About Chicago
Chicago is the third largest city in the US and the most populous city in the state of Illinois, with a population of about 2.75 million people in the 2020 census. Thanks to its award-winning food scene, vibrant neighborhoods, and wonderful landmarks, it’s also one of the country’s most diverse cities and beloved tourist destinations.
As you step foot in Chicago for the first time, you'll notice the towering buildings, including the Tribune Tower and the Willis Tower which dominate the city skyline. Also worth exploring are the famous Navy Pier and Magnificent Mile, an iconic neighborhood in downtown Chicago with hundreds of stores, restaurants, hotels, and one-of-a-kind event spaces.
Planning corporate events or social gatherings in Chicago can be a breeze—thanks to the numerous event venues and third-party services available in the area. There’s no shortage of places to host your next party, corporate meetings, or even a film/photo shoot—you can choose from the serene waterfront venues along Lake Michigan to the grand private event spaces in one of the city’s lively neighborhoods.
If you want to celebrate or host a meeting somewhere that's extraordinary, there are many unique Chicago event venues that will leave lasting impressions on guests. Consider renting an industrial warehouse if you want a bare space that you can customize. Alternatively, you can try renting a space inside a museum or cultural institution like the Chicago Sports Museum or Vertical Gallery if you want something classy and educational—perfect for product launches, charity galas, corporate meetings, and photo shoots. Aside from the existing artistic elements in the surroundings, these places are not new to hosting events and are therefore willing to assist you with any special requests.
Attractions in Chicago
Organizing private events or a corporate meeting in Chicago means you’ll be close to numerous attractions in Windy City. Its rich culture, architectural wonders, and natural landscapes make Chicago a compelling destination for those seeking a lively and diverse urban experience.
- The Art Institute of Chicago
Perhaps the most famous attraction in Chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago contains almost 300,000 works of art in its permanent collection. This art museum sees over 1.5 million visitors annually and functions as a research institution dedicated to the conservation and preservation of artworks. With over 30 special exhibitions every year, every visit to the institution will feel like the first time.
- Museum of Science and Industry
Opened to the public in 1933, the Museum of Science and Industry invites visitors to browse over the 2,000 exhibits divided over 75 major halls. The museum regularly hosts educational programs and partners with many schools in the district to teach children more about the world around us. With over 400,000 square feet of exhibition space to explore, you’ll be occupied and busy when visiting the museum.
- Lincoln Park Zoo
The fourth oldest zoo in the US is found in Windy City, within minutes from downtown Chicago. The Lincoln Park Zoo was founded in 1868 and is one of the few free-admission zoos in the US. This 35-acre zoo is home to over 1,100 animals from over 200 species—you'll see aardvarks, penguins, snakes, polar bears, gorillas, and different kinds of big cats. Besides welcoming visitors to get up close and personal with animals, the zoo operates as one of the country's largest zoo-based conservation and science programs.
Production Locations in Chicago
Chicago is a massive city, which means you’ll have a wealth of options when looking for a creative space where you can shoot a film or conduct a photo shoot. Of course, a production studio with a soundstage and a high-end sound system offers many benefits, but there are other unique places that can inspire creativity and innovation.
- Churches and Cathedrals
Switch up the vibe by using a church or a historic cathedral in your upcoming production. These buildings often feature magnificent architectural details and have additional features that set them apart from other sets, including stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings. They have good acoustics for quality sound and a spacious area to accommodate the cast, crew, and equipment.
- Local City Winery Chicago
When people think of Chicago, the first things that come to mind are its towering skyscrapers and miles of green spaces and waterways. While these offer scenic backdrops for films and dramas, there’s something about a local winery and vineyard that attracts filmmakers. Besides being an ideal location for romantic scenes, wineries offer services like tastings and tours for a delightful urban wine country experience.
- Houses and Estates
Often used in productions for backdrops or actual sets, houses and estates are an integral filming location. Chicago is known for its architecture, so you’ll find classic American homes and unique houses that come in different designs and styles, from Victorian and Dutch colonial to contemporary or a modern twist on a country house like a charming and colorful Tudor home. Explore the neighborhoods and other hidden gems to find the best spot that matches your project’s theme and genre.
Event and Meeting Venues in Chicago
Event planning can be challenging—you'll want to make the event smooth from start to finish. Once you’ve laid down your objectives and identified your guest list size, the next crucial step is finding the right place that can accommodate your guests. The good news is that Chicago is home to numerous unique event venues and meeting spaces that offer memorable experiences.
- Warehouses
Many warehouses in Chicago have been converted into modern studios for art and video projects and event space for business meetings, wedding receptions, and parties. Event planners and designers can unleash their creativity by organizing the layout and decorating the large, open area. They can also take advantage of a warehouse’s industrial features like exposed beams, high ceilings, and large windows to allow more natural light and take captivating photos.
- Conference Rooms
When looking for a private setting for corporate functions in Chicago, consider booking a conference room with all the equipment necessary to impress attendees. They feature advanced technology for sharing audio and visual aids more conveniently with the audience. They also have a more formal atmosphere, which sets the proper tone and puts everyone in the right frame of mind, allowing them to focus and participate in activities. Perhaps a conference room in the heart of Wicker Park could be your next option for a meeting venue in Chicago.
- Galleries
If you're organizing an art and culture-related event, a nice option would be renting a space inside a local gallery or an art center. These venues usually feature open spaces, quality lighting, and a flexible floor layout, making them an excellent event space for pop-up exhibitions, product launches, workshops, and art shows. With its bare-type characteristic, you can experiment with the placement of your products, decor, or art pieces—of course, with due respect to the existing artworks. Chicago is home to many huge galleries and smaller exhibition spaces, so you can choose one that matches your preferences and needs.
It isn’t always easy to hold your event in an unfamiliar setting or an alternative venue. But if you want to take your next corporate event or social function to new heights, trying out a unique space in Chicago for your next event won't hurt. The change in scenery can be refreshing and inspiring and might even encourage your out-of-town guests to attend!
