About Chicago
Chicago is one of the country's most vibrant and exciting cities. From its iconic skyline to world-class museums, Chicago has something for everyone. And if you're looking for an unforgettable wedding experience, Chicago's rooftop reception venues are among the most sought-after in the country. Whether you want an intimate gathering or a full-on wedding extravaganza, these spectacular settings offer breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and the perfect place to celebrate your special day.
Rooftop reception venues in Chicago are ideal for couples who want to give their guests an unforgettable experience. With stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, these venues provide remarkable backdrops for any event. Not only will your guests have easy access to all of the attractions downtown has to offer, but they'll also be able to enjoy evenings under the stars with excellent appetizers and drinks from some of the city’s best caterers and bartenders. Plus, with options like private terraces, dance floors, and fireplaces, these unique spots make it possible to create a personalized event tailored perfectly to your vision.
Rooftop Reception Options in Chicago
- Bartenders
When organizing a rooftop reception in Chicago, consider hiring professional bartenders who provide excellent service and cocktail creations. With their expertise, they can craft the perfect beverages to give your guests the ultimate rooftop experience. They can also help ensure safety protocols are followed, and guests enjoy their time.
- Catering
Catering services in Chicago offer various choices for events ranging from corporate functions to weddings and private parties. Whether you’re looking for traditional formal dining or a more casual outdoor setting, Chicago has something for everyone. Professional caterers can provide hors d'oeuvres and drinks tailored to your event's theme. From buffets and sit-down dinners to intricate grazing tables, they can help make your rooftop reception an unforgettable experience.
- Musicians
Music is integral to any event, especially one hosted on a rooftop in the Windy City! Chicago is known for its vibrant music scene, which offers many options for live entertainment at your reception. You may choose a classical ensemble, such as a string quartet or jazz band, to set the mood or go bold with famous artists like blues bands or DJs spinning current hits.
Rooftop Reception Vendors in Chicago
- Outside the Box Catering and Events Inc.
Outside the Box Catering and Events Inc. provides custom dishes created by their expert culinary team, presented in a beautifully plated buffet that will leave your guests talking about it for years. Whether you need a large or small rooftop reception catering package, Outside the Box Catering and Events Inc. can offer services ranging from bar service to staffing and rentals.
- DJ KEL-WIN! Events
DJ KEL-WIN! Events and Weddings have been committed to delivering exemplary DJ experiences for over 15 years. They are proud to bring their award-winning DJ services, full-service event production solutions, and expertise in MCing to the Chicago, Indiana, and Michigan Metropolitan areas. With a music library boasting a 50,000-track selection, DJ KEL-WIN! Events have something for all genres and ages. Their positive experience producing high-quality weddings, receptions, cocktail parties, and professional events for individuals and corporations solidifies their credibility as event planners and DJers.
- Bartender Chicago
Bartender Chicago provides amazing cocktails and food to impress guests at your rooftop reception. From corporate events to private ceremonies and receptions, having a Bartender Chicago on site can help create an enjoyable and impressive atmosphere. Guests will marvel at their skills while tasting delightful drinks and appetizers made just for them.
Pros and Cons of Rooftop Receptions in Chicago
Organizing rooftop reception venues in Chicago can be an excellent way to celebrate special occasions and create lasting memories. There are many advantages and disadvantages when selecting a rooftop venue for your event.
Advantages
- Rooftops provide spectacular views of the city skyline with a unique perspective.
- Guests will have the ability to observe breathtaking sunsets or starry night skies.
- The Increased privacy allows you to enjoy the reception without outside distractions.
- Fresh air and natural breeze in Chicago make for a more enjoyable experience during rooftop receptions.
- Rooftops provide opportunities to host unique events such as themed parties, photo shoots, etc.
Disadvantages
- There is limited availability due to weather conditions and wind speed restrictions.
- If the reception is not properly planned, noise pollution can become an issue for nearby buildings or residences.
- The costs associated with renting out the space may be higher than other venues available in Chicago.
- Hosts could face potential safety concerns if the building does not comply with fire safety regulations or if appropriate railings are not installed.
- Some accessibility issues may arise during the reception if elevators need to be used to reach the rooftop.
Tips on How to Organize Rooftop Receptions in Chicago
Organizing a rooftop reception venue in Chicago can be exciting but difficult. Here are five tips to make sure your event goes off without a hitch:
- Book the venue several months ahead, as popular rooftop locations tend to fill quickly.
- Chicago can experience erratic weather, so double-check that the forecast looks favorable for the day of your event. Come up with a plan in case it rains, or it is too hot or cold for guests to enjoy themselves.
- Research and select a venue that meets all safety requirements and has staff onsite who can help you manage any issues during the event.
- Many rooftop venues have limited space, so ensure you have everything within reach during your event; consider hiring an AV (audio/visual) provider to ensure all presentation materials are working correctly.
- Take advantage of Chicago’s vibrant cultural scene by incorporating local vendors into your event. This will give it a unique touch and may even save you money in the long run.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- Merz Apothecary
Merz Apothecary has stood on Chicago's north side for nearly 145 years as a quaint reminder of bygone days. Established in 1875 by pharmacist Peter Merz, this apothecary serves as a time capsule for days when remedies were far less complex, and physicians dispensed their concoctions. Step inside the shop today, and you'll still be surrounded by the same fragrances that met Peter Merz those many years ago; an aromatic blend of bitters, tea tree oil, and chamomile. However, don't be fooled. The shelves are stocked with modern-day revivals like traditional herbal teas and organic vitamins to keep your health regimen firmly ensconced in the 21st century.
- Graceland Cemetery
Graceland Cemetery is an enormous oasis filled with the graves of some of Chicago’s most famous citizens. Established in 1860, the cemetery boasts impressive monuments to many of Chicago's respected architects. Details such as Daniel Burnham’s private island within the cemetery’s placid lake make it a wonderful place to explore the history and breathe fresh air. Other noteworthy Chicagoans buried at Graceland are Goodman, Marshall Field, Palmer, Getty, McCormick, Pullman, Wacker, and Medill, making it a remarkable place to learn about the city’s past. While tourists will find visiting Graceland to be an enjoyable respite from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Chicago.
- Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium offers visitors so much more than just stellar views of the Windy City skyline reflecting off Lake Michigan. It provides an intergalactic journey of discovery and exploration. As one of the oldest planetariums in the world, opened in 1930, in its 90 years or so of operation, this iconic Art Deco landmark has been revolutionizing views about space and our universe, with both permanent exhibitions and regular shows presented throughout its three theaters. But that's not all. Talks by famous astronomers and interactive productions promise to further your exploration through the Milky Way.