
Chicago is one of the top cities in the country and unfortunately, that doesn't translate into it being very affordable. Luckily, with Giggster by your side, you don't have to cancel your party plans because securing a venue is too expensive. Just the opposite.
Chicago event venues can easily break the bank when lavish banquet halls and historic hotels are the location. But with the Giggster app, anyone can source a memorable venue for birthday parties, corporate events, or wedding receptions within their budget. Our options range from a versatile event space like an urban loft to a modern and spacious home to colorful patios waiting for some lively conversation.
Whatever your vision for your next event in Chicago, we can help you achieve it affordably. Private events here don't have to cost a fortune, contrary to what you might think. So, download the app and start browsing to find the event space of your dreams now.
Using Giggster to plan your next private event, like a cocktail or engagement party, definitely has its perks. From inspirational creative space to a fairytale-like church to historic rooms at the International Museum of Surgical Science, you've got all the options you could ask for.
When location is key, choose options near the Lincoln Park Zoo, West Town, River North, or the West Loop.
Finding a flexible event space that offers a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, large open areas for dancing and games, or a small party venue with the comforts of home is a breeze.
Does a Lake Michigan view factor into your ideal party setting? How about a farm with a scenic lake right on the property? Even with a modest budget, with Giggster, it can be done.
Sometimes a blank slate is exactly what you need. If so, we have unfurnished studios with vibrant murals and lofts that perfectly combine modern and industrial charms.
Exceptional Variety & Quality: Whether you're choosing a fully-equipped home, a restaurant, or a swanky rooftop, the 450 amazing options in the Giggster app mean finding a reasonably-priced yet fantastic party spot is totally within reach.
Hassle-Free Booking: Yes, you're trying to save money, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your time or sanity. Our platform is so easy to use that you'll be done and on to something else in minutes. Each listing clearly shows the availability, images, and features, and of course, the all-important price starting at $17/hour. Use the filters to narrow the results by price and other items like guest count or specific features.
24-Hour Free Cancellation Policy: It's not always easy to make up your mind. And if you book something and want to adjust or change it entirely, you can do so within the first 24 hours without incurring a charge (provided the event is 48 hours or more away). You don't need to waste your limited budget on mistakes!
Platform Protections: Accidents happen, we know, so protecting yourself and the property host from things like liability and damage is easily added to your booking for a small fee. Although budget is a concern, can you really put a price tag on such comprehensive peace of mind? Also, if you book a venue like Studio Fit Chicago but aren't entirely sure it works for you, choose to prolong the free cancellation period.
While Chicago doesn't have the highest cost of living in the country (that's San Francisco and New York), it's up there. Do you think it's the right spot to hold your affordable party? Check these pros and cons to find out for sure:
Advantages
Budget-friendly venues come in all shapes and sizes here because Chicago is such a large city.
The city's famous "L" train and other public transportation options mean that getting to and from venues without a car is easy. So, you don't need to spend extra on a space with parking or expensive valet services.
Some venues, and especially Giggster ones, allow outside catering and even alcohol, so you can avoid the hefty premiums charged by some high-end locations.
Disadvantages
A lot of people are on a budget in Chicago, so the competition for affordable venues can be fierce.
Some of the cheaper venues are strictly outdoor spaces, which can't really be used in the winter unless you're planning an urban ski party.
Drink and food minimums at some venues are a real thing. If the price seems too good to be true, double-check this.
Even with a modest amount to spend, you can easily rent an entire space for a few hours and celebrate in style. These are just a few of the 450 Giggster listings in Chicago alone:
Rooftop Lounges – Impress With Views. The Chicago skyline is something special, so why not take advantage? Although you may think that rooftop bars are only for parties with huge budgets, we have options for everyone.
Homes and Mansions – Decadent Surroundings. Impress guests with a lavish home without spending a fortune. When you see the historic features or the gourmet kitchen, you won't believe the affordable price!
Patios and Gardens – Outdoor Extravaganzas. Why not rent a private outside space with a hot tub and a pergola for extra coverage? It will feel luxurious without the attached price tag. Or, choose a covered outdoor patio at a modern Chicago restaurant for al fresco dining.
Churches, Recording Studios, and Galleries – Be Outside the Box. Buck convention and choose an interesting spot for your fun party. Churches with pews and a stage, recording studios plastered with records, and posh galleries with colorful art are surprisingly economical.
Warehouses and Lofts – Trendy Times. Spacious rooms, industrial materials like concrete and metal, and ultra-high ceilings add a memorable touch to the event. And because these types of spaces are somewhat common in Chicago, they're affordable, too.
It's safe to say that if you put some time into the party planning, you'll likely save money naturally. Booking last-minute venues and entertainment often demands a premium price, so being on the ball keeps the budget in check.
Budgeting is a Must – This might seem obvious, but if you don't have a clear budget from the get-go, it's super easy to get carried away with the spending.
Manage the Guest List – More people = higher costs. Develop a paired-down guest list to determine exactly how much space you need at the venue and other necessities like food.
Decorate on a Budget – Chances are good that even the perfect venue will require some intervention from you for decor. Start prepping this early and you'll have time to hand-make decorations or put out feelers to borrow items from family and friends.
Plan Free Entertainment – Instead of a DJ, make a theme-specific playlist. Instead of a live band, rent a cheaper karaoke machine or see if any of the musically gifted guests would like to showcase their talent during the event.
Using the Giggster app is the perfect way to keep your venue costs in check. And, anyone searching for affordable party venues in Chicago probably wouldn't mind saving in other places, too.
Forego printed invites.
Even if your party is a formal one, don't splash out on paper invitations that are expensive and require a bunch of time to fill out. Guests are just going to recycle them, anyway. Prepare a nice electronic invite and send it out without even paying for postage.
Make it a potluck.
Food is such a big component of a party budget that whatever you can do to cut it will have a substantial impact. Avoid traditional sit-down multi-course meals in favor of food trucks or asking people to bring a dish to share. Perhaps a BYOB situation makes sense for the alcohol? As a general rule, the more costs you can share with the guests, the better.
Book in the off-season.
Holding your party outside peak times means the rate for catering, entertainment, and even the venue can be cheaper. Avoid December due to the increased demand for holiday parties, the summer for an outdoor venue, and any other holidays.
The great news is that with the Giggster app, Chicago venues are now more affordable than ever. Use the filters to sort by maximum cost and you'll be astonished at the options completely within your price range!