Why city Experiences is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

City Experiences offers a range of iconic city tours and adventures, including dining and sightseeing cruises, walking tours, food tours, and ferry trips to national parks. Known for creating bucket-list experiences in top cities, they provide expert local guides and crew members passionate about sharing their city's culture and history. Their offerings include dinner cruises, architectural boat tours, and various city exploration packages that promise memorable, one-of-a-kind experiences. The company also provides flexible booking options, multiple payment methods, and tools for easy rescheduling and customization, aiming to cater to different traveler needs. Many travelers are drawn by the promise of iconic views and expertly guided tours that showcase city highlights from unique perspectives, such as rivers and lakes.

Here's what people think of city Experiences

As of recent, city Experiences holds a 2-star rating based on 28 reviews.

User reviews of City Experiences present a mixed to negative overall impression, with a notable 2.0-star rating from 28 reviews reflecting customer dissatisfaction. Negative reviews frequently mention issues with poor customer service, including rude staff, unclean and unpleasant conditions on cruises, and problematic booking experiences involving cancelled or altered reservations without adequate communication or compensation. One reviewer detailed a stressful booking from Expedia, last-minute changes to their cruise, and difficulty obtaining promised refunds, which tarnished their special occasion. Conversely, some positive feedback highlights knowledgeable and engaging guides, particularly on architectural tours, as well as friendly bartenders and crew members who enhanced the experience despite other shortcomings. Positive reviews emphasize rewarding learning experiences and attractive scenic views during boat tours. However, the volume of complaints regarding management, booking reliability, and onboard conditions suggests significant areas for improvement. Overall, reviews advise caution and thorough communication when booking, reflecting an inconsistent customer experience that contrasts with the company's promotional promises.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Joi Davis

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I wish I could give less stars because this company is awful. We got married on June 14th and in the months leading up to the wedding and on our wedding day... our experience was less than. This was in no way a cheap venture and with very little communication from the company, no return calls or emails, and the fact that a wedding planner and coordinator were only assigned to our account after numerous calls and less than 3 months to go to the wedding is absolutely ludicrous. Due to them not returning calls or properly coordinating with our outside wedding planner, the line-up for the wedding was incorrect. On the day of the wedding was when the boat appointed planner decided to try and figure out who was who and how they were to be lined up. We ordered an expensive wedding cake and utensils that were delivered the morning of the wedding but were NEVER delivered to our reception. With all the things going wrong, we didn't even realize it until after we disembarked. Our personal wedding planner called and left messages and miraculously by the end of the night when we returned to our hotel room, the utensils were sitting on our bed in our room. It took them a month and numerous phone calls to get city experiences to acknowledge that they indeed received the cake and forgot to bring it up and to send us a refund check for the cake. Definitely don't waste your money if you think they will give you an amazing experience because they won't. The food was less than mediocre and the only thing that salvaged this day even a little was the skylines and lake michigan which city experiences are not even in control of. If you want a wedding on lake michigan, choose another way of doing it because City Experiences customer service will have you angry. The craziest thing to me was there wasn't even apologies given for any of our experience. And I'm not even a bridezilla even though with all the things that went wrong leading up to the day I definitely had EVERY reason to become one. Just save yourself the headache.

Quinneshia McFadden

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Deeply Disappointed/Whack – Poor Value and Service on 3-Hour Cruise Event Beware! Think twice before spending your hard-earned money on this cruise. The entire experience was a major letdown and completely overpriced for what was delivered. The dinner options were unremarkable in both taste and quality. Food arrived late and cold for our entire party of twelve — a basic failure in service. The alcoholic drinks were equally disappointing, and to top it off, even the soft drinks were served flat. How do you fail at serving soda? This company found a way. It felt like we were being taken advantage of, especially given the high cost. To pay premium prices and receive such subpar service and quality is beyond unacceptable. My husband and I feel completely let down. A basic rule of business is to create returning customers — we will never be returning. This was nothing short of a ripoff. On a positive note, the DJ was decent. He kept the energy up and had a good music selection, which was the only decent part of the night.

Connor J

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

AVOID THIS COMPANY! Received 2 seats here as a gift, and it was a complete waste of $300. The email they sent contained zero instructions on how to get there, just the address for a large pier with lots of boats, but no boat name. The only contact info in the email was a phone number, so we tried calling for directions, but got a series of automated voice prompts that ultimately just redirected us to a website. So we walked around the pier for 30 minutes and talked to 3 different employees (of different boat companies) before we finally found the right boat. We arrived right at the 12:30 departure time, which was too late to be let on board. The email said late arrivals can't be refunded, and when I finally managed to talk to a person on the support number (by following a different set of prompts claiming to be a new customer), she confirmed this (she was very kind and helpful, no complaints there). But based on the other reviews, we probably didn't miss much. UPDATE (1 week later): yeah, no refund. Went through a days-long support process, during which they said they would reschedule us, claimed they sent a new confirmation email to me with the new date (they never did), and then finallly admitted that they "do not have the dates available" and "cannot honor the request". Not surprised. This company is a scam.

M Malinovka

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

If I could give zero stars I would. I booked the saint patricks green river cruise for my boyfriend and I, but it turned out to be a waste of time and money. First thing: I ordered drinks along with our booking. They called me a week before our cruise to say the drink I wanted was not in stock and they gave me a refund, but no offer to switch to a different drink. It wasn't such a big deal though. Second thing: the address for the "boarding area" that they gave in the email is NOT where you should go. The address provided was to some random park near the river. We had to call customer service and they told us where to actually go. If our cruise had been on time (it wasn't, see point three) we would have MISSED OUR CRUISE BECAUSE THEY GAVE US THE WRONG ADDRESS. We were not the only customers who went there looking for the cruise. For any future customers: DO NOT GO TO 455 Cityfront. Just go down to the water using the stairs by Gleacher Center. And finally the third thing: our cruise was delayed four times, an hour each time, to the point where we had to cancel because it would overlap with our dinner reservation. After all the stressing about this cruise, we never even got to do it. I'm incredibly disappointed. We wasted so much time just waiting for it to never happen, time we could have spent enjoying our time in chicago. The only positive thing I can say is that their support staff were very kind and I was able to get a full refund.

A Milliner

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Our lunch cruise on the "Spirit of Chicago" was hands down the favorite event from our band's recent trip to Chicago among the students and chaperones. The meal was absolutely delicious and the voted the best meal! A big thank you to the chef for being inclusive by preparing a separate gluten free meal for one of our students with dietary restrictions to avoid cross contamination. The DJ kept us on the dance floor by allowing us to requests songs. His only hiccup was playing a house version of boots on the ground🙅🏾‍♀️! But, we had our fans and whistles ready and danced until we needed a water break. The rest of the guests aboard the ship felt the energy and started dancing too! We had thee best time! Thank you to the entire ship staff and the group sales representatives, Tracy and Drea, who made sure we were able to experience the spirit of Chicago!

How to reach city Experiences

Why rally at City Experiences with your friends?

City Experiences offers a unique way to gather your friends for a memorable outing that blends entertainment, sightseeing, and dining in iconic urban settings. Imagine cruising through bustling city waterfronts, savoring delicious meals, and soaking in panoramic views while sharing the moment with people you enjoy. This place is designed not just as an event space but as a gateway to experiencing the city from a fresh perspective, often on water or guided tours that expose you to local culture, history, and spectacular sights. Whether you want to enjoy a lively atmosphere with music and dancing or have a relaxed evening watching the sunset over the skyline, City Experiences makes it possible. The chance to explore iconic landmarks while on a comfortable boat or on carefully curated walking tours naturally fosters great conversation and bonding. This combination of social, scenic, and sensory appeal is why it stands out as an excellent choice for group meetups with friends or family, creating lasting memories beyond everyday hangouts.

What activities are available at City Experiences, and why is it perfect for a group meetup?

City Experiences specializes in a variety of activities centered on tours and cruises that highlight a city's charm and attractions. Their offerings commonly include dining cruises where you can enjoy all-you-can-eat meals accompanied by music, often with a DJ playing popular hits that suit a lively group ambiance. The cruises provide unmatched views of landmarks from the water, turning the experience into a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Beyond the water, they offer walking food tours, guided sightseeing tours, and ferry trips to nearby national parks or significant natural areas. These activities allow groups to tailor their experience based on interests—whether food lovers want to sample local flavors, history buffs want to explore on foot, or nature enthusiasts want to get out on the water.

The company prides itself on expert crews and local guides who enhance the experience by sharing insights and stories about the city, making group events educational as well as entertaining. Their flexibility with bookings, including multiple payment options and the ability to reschedule, makes it easier for groups to plan around busy schedules. Also, the social setting of these tours—whether dining aboard a cruise or walking and sampling local fare together—encourages interaction, making it an ideal venue where friends and family bond while exploring something new.

What makes the dining and entertainment on City Experiences special for groups?

One of the standout features of City Experiences is its dining offering on cruises. Guests often describe the food as generous with a variety of options, including stations for desserts like mini eclairs, cheesecakes, brownies, and cakes to satisfy a sweet tooth, all included in an all-you-can-eat format. The quality of the food along with stunning surroundings creates a festive mood perfect for groups celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying time together. A DJ providing lively musical entertainment enhances this festive atmosphere, playing current hits that appeal to diverse tastes which encourages dancing and mingling.

Additionally, the service, though mixed in some reviews, generally aims to be personable to contribute to a perfect social outing. The combination of good food, upbeat music, and beautiful views from the deck or rooftop lounges makes dining with friends not just a meal but an event in itself. Groups can take advantage of photo opportunities and shared experiences that fuel laughter and conversation, enhancing the overall group dynamic.

How does the setting of City Experiences enhance group meetups?

City Experiences operates primarily in waterfront cities, with many events taking place on boats cruising impressive bodies of water such as harbors, lakes, or rivers, providing guests with exclusive vantage points to view cityscapes, skylines, and iconic landmarks. This scenic backdrop is a major factor in making it an attractive venue for groups. The setting allows for a uniquely immersive experience – rather than sitting inside a typical restaurant or bar, guests are surrounded by the natural beauty of the water and city lights, creating an ambiance that is both relaxing and inspiring.

On cruises, guests can move about the deck or rooftop lounge, offering space for socializing and taking in the views from different perspectives. The dynamic setting changes throughout the event, such as when the boat enters or leaves port, adding to the excitement and novelty. For walking tours, the city’s neighborhoods provide a vibrant, interactive environment where groups can explore together, stopping at points of interest or eateries, which makes the experience feel personalized and engaging.

What should groups know about booking and customer experience at City Experiences?

Planning a group event at City Experiences is made convenient by their flexible booking options, which include multiple payment methods and tools for rescheduling or adding enhancements to tours. This adaptability is essential for groups, who often have varying availability and preferences. The company aims to cater to many types of group needs, from casual friends’ outings to family gatherings or corporate socials.

However, potential guests should be aware that some recent customer reviews reveal mixed experiences, particularly regarding customer service and certain logistical details. Some groups have reported issues such as unanticipated parking fees and inconsistent service from staff. While many reviews praise the food, views, and entertainment, others highlight areas for improvement in management and communication. This suggests that while City Experiences offers a fundamentally enjoyable and unique product, groups should plan ahead and confirm details to avoid surprises, especially in regard to extras like parking or upgrades.

Despite these concerns, the majority of feedback affirms that the vibrant atmosphere, stunning settings, and variety of activities available continue to make City Experiences a valuable choice for groups seeking an exciting and memorable way to explore a city together. Potential guests are encouraged to read recent reviews and communicate clearly with staff when booking to ensure the best possible experience.

Why is City Experiences suitable for diverse groups and various occasions?

City Experiences’ range of tours and cruises appeals to diverse group types and a broad array of occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a birthday party, a family reunion, or a corporate team outing, there are customizable options to fit your group’s size and interests. The social nature of the offerings – be it shared meals, music, or exploration – makes it easy to engage everyone and guarantee a lively, inclusive vibe.

The scenic cruises provide photo-worthy moments and conversational icebreakers for people who may not know each other well, making it great for groups mixing friends and family or work colleagues. Walking tours offer a more intimate experience for smaller groups seeking to dive deeper into local cuisine or culture. The company’s knowledgeable guides add educational value, perfect for occasions focused on discovery and bonding.

Because of the variety in experiences — from relaxing sightseeing cruises to dynamic walking food tours — City Experiences can tailor the mood of your meetup, from elegant and peaceful to festive and upbeat. This versatility ensures that it truly stands out as a top choice for group gatherings across many cities.

What are some tips to maximize your experience at City Experiences when hosting a group?

To get the most out of your group outing at City Experiences, careful planning and clear communication are key. Start by selecting the tour or cruise that best suits your group’s interests, whether that’s a food-focused tour, a sightseeing cruise, or an adventurous excursion. Booking early ensures preferred dates and times since popular experiences can fill up quickly especially on weekends or holidays.

Clarify all details ahead of time with the company’s staff, such as parking arrangements and any upgrade options to avoid surprises on the day. Ask about special accommodations for dietary restrictions or celebrations to personalize the event. Arriving early helps your group settle in and start enjoying the vantage points and social settings available on board or on the tour route.

During the event, encourage everyone to take advantage of the photo opportunities and interactive moments with guides or crew. This will help capture memories and maintain a fun, energetic atmosphere. Lastly, consider combining a City Experiences event with a nearby dinner or post-tour gathering spot to extend the time spent together.

With these tips, your group can fully enjoy the unique combination of food, entertainment, culture, and stunning scenery that City Experiences offers. It’s an unforgettable way to create shared memories while exploring your city in style.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the city Experiences

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g28970-d2196897-r814086335-City_Experiences_By_Hornblower-Washington_DC_District_of_Columbia.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35805-d8609054-Reviews-City_Experiences_By_Hornblower-Chicago_Illinois.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g35805-d2205635-r993667698-City_Experiences_By_Hornblower-Chicago_Illinois.html