The Lake House: Chicago’s Best Summer Yacht Party

Each summer, Chicago comes alive with lakefront festivals, rooftop events, and riverfront gatherings — but few experiences match the atmosphere of The Lake House Yacht Party. Set aboard the Summer of George, this recurring cruise has become one of the city’s most sought-after evening events, offering a unique blend of scenic views, electronic music, and a curated 21+ crowd.

What to Expect on Board

Departing from 900 S. Wells, guests board the Summer of George for a 3.5-hour cruise through the Chicago River and out onto Lake Michigan. The route delivers panoramic skyline views — from the riverwalk to the lakefront — creating an unforgettable visual experience as the city transitions from sunset to nightfall.

Once the cruise begins, it’s all about the music. Expect nonstop house music from rotating DJs, covering everything from deep and melodic grooves to high-energy tech house. A full sound system powers the main deck, with plenty of space to dance or kick back and enjoy the view from above.

Why The Lake House Stands Out

While Chicago hosts plenty of boat parties each summer, The Lake House stands out for its focus on music quality, scenic timing, and overall vibe. Instead of leaning on flashy extras, it emphasizes solid production, a great crowd, and a consistently well-run experience that blends the energy of a nightclub with the atmosphere of a moving venue.

It’s also one of the only cruises that travels through both the river and the lake, offering a wider and more dynamic view of the city than most lake-only routes.

2025 Remaining Cruise Dates

Still planning your summer nights? Here are the remaining opportunities to catch The Lake House this season:

Friday, July 25 (Night)

Friday, August 8 (Night)

Friday, August 22 (Night)

Monday, September 1 (Day – Labor Day)

Night cruises run from 8:00 PM to 11:30 PM, giving you golden hour views that lead into a skyline lit up by night. The Labor Day cruise offers a rare daytime experience, perfect for starting the holiday early.

What You Should Know:

Boarding runs from 8:00 to 8:30 PM — the boat leaves on time, so don’t be late.

The event is rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather.

21+ only, with valid ID required.

Full-service bars are available onboard.

VIP options are available for early boarding and reserved tables.

Tickets

🎟️ General admission starts at $35, with prices increasing as dates approach — so booking early is the move. VIP tickets include express boarding and table seating for your group (alcohol not included).

Tickets are available online at www.wamitickets.com

The event is presented by What’s Good Chicago, EDM Chicago, and Wami Live.

If you're looking for a well-organized summer event that puts house music front and center — with unbeatable views of the city — The Lake House Yacht Party is easily one of Chicago’s best ways to spend a night on the water.