Famous for its iconic buildings and skyscrapers, Chicago is one of the largest and most populous cities in the United States. It’s known for its diverse change in climate - with hot summers and cold and snowy winters - and its many iconic attractions, including the famous sculpture, "The Bean," and other famous buildings like the Tribune Tower and the Willis Tower.
Chicago is also well-known for its local food offerings. The “Chicago-style” pizza is one of the must-try dishes in the city, as is its "Chicago-style" hotdogs. And, if that's not enough, you’ll find hundreds of bars, clubs, and plenty of attractive outdoor space to choose from, many of which offer fantastic live music.
While you may not expect a city to be the best choice for an outdoor event, you’ll be blown away by the selection of venues and spaces the Windy City has to offer. In fact, visitors head to Chicago to enjoy Lake Michigan and the mild weather, open outdoor spaces, and active community of things to see and do all year round.
There are plenty of beer gardens and rooftop bars with skyline views or conference centers big enough to hold your holiday party, wedding reception, or corporate events.
For something different, try holding your private party near one of the many outdoor spaces like the Navy Pier or Lincoln Park Zoo or maybe have a private dining party in Streeterville or in the Bridgeport area with its historic aesthetic making a perfect backdrop for your next event.
Fun Fact:
A Chicago-style hot dog, or "Chicago Red Hot," as it's traditionally called, is an all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun, often topped with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers and a dash of celery salt.
Chicago offers everything you could need to host a spectacular event in an outdoor space, from a simple birthday party to full-blown wedding receptions, with plenty of local vendors and services to help ensure your next event goes off without a hitch.
Just like there is plenty of indoor space, there are plenty of outdoor party venues and spaces for an outdoor event in downtown Chicago, like Irving Park, The Bridgeport Art Center, Lake Shore Dr, Lincoln Park Zoo, and The Navy Pier that can accommodate groups with enough space for a seated dinner or an outdoor party. They all have stunning views of the city skyline and are the perfect location for your next outdoor celebration.
Once you've secured an amazing venue for your next outdoor event in Chicago, consider hiring one of the city's top event planners to make sure your party goes off without a hitch.
Advantages
Catering
The catering in Chicago will elevate your outdoor event and offer something new and exciting that your guests will remember for years to come.
Live Music Offerings
If you are hosting an outdoor event, consider hiring one of Chicago’s talented musicians to entertain your guests.
Transportation
The city’s transportation links are excellent, and it’s easy to fly into Chicago from most major cities in the country.
Outdoor Venue Options
You’ll be impressed with the outdoor event venue options in Chicago. In comparison to other cities you may be considering, you’ll find this city offers unique spaces for any size of event. Whether you want to host your next outdoor event at a rooftop beer garden with exposed brick walls and views of the Chicago skyline or at one of the luxurious Grand Ave locations with onsite catering and an event manager to take care of you, you'll find the perfect place to hold your next party.
Inclement Weather Venues
Some outdoor venues in Chicago have a retractable roof that can be opened or closed to suit the weather or floor-to-ceiling windows for your baby showers or bachelorette parties, making these private event spaces work no matter the weather.
Hotels for All Budgets
Your guests will easily find a hotel or apartment in the city to fit their needs and budget. Many also offer on-site catering.
Disadvantages
Cold Winter Months
The weather in Chicago during the winter months will make it nearly impossible to host an outdoor event during this time.
Noisy
If you are hosting an event during a game day or when another big event is happening in the city, you may find Chicago to be noisy and crowded during this time.
Traffic
The traffic can be horrendous in the city during events and rush hours, so ensure your guests leave plenty of time to arrive at the venue. You could also choose a venue that's just a short walk from the nearest public transport.
Expensive Vendors
Chicago venues are usually more expensive for private dinners and intimate gatherings, and this is reflected in the cost of vendors in the city.
Costly Venue Rental
Outdoor event venue locations can be extremely costly in Chicago. When you add on all the additional vendors you will require, the cost of your event can mount up. Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood and Stockton Dr offer an unforgettable experience attracting multiple bookings.
Check out these famous Chicago locations to take some great pre-event photos, or to mingle with your guests after the event.