With historic architecture everywhere you turn, a picture-perfect location on the shores of Lake Michigan, a thriving food scene, parks like South Shore Cultural Center, and cultural attractions that cities envy, it's easy to see why Chicago is home to the best event venues.
It doesn't matter what sort of space you're looking for or what ambiance you want to create for your special event. Maybe you're looking for an artistic loft with floor-to-ceiling windows in downtown Chicago, a majestic banquet hall for a grand celebration, an exclusive country club for an intimate wedding, or a rooftop lounge with breathtaking views of the city skyline—whatever you're looking for, you'll find it in Chicago.
Giggster boasts a diverse range of Chicago event venues to suit events of all styles and budgets of all sizes. Suppose you're searching for party venues for unforgettable events, a sophisticated space for a corporate event, or the perfect venue for a secluded private party. In that case, Giggster can help you find suitable properties in a variety of Chicago's most diverse neighborhoods.
Giggster's curated selection of private event spaces provides endless possibilities for your next event in the windy city, so start searching for your ideal event venue today!
Chicago Event Venues Curated by Giggster
Historic buildings, modern amenities, outdoor spaces, contemporary art, and gorgeous views of beautiful Lake Michigan—these are just some of the features to expect when you choose an event space in Chicago. Let's take a deep dive into Giggster's special selection of Chicago event venues and how they can help make your special occasion one to remember.
- Old meets new. Do you want an event venue that offers old-world charm along Michigan Ave in the Gold Coast Historic District? Or would you prefer a spacious and modern South Loop apartment with high ceilings and all the creature comforts?
- If you want to tap into the city's timeless style, a classic loft in a Chicago neighborhood with a rich industrial history could be the perfect fit.
- For corporate events that take it to the next level, how about a private rooftop space that looks out over the city skyline or the Chicago River? Now that's sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests!
- Intimate weddings and other small gatherings that need a dash of something special are perfectly suited to a hidden outdoor patio in the heart of Lincoln Park, or private courtyards tucked away in unexpected urban locations.
484 Amazing Event Locations in Chicago
Exceptional Variety & Quality: From underground comedy clubs to spacious rooftop terraces, and from versatile and affordable event spaces to luxurious private mansions, Giggster's diverse range of 484 unique event spaces in Chicago lets you find a venue tailor-made to suit your occasion.
Hassle-Free Booking: It's quick and easy to find your ideal event space online and book a venue for as little as $24/hour with Giggster. Filter your search based on a host of key parameters—budget, guest list, event venue type, features, and more.
24-Hour Free Cancellation Policy: Unexpected change of plans? Our 24-hour free cancellation policy means you can delay your event without being slugged with extra fees.
Platform Protections: Enjoy extra peace of mind with optional Giggster insurance protection packages. Book top-shelf Chicago event venues like a Spacious & Modern Event Space with Sleeping Loft and rest easy knowing we've got your back with add-on damage protection, cancellation protection, and event liability insurance.
Pros and Cons of Events in Chicago
Is Chicago your top choice for awesome party venues, attractions, and entertainment? Consider the following factors when deciding whether a Chicago event venue is best for your next event.
Advantages
- If you love seriously good food—and let's face it, who doesn't?—Chicago's thriving dining scene has some extra-special treats in store for you.
- A special event calls for a special venue, and you'll find a diverse range of venue features and styles to choose from in Chicago.
- With a huge variety of event vendors to choose from, it's easy to find great catering, entertainment, party rentals, and more for private events.
Disadvantages
- The temperature plummets in the windy city during winter, so it's not the best time of year for an outdoor event.
- The best Chicago event venues are in high demand, so there's plenty of competition when booking an event space.
- Keep in mind that Chicago's traffic problems can wreak havoc with travel times during peak hours.
The Best Type of Venue for Your Event in Chicago
You've chosen a date for your special event and the planning process is under way. Now it's time to start searching for the perfect venue—and with 484 fantastic listings to choose from, including everywhere from artsy River North to the nightlife and restaurants of West Loop, Giggster can help you find the best Chicago venues.
Lofts – For an Intimate Gathering. Immerse yourself in Chicago's rich industrial past with a converted warehouse loft. With high ceilings, exposed brick, and locations in hotspots like West Loop and downtown, lofts are the best venues for cozy yet glamorous affairs.
Rooftop Terraces – For Next-level Celebrations. When you find a private rooftop space, you can treat your guests to the sort of exclusivity and prestige they'd expect from a swanky business event or birthday party. Whether you're in the heart of River North or perhaps pretty Hyde Park, the views of the surrounding cityscape will be spectacular.
Pubs and Bars – Where Everybody Knows Your Name. If you want an event space that oozes rustic charm and warm hospitality on a cold winter's night, pubs and bars are ideal meeting spaces. This type of venue offers an ambiance to suit any occasion—you could choose a Prohibition-era speakeasy, an elegant lounge bar, or a welcoming local pub. It all depends on the atmosphere you want from your venue in Chicago.
Patios and Courtyards – Secluded Celebrations. You might be surprised by the hidden outdoor spaces you can find tucked away in Chicago's streets and alleyways. In neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, West Town, and Hyde Park, you'll find secluded private patios and courtyards tucked away from the busy city. Perfect for an intimate party or small family reunion.
Mansions – Style and Sophistication. For a sophisticated soiree, an elegant Chicago mansion could be the perfect choice. Whether you want a historic Morgan Park mansion to provide a unique venue for your special night, or a pristine private estate with an outdoor pool and acres of space, you'll find suitable spaces for corporate functions and special events.
How to Plan an Event in Chicago
If your corporate event or private celebration in Chicago is going to be a raging success, you'll need to devote plenty of time and energy to all aspects of the planning process. Keep these simple tips in mind.
Choose a Theme – Start by thinking about what sort of experience you want to offer to your guests—sophisticated and formal or casual and relaxed. Choosing a theme for your event, including everything from Hollywood glamor to pretty in pink, will help you focus on the key ingredients you need for the occasion.
Set Your Budget – It's easy to get carried away when choosing a venue in Chicago and booking entertainment and catering, so set a budget at the start and be sure to stick to it.
Choose an Event Venue – Compare event spaces to find your ideal location. Be sure that the venue you choose is not only the right size for your guest list, but that it matches the theme and ambiance you want.
Organize the Finer Details – Now it's time to sort catering, entertainment, transport, party rentals, and anything else you need to make your event a success. Make a detailed checklist to ensure you don't forget anything.
Saving Money on an Event in Chicago
From River North and South Loop to Albany Park, the best Chicago event spaces don't come cheap. Keep these tips in mind to help ensure that you don't blow your budget when hosting an event.
What's your budget?
Before you start comparing venues or do any other planning, work out how much you want to spend on your event.
Is there any wiggle room?
When setting your budget, leave some money aside for those unexpected expenses that are bound to crop up from time to time. If you can leave, say, 10% of your total budget to cover unforeseen events, you'll go a long way towards sticking to your financial plan.
Are you flexible with event dates and times?
Booking outside peak times can save you a lot of money on venue hire. So if you're willing to host your event on a weekday rather than a weekend, or during the day rather than at night, you could enjoy big savings.
Chicago Events with Giggster
You can find a diverse selection of Chicago event venues on Giggster. Start browsing listings today and find the ideal location for your next event.
