Top Near South Side Gala Venues

• Spaces for 16-120 Guests
• 3 Restaurants

The word Acanto is the Italian translation of Acanthus, the flowery leaf featured prominently in Roman architecture. Famed architect Louis Sullivan used Acanthus in his distinctive terracotta ornamentation found on the facade of our historically landmarked building at 18 South Michigan Avenue in Chicago. Steps from Millennium Park and along Chicago’s Cultural Mile, Acanto is the destination for those who appreciate Italian food, wine and an approachable, inviting dining experience. Inviting decor, proximity to world class destinations along Chicago's Cultural Mile, and outstanding food and libations make Acanto the ideal location for special group gatherings. Our dining room may be reserved for parties of 65 to 100 guests. And, our patio on Michigan Avenue is perfect for pre-dinner cocktails and mingling.

• Spaces for 300 Guests
• 3 Restaurants

Host your next event where classic games meet cocktails. Once the original billiards room, Game Room now transforms into a lively playground complete with craft cocktails, local brews, and playful bites. From billiards and shuffleboard to skeeball, pop-a-shot, chess, and checkers, it’s the perfect setting for semi-private events that don’t take themselves too seriously.

• Spaces for 80-200 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Located in the heart of the business district, an elevator ride up to the 29th floor of The Franklin, you will find the sleek and stylish design of the R29 event space. Rich woods and lush colors blend to create a swanky atmosphere perfect for any special event, highlighted by trendy leather bar stools, cozy banquettes enhanced with fireplaces and private pergola cabanas with views over the West Loop. Corporate or social, business or pleasure, R29 is a versatile and inviting venue for any gathering. R29 can accommodate 175 guests for a cocktail reception.

It began rather modestly, more than a century ago, when a small group of college alumni formed the founding charter. Their goal was a simple one - to create an environment in which excellence thrives and develop a place where they, their guests and all future members could draw upon the sustaining values of a common educational experience. Here, at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Monroe Street at the eastern gateway to the city, they established a permanent residence for their shared ideals. Through the generations, this magnificent 12-story structure has provided a stimulating atmosphere where members conduct business, gather socially and expand culturally.

• Spaces for 35-100 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 3 Hotels
• 3 Historic Spaces

Tucked beneath the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, we offer an intimate, speakeasy-style lounge designed for unforgettable private events. With moody lighting, custom leather seating, and a curated cocktail experience, The Drawing Room is the perfect hidden gem in the heart of the Gold Coast for gatherings that call for style, privacy, and atmosphere.

• Spaces for 18-493 Guests
• 1 Event Space
• 2 Meeting Spaces

Located in The Loop neighborhood of downtown Chicago, Convene 311 W Monroe offers six meeting rooms across 24,000 square-feet with capacity to hold up to 250 guests. This location is ideal for conferences, internal meetings, and sales kick-offs. The design of this destination pays homage to the city’s rich industrial and musical history by interweaving modernist architecture with an interior design reminiscent of Chicago’s underground jazz scene. The space exhibits warm hues through ambient lighting with rich pops of color and intricate detailing throughout. Convene 311 W Monroe provides a white box space allowing for client and event branding opportunities, in-house catering with customization options and dining private to each event, in-room A/V technology supported by an on-site team, and dedicated hospitality resources. Convene 311 W Monroe is located between South Wacker Drive and South Franklin Street in the Loop near Washington/Wells Station and Quincy Station.

• Spaces for 32-1,000 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Outdoor

Located in Chicago's highly acclaimed Millennium Park, Park Grill is the city's ultimate room with a view. We are the choice for remarkable gatherings, in an atmosphere that is unlike anywhere else. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurant serves your guests cityscape views of Millennium Park and the world-renowned Michigan Avenue that are breathtaking. The guest list is up to you. Atmosphere, great service, and spectacular dining is guaranteed.

• Spaces for 28-40 Guests
• 1 Meeting Space

From show-stopping social events to stylish downtown business meetings and memorable seminars, Kimpton Burnham Hotel provides the personalized attention you want. Our Chicago event venues has a private meeting and event space ideally tailored to your business meeting, company retreat, family reunion... really, any reason to party or put business heads together.

• Spaces for 45 Guests
• 2 Restaurants

Tuscany Taylor serves authentic Tuscan style cuisine in the heart of Chicago's Little Italy. Tuscany is the hottest spot on Taylor St. It’s engaging décor and personable service will make you and your guests never want to leave. Tuscany Taylor is the perfect spot to celebrate your next rehearsal dinner, wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, wedding shower, baby shower, corporate event, fundraiser, or any other special event. The Tuscany Taylor Private Dining Room will accommodate parties of up to 45 guests. They are able to customize any menu for special events. The beautifully decorated room is ideal for any occasion from a sit down dinner to a reception style gathering. The dedicated and professional staff at Tuscany will exceed your expectations and execute a successful event. Their main goal is to satisfy you and your guests. Every event at Tuscany Taylor is handled with extreme care and attention to detail.

• Spaces for 80-800 Guests
• 3 Museums
• 3 Landmarks

The Chicago Cultural Center, amongst the ornate decor of marble, polished brass, fine hardwoods, and colorful mosaics holds a rich history of the Windy City. Initially built as the first central public library of Chicago, this building has become one of the most visited attractions in the city. Home to not one, but two spectacular crystal domes, this building will serve as a decadent background to any private event or wedding. Close to numerous hotels, shopping and across the street from Millennium Park, The Chicago Cultural Center is convenient for those traveling near and far.

• Spaces for 50-7,000 Guests
• 3 Outdoor Spaces

Maggie Daley Park is one of Chicago's newest locations. It's home to several different types of event venue spaces including; the fieldhouse, lawn space, picnic groves, and the Cancer Survivors' Garden. It also has unique amenities in the quarter of a mile Skating Ribbon, 19,000 square foot rock climbing walls, three acre Play Garden complete with Enchanted Forest, eighteen holes of mini golf and the two and a half acre Cancer Survivors' Garden. Located between Lakeshore Drive and Millennium Park downtown Chicago, it's views include the Chicago Skyline, Museum Campus, and Lake Michigan.

• Spaces for 8-200 Guests
• 2 Event Spaces
• 3 Meeting Spaces

About us: Impact House is a 40,000 square-foot work club specifically for the city's Funders and Changemakers. The purpose of Impact House is to connect, serve and support Chicago's granting organizations and impact leaders. Its inclusive member community is committed to working together, intentionally sharing ideas and resources, to operate with greater efficiency while advancing Chicago's Impact goals. Neighborhood details We are located in the heart of the West Loop in Downtown Chicago. Our neighborhood is bursting with attractions, excellent eateries, shopping, and more. Logistics: Our 40,000 square foot, 3 floor unit is equipped with various classrooms, conference rooms, large meeting spaces, a bar and lounge, as well as inviting open areas with first come first serve seating. Room setups are very flexible, depending on the nature of your event. Our team is happy to accommodate various needs, inquire today to learn more! Public Transportation: Impact House is closely situated near the Washington Blue Line stop, the Washington & Wells Brown, Pink, Purple, and Orange line stops, the Ogilvie Transportation Center, Divvy stations, and more! Parking: The Poetry Parking Garage (201 W Madison) iParkit Express (217 W Washington) SpotHero (https://spothero.com/) Rates associated with booking the space: Our nonmember, standard rates are charged hourly, and vary depending on the space that is reserved. Please inquire for additional details.

Located in the heart of Greektown, Chicago’s newest cultural destination, the National Hellenic Museum boasts a minimalist design and distinctive setting for all your special events. Whether it is an elegant dinner for 200 or a board meeting for 20, the modern and versatile space at the National Hellenic Museum is perfect for any occasion. Choose the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago for your next wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, fundraiser, corporate gathering, and more. The signature Rooftop Terrace at the National Hellenic Museum features a spectacular panoramic view of Greektown and Chicago’s iconic skyline. The 3,600-square-foot terrace at the National Hellenic Museum is home to three gardens, including an Illinois prairie garden with plant species native to Northeastern Illinois. The beautiful outdoor areas will make any event at the National Hellenic Museum feel incredibly special.

• Spaces for 18-350 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 3 Event Spaces
• 2 Meeting Spaces

Elevate your company’s meetings and events with One North Wacker’s sophisticated boardroom, flexible innovation hub, enhanced multi-purpose room and pre-function lounge. Featuring a full suite of world-class amenities including artisanal barista-crafted coffee services and concierge hospitality lounge, paired with a centralized location in the heart of Chicago's premier dining, shopping, and museum district, One North Wacker’s timelessly elegant workplace will engage and inspire your team at every turn.

• 1 Restaurant

The world-famous Walnut Room was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. With Circassian wood paneling imported from Russia and Austrian chandeliers, the 17,000 square foot dining room is both elegant and comfortable. Conveniently located in the heart of the Chicago theatre district, the Walnut Room is an excellent choice to take a break from shopping or for a meal and a glass of wine before the show.

• Spaces for 300-750 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 1 Event Space
• 1 space at this venue

Located steps away from Old St Patrick’s Church at the cross-section of Quincy and Desplaines, Amazing Space is the ultimate West Loop Gate locale for your wedding reception or social event. A separate lobby entrance is around the corner at 207 S. Desplaines, and next to the parking garage - a welcome respite from the challenges of the city of Chicago parking. (Imagine after saying your “I Do’s” you and your guests will walk across the street to be greeted by a sun-drenched foyer for cocktails.) Amazing Space includes a catering kitchen, distinctive bars, tables and chairs, restrooms on the first and second floors, an elevated lighting system, a sunny bridal suite, and a sophisticated A/V. The 6,000 sq. foot event space boasts soaring ceilings and architectural elements inspired by Old St. Pat’s. The 2nd-floor mezzanine overlooks the main floor providing a beautiful flow for your cocktail reception and the chance for your guests to enjoy the dancing and merriment from above.

• Spaces for 50-3,563 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Theater
• 3 Event Spaces

The Lyric Opera House is a majestic setting for entertaining on any scale. The theatre, spacious back of house, lobby, grand foyer and four private dining rooms are available to rent for public ticketed and private events. The Lyric Opera House is a world class concert venue and has featured artists including David Byrne, Bryan Ferry, Seal, Andrew Bird and Wilco. The 3,563-seat theater is the second-largest opera auditorium in North America and holds the largest stage in downtown Chicago. Excellent sightlines, premium acoustics, and intricate architectural detailing make for a fantastic and unique venue. Host your wedding or private event in one of the world's most beautiful buildings. The Lyric Opera House is one of Chicago's historic landmarks and among the world's most beautiful buildings. Built in 1929 and fully restored in 1996, the Lyric Opera House is a hybrid of Art Nouveau and Art Deco designs and a majestic setting for entertaining on any scale. The theater, spacious back of house, lobby and grand foyer, and four private dining rooms are available to rent for public ticketed and private events.