Fireworks or sunset cruise?

Question

Hi.

Would love some advice if anyone here has done the Wendella boat tour in the summer .

Which would you book? Wendella fireworks cruise ( shorter ride 45 min ) or their sunset cruise ( 90 min ride - short architecture spiel amd then just music) .

I already have reservations for my family to go on the CAC boat tour with First Lady on our first night but wanted to do a night ride as an added activity . Mainly because it’s summer and might be nice to be on the lake for fireworks or the sunset cruise to Lake Michigan.

Which would be best for a family with a 10 year old?

What is the weather like around mid to end July? Trying to see if buying advance tickets are worth it or if I should wait closer to see what weather will be like?

Any input or advice is helpful. Thank you

Answer

Both the Wendella Fireworks cruise and the Sunset cruise on Lake Michigan offer unique experiences, but for a family with a 10-year-old, I would lean towards the Fireworks cruise, especially if you're looking for a bit more excitement and a shorter ride. Here's a breakdown of both options:

Wendella Fireworks Cruise (45-minute ride):

Pros: If your family enjoys fireworks, this is a great option. It’s a shorter ride, so it's ideal for younger kids who might have trouble staying still for long periods. The fireworks show is a big highlight, and the cruise offers a fantastic view of the skyline, especially at night. The fireworks backdrop over the lake is one of Chicago's most iconic summer activities.
Cons: If your child isn’t overly thrilled by fireworks or prefers a more laid-back experience, the 45-minute duration might feel a little rushed. Also, it can get crowded depending on the time and date.

Wendella Sunset Cruise (90-minute ride):

Pros: This cruise offers a relaxing experience with music and a short architecture tour, giving you an overview of Chicago’s iconic skyline. The sunset views over Lake Michigan are absolutely stunning, and it can be a great opportunity to unwind. The longer duration allows you to really take in the views and feel the summer breeze. If your family enjoys a more scenic and calm experience, this could be ideal.
Cons: While it’s a lovely experience, it might be less exciting for a 10-year-old, as there’s less of an interactive or visually spectacular element like fireworks. If your child prefers more action or entertainment, the sunset cruise might not hold their attention as well.

Weather in July:

Chicago in late July tends to be warm, with daytime temperatures averaging in the high 70s to low 80s (°F), but it can sometimes get hotter, especially on the lakefront. Evenings can cool off, especially near the water, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for the cruise, just in case. If you're concerned about the weather, it’s always a good idea to book in advance, as these cruises can get popular in summer. That way, you won’t risk missing out if the weather turns out to be particularly nice or if the cruises fill up quickly.

Recommendation:

If your 10-year-old enjoys fireworks and prefers a quicker, more visually stimulating experience, go for the Wendella Fireworks Cruise. It’s shorter and more action-packed, making it a great choice for kids. However, if you're looking for a more relaxed evening with beautiful sunset views and a calm atmosphere, the Sunset Cruise would be perfect. Either way, both options offer a fantastic way to enjoy Lake Michigan at night.

Overall, I think the Fireworks cruise might be more enjoyable for a family with a younger child, but if you're seeking a more peaceful evening, the Sunset cruise would still be a great choice.

Fireworks or sunset cruise?

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