Are you ready for a unique twist on your typical night out? Floating boat bars offer a fresh way to enjoy drinks and good vibes while taking in amazing views. These special spots combine the fun of being on the water with the relaxation of your favorite local bar.
You’ll find some of the coolest floating boat bars across the USA, from busy city harbors to peaceful lakes and rivers. These floating hangouts let you sip cocktails as you watch the sunset over the water or dance under the stars.
Whether you’re looking for a chill afternoon or a lively evening, there’s a boat bar out there that’s perfect for you.
1) Chowder Barge
Get ready for a unique dining experience at Chowder Barge in LA Harbor! This floating restaurant has been bobbing on the waves for 40 years. You’ll feel like you’re on a boat trip as soon as you step aboard.
The Chowder Barge sits in Leeward Bay Marina, offering great views of the harbor. As you enjoy your meal, you can watch boats sail by and seagulls soar overhead. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner by the water.
The menu features hearty seafood dishes, with their famous chowder as the star. You can pair your meal with a cold beer or glass of wine. For a fun twist, try one of their shochu cocktails. While you eat, catch a game on the big screen TVs or use the free WiFi.
The Chowder Barge is open daily, with longer hours on weekends. It’s busiest during dinner time, so you might want to arrive early to snag a good spot on deck. Don’t forget to bring your camera – the sunset views are amazing!
Rating: 4.5 (1330 reviews)
Location: 611 N Henry Ford Ave, Wilmington, CA 90744
Contact: (310) 830-7937
2) CLE Tiki Barge
You’ll feel like you’re on a tropical vacation when you step onto the CLE Tiki Barge in Cleveland. This floating paradise offers a unique way to enjoy the city’s waterfront views while sipping refreshing drinks.
As you cruise along the Cuyahoga River, you’ll be amazed by the skyline views. The gentle rocking of the barge adds to the relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long week or celebrate a special occasion with friends.
The tiki-themed decor transports you to an island getaway. Palm trees, bamboo accents, and colorful lights create a festive atmosphere. You can lounge on comfortable seating while taking in the sights and sounds of the water.
Don’t miss their signature tropical cocktails. The friendly bartenders whip up tasty concoctions that perfectly match the laid-back setting. Sipping a fruity drink as you float along the river is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Rating: 4.9 (364 reviews)
Location: 1180 Main Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113
Contact: (833) 747-2929
3) Boat Drinks Bar & Grill
Imagine sipping a cool drink on a warm Chicago day, surrounded by stunning views of Lake Michigan. That’s what you’ll get at Boat Drinks Bar & Grill. This floating bar is a hidden gem in Burnham Harbor.
The menu offers tasty bites and refreshing drinks perfect for a sunny afternoon. You can enjoy live music on weekends, adding to the lively atmosphere. Local artists like Greg Fundis Trio and Patrick Gemkow often take the stage.
Boat Drinks is a great spot to watch the sunset over the water. The friendly staff and relaxed vibe make you feel right at home. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring the Windy City.
Rating: 4.2 (136 reviews)
Location: 600 E Waldron Dr, Chicago, IL 60616
Contact: (312) 838-0544
4) Tiki Bar Cruises
Get ready for a fun-filled adventure on the Mystic River! Tiki Bar Cruises offers a unique floating bar experience that you won’t forget. You and your friends can dance, drink, and enjoy island music as you cruise along the scenic waterway.
The tiki boat holds up to 20 passengers, so it’s perfect for birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette events, or just a fun day out. The 90-minute trips give you plenty of time to soak in the views and sip on your favorite drinks. You can even bring your own food to make it a full outing.
Don’t worry about the music – there’s a Bluetooth sound system on board. You can play your own tunes, as long as the captain approves the playlist first. And if nature calls, there’s a bathroom with running water right on the boat.
Booking is easy and affordable. The base price covers 6 people, with additional spots available for a fee. Fall foliage tours and special events like Halloween parties add extra excitement to your tiki bar adventure.
Rating: 5 (23 reviews)
Location: 145 Pearl St, Groton, CT 06340
Contact: (860) 245-9877
5) Kanaloa Tiki Lounge
Imagine sipping a tropical drink while floating on the Milwaukee River. That’s what you’ll experience at Kanaloa Tiki Lounge. This unique boat bar offers a taste of paradise right in the heart of Wisconsin.
You’ll love the tiki-themed decor and laid-back vibe. Palm fronds sway gently as you cruise along the river, taking in city views. The friendly staff serves up colorful cocktails that transport you to a far-off island.
Kanaloa is perfect for special occasions. You can book it for parties, work events, or just a fun night out with friends. The best part? You don’t have to worry about driving. The boat captain takes care of that while you relax and enjoy.
Two-hour trips give you plenty of time to unwind and see Milwaukee from a new angle. It’s a unique way to experience the city and make lasting memories on the water.
Rating: 5 (30 reviews)
Location: 1515 N River Center Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53212
6) Honorable William Wall
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world at the Honorable William Wall. This floating bar sits anchored in New York Harbor, giving you amazing views of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
Getting there is half the fun. You hop on the “Admiral’s Launch” ferry from Manhattan Yacht Club for a quick ride out to the bar. As you approach, you’ll see why locals call it the “Willy Wall” – it looks like a giant floating clubhouse on the water.
Once aboard, grab a drink and head to the upper deck for the best views. You can watch sailboat races on some evenings or just take in the sunset over the harbor. After dark, the city lights up and creates a magical scene all around you.
The Willy Wall is open May through October, so it’s perfect for summer nights out. You can even host parties there – imagine celebrating your birthday with that incredible backdrop! Just be sure to wear comfy shoes, as you’ll need to climb some stairs to board.
Rating: 4.5 (98 reviews)
Location: Harbor, New York, NY 10007
Contact: (646) 787-6726
7) North River Lobster Company
You might have heard about this floating gem on the Hudson River. North River Lobster Company was a beloved seafood spot in New York City for a decade. It offered a unique dining experience on a boat with stunning views of the NYC skyline.
Sadly, this popular floating restaurant closed its doors on September 29, 2024. During its run, it served millions of lobster rolls and hundreds of thousands of oysters to happy customers. The boat cruised along the river, letting you enjoy fresh seafood and drinks with a side of amazing city views.
While it’s no longer operating, the memories of tasty lobster dishes and fun times on the water live on. If you visited before it closed, you know how special it was. The combination of great food, drinks, and scenery made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Rating: 4.2 (1160 reviews)
Location: Pier 81 W 41st St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (212) 630-8831
8) The Brooklyn Barge
You’ll love The Brooklyn Barge, a unique floating bar in New York City. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The barge is docked right on the East River, giving you a one-of-a-kind waterfront experience.
The menu is full of tasty treats that hit the spot. You can munch on dockside guacamole with house-made tortilla chips or dive into a chilled shrimp cocktail. The loaded fries are a must-try, topped with gooey cheese sauce, pulled pork, and jalapeños.
If you’re in the mood for tacos, you’re in luck. The Brooklyn Barge “Taqueria” offers a variety of options like vegan chorizo, adobo chicken, and grilled shrimp. Each taco comes with marinated cabbage, pickled onions, and zesty salsa verde.
Don’t forget to grab a drink and relax on the deck. As you sip your beverage, you’ll feel the gentle sway of the barge and watch boats pass by. It’s a truly memorable way to spend an afternoon or evening in Brooklyn.
Rating: 4.5 (891 reviews)
Location: 79 West St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Contact: (929) 337-7212
9) Hudson’s Floating Bar New York
You’ll love Hudson’s, a cool floating bar in New York City. It’s a three-story hangout spot right on the water at Pier 81. The views are amazing, especially from the rooftop deck.
When you step aboard, you’ll feel like you’re on a mini-vacation. The bar serves up tasty summer boat drinks and snacks. You can chill inside or soak up the sun in the outdoor areas.
Hudson’s is perfect for a fun night out with friends. The vibe is laid-back but still a bit fancy. You’ll see a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the unique setting.
Don’t forget your camera! The skyline looks stunning from the boat, especially at sunset. It’s a great place to snap some pics for your social media.
Rating: 4.5 (180 reviews)
Location: Pier 81, 41st St. & Twelfth Ave., Manhattan, NY 10036
Final Words!
In conclusion, the floating bars across the USA offer a captivating blend of scenic views, delightful drinks, and a unique atmosphere that transforms a typical night out into an unforgettable experience.
From the vibrant tiki vibes at CLE Tiki Barge in Cleveland to the stunning skyline views from Hudson’s in New York City, each location provides its own special charm and ambiance.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxed afternoon on the water or a lively evening celebration, these floating bars cater to all preferences. So, gather your friends, raise a glass, and set sail for a memorable adventure at one of these fantastic floating destinations. Cheers to sipping and sailing your way across America!
Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.
Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.
