MLB baseballs
Chicago / City Cruises / Illinois / United States

A Shoutout to Chicago: On the Water with the White Sox

The Chicago White Sox are one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, boasting a history that spans over a century. Since their founding in 1900, the team has seen triumphant victories, challenging seasons, and a steadfast commitment to both baseball and the Chicago community.
Similarly, City Cruises has long been dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences in Chicago, offering unforgettable views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Whether you’re a lifelong White Sox fan or a first-time visitor, pairing a City Cruises experience with a trip to the ballpark makes for the ultimate Chicago adventure.
Let’s take a closer look at the extensive history of the White Sox and how City Cruises can elevate your baseball experience in the Windy City!

DJ at a Sweet 16 birthday party on the Chicago River with City Cruises
Chicago / City Cruises / Eat & Drink / Group Events / History & Architecture / Illinois / Special Events & Holidays / Things To Do / Tours & Attractions / United States

Ideas for Celebrating a Sweet Sixteen on the Water in Chicago

A 16th birthday is a big deal. In fact, by society’s standards, it’s seen as an important rite of passage as adolescents start embarking on adulthood. That means a Sweet Sixteen celebration isn’t considered a kids’ party. Instead, the event becomes more sophisticated in style—and often substance. Because of the arts, culture, history, architecture, and fantastic dining scene that Chicago offers, the city is a popular destination for big occasions. Museums, theater, music performances, and many activities abound here, as do potential venues for hosting a spectacular soiree. But to make the most of all the iconic attractions in these stunning surroundings, only one option trumps them all. We’re talking about City Cruises, of course! With some of the largest and most luxurious vessels in class, our fleet offers a range of exceptional amenities and access to exquisite views. The end result? A unique and unforgettable experience for all on the water in Chicago.

women captains
Alcatraz / Alcatraz City Cruises / Baltimore / Boston / California / Canada / Chicago / City Cruises / City Ferry / Crew Spotlight / DC Metro / Devour Tours / Europe / Greater Los Angeles Area / Illinois / London / Maryland / Massachusetts / New Jersey / New York / New York City / Niagara City Cruises / Niagara Falls / Niagara Falls / Norfolk / Pennsylvania / Philadelphia / Sacramento / San Diego / San Francisco Bay Area / Statue City Cruises / Toronto / United Kingdom / United States / Virginia / Walks

Women at the Helm: Celebrating International Women’s Day at Hornblower

  International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the achievements and contributions of women across every industry and community. It’s a day to recognize progress toward gender equality while

Older couple enjoying a retirement party on City Cruises in Chicago
Chicago / City Cruises / Corporate Events / Group Events / Illinois / Special Events & Holidays / United States

Chicago is the Perfect Place to Host Your Retirement Party on the Water

If you thought retirement would never happen, it makes it even more special when it finally arrives. Chances are that you’ve spent the better part of your life in your career, working hard, commuting to and from work, and now you can finally step into the next important phase of your life. There’s no better way to take that next step than by thing better than by having a retirement party. Celebrate with an event that will help you transition from the working world into the world of finally getting to relax. After all the blood, sweat, tears, and stress, it’s time to live it up with your family, friends, and former co-workers.

When deciding on a venue for this special occasion, it is essential to choose one that is out of the ordinary. Why not hold your retirement party at a memorable place that your guests will truly enjoy and speak about for a long time to come? City Cruises has just what you need to make your celebration stand out from the rest while on the water.

City Cruises is a perfect option for hosting your retirement party in Chicago. The Windy City is not only an architectural mecca; it has a rich history, a fantastic dining and nightlife scene, and, of course, its fabulous waterfront. This is one of the top reasons that hosting your party on a City Cruises vessel is really the only way to go.

Chicago Couple celebrating their anniversary on City Cruises
Chicago / City Cruises / Group Events / Illinois / Special Events & Holidays / United States / Wedding

Chivalry in Chicago: Romantic Anniversary Party Venues

When it comes to celebrating your anniversary, there’s no place quite like Chicago. Known for its stunning skyline, rich history, and vibrant culture, the “Windy City” offers a setting that’s perfect for ringing in your special day. If you’re looking for a unique way to make your anniversary unforgettable, why not take your celebration to the water? City Cruises in Chicago offers an unbeatable way to toast to your love with breathtaking views, gourmet dining, and an atmosphere that genuinely stands out. With state-of-the-art vessels, expert event planning staff, and a commitment to hospitality, you can’t go wrong with booking a City Cruises yacht as the venue for your big celebration. Ready to learn more? Read on to see how you can make this dream a reality.

Group of friends celebrating Memorial Day Weekend onboard City Cruises in Chicago
Chicago / City Cruises / Illinois / Special Events & Holidays / United States

Make the Most of Memorial Day Weekend 2025 in Chicago

Memorial Day is a time for honoring the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives for the nation. In Chicago, the weekend is also an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of summer with a mix of vibrant city events. Whether you are a local or visiting the Windy City, there is no shortage of activities to make your Memorial Day weekend memorable. While the city offers numerous ways to honor the occasion, few experiences compare to celebrating aboard a City Cruises yacht. With options to cruise on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, here’s why celebrating Memorial Day with us should be on your holiday weekend itinerary!

Reflect, Honor, and Remember: Memorial Day Ceremonies in Chicago
Start the weekend by paying tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to the country. Chicago offers several moving ceremonies and events dedicated to honoring their sacrifices, such as the Chicago Memorial Day Parade. This celebration is one of the largest and longest-running events of its kind in the country and is a heartfelt salute to those who have served and a festive start to the holiday weekend. Traditionally held on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, the parade begins at noon, proceeding down State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street.
Before the parade begins, you can attend the Memorial Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Daley Plaza. This solemn event starts an hour before the parade and includes a moment of silence and guest speakers.

Chicago Restaurant Week onboard City Cruises
Baltimore / California / Chicago / City Cruises / DC Metro / Eat & Drink / Greater Los Angeles Area / Illinois / Maryland / New York / New York City / San Diego / Special Events & Holidays / Things To Do / United States

A Guide to Restaurant Week 2025 and Its Delicious Celebrations

Restaurant Week is more than just a foodie event; it celebrates culinary creativity, community, and culture. For seasoned food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, Restaurant Week provides the perfect opportunity to explore diverse flavors and enjoy special menus curated by top chefs. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a charming small town, this highly anticipated event offers something for everyone, including specialty dining cruises offered by City Cruises that combine mouthwatering flavors with jaw-dropping views. Here’s a deep dive into how you can make the most of a city’s Restaurant Week and why it’s an event worth marking on your calendar!

What is Restaurant Week?

Depending on the location, Restaurant Week is an annual event during which participating restaurants offer specially curated prix-fixe menus at discounted prices. Selections typically include an appetizer, main course, and dessert. Some establishments also provide optional wine pairings or special cocktails to complement the meal. Diners can indulge in multi-course meals at a fraction of the regular price, making high-end dining more accessible and allowing food lovers to explore various dishes without breaking the bank.

The idea originated in New York City in the early 1990s to draw attention to the city’s vibrant dining scene. Initially conceived as a promotional event for visitors during a convention, it quickly gained popularity and became an annual tradition. Over the years, the concept has become a staple in the culinary industry, spreading to cities around the globe, each adding its unique flavor to the event.

Chicago / City Cruises / Eat & Drink / Illinois / Things To Do / United States

Lake Michigan or the Chicago River? Two Incredible Waterfront Dining Options

Chicago is a top destination for many reasons. As the third-largest city in the U.S., this multicultural mecca attracts approximately 86 million visitors a year. Known as The Windy City, it is home to 100 neighborhoods, 36 annual parades, 40 film festivals, 74 music festivals, 600 parks, 500 playgrounds, and so much more, according to Chicago.gov. It is a city ingrained in America’s heartland, and while it has a big-city vibe, it is very much in tune with its Midwest roots.

Chicago is known for its appealing architecture and history. It’s a town that Frank Sinatra sang about and for good reasons. From the museums to gangster walking tours, parks, and sports, this city is exciting and has something for all. Chicago is also a great place for dining. Exceptional cuisine is at your fingertips here, and dining at the unique waterfront along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River is a pure treat for anyone who wants those skyline views alongside some great food.

According to Chicago.gov, the Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile path with four districts: The Confluence, The Arcade, The Civic, and the Esplanade. The walk takes you right up and close to the Chicago River, offering spectacular sights and a perfect place for dining on the water. As for Lake Michigan, there’s the Navy Pier, which is full of parks, shops, attractions, and great restaurants on the water.

Couple on their Wedding day aboard City Cruises in Chicago
Chicago / City Cruises / Group Events / Illinois / Special Events & Holidays / Uncategorized / Wedding

Chicago is a Top Destination for all Wedding-Related Events

Whether hosting a bridal shower, bachelor/bachelorette party, post-wedding brunch, engagement party, or the wedding itself, you can’t go wrong with booking your Chicago wedding-related event with City Cruises. With years of experience making wedding dreams a reality, our highly trained event coordinators take the hassle out of the entire process. That means all you need to focus on is having a great time with your friends and family.

With our unique floating venues—coupled with the unbeatable backdrop of the Chicago skyline—it’s tough to pick a better event space than one of our gorgeous private yachts. Our endless customization options allow you to make your party perfectly reflect you and your partner. Ready to learn more? Read on to see how to host your wedding-related event with City Cruises Chicago and create unforgettable memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Chicago’s One-of-a-Kind Wedding Event Venue

Let’s talk about the unique aspect of a floating venue. City Cruises offers a one-of-a-kind setting that transforms your special occasion into something truly extraordinary. Think about it: How many people do you know that have celebrated their wedding on a private yacht? Picture your ceremony framed by stunning waterfront scenery. The picturesque backdrop of the Chicago skyline will make every moment magical. When you choose City Cruises, you’re not just booking a venue; you’re booking a team of event coordinators who will make your big day as stress-free as can be.