Chicago, with its stunning park and city skyline views, is home to some of the most picturesque outdoor wedding venues. Whether you’re looking for a gorgeous outdoor wedding ceremony location or a venue with perfect outdoor spaces for wedding photos, here are some of the best outdoor wedding venues in Chicago for 2024.
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo offers a unique venue for an outdoor wedding. With its nature boardwalk and stunning views of downtown Chicago, it’s the perfect venue for couples looking for a unique twist on their wedding day.
- Pros: Provides a unique setting, stunning views, and a variety of event spaces.
- Cons: Limited availability due to zoo operating hours and potential noise from zoo visitors.
It’s important to note that the Lincoln Park Zoo only allows weddings during certain times of the year and on specific days, so make sure to plan in advance.
Chicago Botanic Garden
Located in the Chicago suburbs, the Chicago Botanic Garden offers the timeless elegance of manicured gardens and serene water views.
- Pros: Beautiful garden setting, variety of outdoor spaces, and experienced culinary team.
- Cons: Can be pricey, and weather-dependent.
Some fund ideas for an outdoor ceremony include the English Walled Garden, Krasberg Rose Garden, and Evening Island.
Ivy Room
Located on Ohio Street, the Ivy Room offers a charming outdoor courtyard for your ceremony and a grand ballroom for your reception.
- Pros: Versatile event spaces, beautiful outdoor courtyard, and convenient downtown location.
- Cons: May be booked up quickly due to popularity.
You’ll love taking photos in the courtyard, which features beautiful ivy-covered walls and a stunning fountain.
Galleria Marchetti
Galleria Marchetti is a perfect venue for couples seeking both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its La Pergola offers one of the most beautiful outdoor wedding venues in Chicago.
- Pros: Offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, beautiful Italian-inspired setting.
- Cons: Popular wedding venue that may book up quickly, and outdoor events are weather-dependent.
Sometimes people forget that outdoor ceremonies can be just as beautiful at night. If you’re planning an evening wedding, the La Pergola with its romantic string lights is a must-see.
Garfield Park Conservatory
This is one of the most unique wedding venues in Chicago. Offering a beautiful greenhouse loft in West Town, it’s the perfect choice for couples wanting a natural, lush setting for their wedding.
- Pros: Unique venue with stunning plant displays, and indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Cons: Limited capacity and potential restrictions due to the conservatory’s public hours.
Remember to check the conservatory’s event calendar before booking your wedding date to avoid any conflicts.
City Cruises
For a truly unique wedding experience, City Cruises offers the opportunity to celebrate your special day on Lake Michigan.
- Pros: Unique venue, stunning views of the city skyline, and flexible packages.
- Cons: Weather-dependent and may not be suitable for guests prone to seasickness.
If you need to accommodate a larger guest count, the Odyssey and Mystic Blue boats can hold up to 600 guests while still providing an intimate atmosphere.
Morton Arboretum
Located in the Chicago suburbs, the Morton Arboretum offers a variety of outdoor spaces perfect for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
- Pros: Beautiful natural setting, variety of outdoor spaces, and ample parking.
- Cons: Can be a bit of a drive for guests based in downtown Chicago and weather-dependent.
Dancing under the stars on the grassy Meadow Lake Promenade or dining in the beautiful Gingko Room are just a few of the options available at this stunning venue.
Important Things to Remember When Planning an Outdoor Wedding
Planning an outdoor wedding can be an exciting adventure, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some key tips, ideas, and secrets to consider when planning your gorgeous outdoor wedding ceremony.
- Weather: Always have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. This could include renting a tent or choosing a wedding venue that offers both indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Comfort: Consider the comfort of your guests. If your wedding is in the summer, provide shade and hydration. For cooler months, consider offering blankets or heaters.
- Location: Choose a location that has meaning to you as a couple, whether it’s a park with a beautiful city skyline like Lincoln Park or a unique location like the Lincoln Park Zoo or the Chicago Botanic Garden.
- Decor: The beauty of outdoor weddings is that nature provides much of the décor. However, consider how you’ll enhance the space to fit your theme and style.
- Sound: Sound can be an issue in outdoor spaces, so make sure your Chicago wedding DJ or band has experience with outdoor sound systems.
- Permits: Check if you need a permit for the use of public spaces or for things such as alcohol consumption and loud music.
- Accessibility: Ensure the venue is accessible for all guests, including those with mobility issues.
- Restrooms: If the outdoor venue doesn’t have restrooms, you’ll need to rent them. Make sure they’re in a convenient location, not too far from the main event area.
- Catering: Check with your caterer about their experience and capabilities with outdoor events. You’ll need to consider elements like keeping food at the correct temperature and safe from pests.
- Lighting: If your wedding will go into the evening, consider your lighting options. This could include anything from fairy lights and lanterns to professional outdoor lighting.
- Dance Floor: Consider renting a dance floor for the reception. Dancing on grass can be difficult in heels, and it can get muddy if it rains.
Whether you’re considering a cocktail hour at the Ivy Room, an outdoor ceremony at the Morton Arboretum, or a grand ballroom reception at the Chicago History Museum, planning an outdoor wedding in downtown Chicago can be a magical experience. Just remember to plan for all possibilities so you can enjoy your special day no matter what happens.
Book an Outdoor Wedding in Chicago
Whether you’re looking for a venue with a view of the city skyline for amazing Chicago wedding photography, a garden setting, or even a wedding on the water, Chicago offers a variety of stunning outdoor wedding venues for your 2024 wedding.
Chicago offers a variety of outdoor wedding venues to suit every couple’s taste and style. From the lush gardens of the Chicago Botanic Garden to the urban chic setting of the Ivy Room, each location provides a unique backdrop for your special day.
For those looking for a venue with an outdoor space that can seamlessly transition from a ceremony to a cocktail reception, Galleria Marchetti is a top choice. With its Italian-inspired setting and versatile outdoor spaces, it can effortlessly host different parts of your wedding event in one convenient location.
If you’re looking for a venue that can also accommodate a rehearsal dinner, consider the Ivy Room. Its charming outdoor courtyard and downtown location make it a practical and picturesque option.
For couples who want to take their celebration to new heights, why not consider a venue with a rooftop bar? City Cruises, for example, offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it an unforgettable spot for a wedding reception.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration, these outdoor venues in Chicago offer a range of options to ensure your wedding day is as unique and memorable as your love story.