As summer wraps up, also does Chicago's outdoor wedding season. We love our summers for putting up tents and pronouncing vows under lush trees. As we begin to head back inside, we wanted to share some of our favorite Chicagoland outdoor wedding venues and think about next year's outdoor events.
1. Chicago Botanic Garden
Garden wedding vibes? Check. Magical photo ops? Check. On-site tent or indoor spaces for inclement weather? Double check. We love designing weddings at the CBG for the incredible views and scenery everywhere you look. Bonus? You get a lot of extra floral for your décor with no effort on your part: the staff gardeners have your back! The breathtaking CBG is not only a romantic spot to host your big day, it’s also conveniently located in Glencoe- just a quick uber or shuttle ride from the city for your guests.
2. Elawa Farms
If you want a more rustic feel with the convenience of all the big city has to offer, Elawa Farms is the perfect option for your wedding. Located in the nearby suburb of Lake Forest, you and your guests can escape the hubbub of the city without driving too far. Rural and romantic, this beautiful restored farm and garden venue can accommodate up to 150 guests. They’ll enjoy strolling under the stars through the mix of manicured landscape and tall grass savannah on-site, and then dance the night away under the beautiful tent available for wedding receptions. Weddings (elawafarm.org)
3. Rooftop Terrace at Millennium Park
You can’t choose a more iconic Chicago venue for your wedding than Millennium Park itself! The Rooftop Terrace offers endless flexibility for larger events and the sky is the limit when it comes to creating the décor and ambiance of your wedding. Set in the center of the city, your guests will feel as if the city of Chicago itself is the event venue, and the convenient location allows for easy access to all local hotels and transportation. Not to mention, any after party night life you and your guests may want to enjoy is only steps away! Millennium Park Private Events Brochure (chicago.gov)
4. Chicago Illuminating Company
Located in the trendy Motor Row district in the South Loop, Chicago Illuminating Company is a unique indoor/outdoor venue. A permanent clear-top tent elevates any and every event, and provides endless opportunities for spectacular event design. Originally this space served as a power plant warehouse, but now it makes a modern statement with lots of character and ivy walls in the courtyard to soften the urban backdrop. What a fun way to incorporate a piece of Chicago’s history while bringing it into the future with your wedding! Chicago Illuminating Company | Chicago Venue Group
5. Armour House
Lush gardens and grounds surround the turn of the century Italian style villa listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Armour House is an outdoor venue that offers old world elegance for the couple seeking a romantic getaway. Instead of feeling like you are in the heart of suburban Chicago, walking the Armour House grounds give the impression of wandering into the Italian countryside. Reflecting pools, fountains, and immaculate gardens are around every corner providing endless photo ops and delights for you and your guests. Weddings | Armour House Catering (sodexomyway.com)