When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
BBQ Pontoon
Why BBQ Pontoon is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
BBQ Pontoon offers a distinctive experience for friends and families looking to enjoy Chicago from a refreshing perspective on the water. This boat rental business specializes in intimate pontoon cruises along the Chicago River, combining the charm of a private boat outing with the delight of a casual barbecue and pizza meal onboard. The boats are noted for their comfort and cleanliness, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere for social gatherings. Guests can savor New York-style pizza freshly prepared and served during the cruise, adding a gourmet touch to the scenic river views of the city skyline, especially enchanting at night. The owners, Rich and Cristina, are recognized for their excellent customer service and attention to detail, ensuring a safe, sanitized, and well-regulated environment that makes guests feel comfortable and relaxed. The location is conveniently situated, making it easy for groups to meet and embark on their adventure. Whether celebrating special occasions or just spending quality time together, BBQ Pontoon creates memorable experiences through its unique combination of boat cruising, good food, and scenic views, ideal for making lasting friendships and family moments.
Here's what people think of BBQ Pontoon
As of recent, BBQ Pontoon holds a 4.7-star rating based on 165 reviews.
Reviews of BBQ Pontoon consistently rate it highly, with an overall rating of 4.7 from 165 reviews. Customers highlight the thorough professionalism of the staff and the memorable nature of the cruise experience. Many guests praise the cleanliness and comfort of the boats, along with the delicious provided pizza, describing it as excellent value for the price. The hosts, Rich and Cristina, receive warm mentions for their attentiveness, friendliness, and clear adherence to safety protocols, which reassures and enhances guests' experience. The picturesque views of Chicago's skyline and riverfront receive enthusiastic endorsements, emphasizing the charm of viewing the city from the water at sunset or under city lights. Positive reviews often mention that BBQ Pontoon offers a fun, relaxing, and intimate setting perfect for families, friends, and romantic outings. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional booking and pricing disputes, especially around holiday rates, causing frustration for a few customers. One specific complaint involved a cancellation and refund scenario related to Christmas Day pricing, illustrating the importance of clear communication about pricing policies on holidays. Despite these isolated concerns, the dominant sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Most reviewers recommend BBQ Pontoon for those seeking an affordable, enjoyable, and unique way to explore Chicago's waterways, making it an attractive option for local outings and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amel Ksaibati
I am so glad we found this place. We have been to Chicago a couple of times in the past, but this was a completely unique experience from the Chicago River. We enjoyed the private boat experience rather than a crowded tour. The pizza was a nice touch. The boat was clean, the host was professional, and we had lots of fun. Would highly recommend!
Caitlin Costa
Had a wonderful time on the boat! The pizza oven was a nice touch and fun to use. It was great to get to explore the river on your own. The staff was very nice and helpful, explaining how to operate the boat and dock safely. Would recommend!!
mary
I rented a pontoon for 8 people to celebrate a birthday. We all had a great time! Parking was easy to get to. Alejandro was very friendly and gave everyone a thorough safety briefing before we got on the boat. He went over how to work the pizza oven with my sister who was the "grill master." It's a propane pizza oven with a pizza stone. We had a choice of cheese or pepperoni pizza. We bought a second for the trip. They provide (small) paper plates, napkins and something to cut the pizza. We had plenty of time to cook both pizzas, eat, clean up and still enjoy cruising on the river before heading back. Alejandro provided simple instructions on how to drive the boat and the rules of river cruising. If you've ever wanted to see Chicago from a different perspective, this is something you must do! BBQ Pontoon is honestly a perfect company, and I couldn't be happier in my decision to book a cruise on the river with them. I would 10/10 do it again--a fireworks cruise would be so much fun! Thank you, BBQ Pontoon!!
Callie Goins
Had a super positive experience with BBQ pontoon! We had an easy time driving the boat and cooking the pizza. Safety conversation was quick and efficient, and both getting on and returning the boat was an easy process. Staff was very nice and very easy to work with. My only issue was that the speakers on our boat did not work, which they knew ahead of time but did not tell us. I didn't feel like this issue would make me drop to 4 stars because it was truly the only issue with our experience, but definitely for anyone with a rental soon be aware of this! Luckily one of my friends brought a speaker, but we almost missed out on having music during our boat ride. Aside from the speakers, everything was great with BBQ pontoon.
Kate Yoo
Took our family out onto the river for the Fourth of July weekend. What an excellent experience. The gentlemen with the red/pink hair (apologies didn’t grab your name), you were super amazing with instructions and overall vibes. I would recommend taking family or friends, we also did the pizza package and it was pretty good for the ride. Great for photos, new visitors, residents- would do again. Thanks!
How to reach BBQ Pontoon
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Why BBQ Pontoon may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at BBQ Pontoon with your friends?
Gathering with friends is about creating fun, memorable experiences in a comfortable, lively setting, and BBQ Pontoon offers exactly that. Located in Chicago on the scenic waterways, this unique venue combines the joy of a boat cruise with the pleasures of delicious barbecue, making it an unbeatable spot for group meetups. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, a reunion, or just a casual weekend hangout, BBQ Pontoon gives your group a private, exclusive space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The boats are easy to operate, so even inexperienced drivers can enjoy piloting on calm waters, adding an interactive element to your event. Coupled with friendly, attentive staff and a laid-back atmosphere, BBQ Pontoon invites you to relax, laugh, and savor every bite and moment with those you care about.
Moreover, BBQ Pontoon’s combination of beautiful river views and flavorful food translates to a feast for all your senses. The setting enhances social interactions, making conversations flow naturally as you take in the skyline or relax under open skies. It’s an experience that’s more than just a meal; it’s about connecting with friends in a fresh, fun way that feels special but approachable. And with a stellar rating of 4.7 from 165 reviews, many groups have confirmed it as a go-to destination for meaningful, enjoyable get-togethers that leave everyone looking forward to the next one.
What activities does BBQ Pontoon offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
At BBQ Pontoon, the centerpiece activity is a pontoon boat rental experience that combines cruising with barbecue dining, perfect for groups of friends and family. Once aboard, you can navigate the calm waters of Lake Michigan or nearby river areas, offering stunning views of the Chicago skyline and natural surroundings. The boats are designed for groups, with spacious seating that encourages socializing and easy movement around the deck. Since the boats are straightforward to drive, your group can take turns piloting, adding a hands-on adventure element to the gathering.
While cruising, group members enjoy a tasty BBQ meal included in the rental, with options like pepperoni pizza as well as opportunities to bring additional snacks or drinks of choice to personalize the experience further. This mix of boat tour and catered meal makes it feel like a private party on water, combining sightseeing with a fun picnic vibe. Guests often praise the friendly, helpful staff who manage the rentals seamlessly, ensuring that the process from booking to docking is smooth and stress-free.
Additionally, BBQ Pontoon’s location has convenient parking and is easily accessible, which is a crucial consideration for any group planning a meetup. Its setting along the picturesque river enhances the experience, offering a different environment from typical land-based BBQ joints or parks. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a twilight cruise, the scenic backdrop turns the event into a photo-worthy, memorable occasion. This versatility in activities and the beautiful location make BBQ Pontoon an ideal choice for groups looking to combine relaxation, entertainment, and good food into a single, remarkable outing.
How does the food at BBQ Pontoon elevate a social gathering?
Food is a central part of any social gathering, and BBQ Pontoon brings the best of casual, comforting flavors right onto the water. Their barbecue offerings, while simple, hit the spot for groups wanting hearty, tasty fare without the fuss. Ready-to-cook pepperoni pizza is provided as part of the boat package, delivering classic flavors that everyone can enjoy with minimal preparation time. Meanwhile, guests are encouraged to bring their favorite snacks and drinks, adding a personalized touch to the onboard feast.
The quality of the food, paired with the unique setting, turns a typical meal into a celebration. Barbecue is known for its communal vibe—sharing ribs, chicken, or pizza encourages everyone to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Having the meal on a moving boat adds excitement and novelty, fueling conversations and laughter as you eat. While the food may not be gourmet, it offers comfort and satisfaction, essential for a group trying to unwind and enjoy a shared experience.
Many visitors note that the ease of having food readily available on the pontoon means less hassle and more time spent connecting with friends. The casual meal format fits perfectly with the overall vibe of the outing: informal, fun, and centered on togetherness. This combination of good food and great company on a boat is a winning recipe for memorable group events.
What makes BBQ Pontoon’s atmosphere ideal for a family or friends meetup?
BBQ Pontoon’s atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and welcoming, fostering a sense of community and ease that’s perfect for family reunions or friend get-togethers. The open-air pontoon boats provide a refreshing change from indoor venues — the wind, water, and sunlight create a serene ambiance that lifts spirits and encourages conversation. Unlike crowded restaurants or noisy bars, BBQ Pontoon offers a private, comfortable setting where groups can focus on each other without distractions.
The staff’s friendly and accommodating nature contributes significantly to the positive atmosphere. Guests regularly mention how helpful and attentive the team is, making everyone feel valued and at ease from start to finish. This professionalism ensures that logistics run smoothly, allowing the group to focus entirely on enjoying their time together rather than worrying about details.
Furthermore, the venue’s accessibility and convenience simplify planning, reducing stress related to transportation or parking. The boats are spacious and set up to accommodate multiple people comfortably, so no one feels cramped or left out. This inclusivity enhances the enjoyment for all ages, making it suitable for mixed groups ranging from young adults to seniors. The combination of natural beauty, ease of use, and warm hospitality creates an atmosphere that supports genuine, quality time with loved ones.
How accessible and convenient is BBQ Pontoon for group gatherings?
Accessibility and convenience are crucial when organizing a group event, and BBQ Pontoon excels on both fronts. Located in Chicago with ample parking options nearby, the venue ensures that groups have no trouble arriving, unloading, and settling in. This ease of access allows guests to focus on the fun rather than logistical headaches, which can often dampen group enthusiasm.
Booking the pontoon boats is straightforward, with options available throughout the week from 9 AM to 9 PM, giving plenty of flexibility to fit your preferred schedule. The rental process is user-friendly, supported by a helpful staff to guide first-time boaters through procedures and safety instructions. This support reduces anxiety about boating for those unfamiliar with it, making the experience accessible to a wider audience.
The boats themselves are designed for group comfort and are easy to operate, meaning that hosting your meetup on the water does not require prior boating experience. This inclusivity encourages participation from all group members, enhancing the social dynamic. Overall, BBQ Pontoon’s convenient location, simple booking system, and accessible boats combine to create a hassle-free, enjoyable day out for your entire group.
What is the overall experience and value like at BBQ Pontoon?
Guests consistently report a highly rewarding experience at BBQ Pontoon, citing excellent value for the price paid. The combination of a private boat cruise, pleasant scenery, tasty food, and a laid-back vibe offers an affordable yet memorable outing. Many highlight the uniqueness of blending a barbecue meal with boat time, which sets this destination apart from more common meetup spots.
The value is amplified by the comprehensive inclusions—pizza provided with the rental, ample space for snacks and drinks, and the ability to share driving duties all contribute to a full experience without hidden costs. Add to this the scenic views of Chicago’s waterways and skyline, and you have an outing that feels luxurious yet grounded and approachable.
Repeatedly, customers praise the staff’s friendly service and the overall smoothness of the event flow, making it a stress-free option for group organizers. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply spending quality time together, BBQ Pontoon offers a package that’s both fun and economical. The 4.7-star rating from a substantial number of reviews underscores the positive, reliable reputation this business has earned among locals and visitors alike.
In summary, BBQ Pontoon is an exceptional venue for those wanting to rally with friends or family in a unique, engaging environment that combines food, fun, and the beauty of the water. Its activities, food offerings, ambiance, ease of access, and overall experience make it a standout choice for life’s group moments.