About Chicago
Nestled on the banks of Lake Michigan, Chicago features many unique places to see and must-visit attractions. It is home to over 250 theaters, 225 music venues, 369 landmarks, and approximately sixty museums. Whether you’re a big-city person, a nature lover, or a history buff, it's an incredible destination you shouldn’t miss. There’s also always something new popping up, which is why it’s impossible to get bored in this dynamic city.
Chicago’s lakefront treasure, Navy Pier, will welcome you and offer eclectic experiences. It provides countless food-centric and sightseeing places, holiday boat cruises, seasonal exhibitions, shops, and age-old attractions. It also has excellent fun-filled family activities that will keep you and your little ones busy throughout the day.
With numerous private venues and over 8,800 acres of nature preserves and parks, you won’t struggle to find a perfect meetup space in Chicago. Regardless of your reason for visiting, this city by the lake will only leave you with the best memory.
Meetup Space Options in Chicago
Setting up a Chicago meetup space is often easier said than done. Even if it’s just a small gathering, it requires planning and preparation. It’s also best to seek help from other professionals and reputable vendors to ensure everything goes smoothly.
- Seating and Décor
If you plan to bring your own supplies, let the venue know ahead of time so you can set up early. But if you pick a non-traditional meetup space, you may have to rent linens, tables, chairs, dinnerware, and decoration. An event rental company in Chicago is an excellent place to start.
- Guest Speaker
There are many ways to host and organize a meetup. Typically, a discussion works for a smaller group. However, you might want to contact a guest speaker in Chicago if you will cover a range of topics that require some level of expertise.
- Caterer
You can never compromise on meals at meetup events if you want to make a good impression. Impress the participants by hiring a good catering service in Chicago. Work together to plan the menu and check the food before serving to the attendees.
- AV Equipment Rental
You might need to use microphones and speakers or do a slideshow or a presentation during your meetup. Always test the sound quality and ensure all technical tools work properly before the event starts.
Meetup Space Companies in Chicago
You probably want to establish yourself in your industry or build more connections. The good news is, Chicago has some of the best companies dedicated to helping you obtain your objectives.
- AFR Furniture Rental
With over 40 years of industry experience and nineteen strategic locations across the country, AFR Furniture Rental delivers an unparalleled level of service to its growing clients. No matter what piece of furniture you need, they have various rental packages to help you organize a stress-free event in Chicago.
- Brix Catering & Events
You don’t need to worry about the food and refreshments for your meetup in Chicago because Brix Catering & Events will take care of your menu. They have a trained event planner, a skilled sommelier, and a professional chef committed to ensuring your event is spectacular and memorable.
- AV Chicago
AV Chicago is your event production partner, offering high-end AV equipment and event management services in the city. Whether it’s a virtual meetup or an in-person event, they will make sure that everything goes according to plan in terms of your audio-visual requirements.
Pros and Cons of Meetup Spaces in Chicago
Like any city, Chicago has its inconveniences. But it makes up for its shortcomings with all its impressive features and incredible services.
Advantages
- Top restaurants
Meetups often involve food, and with Chicago’s booming food scene, there’s always something delicious to munch on during your gathering. It’s home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, prominent chefs, and celebrity cooks.
- Events and festivals
Festivals and special events happen in Chicago throughout the year. So no matter when you decide to gather with friends or meet new people, there are eclectic activities to enjoy.
- Vibrant neighborhoods
Chicago consists of 77 community areas. Every neighborhood has its unique mix of culture, history, attractions, and personality suitable for any gathering or event.
Disadvantages
- Difficult parking
Make sure your meetup space in Chicago has a good parking spot. Otherwise, you’ll likely encounter impossible parallel parking areas, no parking signs, and tow zones.
- Rough winters
Expect dark skies, blistering winds, and blowing snow during winters in Chicago. It also receives about thirty-six inches of snow every winter.
- Sale tax rate
Chicago has the highest sales tax rate in the country, which is why its housing and accommodation aren’t cheap. Be sure to have a sufficient budget if you plan to stay or rent a Chicago meeting space.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- Garfield Park Conservatory
If you want to meet in a place where you can feel close to nature, visit Garfield Park Conservatory. It’s one of the country’s largest conservatories, occupying two acres inside and over ten acres of nature play spaces for your little ones, outdoor gardens, and more. It also hosts exciting events and programs for groups, adults, and families.
- Jay Pritzker Pavilion
Located in Millennium Park, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion is one of Chicago’s premier outdoor amphitheaters. It can cater to 11,000 visitors, offering a fantastic atmosphere when watching live shows. During the winter months, the Pavilion is a gracious host for an array of public activities and functions, including lectures, receptions, and banquets.
- Museum of Contemporary Photography
The Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP) is the leading college art photography museum in the Midwest founded in 1976. Since the early 1980s, it has started collecting art pieces. It now houses a massive collection of more than 16,000 items by over 1,500 artists.