About Chicago
Rebuilt in the shadow of a devastating 19th-century fire, the modern city of Chicago is the largest in the Midwest and the third-largest city overall in the country. The city’s first official resident was a Haitian immigrant, and the city has since been a diverse community with influences from all corners of the world. Because of these influences, you’ll find a lively food scene with everything from old-world Italian – including Chicago’s signature deep-dish pizza – to artistic haute cuisine.
You’ll also find global contributions in the many art and history museums around the city, as well as ancient Native American sites. In addition, there is an abundance of recreation opportunities year-round, including beachfront activities on Lake Michigan, hiking, biking, and winter activities such as ice skating and hockey.
A Chicago reunion space makes perfect sense, whether you’re gathering family from far and wide or simply getting together for a special dinner in the city. O’Hare International Airport is a major hub both nationally and internationally, and you’ll find a wide variety of historic and modern venues to suit your needs.
Reunion Location Options in Chicago
Plans for your reunion location in Chicago should go smoothly, thanks to the thousands of local businesses available to help with everything from food to fancy lighting.
- Catering
If it sounds tasty, you’ll probably find at least a few different, delicious versions of it in Chicago. The city’s catering services and restaurants feature a variety of global influences, from the Caribbean to Polish to Pan African and Midwestern meat and potatoes. You’ll find options for every meal, such as breakfast burritos, fresh salads, and sandwiches, hot hors d’oeuvres, and plated or buffet-style dinners. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated, and many companies also offer beverage services.
- Party Rentals
Whether your planned family reunion is large or small, you’ll probably need some basics, such as tables and chairs. If your chosen reunion space doesn’t include these things in the rental fee, there are many local companies who can supply everything from tables and chairs to décor, flowers, fabric draping, props, and fun elements such as photo booths or games. You can also find audiovisual equipment for rent, as well as games and inflatables for younger guests.
- Printing Services
If you don’t want to spend hours sitting in front of your computer printer waiting for dozens of pages of programs, invitations, menus, or family trees, consider enlisting the help of a local printing service. There are hundreds of companies in the Chicago area that can professionally print whatever you need, including large-format items such as banners, posters, or signage. Many companies also employ professional designers who can help you create everything from letterhead to place cards.
Reunion Location Companies in Chicago
If you’re looking forward to a big party in your Chicago reunion location but you don’t have the skills or time to plan accordingly, consider hiring a professional event planner. They can organize the event, help you with vendors and take care of the details, leaving you stress-free.
- Kehoe Designs
Kehoe Designs has been transforming ordinary spaces into stunning showpieces for every type of event for more than 20 years. The firm not only provides one-of-a-kind décor but also production services, ensuring your event will be showstopping for both you and your guests. Services include floral design and plant scapes, custom furniture, graphic design, technical production, and entertainment, among others. You’ll receive a custom package created for your unique event.
- Lola Event Productions
Lola Event Productions, with more than 70 years of combined experience in the industry, can transform any event into a head-turner. The team excels in different areas and works together so you benefit from a wide array of talents. The planning team can take the lead for your reunion plans, allowing you to relax while your event planner guides you through the process, providing quality vendor recommendations, budget guidance, venue selection, logistics, and more.
- Art of Imagination
For more than 15 years, Art of Imagination has specialized in event planning with an artistic flair. The firm provides several planning options, including consultations, vendor and venue selection, partial planning, and full-service. Art of Imagination also provides custom lighting and fabric design, wedding structures, and special scenery and arrangements to match your event theme.
Pros and Cons of Reunion Locations in Chicago
Centrally located in the Midwest with a major international airport, Chicago is the perfect place to host a family gathering. You will have no trouble finding a reunion space in Chicago, but there are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Advantages
- Great food
Chicago has 24 Michelin-starred restaurants and a variety of Italian, German, and Polish foods to name a few.
- Professional sports
Chicago is home to the Bears (NFL), Bulls (NBA), Cubs, and White Sox (MLB), which make exciting outings for the whole family.
- Shopping
Chicago features world-renowned shopping opportunities, including several malls and the trendy Magnificent Mile.
Disadvantages
- Winter
Winter in Chicago can be brutally cold and often snowy, and it’s called the Windy City for a reason.
- Expensive
Although considerably less expensive than New York and Los Angeles, Chicago is still about 20% more costly on average than the rest of the country.
- Crime
Some areas of the city are less safe and best avoided, especially after dark.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- Shedd Aquarium
This is not your typical aquarium. Shedd Aquarium holds more than 32,000 marine creatures in over five million gallons of water. It opened in 1930 and was the very first saltwater inland tank and is found on the Museum Campus Chicago along with the Field Museum of Natural History and the Adler Planetarium. With nine permanent attractions including a 4D theater, it is fun for people of all ages.
- Art Institute of Chicago
Established in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago became one of the driving points of the city. It rebuilt itself after a devastating fire destroyed as much as one-third of it just eight years earlier. It contains works spanning thousands of years of human history in the form of sculptures, paintings, metalwork, and photography, among others.
- Wrigley Field
As one of the oldest stadiums in the country, Wrigley Field first opened in 1914 with a game between the Cubs and the Diamondbacks. It is famous for its ivy-covered outfield wall, which covers the concrete nicely most of the year. Besides baseball, the stadium has also been used for Bears football, Chicago Sting soccer, and Blackhawks hockey. Be sure to reserve a guided tour for some behind-the-scenes fun.
