The sheer amount of planning that goes into creating the perfect wedding is astounding. And with the venue being the most important place where you can say your “I do’s”, choosing the perfect location is essential. If you plan on having your wedding in Chicago, you’re in luck because the city offers hundreds of different options – from luxury to views to gorgeous settings.
In this article, we’ve curated some of the top wedding venues in Chicago with a twist. Here, you’ll be able to see which venue suits your wedding plans in terms of ambiance and character. Whether you’re looking for something classic or something with more charm, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive right in!
The best wedding venues in Chicago
We’ve prepared our top list of wedding venues in Chicago in terms of location, ambiance, character, style, and cost. If your search for weddings has been difficult so far, this guide is the answer.
In the suburbs
The Chicago Botanic Garden is a suburban wedding venue that is located at 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, Illinois. There, the happy couple will be in natural surroundings with cascading waterfalls and enchanting blooming flowers all around as they begin the first day of the rest of their lives together. The venue caters to a broad range of ceremonies as well as offers catering, drinks, and desserts. Although it doesn’t offer on-site accommodation or a dressing room, you can fully avail of the covered outdoor space, indoor space, and the reception area.
Downtown
Next up, we have The Art Institute Chicago. This is a modern venue for wedding ceremonies, which has both an indoor and outdoor space. Outdoors, you can exchange vows in the Pritzker Garden, move inside to the Passerelle room for cocktails, and then head down a glass staircase for dinner in Griffin Court. Alternatively, you can enjoy eating, drinking, and dancing at The Chicago Stock Exchange Trading Room. It’s a grand space with clean lines, which means that any color scheme will go!
Classic
For those who love the classic style, Café Brauer should be your choice. Offering some of the most timeless architecture in the city of Chicago, the venue is located in the heart of Lincoln Park. Because of this, you and your guest can enjoy the endless views of the skyline, the beautiful pond, and also, it’s right next to the zoo.
Greenhouse
If you’re looking for a greenhouse-style wedding venue, then Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens has the wow factor. This is a one-acre venue that is covered in a lush tropical paradise, beneath a 50-foot glass ceiling covered in sparkling string lights. Whether you’re having a small or big wedding, the venue can accommodate from 80 to 500 people. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer to keep the decor simple.
Rooftop
Lacuna Lofts is the perfect rooftop wedding, offering a 360-degree view of the entire city. It is both romantic and charismatic and it makes for an unforgettable wedding.
Industrial
Morgan Manufacturing is a west town Chicago wedding venue. Considered the definition of “industrial elegance”, it’s a multi-level loft-like space defined by exposed brickwork, overhead timber beams and skylights, as well as polished concrete floors. You can either enjoy your wedding there as it is or you can do it up in any style you like while complementing its industrial look. It’s sure to make for a memorable wedding no matter which option you choose.
Chicago waterfront
For a waterfront view, Theater on the Lake should be your ultimate choice. The venue was designed all the way back in 1913 and it offers a southern view of the Chicago skyline. And if you are planning on hiring a band, then the pre-existing stage is the perfect opportunity to turn up the beats and dance the night away.
Historic
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, you will find The University Club of Chicago. This is a century-old venue that can help bring your every whim to life. From extensive wine and champagne pairings from the Club’s cellar to wedding cakes and sweets, you’re in for a real treat at this historic venue.
Hotels: from the classic to the modern
Want to ensure your wedding is an absolute showstopper? Then The Drake Hotel located at the intersection of Lake Shore Drive and Michigan Avenue is the answer. It not only offers amazing views of the lake and skyline but The John Hancock building is right next door. But perhaps more importantly, the interior ballroom selections are absolutely spectacular. One of these is the Gold Coast Ballroom, defined by grand pillars, gold touches, and infinite details put into every square inch. This is a classic venue with a fine touch. But if you’re looking for something more modern, why not try the Peninsula?
The Peninsula Hotel – Chicago is possibly the best five-star hotel in the city. It is modern and elegant and caters exceptionally well to young professionals who want a glam, formal, and indoor wedding. It really offers a touch of class to every aspect of the wedding details and you will not be left disappointed for even a moment. In fact, it’s an inspiring venue that will take your breath away.
A final minor detail…
As your preparations for your perfect wedding get underway, you’ll be spoilt for choice with all the options Chicago offers in terms of wedding venues. But perhaps more importantly, you’ll want to ensure your guests can fully enjoy themselves without being under the shadow of finding adequate parking nearby and getting there on time or even consuming alcohol and then thinking of ways to come home. At Bus Connection, we’ve got you covered.
In fact, although alcohol consumption in vehicles is not permitted in the city without a license, we are fully covered for that. So, if you have a stag party or a bridal shower before the event and you’d like your guests to fully enjoy themselves and consume alcohol during the journey, you’re in safe hands with us.
And if you are looking for those picture-perfect locations around the city, you and your wedding planner can get in touch with us, too. We know the city inside out and will be able to show you the perfect spots for your wedding theme.
Overall, all you and your guests can have a phenomenal time before, during, and after your wedding as you ensure their safe (and fun) transportation with us. Simply get in touch to see which vehicle options will suit your needs best and we’ll make sure that your wedding is absolutely flawless, at least on the transportation front.