Chicago Fireworks Cruise with River and Lake Options

Video 

Overview

Experience Chicago’s summer fireworks from the water with a scenic cruise. This trip combines a brief architectural tour of the Chicago River’s main branch with a unique view of the Navy Pier fireworks, either from the river or Lake Michigan. Enjoy light narration covering Chicago's architecture and history before relaxing and watching the fireworks display.

Full Description

Enjoy a boat cruise to watch the fireworks at Navy Pier. Start by cruising up the Chicago River's main branch, with a brief overview of the city's architecture. You can choose to head out through the Chicago Locks onto Lake Michigan or stay in the Locks to view the fireworks.

The cruise begins by sailing inland to Wolf Point, with light narration about Chicago's history and landmarks. You can admire the city's skyline at twilight from either the indoor cabin or outdoor deck.

The boat then heads back, passing the Riverwalk and Lake Shore Drive, towards Lake Michigan for the fireworks show at Navy Pier. Be sure to visit the full-service cash bar, offering local beer and spirits.

Choose from these options:

• River Fireworks Cruise: A 45 to 60-minute cruise departing from Michigan Ave or the Riverwalk, perfect for families or couples. Watch the fireworks from the mouth of the Chicago River before returning to the dock.

• Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise: A 2 to 2.5-hour cruise that goes through the Chicago Lock System and out onto Lake Michigan. Enjoy contemporary music as the boat floats alongside the fireworks display.

Itinerary

• Starting Point:
  • Depart from either Michigan Avenue or the Chicago Riverwalk
• Tour Highlights:
  • Head inland on the Chicago River to Wolf Point, viewing city landmarks with light commentary on Chicago’s history and architecture
• Route to Fireworks:
  • Cruise back along the Chicago River, passing the Riverwalk and Lake Shore Drive, and move through the Chicago Locks toward Lake Michigan
  • Catch the Navy Pier fireworks from either the river or Lake Michigan, depending on the cruise option
• Duration:
  • River Cruise: 45–60 minutes
  • Lake Michigan Cruise: 2–2.5 hours

Key Features

• Narration
• Fireworks Views
• Seating:
  • Climate-controlled indoor cabin
  • Open-air outdoor deck

Cruise Options

1. River Fireworks Cruise (45–60 minutes)

   • Route: Shorter cruise along the river to the mouth of the Chicago River
   • Fireworks View: Watch from the river before returning to the dock
   • Ideal for: Families, couples, or friends seeking a shorter experience

2. Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise (2–2.5 hours)

   • Route: Cruise through the Chicago Lock System onto Lake Michigan
   • Fireworks View: Stop on Lake Michigan to enjoy the fireworks display alongside the lakefront
   • Ideal for: Longer outings with additional lake views and music

Onboard Amenities

• Full-Service Cash Bar:
  • Local Chicago beer and spirits available
• Seating Options:
  • Indoor cabin for comfort
  • Outdoor deck for an open-air view of the skyline and fireworks

Food & Refreshments

• Onboard Bar:
  • Cash bar with local drinks