Outdoor Venues in Chicago for Your Company’s Summer Party

The Dawson does a beautiful job seamlessly incorporating chic industrial elements with lush natural vibes in a hip downtown venue. This courtyard is perfect for an after-hours company bash, and is party-ready with a perfect private outdoor bar and stunning custom landscaping. A massive rustic pergola and fairy lights give this place that cozy, fun feeling.

Courtyard Capacity: 120 (seated) – 200 (standing)

Incredible lush spaces, enchanting terraces and gardens beyond compare are all elements we’re obsessed with at the Chicago Botanic Garden — a perfect place for a company bash. With twelve different spaces to choose from, this venue has flexibility and is able to comfortably accommodate your guests in a variety of spots. Our favorites are the Rose Terrace and the English Walled Garden, both perfect for enjoying a perfect Chicago evening with your coworkers.

Rose Terrace Capacity: 250 (seated) – 275 (standing)

English Walled Garden Capacity: 175 (seated) – 250 (standing)

This venue boasts cool outdoor elements that include vintage dark brick, elegant stained wood panels and cement squares. The Roof at Joy District is edgy-chic and sophisticated with fun, eclectic and colorful portraits against green shrubbery that give the space a little something special. Their Asian-fusion menu adds a twist to this River North rooftop where your staff can enjoy the views of the city — a perfect way to celebrate a job well done.

Capacity: 200 (seated) – 250 (standing)

This incredibly chic rooftop offers expansive vistas of the Loop as well as a perfect view of the Chicago River. With light re-imagined American fare served alongside beautifully-made cocktails on their three-tiered indoor/outdoor rooftop (the only one in Chicago!), LH Chicago Rooftop offers options galore. On-staff trained event planners can assist with your catering, floral and A/V needs for easy company party planning.

Rooftop Bar Capacity: 200 (seated) – 3536 (standing)

Rooftop North Capacity: 25 (seated) – 360 (standing)

Rooftop South Capacity: 50 (seated) – 918 (standing)

A picture perfect space with a picture perfect view…does it get any better? Experience dining in the company of Millenium Park, The Bean sculpture, The Art Institute, and Lake Michigan. With exposed brick, a glass covered bar area, and string lights hanging from the stylish industrial beams, Cindy’s has curated a relaxed upscale beach house vibe that’s just the right for your memorable corporate outing.

Capacity: 20 (seated) – 40 (standing)

This intimate and hidden Gold Coast gem is a must-see. The 18th floor poolside lounge has sweeping views of the elegant area that rivals views from the Loop. With a mouthwatering menu of small plates and an equally-enticing assortment of drinks, this spot is ideal for a company event starting with al fresco cocktails by the pool.

Capacity: 100 (seated) – 150 (standing)

We love how Celeste outfitted their rooftop garden using dark stone tiling with well-loved dark brick while accenting it with victorian-styled upholstered furniture. The bar boasts beautiful finishes and is adorned with three crystal chandeliers. This covered rooftop garden is abundant in vegetation and daylight and is open year-round for summer-vibe corporate parties in the fall, spring and even winter.

Capacity: 36 (standing) – 60 (standing)

Located in the heart of Lakeview, this festive restaurant is a hub for tequila (and great food) lovers. They base their menu and mentality on three words; burgers, tacos, and tequila and they’re know for making their ingredients in-house, ensuring quality and flavor. The contemporary casual setting featuring traditional Mexican-hued decor and well-loved nostalgic tables and chairs is perfect for company get-togethers.

Capacity:  98 (seated) – 161 (standing)

Chandeliers and lush greenery comprise the chic components of this West Town restaurant’s decor. The ultra-bohemian courtyard is inspired from regions all over the world, giving it an adventurous and fun vibe. Their menu provides eclectic choices and the overall aesthetic of Beatnik is so unique. We love its upscale adult Rainforest Cafe feeling (but no silly flaming dessert productions here!).

Capacity: 200 (seated) – 300 (standing)

Big Star’s Patio is a funky hangout and is perfect for the team looking for a cocktail party featuring ice-cold beer and well-crafted margaritas. This massive, yet always-packed, patio offers undeniably delicious, perfect Mexican fare. Choose between their Wicker Park location as well as their new Wrigleyville location.

Wicker Park style is written all over this rooftop — from the clever name, to the 80s and 90s nostalgic vibes, seasonal drink menu and the massive French fry bar (yes, you read that right, fry bar!). This is a perfect place for a work team to celebrate while catching a game on the massive screens and hanging out under cool bright red umbrellas. Also of note: their whiskey selection is unparalleled.

Offer your employees a memorable event at this all-you-can-eat Brazilian steakhouse that’s unlike anything we’ve ever seen. ZED 451’s rooftop terrace is the perfect place for a fun and interesting dinner with stunning views of the city. From the amazing menu to the pergolas lining its perimeter to the eclectic and comfortable seating arrangements on the terrace, this restaurant is one to put on your party bucket list.

Capacity: 20 (seated) – 115 (standing)