-free cancellation window, the event organizers demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction and accessibility.

Cancellation Window	Refund
24 hours or more	100%
Less than 24 hours	0%
No-shows	0%
Weather Cancellation	100%
Rescheduling	Flexible

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Included in the Ticket Price?

Gratuity is typically not included in the ticket price for this type of event. Guests should be prepared to tip the staff, such as the server and guide, at the end of the cruise experience.

What Types of Wine and Beer Are Offered?

The cruise offers a selection of 4-6 wine or local beer tastings. The wine options may include red, white, and rosé varieties. The beer options likely feature popular local craft brews and seasonal offerings.

Is There a Vegetarian Menu Option Available?

The evening cruise offers a vegetarian menu option featuring a selection of cheeses, breads, and seasonal produce for the wine and cheese package. Guests with dietary restrictions can be accommodated upon request.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is generally not allowed on these types of cruises. Most operators prohibit outside items to ensure the successful operation of the event and maintain quality control over the food and beverage offerings.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad?

If the weather is bad, the cruise will operate with the vessel’s climate-controlled indoor seating areas. Guests can still enjoy the food, drinks, and city views in comfort, regardless of the outdoor conditions.

Recap

The Thursday Evening Cruise offers a unique opportunity to take in Chicago’s captivating skyline.

Guests can choose between a wine and cheese or beer and BBQ package, both featuring local tastings and knowledgeable guides.

The convenient departure point and flexible cancellation policy make this cruise an ideal way to appreciate the city’s architectural marvels.

Whether seeking a relaxing evening or a lively adventure, this cruise provides an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: