20 Best Chicago Wedding Venues

20 Best Chicago Wedding Venues

 

Chicago’s wedding venues showcase a perfect blend of elegance, diversity, and charm, all set within the city’s dynamic and vibrant landscape. With over a decade of experience capturing weddings in this remarkable city, I’ve developed a unique perspective on what makes Chicago a dream destination for couples. From the breathtaking lakefront and iconic skyline to the industrial downtown ambiance and authentic rustic gems, Chicago offers a venue to suit every style.

 

Explore the endless possibilities and start envisioning your special day! Whether your heart is set on timeless elegance, modern sophistication, cozy rustic charm, or distinctive urban vibes, the 4 curated categories below will help you discover the perfect venue to match your vision

 

  • Unique and artsy Chicago Wedding Venues 
  • Modern and elegant Chicago Wedding Venues
  • Outdoor Chicago Wedding Venues
  • Rooftop Chicago Wedding Venues

Unique and Artistic Chicago Wedding Venues 

Perfect choice if you are looking for spaces with character and creativity

Epiphany Center for the Arts

AN EXTRAORDINARY NEW SINGLE-DESTINATION

WEDDING VENUE ON THE ARTSY EDGE OF CHICAGO’S WEST LOOP


A unique destination for unforgettable weddings and a perfect setting for bachelor and bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception and after party

Epiphany’s desirable amenities include bridal suite, man cave, and a collection of artistically designed outdoor spaces.

 

Capacity: 

  • Epiphany Hall: The largest venue, this former church can accommodate up to 460 seated guests for formal dining, or 1,050 standing for a reception or after-party. 
  • The Sanctuary: Can accommodate up to 150 guests for a ceremony and 100 seated. 
  • Chase House: Can accommodate up to 200 guests for a ceremony and 190 seated. 
  • Courtyard, Patio, Terrace: Can accommodate up to 200 guests for a ceremony and 100 seated.

I absolutely love this venue because it offers so much versatility and charm. Every corner is a creative playground, brimming with artistic details. The spacious outdoor area is perfect for cozy touches like marshmallows by the fire and warm gatherings. With everything you need right on-site, there's no need to venture to other locations for photos – the venue itself is a stunning backdrop for capturing unforgettable moments.

 

Epiphany Center for the Arts

Check out real wedding in Epiphany Center for the Arts

The Dawson

The Dawson’s stunning, two-story foyer with its breathtaking grand staircase is the perfect first impression for your guests.

 

And, the custom tile and lighting, hand-crafted woodwork, abundant natural light, and an acclaimed courtyard, make this River West gem a dream location for hosts and photographers alike.

 

Capacity: semi-private event spaces for parties of 12 - 400

 

I adore this venue for its striking combination of dramatic lighting and a rich, dark backdrop that creates a modern, moody vibe. The patio and elegant staircase flooded with natural light add a perfect balance, making it ideal for capturing stunning photos. It's an intimate yet versatile space, comfortably accommodating around 50-70 people, making it perfect for a cozy and memorable celebration.

 

The Dawson

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University Club of Chicago

The University Club is located in the heart of downtown Chicago and just steps away from Millennium Park's picture-perfect Lurie Garden and the Art Institute. 

 

Event space  represents the heart and soul of the Club. The space features Neo-Gothic stained glass windows depicting fields of endeavor: law, music, science, literature and commerce as well as 65 symbols of colleges. This space is ideal for your fairytale wedding, large social galas and meetings. 

 

Capacity:

  • Dwight Lounge and Dwight Room: Located on the first floor, this space is suitable for receptions of 75–160 guests
  • College Hall ballroom: Located on the first floor, this elegant ballroom can accommodate 100–170 guests
  • Main Dining Room and Council Room: Located on the seventh floor, this space can accommodate up to 300 guests

University Club of Chicago

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Café Brauer

Host your event in timeless style at this historic Chicago landmark. With stunning views of the city skyline and Nature Boardwalk’s lively pond ecosystem, this venue offers the perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The Great Hall provides a breathtaking backdrop, while the surrounding greenery allows you and your wedding party to capture gorgeous photos without the hassle of traveling. Truly, it’s the best of both worlds.

 

Capacity: The Great Hall seats 250 / 500 for a reception

 

I adore this venue for its rich historical charm paired with incredible photo opportunities. From the iconic honeycomb pavilion with the skyline as a backdrop to the lush greenery of the park, every corner is picture-perfect. The venue transforms into something truly enchanting when illuminated with candlelight, blending timeless elegance with a warm, romantic ambiance.

 

Café Brauer

 

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Firehouse Chicago

Located on Chicago’s Northside in the beautiful Edgewater neighborhood, our intimate venue is perfect for your wedding or unique event. Our vintage, rustic style and delightful garden create a lovely, memorable setting to celebrate.

 

With high ceilings, white glazed brick, and historic touches, Firehouse Chicago is an ideal venue for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, rehearsal dinners, showers, mitzvahs, and more!

 

Capacity: 

Maximum guests: 100
Venue type: Vintage firehouse with a garden space

 

Firehouse Chicago

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Colvin House

This historic mansion venue offers a charming and versatile setting for intimate celebrations. Highlights include a sunlit parlor with Lake Michigan views, an elegant oak staircase with a crystal chandelier for dramatic ceremony processions, and a vintage speakeasy-inspired basement for added character.

 

Couples can also enjoy getting ready in beautifully themed suites and utilize the outdoor Coach House with vintage décor and built-in bar. With over 4,000 square feet of outdoor space, lush gardens, and access to a nearby beach and park for photos, this venue perfectly balances timeless elegance and practical flexibility.

 

Capacity : 100 guests

 

Colvin House

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The Homestead 1854

Escape the ordinary, with your closest family and friends, and celebrate your special day at The Homestead 1854. Imagine an intimate outdoor wedding among organic beauty, rich with greenery and fresh pine aroma. The Homestead 1854’s open-air setting serves as a charming backdrop for your most special day.

 

Capacity: 50-125 guests

 

The Homestead 1854

Real wedding in The Homestead 1854 

Modern and elegant Chicago Wedding Venues

For those who might embrace a more unconventional, edgy wedding vibe.

Room 1520

Room 1520’s open space gives you the versatility to transform our elegant, urban venue into the perfect wedding space to be married and celebrate. They also have a luxurious private suite, and a warm weather patio for photos or to enjoy cocktails or a cigar.

 

Unique loft space has everything a happy couple is looking for from a versatile space, crystal chandeliers, a dramatic staircase, a private suite, a whitewashed vintage bar to a reception area with 17” ceilings.

 

Capacity: 150 guests

 

Room 1520

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RPM events

RPM Events is downtown Chicago’s premier venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and private events. With more than 6,000 square feet, the venue features sweeping views of the Chicago River, a grand ballroom that can be divided into three independent spaces with access to the outdoor terrace, and a fully customizable culinary experience that provides guests with the best of RPM Restaurants.

 

Capacity:  up to 425 people standing or 260 people seated

 

RPM event

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Untitled Supper Club

Untitled Supper Club offers a versatile and luxurious venue for any occasion. Located in a sprawling underground space, it features four uniquely designed rooms, each with its own distinct character. Known for its moody, chic vibe and sophisticated atmosphere, the venue combines delicious dining options with live entertainment, performances, and state-of-the-art AV capabilities. Whether you're looking for elegance or an edgy, artistic setting, Untitled Supper Club provides a one-of-a-kind experience for your celebration.

 

Capacity: up to 750 guests

 

Untitled Supper Club

Greenhouse Lofts

Fully customizable space is 3600 sq ft, with 16' ceilings in the glasshouse. Floor to ceiling windows along the east wall provide an abundance of natural light and a view of our outdoor Skygarden. Located in Chicago's hippest neighborhood, Logan Square,  the City's most sustainable private event space.

 

Capacity: 175 guests

 

Greenhouse Lofts

Art institute of Chicago

With a myriad of special event spaces ranging from traditional to modern, the museum offers endless options for your engagement party, rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, wedding ceremony, or reception.

 

Capacity: 300 to 900 people

 

Art institute of Chicago

 The Rookery

The Rookery, an iconic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed masterpiece, exudes timeless elegance with its breathtaking two-story atrium crowned by an architectural glass ceiling. The space is bathed in natural light, creating a radiant ambiance.

 

The winding Oriel staircase is a standout feature, offering the perfect backdrop for dramatic and romantic wedding photos. This venue seamlessly blends historic charm with modern sophistication, making it a favorite for stylish, unforgettable celebrations

 

Capacity: 

  • Seated Dinner with DJ and Dancefloor: 200 Guests
  • Cocktail Style Reception: 400 Guests

Frosted Outdoor Wedding Venues in Chicagoland

who dream of a cozy, magical wedding surrounded by a serene, frosty ambiance

Ivy Room

An oasis of urban tranquility, this hidden courtyard in downtown Chicago features towering brick walls adorned with lush green ivy. With a charming brick walkway underfoot and the surrounding architecture providing an intimate atmosphere, it’s the perfect blend of city convenience and serene nature. Step off the bustling streets into a peaceful garden retreat where the sounds of the city fade away—a true hidden gem for an unforgettable wedding setting

 

Capacity:  200 guests

 

Ivy Room

Elawa Farm Foundation

Elawa Farm, nestled in Lake Forest, Illinois, is a historic gem originally built in 1917 for A. Watson and Elsa Armour. This venue offers an enchanting blend of rustic charm and timeless elegance, perfect for small to mid-sized weddings. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it provides stunning backdrops for outdoor ceremonies and intimate receptions.

 

The farm’s beautifully restored structures, including its brick courtyard and garden spaces, offer a cozy yet refined setting. A candlelit dinner under string lights at night transforms the venue into a magical experience, perfect for couples seeking a blend of nature, history, and romance. Whether you're envisioning an outdoor ceremony with scenic views or an intimate indoor gathering, Elawa Farm promises a memorable celebration.

 

Capacity: 160 guests

 

Elawa Farm Foundation

Real wedding at Elawa Farm Foundation

Garfield park conservatory

Warm, lush, and green, this multi-room greenhouse feels like stepping into paradise. Horticultural Hall boasts a stunning collection of plants, with greenery everywhere—even hanging from the skylit ceiling. Outside, the landscaped Bluestone Patio features a charming white pavilion, perfect for an al fresco wedding ceremony.

 

The venue also provides access to a picturesque small park, adding to its appeal. Whether you choose one space or the entire conservatory, your celebration is guaranteed to be unique and incredibly photogenic

 

In my experience, it’s the perfect choice for winter weddings, as the summer months can feel a bit humid.

 

Capacity: indoor 300, outdoor 100

 

Garfield park conservatory

 

The Haley Mansion

The Haley Mansion is an elegant location for your wedding ceremony and wedding reception. The castle-like wedding venue maintains an upscale, unique atmosphere that is sure to leave your guests breathless.

 

The Mansion provides everything from event planning to catering to assistance with flowers and entertainment for your special day. It is the most recognized and convenient historic wedding venue in the Southwest suburbs and all of Chicagoland. 

 

Capacity: up to 350 guests

 

The Haley Mansion

The Monte Bello Estate

Monte Bello's enchanting 55 acre estate is the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable ceremony and wedding reception.  They have an elegant Bridal Suite complete with furnishings from Restoration Hardware and Z Gallerie, and a place to display your wedding dress. They also have the perfect Grooms Suite that is a man cave like no other with a poker table, craps table, foosball table, pool table, and guitar and sports memorabilia.

 

The Monte Bello Estate features five distinctive on-site ceremony locations. They offer a gorgeous indoor ceremony space complete with crystal chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling glass windows so that your guests can comfortably enjoy the beauty of your nuptials despite any unforeseen weather conditions. 

 

Capacity: 275 guests

 

The Monte Bello Estate

Rooftop Chicago Wedding Venues

with breathtaking views that elevate your wedding to new heights

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown is the stunning rooftop venue for your wedding in the heart of Downtown Chicago. The 39th Floor Penthouse Ballroom offers panoramic views of Chicago's skyline, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your special day.

 

The outdoor terrace adds an airy, open vibe perfect for capturing magical moments. With multiple reception rooms featuring breathtaking views, this venue is a dream setting for timeless and elegant wedding photos.

 

Capacity:  up to 200 people standing or 60 people seated

 

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

Mama Delia

 I adore this venue for its intimate and cozy ambiance, making it perfect for small weddings. The vintage-inspired seating areas, with plush velvet chairs and Hollywood Regency-style sofas, create a warm and stylish setting, ideal for capturing timeless moments.

 

The stunning small backyard outside adds an extra layer of charm, offering a picturesque space for outdoor photos and an open-air vibe that complements the elegance indoors

 

Capacity: up to 50 people

 

Mama Delia