Find Event spaces for rent in Chicago, IL

About Chicago

If you’re planning an event, there’s no better place to go than Chicago. Sitting pretty on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Windy City is an event planner’s dream. It’s home to pretty parks and eye-catching architecture, so you’re all sorted for outdoor as well as indoor celebrations. Add thriving food and live music scenes into the mix and it’s immediately apparent that there’s always plenty for locals and visitors to enjoy.

And that’s why Chicago is such a wonderful place to host an event. From dive bars to rooftop spaces, and from intimate gatherings to raucous all-night parties, the city offers choices galore for event planners. In fact, there’s such a wide range of unique event venues in Chicago that it’s hard to go wrong.

Keep reading for tips on making your next Chicago event a raging success.

Event Options in Chicago

Hire Chicago event vendors to help with the details of a fantastic gathering. They can help with multiple event venues. You can plan a corporate event at a unique event venue, a special event at West Town, or a birthday party at a Country Club.

Caterers

• Tri-Star Catering

Tri-Star Catering has been serving the Chicago area since 1992. They are veterans in the catering arena and offer menus that can be customized to accommodate your event and guests.

• Boka Catering Group

Boka Catering Group is an award-winning Chicago caterer specializing in creating unique event fares and delicious food. The group caters to baby showers, art shows, small gatherings, private events, meeting rooms, and more. The company can create menus based on dietary needs, event themes, and other host preferences and offers options for any event.

Transportation

• Performance Livery

Performance Livery offers top-notch private transportation in Chicago. Your guests can easily coordinate rides and arrive on time (and in style) to your event space. Performance Livery is also an asset for corporate meetings, private dining meetings, cocktail parties, large scale events, live events, and more.

• Elite Chicago Limo

Elite Chicago Limo provides you and your guests with high-class transportation from your prep location to your next event. No matter where you need to go, Elite Chicago Limo can get you there. They are also experts at transporting smaller groups and VIPs and getting you to and from an intimate event in Chicago Il.

Equipment Rental

• House of Rental

House of Rental offers everything you need for your Chicago event venues to get the party started, from chairs and barstools to kid-friendly inflatables that look great in natural light.

• Tablescapes Event Rentals

Tablescapes Event Rentals offers various rental gear that matches your needs and theme. Customize your selections for corporate parties or opt for a package that includes all the party basics, such as table linens, dinnerware, and folding chairs.

Event Planners in Chicago

Enlist the help of one of Chicago’s event planners to take the guesswork out of planning your gathering.

• Paulette Wolf Events

This Chicago event planner offers full-service planning for commercial and social events. They are known in Lincoln Square, Rogers Park, South Loop, and the International Museum. They can help you execute your dream event with the help of the city’s best vendors. Paulette Wolf is already popular in many venues in Chicago and knows how to make the best out of what a space offers.

• Shannon Gail

This boutique event coordinator specializes in weddings and corporate galas. Shannon Gail has created stylish, unforgettable events for companies, featured on the popular event and wedding sites like Style Me Pretty and The Knot, and is known for excellent work at the art center.

• LK Events

LK Events plans corporate and social events, weddings, and elopements. They help their clients turn Chicago event venues into stylish settings that will keep guests talking for years.

Pros and Cons of Events in Chicago

Before you settle on a Chicago event space, consider the pros and cons of hosting a gathering in the city.

Advantages

• Event venue variety
  Many beautiful and unique event spaces in Chicago will suit any vibe and crowd you want to invite. Choose from the eclectic art galleries of River North, the grand ballrooms in Hyde Park for special events, or the historic buildings of Gold Coast.
  
  
• Tons of attractions
  The city is home to fun excursions and interesting attractions for guests. Try heading over to Navy Pier or the Lincoln Park Zoo for a fun-filled afternoon for kids, or dine in the famous restaurants of Fulton Market and West Loop for a unique meal.
  
  
• Gorgeous weather (sometimes)
  The spring, summer, and fall temperatures are comfortable and ideal for outdoor gatherings. Take advantage of these times of the year to enjoy all the attractions Chicago offers!
  
  
• Lodging options
  Chicago hotel and accommodation options are abundant. Event attendees should have no trouble finding a place to stay here. The great part is that most hotels can also double as wedding venues, special event spaces for corporate events, or even party venues for intimate gatherings!
  
  
• Vendor choices
  Chicago has various event professionals who can help you execute your next event, from excellent birthday parties to business meetings or corporate events.

Disadvantages

• High living costs
  Products and services in Chicago can get pricey. While the prices for rentals and unique venues in the area are still lower than in most major American cities, Chicagoans can expect prices to steadily climb over the next few years, even for small event spaces.
  
  
• Harsh winter climate
  Winter weather in Chicago Il is frigid and snowy. If you’re planning a holiday party in Chicago in winter, prepare for potential travel delays and less-than-ideal outdoor conditions.
  
  
• Crime
  Some parts of the city have high crime rates. It’s best to research the event venues you plan to reserve in advance and check for any potential security threats.
  
  
• High demand for unique venues and services
  Chicago is a great place for parties, and venues and vendors are in high demand. It’s best to plan your gathering well in advance to get the best pick of the private event spaces available in the area.
  
  
• Traffic
  Chicago highways can get quite congested, especially during rush hours. Consider coordinating transportation during off-peak travel times or plan for delays.

Famous Event Locations in Chicago

Chicago has attractions, excellent eateries, and breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss these Chicago sights while you’re here.

• 360 Chicago Observation Deck

This stunning structure towers 1,000 feet above downtown Chicago, offering unmatched views of Lake Michigan, the city skyline, and the lakeshore. Stop by before your event to scope out the city’s best features. Want to be surrounded by these fabulous views during your gathering? Host your event in a penthouse near Lincoln Park, and you’ll be amid Chicago skyscrapers and the city’s bustling streets.

• Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk runs along the Chicago River through the city’s downtown. The spectacular outdoor space starts near Lakeshore Drive and weaves along the river’s edge to Lake Michigan. Shops, pubs, and historical sites line the path, and rental kayaks are available. Stroll along this walkway after your event, or set aside an afternoon to explore it. Secure a high-ceiling event space in River West, and you’ll be within easy walking distance of this Chicago attraction.

• Wrigley Field

This historic ballfield is a must-see for sports fans visiting Chicago. Spanning over 100,000 square feet, the Wrigley Field is the home of the Chicago Cubs baseball team. Take a guided tour, stop for pics near the entrance, or carve out some time on your itinerary for a Cubs game.

Whether it’s a birthday bash, a family reunion, or a business gathering, the Windy City is a fantastic place for a party. The many venues in Chicago are perfect for a special occasion thanks to the prevalent rich culture, modern amenities, and a dedicated team. Start searching for event space in Chicago today. You may get one on the Magnificent Mile or near the Fulton Street Collective if you're lucky!