Rent a wedding venue in Chicago, IL

Since it officially became a city in the 1830s, Chicago’s important role in the economy and culture of the United States means that the city has a fascinating history defined by iconic architecture. It’s even possible to rent many of these as venues for weddings and other events—examples include this scientific museum in a historic lakeside mansion and this 120-year-old firehouse that’s now a loft/event space, among many others.
But that’s not to say that the city has a dearth of modern/contemporary architecture. You may have heard of the Willis Tower (originally and better known as the Sears Tower), the Daley Center, or Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House, but there are also contemporary spaces that you can actually rent for your wedding. Consider this mid-century modern townhouse in Elk Grove Village or this modern downtown apartment in a building designed by a leading modernist architect, for example.
Keep reading as we provide an overview of the most important details to be aware of as you seek out wedding venues in Chicago and its surrounding areas. We’ll begin by getting the issue of legal/permitting requirements out of the way, followed by budgeting, seasonal/weather considerations, neighborhoods and transport, and examples of some of the city’s top wedding venues.
As you search Peerspace for wedding venues in Chicago, you’ll find more than 600 spaces at your disposal. Don’t forget to utilize Peerspace’s numerous helpful filters so you can narrow your search results down to venue options that fit your budget, the size of your guest list, the planned date/time of your wedding, and other key criteria.

Although navigating event permitting requirements can be a drag, it’s essential for avoiding last-minute headaches, disruptions, and even legal penalties like fines.
For instance, if you know your wedding will be loud (with music, dancing, and other celebratory noise), keep in mind that you’re required to adhere to quiet hours of 10 PM to 8 AM within 600 feet of any residential districts in Chicago.
In addition, let’s say you’re planning on having a tent at your outdoor wedding to shield your guests from the sun and rain. That’s a great idea, but don’t forget that you’ll need a permit if your tent will be taller than 15 feet or will cover more than 401 square feet. (Here’s more guidance on Chicago tent permits.)

Chicago’s cost of living is roughly 20 percent higher than the U.S. average. However, compared to famously expensive cities like Boston, Los Angeles, and New York City, Chicago tends to be much less unaffordable.
That relative affordability extends to its wedding and other event venue rentals. The average price of the most popular Chicago wedding venues is about $200 per hour. (This estimate excludes more expensive outliers like this Grand Lobby in the West Loop, which costs $2,000 per hour.)
However, you can also find much more affordable options, especially at venues that also operate as restaurants, retail spaces, or other businesses—examples include this unique converted storefront loft for $89 per hour, or this outdoor venue with open air patio seating for $75 per hour.

If you’re planning on having an outdoor wedding, avoid doing so in the coldest months of the year—the peak wedding season spans from around June to October, depending on your preference for warmer or cooler weather. (For instance, October is beautiful in Chicago thanks to the fall foliage, but the weather can get uncomfortably cold for some.)
Although the region’s cold winters are notorious, Chicago summers can also be quite warm. July is typically the hottest month, averaging in the 80s and ranging from humid to dry. Consider an outdoor venue during the peak of Chicago summer if you prefer warm and sunny weather, but keep in mind that rain is always a possibility (so it’s smart to have a backup plan).
As for the winters, keep in mind that when compared with East Coast cities like NYC, Chicago tends to get quite a bit snowier. Chicago springs can also be chilly, with nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing, until as late as May.

One of the most exciting things about Chicago is the fact that each neighborhood has a distinct history and culture that contributes to its unique vibe. This is true both within the city itself and throughout its surrounding suburbs, including Oak Park, Evanston, and Naperville.
Downtown, you’ll find Chicago’s central business district: the Loop. Its biggest draws are its world-famous architecture, especially at cultural landmarks like the Art Institute of Chicago near Millennium Park. Unsurprisingly, this area is easy to navigate via public transport, including Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) trains (best for traveling within the inner city), buses, and Metra trains (which, notably, have double-decker cars and mostly travel to and from the suburbs).
Looking for top-notch restaurants (many of which you can rent out for events through Peerspace) as well as exciting nightlife, upscale shopping, and a variety of art galleries? Head to River North in the Near North Side. This formerly industrial neighborhood is now a destination for fans of everything both luxe and artistic. You can get there on the bus or via the Red/Brown CTA lines.
Head to Lincoln Park for the famous park the neighborhood is named after as well as a zoo, trendy shopping options, great restaurants, and more. Several bus lines and the Brown, Purple, and Red CTA lines can get you to Lincoln Park.
Finally, if you’re searching for neighborhoods that offer a more bohemian vibe, check out Bucktown and Wicker Park. You can access these neighborhoods’ cool, independent shops, cafes, and music venues via bus or the Blue CTA line.

Here are some of Chicagoans’ top picks for wedding venues, all of which you can rent through Peerspace:
- If you’re an architecture enthusiast (or simply a fan of beautiful spaces), look no further. This absolutely stunning home has had the honor of winning an award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which means it’s also a true standout when it comes to wedding and wedding reception venues in Chicago. Not only is the architecture of the home itself world-class, but the interior decor is equally impressive, with unique artwork and artifacts as well as high-quality finishes and patinas. Practically speaking, this home and its surroundings are perfect for a medium-sized wedding. It has capacity for about 75 people in its more than 3,000 square feet, which include a combination of amazing indoor and outdoor spaces: the two-level home with two separate living areas, an outdoor patio and deck, and a picturesque exterior courtyard.
- For an affordable wedding venue in Chicago with a clean, modern, and upscale aesthetic, this BYOB event space in Logan Square is an excellent choice. It’s affordable for Chicago at only $92 per hour (with a four-hour minimum), and the reviews are uniformly positive. Keep in mind that the 650-square-foot space has capacity for up to 35 people, so larger weddings won’t work here, but if you’re in the market for a smaller venue it’s a good option. In addition, although there’s no kitchen, guests can bring their own alcohol as well as outside food. Additional features include a set of high-quality speakers as well as three tables that seat six to eight people and 20 chairs.
- Seeking a luxurious home away from home in the form of a Chicago mansion wedding venue? Consider this exclusive mansion event space in nearby Barrington, IL. With 11,000 square feet and a capacity of up to 100 people, this contemporary home is situated on an almost 13-acre estate. It also offers luxurious amenities like two kitchens, a modern home gym, a game room, a movie theater, eight bathrooms, an elevator (!), and smart home technology throughout. If you decide to get married at this wedding venue in the Chicago suburbs, you’ll have your pick of numerous outdoor and indoor event spaces throughout the mansion’s multiple levels.
- Perhaps your dream would be to travel to New York City and have your wedding take place in a classic, industrial-luxe loft, but you can’t make it all the way to NYC. Here’s the next best thing: planning to have your wedding at this converted factory loft with NYC vibes. Also known as Le Loft West, it’s conveniently situated on the boundary of Logan Square and Bucktown, and sits on the second floor of a former factory with plenty of historic charm. This 2,800-square-foot space has capacity for up to 70 people and includes a full kitchen, a bar, plenty of furniture for your guests (and more available for rent), and a top-of-the-line SONOS sound system.