The Best Large Event Venues in Chicago
With our 15+ years of experience planning events in Chicago, we've had the pleasure of exploring countless venues that cater to a variety of occasions, from corporate meetings and weddings to extravagant galas. Chicago, situated on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan and adorned with architectural marvels, offers a plethora of options for hosting your next unforgettable event.
Whether you're seeking a grand ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows or a historical landmark with brick walls oozing with character, the city has it all. We’re sharing some of the best large event venues in Chicago, each offering its own unique charm and ample space for gatherings of all sizes.
The Salt Shed
In the heart of Lincoln Park, The Salt Shed is a hidden gem that offers unparalleled versatility and ample space for large-scale events. With its industrial-chic design and expansive layout, this venue provides the perfect canvas for creating memorable experiences. Originally a salt storage facility, The Salt Shed has been transformed into a modern event space, boasting exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, and panoramic views of the city skyline.
With a capacity of 5,000 guests, The Salt Shed is ideal for hosting corporate conferences, trade shows, and concerts. Its flexible layout and state-of-the-art amenities make it suitable for a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to extravagant galas. Whether you're planning a product launch, a charity fundraiser, or a cultural event, The Salt Shed's central location and versatile spaces ensure that your vision is brought to life in a truly unforgettable setting.
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Capacity: 5,000
Venue SIX10
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Venue SIX10 is a premier event space renowned for its modern design and panoramic views of the city skyline. With its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and versatile layout, this venue offers an ideal setting for corporate events, conferences, and cocktail receptions. Whether you're planning a large-scale conference or an intimate gathering, Venue SIX10's central location and state-of-the-art amenities make it the perfect choice for your next event.
Neighborhood: Chicago Loop
Capacity: 1,000
The Field Museum
One of the most iconic venues in the city, The Field Museum stands as a historical landmark and offers unparalleled grandeur for large-scale events. Located in the Museum Campus area, with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, this venue provides a truly breathtaking backdrop for any special occasion. With ample square footage and versatile spaces, including grand ballrooms and conference rooms, The Field Museum can accommodate events ranging from corporate conferences to elegant wedding receptions.
To see how we brought this stunning venue to life, view our recent gathering at The Field Museum here!
Neighborhood: Museum Campus
Capacity: 4,500
The Builder's BLDG
Perched along the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, The Builder's BLDG is a hidden gem that combines historic charm with contemporary elegance. Boasting a capacity of 750 guests, this venue offers a variety of event spaces, including grand ballrooms and outdoor patios overlooking the river. Whether you're hosting a corporate luncheon or a black-tie gala, The Builder's BLDG provides a picturesque backdrop that is sure to impress.
Neighborhood: Riverwalk
Capacity: 750
The Geraghty
In the vibrant Lower West Side neighborhood, The Geraghty is a premier event space renowned for its modern amenities and versatility. Boasting a capacity of 1,500 guests, this venue offers a blank canvas that can be transformed to suit any theme or vision. Whether you're planning a corporate gala or a lavish wedding celebration, The Geraghty's sleek design and state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
Neighborhood: Lower West Side
Capacity: 1,500
The Exchange
Located on bustling Michigan Avenue, The Exchange offers a unique blend of modern sophistication and historic charm. With its stylish decor and flexible event spaces, this venue is perfect for corporate meetings, cocktail receptions, and social gatherings. Whether you're planning a product launch or a networking event, The Exchange provides the ideal setting to make a lasting impression on your guests.
Neighborhood: Michigan Avenue
Capacity: 500
Chicago History Museum
Situated in the picturesque Lincoln Park neighborhood, the Chicago History Museum offers a blend of elegance and historical significance. With its stunning architecture and rich heritage, this venue provides a captivating backdrop for a wide range of events, from corporate meetings to wedding receptions. The Chicago History Museum boasts multiple event spaces, including grand ballrooms and intimate meeting rooms, ensuring that every occasion is tailored to perfection.
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Capacity: 1,500
Pendry Chicago
Located in the heart of the bustling Chicago Loop, Pendry Chicago is a luxury hotel that offers exquisite event spaces for both intimate gatherings and large-scale affairs. With its elegant design and state-of-the-art amenities, this venue provides the perfect backdrop for weddings, corporate meetings, and social events. Whether you're planning a cocktail party or a conference, Pendry Chicago's dedicated team of event planners ensures that every detail is meticulously executed, leaving you free to enjoy a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Neighborhood: Chicago Loop
Capacity: 500
River Roast
Situated in the vibrant River North neighborhood, River Roast is a premier event space known for its scenic views of the Chicago River and mouthwatering cuisine. With its spacious layout and rustic-chic decor, this venue offers the perfect setting for corporate events, cocktail parties, and wedding receptions. Whether you're planning a formal dinner or a casual gathering, River Roast's waterfront location and warm ambiance create an unforgettable experience for your guests.
Visit our event recap at River Roast here!
Neighborhood: River North
Capacity: 1,000
The Gage
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, The Gage is a renowned restaurant and event space that combines culinary excellence with historic charm. With its warm ambiance and inviting atmosphere, this venue offers the perfect setting for corporate luncheons, cocktail receptions, and birthday parties. Whether you're planning a business meeting or a social gathering, The Gage's central location and delectable cuisine make it a great place to gather with friends, family, and colleagues.
Neighborhood: Chicago Loop
Capacity: 400
The Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is truly an architectural masterpiece and cultural landmark. The grand Preston Bradley Hall, with its world's largest Tiffany glass dome, offers an opulent setting for your event.
The Sidney R. Yates Gallery, featuring a stunning marble staircase and intricately designed ceilings, adds an extra touch of elegance to your event. The Cultural Center can accommodate up to 1,000 guests, and its prime location across from Millennium Park makes it easily accessible for you and your guests.
Neighborhood: South Loop
Capacity: 1,000
The Dalcy
Located in the heart of the trendy Fulton Market District, the Dalcy is an elegant and historic event space that effortlessly combines old-world charm with modern amenities. The beautiful ballroom features 20-foot ceilings, vintage chandeliers, and warm wooden accents, creating an elegant atmosphere perfect for your event.
The expansive outdoor terrace provides a lovely setting for an open-air portion or cocktail party. With a capacity for up to 600 guests, the Dalcy is sure to impress.
Neighborhood: West Loop
Capacity: 600
Café Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo
Located within the scenic Lincoln Park Zoo, Café Brauer offers a charming setting for outdoor events and celebrations. With its lush greenery and picturesque views of the zoo's grounds, this venue provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you're planning a wedding ceremony, a corporate picnic, or a family reunion, Café Brauer's serene ambiance and natural beauty create the perfect backdrop for a memorable occasion.
View our event on Party Slate's website for more details!
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Capacity: 400
Chicago Athletic Association
Housed in a historic building overlooking Millennium Park, the Chicago Athletic Association is a prestigious venue that exudes old-world charm and sophistication. With its grand ballrooms, private dining rooms, and rooftop terrace, this venue offers a variety of elegant spaces for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. Whether you're hosting a formal gala or a casual cocktail party, the Chicago Athletic Association provides an intimate setting that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Neighborhood: Chicago Loop
Capacity: 400
Looking for a venue to host smaller events? Here are some of our top recommendations:
The Penthouse Hyde Park
Perched atop the vibrant neighborhood of Hyde Park, The Penthouse offers an intimate setting with panoramic views of the city skyline. With its modern decor and versatile layout, this venue is perfect for smaller events such as bridal showers, birthday parties, and intimate weddings. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or a cocktail reception, The Penthouse Hyde Park provides a cozy atmosphere and breathtaking views that are sure to impress your guests.
Neighborhood: Hyde Park
Capacity: 250
Loft Lucia
Located in the trendy West Loop neighborhood, Loft Lucia offers a stylish and intimate setting for smaller events and gatherings. With its industrial-chic design and exposed brick walls, this venue exudes character and charm. Whether you're hosting a bridal shower, an art show, or a corporate workshop, Loft Lucia provides a versatile space that can be customized to suit your needs. With its central location and modern amenities, Loft Lucia is the perfect choice for hosting your next memorable event.
Neighborhood: West Loop
Capacity: 180
Hotel Zachary
Located in the lively neighborhood of Wrigleyville, Hotel Zachary offers a chic and sophisticated setting for events of all kinds. With its modern design and upscale amenities, this venue provides the perfect backdrop for weddings, corporate meetings, and social gatherings. Whether you're planning a cocktail party on the rooftop terrace or a formal banquet in the grand ballroom, Hotel Zachary's dedicated team of event planners ensures that every detail is taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy a seamless and memorable experience.
Neighborhood: Wrigleyville
Capacity: 225
In Chicago, finding the perfect venue for your next large event can seem like a daunting task. However, with a wide range of options to choose from, each offering its own unique charm and amenities, you're sure to find the ideal space to bring your vision to life.
Whether you're planning a corporate conference, a lavish gala, or a romantic wedding, Chicago has something for everyone and we have the experience to bring it to life. From historic landmarks to modern event spaces, Chicago's diverse offerings ensure that your next special occasion is nothing short of spectacular. Reach out and let’s talk about how we can help make your next event unforgettable!