A Guide to the Best Party Venues in Chicago
Chicago has one of the most thriving party scenes in the country. The vibrant culture, world famous restaurants, top notch local vendors, and iconic architecture make this city a perfect location to host any and all celebrations.
Factors to consider when choosing a venue
As a local party venue in Chicago, our team at Le Loft understands there’s so many decisions to consider when planning a successful event; We’re here to help! This article will guide you through the process, providing answers to common questions like:
–Size and capacity factors: matching the venue with the guest list.
–Popular Chicago party venue locations: accessibility, and transportation options.
–Budgeting for a party venue: understanding how venue costs fit into the overall party budget.
–Party Venue Ambiance and Theme: How the venue complements the event theme.
Bookmark this page as your plan for your unforgettable event.
What size party venue should you rent?
Deciding on how many guests are on your invite list will be the first step in narrowing down your party venue options. You’ll want to make sure to look for a place that comfortably holds all your guests. Size matters! If you go too big, guests will be spread out and the vibe dies. Some larger venues offer ways of partitioning off their space to make a more intimate setting if your guest list is smaller, be sure to ask if this is an option.
For larger guests lists, we recommend going with a party venue like a hotel with a larger ballroom like the LM Studio Chicago or converted factory space like Morgan Manufacturing where there’s an open layout and plenty of room for 300+ guests.
What’s the party venue layout like?
Additionally, when planning your party, consider levels and layout. Will your event span multiple floors? We’ve seen a number of high-end corporate events where this was an intentional choice. One event was at a converted bank in Brooklyn where guests were directed through the vault in the basement after dinner to find a speakeasy with a casino and circus vibe. Tour guides led guests to the Modern Wing for cocktail hour, before being directed downstairs for the official program.
If you’re planning a smaller event like a 30th birthday party, we had guests at Le Loft achieve a similar effect by having guests celebrate in the front of our space for happy hour and dinner, before heading to the back of the space where we have the dance floor staged.
Where is the event space located?
Your venue location is another key factor to consider when booking your party spot. Is there public transit nearby? What are the parking accommodations like? Is the venue wheelchair accessible? Many party guests expect to take private transit, so don’t be afraid to choose a spot you love even if it doesn’t have a parking lot or a little off-the-beaten path. Just be sure to inform your guests so they can plan accordingly.
Ride shares and spot hero are great for venues without a dedicated parking lot or valet service.
Budgeting for a party venue
Costs for party venues in Chicago can vary widely depending on the size of the space, the location, and the services included. A great venue can make all the difference for your party. So while the expense might seem high, it’s often well worth the memories. Many budget 40-50% of their overall costs to the venue. But, there are a few additional things to consider; Will your event be a “one-stop-shop?” For example, if you’re getting married, can you also get ready and have your ceremony at the venue? If so, that can save you a lot of money and time.
Does the event space need decor?
Additionally, the ambiance and design of the space is important to consider. Some places are blank canvases and need a lot of additional decor, while others are already designed to appeal to a broad audience and do not require a lot of additional enhancements. You should also inquire whether your venue provides any amenities like tables, chairs, and furniture.
Another factor in pricing for venues is the time of year and day of the week. Many venues charge a premium rate for Saturdays during peak season, between June through October. If you’re looking to get a deal, you might opt for a non-weekend date or time of year that’s less popular.
Party venue locations in Chicago
When it comes to finding the best party venues in Chicago, options range from lavish opulence to quirky and fun. From rooftop gardens with stunning views to industrial lofts with a trendy vibes. Below you’ll find a list of popular options that fit a range of budgets.
Top Party Venues in Chicago
- The Peninsula Chicago – $$$$
- Elegant space with top notch service.
- Ideal for: Corporate events, elegant parties.
- The Art Institute of Chicago – $$$$
- Modern design lovers, this ones for you.
- Ideal for: Art lovers, unique celebrations.
- The Field Museum – $$$$
- Unique features that make it stand out.
- Ideal for: Themed parties, educational events.
- Chicago History Museum – $$$$
- Insights into the historic charm.
- Ideal for: Cultural events, history enthusiasts.
- Bridgeport Art Center – $$$
- Lofted space with large capacity.
- Ideal for: Cultural events, large weddings
- Ovation Chicago – $$
- Brick walls and skylights make this space modern and elegant
- Ideal for medium to large events
- Morgan Manufacturing – $$$
- Industrial complex with multiple rooms
- Ideal for large events
- Salvage Once – $$
- Vintage, industrial vibe
- Ideal for medium to large events
Unique Party Venues in Chicago
- Le Loft – $
- Hip and stylish open layout loft
- Ideal for small-mid size events of all kinds
- Emil Bach House – $$
- Frank Lloyd Wright home with ample light
- Ideal for: smaller events
- Floating World Gallery – $$
- Ace Bounce – $$$
- Play pingpong while celebrating with your friends
- Ideal for: birthday parties and corporate events
Tips for Booking Your Venue
- Plan Ahead. Chicago’s most popular party venues often book up years in advance. Planning ahead can make all the difference. If you’re having trouble finding your dream spot, consider going off season or booking on a Friday or Sunday
- Visit in Person. While many places offer walkthrough videos, seeing a place in person lets you experience the space first hand and map out how you might plan your event. You’ll also be able to ask the owners or managers important questions and learn firsthand important details to know in advance. Preparation is key!
- Ask the Right Questions. When interviewing venues, make sure to ask about important policies, like deposits, cancellations, and decor limitations. Are there sound ordinances? Are children and pets allowed? Many places have answers to frequently asked questions, so you can always look for those in advance, but asking in person is recommended too.
- Read Review. Reviews are a great resource for verifying the professionalism of a space and experiences with their guests. Reviews often mention important details like customer services and other nuances that might not be listed in the venue description.
In summary, the best party venues in Chicago offer unique settings that contribute to the overall experience of the celebration. Considering factors such as size, ambiance, location, and cost will help you find the perfect venue for your next event. Chicago offers so many great spots to host your event, from the lavish to the trendy. We hope this guide helps when choosing the one that’s right for you! If you have other questions we didn’t answer, please leave a comment below or send us an email to [email protected]