Chicago River Fireworks Cruise

Free

ADULTS 13+
$32

KIDS 4-12
$16

KIDS UNDER 4
FREE

Same show, different angle. Take this shorter 45-minute cruise along the Chicago River to catch the Navy Pier fireworks lighting up the sky and reflecting off the water. This is a Chicago experience everyone should do at least once.

Chicago knows how to light up a summer night—and this cruise puts you right in the middle of it. Wendella's Chicago River Fireworks Cruise is a front-row seat to the show, minus the crowds. You’ll float beneath the skyline as Navy Pier’s famous fireworks reflect off the river and skyscrapers in a dazzling display of color.

The cruise starts at our dock on Michigan Avenue, right next to the historic Wrigley Building and DuSable Bridge. You’ll float along all three branches of the Chicago River as the city starts to sparkle, then pause in a prime viewing spot to watch the fireworks burst overhead and shimmer in the water below. It’s the kind of Chicago magic that never gets old, whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong local.

This isn’t a guided tour, so feel free to sit back and soak it in. There’s a full-service bar onboard if you’d like to toast the moment with something bubbly (or not-so-bubbly). Most guests hang out on the upper deck for the view, but the lower level is climate-controlled with comfy seating and restrooms.

Cruises depart rain or shine, and our boats are built for it. Just arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time, because boarding begins 15 minutes prior (and fireworks wait for no one).

Perfect for date night, friend night, or just treating yourself to a little wonder on the water.

• Front-row seat to the fireworks!
• Open-air and indoor seating
• Friendly crew to answer your questions
• Iconic skyline views
• Restrooms on board

We depart rain or shine; Chicago weather is unpredictable, but our boats are built for it. We recommend arriving at the dock 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time since boarding typically begins 15 minutes prior. All bags are subject to screening, and outside alcohol or weapons are not allowed. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable after the scheduled departure time. Not sure where to go? Head to 400 N Michigan Avenue, right by the historic Wrigley Building at the northwest corner of the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge. For additional info chat with us, or give us a call.

We have a selection of local favorites available for purchase, including snacks, candy, soft drinks, beer, wine, hard seltzer, cider, and cocktails. Find our full Menu here.

Our boats are wheelchair accessible from our West Dock, with a ramp to the upper deck. All of our boats have ADA-compliant restrooms. Some of our boats have an elevator from the upper to lower deck, where the bar and restrooms are located. Please call us in advance on 312-337-1446 so we can assist.

Recommended for:
  • Gifting an experience, not a thing
  • Your annual “we should do this more”
  • Squeezing every last drop out of summer
  • Peak summer parenting

Your Cruise

Start & End
We'll meet you at 400 N Michigan Avenue. If you or anyone in your party has limited mobility or has a wheelchair, please call us in advance (312)337-1146 so we can accommodate you.

Sights
Here are some (not all!) of the landmarks you'll see along the way.

  1. Centennial Fountain
  2. Chicago Lock
  3. Chicago Riverwalk
  4. Willis Tower
  5. Wolf Point
  6. Marina City

Blue boat shows approximately where we’ll be to view the fireworks! All routes are subject to change without notice.

Image Map

FAQ

Know before you go

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