About Chicago
Chicago is a vibrant city located in the heart of Illinois. It is most famous for its stunning skyline, deep-dish pizza, and its world-renowned museums and architecture. The weather in Chicago can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters, but it also enjoys four distinct seasons.
When it comes to planning a special event in Chicago, such as a ranch party, there are many options available. Ranch party venues in Chicago offer something unique and exciting that no other type of venue could provide. With picturesque landscapes, large open fields, and an abundance of fresh air, these properties provide a perfect setting for any type of celebration, from weddings to birthday parties to corporate events.
Not only do they provide excellent service and amenities, but their rustic charm offers a refreshing change from more traditional venues. Many of these locations also have various activities on site such as hayrides, petting zoos, fishing trips, and much more that will make your event memorable and enjoyable for all involved.
Ranch Party Options in Chicago
- Transport Rentals
Companies that specialize in party rentals offer an array of transportation services ranging from limousines to luxury buses and stretch limos. These services are tailored to meet the demands of the customer and can be used to transport out-of-town guests to your ranch venue.
- Photographer
Hiring a professional photographer for your ranch party in Chicago is a great way to capture all of the special moments and memories. A photographer will be able to take pictures during the event as well as set up shots before and after, ensuring that every moment is captured in all its glory.
- Equipment Rentals
When planning a ranch party in Chicago, it is important to consider what equipment needs to be rented or purchased for the event. This could include tables, chairs, linens, speakers, catering supplies, or anything else necessary to put together your dream event. Rental companies usually have packages that make it easy to find everything needed for an unforgettable evening.
Ranch Party Vendors in Chicago
- Private Driver Chicago
Private Driver Chicago offers a golden opportunity to rent a car with a driver in the Chicago area. Their chauffeurs take care of the driving, so you can use your time more wisely by multitasking or simply relaxing during the ride. Private Driver Chicago cars come in contemporary and luxurious models, so whether you’re looking for an airport transfer or need transport for a meeting, sports game, concert, or night out, they’ve got you covered. Their fleet consists of mostly SUVs, which have more space and legroom than sedans.
- Chi Decor Party Rental
From linen, table, and chair rentals to charger plates, centerpieces, props, and balloon decor, Chi Decor Party Rental has all the elements you need for your ideal ranch party. Plus, they offer packages that differ according to the number of guests in the event, along with flexible payment options. Aside from event rentals, they also provide marquee personalization and sweet tables.
- You Me Photography
Julia Dragomir of You Me Photography is an award-winning Chicago wedding photographer. Her style can be described as clean, simple, and fresh, with keen attention to detail and a fine art approach. She studied photography at the Chicago Photography Academy and is a proud member of the International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers. Since starting in 2010, Julia has photographed over 150 weddings as lead photographer.
Pros and Cons of Ranch Party Venues in Chicago
Hosting a ranch party in the city of Chicago can be an exciting and memorable experience. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before committing to this type of venue.
Advantages
- Guests have easy access to public transportation options in Chicago, making it easy for them to arrive and depart.
- There is an abundant variety of vendors and services that can be used to provide food, decorations, and entertainment.
- Various ranch venues are available that accommodate groups of all sizes.
- Chicago offers a nice climate for outdoor events throughout the year.
- Ranch venues provide unbeatable beautiful scenery that lends itself well to parties and weddings.
Disadvantages
- Ranch venues in Chicago can be often expensive to rent due to their popularity and uniqueness as an event space.
- It can be difficult to find a ranch venue with adequate parking for larger parties.
- It can be time-consuming to coordinate with multiple vendors involved in planning the event such as caterers, DJs, etc.
- There are limited space options if you want an indoor or covered area due to the higher cost per square foot than other locations outside of the city limits.
Tips on How to Organize Ranch Parties in Chicago
Organizing a ranch party in Chicago can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it also requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure the success of the outdoor event. Here are five tips to help you get started:
- Book your venue ASAP: Ranch venues in Chicago fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. To avoid disappointment, reserve your date as early as possible.
- Consider the size of your guest list when choosing the right venue: Some ranches have smaller areas or picnic tables suitable for smaller groups while others have larger spaces that can accommodate up to 100 people or more.
- Make sure you understand the rules and regulations of any venue you book: This includes noise levels, smoking policies, security requirements, licenses, permits required by city ordinances, etc.
- Research vendors that can add to your event: Working with experienced professionals such as caterers, DJs, or entertainment companies can help ensure that your event runs smoothly and without any issues.
- Plan for inclement weather just in case: Bring tents or umbrellas if appropriate, and be sure to provide enough seating for all of your guests. Additionally, consider providing lighting options (such as tiki torches) so that everyone can continue enjoying the outdoors after sunset.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- The World's Columbian Exhibition of 1893
The 1893 Columbian Exhibition is a relic frozen in time that’s often forgotten, but its lasting imprints on Jackson Park—the Museum of Science and Industry, Wooded Island, the restored Japanese Garden, and the towering Big Mary replica—are enduring tributes to this era. Thoughtfully crafted by Charles Atwood and Frederick Law Olmsted (with collaborators), these monuments of a different age continue to captivate minds today. Indeed, a 2016 renovation returned to the Wooded Island's lush landscapes—invasive plant species were nicely removed while new paths were constructed so that visitors can gain breathtaking perspectives into the past.
- Money Museum
The Money Museum of Chicago, Illinois celebrates perhaps the most ubiquitous symbol of value: money. It is housed within the Federal Reserve Bank building, a massive currency storage and processing center, affording visitors a unique opportunity to stand in the shadow of a million bucks. The expansive museum features zany exhibits like a cube filled with a million one-dollar bills and a change-filled “money pit,” making it entertaining even for those who don’t consider themselves fanatics of economics. By taking money out of its traditionally serious context, the Money Museum makes it fun and accessible to people from all walks of life—reminding us that money itself isn’t so bad after all.
- Couch Place (The Alley of Death)
Couch Place in Chicago, Illinois is not exactly the kind of place one would expect to have such a tragic history. Once home to the Iroquois Theatre which opened at the turn of the century in 1903, this unassuming alleyway earned its nickname ‘The Alley of Death’ when over 600 people were found dead in its confines after a fire swept through the theater. Nowadays, it is nothing more than a humble passageway with the stage door of the Nederlander and its loading area tucked away in one corner—but without a memorial to mark what happened there, it serves as an eerie reminder of what took place 120 years ago.