About Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, famous for its bold architecture, museums, and unique culinary repertoire, stands as one of the largest cities in the United States. Influenced heavily by 1960’s modernism, Chicago’s landscape is knitted together by verdant parks, sloping pathways, cloud-nine skyscrapers, and scenic pavilions, which transformed its once marshy lake-side plain into a beautiful respite. In fact, famous architects like Dan Kiley, Frederick Law Olmsted, and Calvert Vaux helped create Chicago's urban ecosystem, utilizing green spaces and spacious boulevard systems to allow for large public gatherings.
With its abundance of city-side parks, beaches, entertainment options and concrete-jungle-esque urban elements, it's little surprise the city of Chicago makes for a ideal location for any kind of outdoor party or gathering. And with so venues to choose - from its many bars, cafes, museums, and monuments - as well as a fantastic lineup of vendor options and services, there simply is no better spot.
- Interesting Fact:
The Chicago River permanently flows backward and is the only river in the world to do so.
Vendor Options For Outdoor Parties in Chicago
- Catering Services
Blue Plate Catering has been serving the Chicago area for over 35 years. They have been recognized by The Knot in their “Best of Weddings” list in 2019, and in 2018 they received the “Best Creative Cocktail” award from the International Live Events Association and National Association for Catering and Events.
J and L Catering is a three-decades-old catering service that offers custom catering experiences to clients. J and L Catering works closely with Chicago-based vendors to provide sustainable, locally-sourced meals. They have received accolades from Wedding Wire and the “Dirona” award in 2004.
- Chicago Florists
Serving Chicago since 1936, La Salle Flowers creates arrangements with fresh cut flowers. They also offer European, Oriental, and Traditional designs.
Ashland Addison Florist has provided handcrafted designs to Chicago for nearly a century. They provide special full-service designs for weddings and other large events. They offer a wide selection of bouquets and plants such as succulents and cacti.
- Transportation Services
Pontarelli Chicago accommodates the needs of sizable groups by providing specialty event transportation services. Their fleet of vehicles includes contemporary options like luxury sedans, vans, buses, SUV’s, and coaches. They received the “Couples’ Choice Award” from Wedding Wire and have been recognized by The Knot and Rosemont’s Chamber of Commerce.
Aries Charter has over 25 years of experience in providing charter services to the Chicago area. Clients can choose from a wide selection of vehicles such as mini-buses, trolleys, sedans, and sprinter vans. Reserve luxury SUV’s or sedans for around-town transportation for your outdoor party in Chicago.
Outdoor Party Planning Companies in Chicago
- Kehoe Designs
Kehoe Designs has planned and produced events in Chicago for over 20 years. They cover everything from graphic design to entertainment services, and love help their clients generate emotion for their events through their high style concepts.
- HMR Designs
HMR Designs’ team of artisans generates specialty custom fabrication, graphics, lighting, and more, for events of all sizes and types. They’ve been applauded by BizBash and Harper’s BAZAAR for their notable event production capabilities.
- Revel Global Events
Revel Global Events is a Chicago event and production agency committed to bold thinking and inspired ideas. They can help manage our event from conception to execution, and help with itineraries and reservations for guests as well.
Pros and Cons of Having an Outdoor Party in Chicago
Advantages
- Lots to Do
A whole host of Chicago Attractions are within walking distance of the city center (or a short metro ride away). Millennium Park, for example, is located a few blocks north of the Art Institute of Chicago, and you can find a Giordano's Chicago-famous deep-dish pizza not far away.
- Diverse Eats
Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza and the world-famous Chicago hotdogs. It has attracted chefs from Mexico, Poland, China, and India among several other countries. The food landscape has been transformed by the diverse range of ethnic backgrounds that make up Chicago’s cultural atmosphere.
- Easy Transportation
Chicago’s airport is a major travel hub, making it easy to get in and out of Chicago. Downtown is a mere 45-minute ride from the airport.
Disadvantages
- High Living Costs
In Chicago, the cost of living is high. It’s one of the most expensive cities in America, coming in close to Boston, Seattle, and San Diego.
- Intense Winter Weather
During the winter, Chicago has its fair share of snowstorms and blizzards.
Must-See Locations in Chicago
Pair your outdoor party with one of these excellent Chicago attractions, for a day full of wonder and fun, no matter the weather.
- The Museum of Science and Industry
This Chicago museum is one of the largest science museums in the world. Visit for an immersive experience that ties together history, nature, and technology.
- The Ledge located within Chicago’s Skydeck
A glass box housed in this Willis Tower extends about 4 feet from the Skydeck and stands at a breathtaking height, 412 meters above the city. Check out this destination for an awe-inspiring and panoramic view of the city.
- “The Bean” at Millennium Park
Situated in the heart of Chicago’s downtown is one of the world’s most intriguing sculptures. The sculpture sits close to an expansive pavilion which in the winter is transformed into an ice-skating rink. Visit “The Bean” for an ideal pre-party photo op.
- The Navy Pier
For an incredible line-up of fun-filled activities, go by the Navy Pier. View Chicago from new heights on the Centennial Ferris Wheel or see a production put on by the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. The Children’s Museum is also a short walk away.
- The Adler Planetarium
This public museum was the first planetarium to ever have been opened in the US and is full of hi-tech and interactive exhibits. Find “Adeline’s Sea Moose”, one of Chicago’s private yacht rentals located nearby and you can host your outdoor party within the vicinity of the planetarium.
