About Chicago
Chicago is a vibrant city located in the midwestern United States on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is the third most populous city in the country and has long been renowned for its incredible architecture, culture, and history. Furthermore, Chicago is known for its bustling nightlife, diverse dining scene, and eclectic attractions, making it an ideal destination for visitors worldwide.
When it comes to outdoor seating spaces in Chicago, many advantages make this city a great choice for hosting events. Firstly, Chicago experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year, providing ample opportunities for guests to enjoy outdoor seating areas during their visit. Additionally, Chicago's location along Lake Michigan provides stunning skyline views and nearby parks, making outdoor seating events even more enjoyable.
Finally, hosting an event with outdoor seating in Chicago provides guests with plenty of options for activities during their visit. From strolling along the lakefront path to visiting world-renowned museums or simply taking in some live music on one of the many stages around town—there’s something for everyone!
Outdoor Seating Event Options in Chicago
- Catering
Many catering companies specialize in outdoor events in Chicago. This option would suit those who want a unique or special menu for their event. They have experience planning and hosting outdoor events and can provide all the necessary catering services.
- Decor
You can find an event decor company specializing in Chicago's outdoor events. This option would be ideal for the event's specific theme or aesthetic. From flowers to balloons, decor businesses in Chicago have them!
- Bartenders
Whether your event is formal or informal, hiring a bartender can easily elevate the atmosphere. They are specifically trained in serving alcohol outdoors and can also help with any other beverage needs, particularly for those who do not drink alcohol.
Outdoor Seating Event Vendors in Chicago
- Essannay Show It
Essannay Show It in Chicago has a wide range of options for rent, including projectors, screens, HD monitors, sound systems, and microphones. They also offer delivery and pick-up service for all of their equipment, especially for outdoor seating-style events requiring fine-tuning of all equipment for a better auditory and visual experience. Best of all, there's no minimum order required, so even if you need a screen or a wooden pointer, they'll take care of your request.
- Sips By Ye
Sips By Ye are Chicagoland's premier bartending service, proud to serve the greater Chicago area and surrounding cities. Whether you're looking for a craft cocktail for a special occasion, are organizing an outdoor event with open seating, or need a cold beer after a long day, they've got you covered. Their talented and professional bartenders are passionate about what they do and dedicated to providing their customers with the best possible experience.
- Romee Willow Florals
Romee Willow Florals is a Chicago-based boutique floral design studio. The team, led by Jori Foreman, has a lot of experience in the industry and takes pride in providing outstanding service and beautiful products for indoor and outdoor seating events. The studio offers a wide range of services, from event design to selling flowers, and is known for being inclusive and socially conscious. You can find a variety of blooms here, from simple arrangements to more complex designs, and the staff is always happy to guide you through your choices.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Seating Events in Chicago
With its vibrant urban energy, diverse cultural background, and truly stunning natural attractions, the Windy City can be the perfect backdrop for any outdoor occasion. However, it's essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of hosting an outdoor seating event in Chicago so that you can make an informed decision about your event:
Advantages
- Abundant public spaces: With a tremendous selection of public parks, gardens, squares, and plazas, Chicago offers a wealth of locations to host outdoor seating events.
- World-class scenery: From Lake Michigan's sweeping shoreline to the iconic skyline views along The Riverwalk, Chicago has breathtaking scenery that can't be found anywhere else.
- Accessibility: Public transportation options such as L trains make it easy for participants to access outdoor seating locations throughout the city.
Disadvantages
- Weather variability: With unpredictable weather systems coming from all directions, outdoor seating events in Chicago require careful monitoring to ensure safety and comfort for attendees.
- Crowd control challenges: With many large-scale events hosted in downtown locations, attendees must be well organized so as not to cause disturbances or overcrowding issues.
- Infrastructure support: There may be limited electrical outlets or other necessities needed for certain events, making it difficult to accommodate them at some locations.
Tips on How to Organize Outdoor Seating Events in Chicago
Organizing an outdoor seating event in Chicago can be exciting and intimidating. With the city's many locations, activities, and attractions, creating a successful event requires thoughtful planning and execution. To ensure your outdoor seating space event goes off without a hitch, here are some tips for getting organized:
- Start by researching venues: Look for those that offer plenty of outdoor space with comfortable seating options. Consider any additional amenities offered, such as fire pits or grills, that may enhance your event. Additionally, if you plan on hosting live entertainment, check if the venue has sound restrictions.
- Make sure you have enough seating options to accommodate your guests: For large-scale events, consider renting furniture or bringing in additional chairs and tables to provide comfort and convenience to all attendees.
- Make sure your space is well-lit: If you’re hosting an evening event, consider stringing up lights or setting up tiki torches to add ambiance and visibility for guests.
- Remember that Chicago weather can be unpredictable: Plan accordingly for rain or cold temperatures. Have plenty of blankets handy for cooler evenings, and use tarps or umbrellas in case of rain showers.
- No outdoor seating space event is complete without food: Consider creating menus that are simple yet tasty; think of grab-and-go snacks like sliders, tacos, charcuterie boards, etc. Or make it a potluck-style gathering by assigning dishes to friends and family attending the party, so everyone brings something different!
Famous Locations in Chicago
- David Wallach Memorial Fountain
If you're looking for a unique place to visit in Chicago, look no further than the David Wallach Memorial Fountain. This one-of-a-kind fountain was built thanks to a bequest from a 19th-century horse lover. David Wallach enjoyed riding horses along the lakefront, and when he passed away, he left $5,000 in his will to construct a fountain both humans and animals could use. The fountain quickly became a popular spot for local dogs (and sometimes birds) to take a drink. It also includes drinking fountains for children and adults. So whether you're looking for a place to cool off on a hot day or just interested in learning more about Chicago history, the David Wallach Memorial Fountain is worth visiting.
- Grave of Andreas von Zirngibl
The grave of Andreas von Zirngibl is a fascinating place to visit for history buffs and curious minds alike. The final resting place of one-armed Waterloo veteran Von Zirngibl, this small grave can be found in a Chicago scrapyard. This brave man was born in Bavaria and fought under Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher during the Prussian campaign. He later settled in Chicago, where he lived the rest of his days. Today, his grave is a reminder of a bygone era when brave men fought and died for their country.
- Ulysses S. Grant Boulder
A history buff's trip to Chicago, Illinois, is incomplete without seeing the Ulysses S. Grant Boulder. This rock stands where a tree once stood in honor of the 18th president. When Grant visited Chicago's South Park to plant an oak tree to symbolize the city's growth, he was already famous from his second term in office. The event was attended by more than one hundred people and covered extensively by the press. Today, the Ulysses S. Grant Boulder is a popular tourist spot and a reminder of the city's rich history.