Top West Town Gala Venues

• 2 Gala Albums
• Spaces for 750-1,400 Guests
• 1 Ballroom

The Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel in Chicago offers a sophisticated setting for weddings and events, blending modern luxury with stunning city views. Located in the heart of downtown, near Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile, it provides a prime location for local and out-of-town guests. The hotel's event spaces, including the grand Atlantic Ballroom and rooftop terrace, offer a range of options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, receptions, and gatherings. With over 28,000 square feet of versatile event space, Radisson Blu Aqua can accommodate various events, from intimate weddings to grand celebrations. The rooftop terrace, featuring views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, is a standout option for outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hours. The hotel also offers customizable wedding packages, including in-house catering by a team of professional chefs who work closely with couples to create personalized menus. Beyond weddings, the Radisson Blu Aqua is an ideal venue for corporate events, galas, and social gatherings. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations, with room blocks available for event attendees. Known for its impeccable service, modern amenities, and elegant design, the hotel is a top choice for those seeking a premier event venue in Chicago.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 140-1,750 Guests
• 11 Museums
• 11 Landmarks
• 11 Total Spaces

Since its opening in 1930, Shedd Aquarium has ranked among the world’s leading aquariums, and it’s the No. 1 cultural attraction and “must-sea” destination in Chicago. Discover another side of Shedd—as the incomparable locale for your next evening event. Encounter unbelievable animals from aquatic environments around the world, plus eye-popping architecture, at popular cultural destination in Chicago. The city’s iconic skyline and Lake Michigan’s blue expanse create a stunning backdrop for any private event. We can provide you with a spacious, gracious setting for a dinner and a cool coastline or breezy terrace for a cocktail reception. A celebration at Shedd Aquarium means superb service, top-of-the-line facilities, and beautiful surroundings. The Azure’s Sales and Catering team at Shedd Aquarium has the passion to help clients bring their events and imagination to life within incredible spaces. We bring years of culinary experience, focusing on in-house catering and special event designs. From stunning views of the Chicago skyline to world-class cuisine, guests are surrounded by the beauty and wonder of aquatic life. Get ready to host in new and refreshed exhibits and spaces in the coming years.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 20-500 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 3 Event Spaces

VU Rooftop provides a variety of unique options within its 13,000 square feet to meet all of your event requirements. Choose from VU's nooks, rooms, and event spaces, which include private bars, al fresco areas with fire pits, a boardroom, the club bar, the solarium, and terraces with jaw-dropping views of the lake, downtown, and the west. In this modern designed space, enjoy an ingredient and locally-driven beverage program, top-notch noshing, and unparalleled views of the lake and downtown. Our space, which is the size of a full city block, can hold up to 500 people. The venue is designed to transform to the needs of our guests. VU has the ability to properly celebrate and gather for any occasion, from variable set-up to moveable walls. VU's event spaces come with different levels of furnishings. Rentals vary based on the need for space, the number of guests, and the type of event happening. If a rental is required, your event coordinator will send over an estimate of the rental cost, which will be added to your final event order.

• 8 Gala Albums
• Spaces for 50-12,000 Guests
• 7 Museums
• 7 Landmarks
• 10 Total Spaces

Dine beside a WWII submarine or a 40-foot tornado, sip cocktails with a Mars Rover, or mingle beneath historic aircraft. From the welcome reception to dinner and dessert, amaze your guests with an unforgettable event. Griffin MSI is the premier Chicago destination for unique and engaging special events. In addition to our awe-inspiring and interactive displays, enjoy private guided tours, gardens surrounded by century-old oak trees, or open-air dining on our breathtaking porticos. Our world-class culinary and special events teams will customize your entire experience, from handcrafted cocktails to an innovative seasonal menu and decadent desserts. We have events down to a science!

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 25-999 Guests
• 4 Museums
• 1 Landmark
• 11 Total Spaces

The Obama Presidential Center is a vibrant community hub, economic anchor, and beacon of democracy on Chicago’s South Side. Designed to inspire, empower, and connect visitors from around the world, the campus creates opportunities for learning, civic engagement, and meaningful community impact. In addition to its cultural and educational offerings, the Center features 11 distinctive event spaces designed for meetings, celebrations, galas, conferences, and special events, making it one of Chicago’s most significant new gathering destinations.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 6-1,200 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 1 Bar
• 12 Total Spaces

Discover the epitome of elegance and versatility at the David Rubenstein Forum, nestled within the vibrant University of Chicago campus. Our stunning venue is perfect for a variety of events, from corporate meetings to dream weddings. With its impressive floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of Hyde Park and state-of-the-art audiovisual support available throughout ten floors, your event experience will be enhanced in every way. Choose from versatile spaces like the expansive 600+ seat University Room or intimate sections designed for memorable receptions. Enjoy exceptional seasonal cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Marco Bahena in our Dining Room or BARDAVID while surrounded by inspiring biophilic design elements such as the serene Bosque Garden and surrounding landscape that invite nature indoors. Whether you're planning a conference, festival, or personal celebration, the David Rubenstein Forum provides an unparalleled backdrop that fosters connection and creativity among all guests.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 26-170 Guests
• 2 Restaurants

Stephanie Izard was born in the city of Chicago in the state of Illinois. She was born and raised in Stamford, Connecticut, and went on to the University of Michigan and Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona before returning to Chicago in 2000 to pursue her culinary profession. She opened her first restaurant, Scylla, in Bucktown in 2004 after working under some of Chicago's best chefs (Jean-Georges Vongerichten at Vong; Sean McClain at Spring; Dale Levitski at La Tache). She had the opportunity to participate on Bravo's Top Chef a few years later, and she won as well as being selected fan favorite. Stephanie met her business partners, Rob and Kevin of BOKA Restaurant Group, and the idea for Girl & the Goat began to take shape. The restaurant debuted in Summer 2010 after great thought and consideration was given to the location in the West Loop. Just a few years later, Stephanie opened Little Goat Diner across the street, followed by Duck Duck Goat on Fulton Market in 2016. The James Beard Foundation nominated Girl & the Goat for best new restaurant in 2011, and Izard received the Beard award for Best Chef Great Lakes in 2013. In 2010, she was named one of Food & Wine Magazine's "Best New Chefs." Kevin Boehm and Rob Katz, James Beard award-winning restaurateurs, have become one of the country's most successful owner/operators after creating 20 profitable restaurants over two decades. They have not only constructed a thriving restaurant company, but a restaurant culture based on excellent chefs, imaginative hospitality, and stunning design.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 200-350 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom
• 1 Outdoor

Our Health & Safety Protocols for COVID-19 • Daily Team Wellness & Temperature Checks • Protective Equipment and Masks for Whole Team • Frequent & Extensive Handwashing • Safe Distancing Measures & Reconfigured Layout • Contactless Check-In and Check-Out with Digital Key • All Guest & Service Areas Frequently Disinfected with EPA Approved Disinfectant Products • Expert-Guided Food Safety Protocols & Audits the Exceed Health Department Standards LondonHouse Chicago is a full-service, luxury lifestyle hotel with 452 luxury guest rooms and suites featuring scenic views of North Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, the Chicago River and many other city landmarks. The amenities at LondonHouse Chicago include LH, Chicago’s only tri-level rooftop featuring private dining spaces, an indoor bar, outdoor rooftop terrace and a private top floor Cupola, a chef-driven restaurant and Bridges Lobby Bar. LondonHouse Chicago also has 25,000 square-feet of meeting and event space, including two ballrooms for social dinners and weddings of up to 300 guests, or receptions for 350 or more. When just as many locals as guests gather to sip, taste and take in the views, you know you are in one of the Chicago’s best spots. From the reception champagne bar to the tri-level, indoor/outdoor rooftop bar to intimate in-dome dining, you’ll come together at LondonHouse Chicago for the skyline views and stay for the amazing dining, cocktails and conversations.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 100-500 Guests
• 3 Hotels
• 3 Ballrooms

Whether you're joining us in the Windy City for work or for fun, the recently renovated Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is ready to help you create lasting memories. Located steps from the Theater District, our award-winning hotel will captivate you from the moment you arrive until the day you say your goodbyes, with thoughtful amenities and world-class service. Step into our intuitively designed lobby, which features a VIP R Lounge, Artist Studio, Coffee Bar and Library. Unwind in your spacious room or suite and enjoy deluxe bedding and superb downtown Chicago views. Take a refreshing dip in the indoor pool or get your workout in at our Fitness Center. Our dining options include a hip rooftop bar with great views, as well as American cuisine and terrific cocktails. Host an event in one of our elegant venues, including the Chicago Ballroom, or walk outside of the hotel and explore the Theater District and other notable downtown attractions. We look forward to welcoming you to Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 80-8,505 Guests
• 3 Outdoor Spaces
• 1 Event Space
• 6 Total Spaces

Navy Pier is the premier destination in the Midwest offering two exhibit halls, 36 meeting rooms, the historic Aon Grand Ballroom and Lakeview Terrace, all overlooking the lakefront with unparalleled views of Chicago’s beautiful skyline. These dramatic and diverse spaces are ideal for trade and consumer shows, conferences, business meetings and special occasions of any size. Flexible mixed-use meeting space combines with the Pier’s leisure, dining and entertainment options all at your fingertips. Conveniently located steps from Michigan Avenue and with thousands of hotel rooms nearby, Navy Pier’s versatile venues, exceptional customer service, and delectable cuisine will all create an event that your guests will remember forever. Besides distinctive space, Navy Pier has a dedicated and expert event team who will help you every step of the way to ensure flawless coordination, seamless execution and guarantee the success of your event. Navy Pier offers a variety of amenities including on-site exhibition and audio visual services, on-site enclosed parking and covered drop-off areas to the Festival Hall complex and the Aon Grand Ballroom.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 250-300 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Summer House Santa Monica is Chicago's go-to spot for private dining events such as birthday dinners, bridal and baby showers, wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, and more. Summer House's knowledgeable Private Parties staff works with guests to plan every element of their special celebration. Summer House also provides full-service catering for off-site events of various types, including First Lady Cruises in Chicago. Please fill out the form on our site or contact our staff to inquire about private dining or off-premise catering. Summer House, which is now even bigger and better, offers a light and airy setting. Guests will be transported to a California-style paradise by the substantially expanded facility. Comfortable booths, full bar seating throughout the restaurant, and two main dining rooms are included in the whole restaurant buyout. Wedding receptions, corporate meetings, and large-form parties looking for a West Coast hideaway would love this area. In our All-Seasons Courtyard, you can host your next little gathering. A retractable roof, brick-lined walls, and lit string lights characterize this hidden gem. Work with our staff to develop your vision and customize the area with a private bar, gift table, buffet, and other amenities. This semi-private table, located in the main dining area of our new "Beach House," provides an appealing backdrop and lots of vistas to take in. When celebrating important anniversaries, hosting productive meetings, and more, use this room for personal parties and small group outings. When you're at The Beach House, it's always golden hour! When you visit our newest space in the building, expect to be greeted by our famous "YES" sign and vivid vegetation. The Beach House features a private bar area, comfy booth seating, high-top tables, and plenty of space for your gathering.

• 1 Gala Album

Enjoy everything that River North has to offer and make plans for a memorable evening with a large party at a restaurant that has private dining rooms or event space for private gatherings. Due to the versatility of the space, the Hubbard Inn is an excellent choice for private or semi-private dining in Chicago, as well as for hosting out-of-town visitors and family members who are in town. Restaurants that provide private dining rooms are an excellent choice for hosting all types of parties and events, including cocktail receptions, brunches, business events, late-night bachelor and bachelorette parties, and engagement parties. The Hubbard Inn offers a variety of menu options, including those for breakfast, supper, late night meals, and delectable drinks, making it easy to arrange events and catering to all of your party's requirements. Fill out the event request form on our website with the specifics of your party if you would like more information or to submit an event request, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

• 1 Gala Album
• Spaces for 60-2,000 Guests
• 4 Landmarks
• 1 Outdoor
• 5 Total Spaces

For nearly a century, Chicago's Union Station has been an iconic structure and a marvel of modern transportation. It was conceived by Daniel Burnham and constructed by Graham, Anderson, Probst, and White. It is a beloved element of Chicago history and a valuable asset for the city's future. It is a large building worthy of the city's prominence as a national railroad center. The spectacular event facilities at Chicago Union Station will transport you and your guests to a special era in our city's history, one steeped in historical glamor and bursting with excitement and energy. Organize your event at a one-of-a-kind location. This Beaux-Arts station's meticulously refurbished event halls are ideal for every size and style of occasion, from small corporate meetings to big galas and weddings. The Great Hall In 2019, a $22 million restoration of the Great Hall was finished, returning the area to its original colors and brightening it with a repaired and protected skylight. The North Great Hall or the South Great Hall can be rented. Depending on the date and approval, the entire space may be available. The Burlington Room This unusual chamber, which was once a women's waiting room and beauty parlor, has been closed to the public and utilized as a railroad "paper storage" in recent decades. Fortunately for us, the area was painstakingly rebuilt in 2016 and relaunched as a private event venue known as The Burlington Room. The room's magnificent ceiling, champagne-colored columns, and French block murals have been painstakingly restored to their early 19th century luxury, ready to enchant guests with an old-world grandeur that is unique in Chicago. Founders Room This lovely area was once the Legacy Club, a members-only lounge that was open to the public for a daily or monthly charge. In 2019, it was converted to private event space as part of Union Station's expansion of event spaces. This lovely space, now known as the Founders Room, has towering ceilings, great workmanship, and plenty of natural light, making it ideal for any gathering. Pennsylvania Room On the second floor of the Metropolitan Lounge sits the famous Pennsylvania Room. The Pennsylvania Room is easily accessible from Canal Street and provides polished, sophisticated surroundings to its guests. Events of all sizes are welcome, but we can't help but think that the venue is especially well-suited for early evening cocktail parties and late night after-parties, thanks to its sleek setting and ample seating possibilities. Adams Street Balcony This beautiful balcony, which overlooks the magnificence of Union Station, is the ultimate urban environment. This area is located at the station's Adams Street entrance and provides access to an outdoor patio that is ideal for an indoor/outdoor event, cocktail hour, or reception.

• Spaces for 40-380 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 2 Bars
• 3 Total Spaces

Located in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood, Dēliz Italian Steakhouse offers a stylish setting for private dinners, corporate gatherings, cocktail receptions, and milestone celebrations. The two-level restaurant pairs plush seating and dramatic lighting with a lively, contemporary atmosphere designed for memorable evenings. Guests can enjoy handmade pastas, wood-fired steaks, premium Wagyu, seafood, and creative cocktails, with menus shaped around bold Italian flavors. Outdoor dining and flexible group arrangements extend the experience, while the central location near Wicker Park makes Dēliz a sophisticated yet approachable choice for events in Chicago.

• Spaces for 28-400 Guests
• 5 Restaurants
• 1 Bar
• 5 Total Spaces

Whatever your cause for celebration, you need an extraordinary location. You will find it at The Dawson. Named a Best of the Best Venue by Modern Luxury Weddings Chicago, The Dawson features multiple private and semi-private event spaces, being able to accommodate for parties of 12 - 400. The Dawson features award winning, globally-inspired American cuisine and libations that highlight the season’s best offerings and diverse, yet approachable, ingredients and flavors. The Dawson’s stunning, two-story foyer with its breathtaking grand staircase is the perfect first impression for your guests. And, the custom tile and lighting, hand-crafted woodwork, abundant natural light, and an acclaimed courtyard, make The Dawson a dream location for hosting any event, ranging from a wedding, corporate event, birthday party, and more.

• Spaces for 40-168 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 3 Bars
• 3 Total Spaces

Located in Chicago's River North neighborhood, Monty's Chicago and Motel Bar Chicago offer two distinct hospitality experiences under one roof, seamlessly transitioning from a bright daytime café to an intimate evening restaurant and cocktail bar. Guests can gather for everything from morning meetings and casual lunches to private dinners, cocktail receptions, holiday parties, and corporate events. Contemporary interiors, warm wood finishes, vintage-inspired design, and flexible private event options create an inviting backdrop for celebrations of all kinds. Whether hosting a small gathering or a full venue buyout, the space combines thoughtful service, elevated cuisine, and handcrafted cocktails in a welcoming setting.

• Spaces for 80-120 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 1 Outdoor
• 2 Total Spaces

Homestead on the Roof - our cozy, secret rooftop - is tucked away above Roots Handmade Pizza in the heart of West Town. This tranquil and enchanting venue is perfect for a wedding, rehearsal dinner, corporate event, or any other milestone. Chef Bryan Collante and event manager Kelsey Utterback are experienced professionals with vast experience in organizing the perfect evening. Homestead is one of the most exclusive venue spaces outside of downtown. This Chicago hidden gem is sure to charm guests and leave them talking about and remembering your social event for years to come. The magic of Homestead is its 85-seat and 120 standing outdoor rooftop patio with full view of the L-shaped, 1,000 square foot rooftop garden overflowing with beautiful flowers, two massive vertical hanging gardens, a decorative outdoor fireplace, warm edison string lights and a brand new water feature. Our indoor, air conditioned space is equally charming, with warm, rustic decor. Because Homestead is a part of one of Chicago's most respected restaurant groups, we have the unique ability to coordinate Chef Events, bringing together chefs and cuisine from all over our company to create an incredible array of events at Homestead or at off-site venues. Whether it's a special theme, style of cuisine, or interactive experience you are looking for: we have the team to make the experience customized and memorable.

• Spaces for 150-400 Guests
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 1 Event Space

Ignite Chicago is one of the top 5 glass studios in the country, which has working glass blowers, hosts all types of events including weddings, corporate functions, non-profit events to corporate team building. Our unique event spaces include an industrial loft like space with a wall of glass doors to an urban garden and a rooftop deck with amazing views of the Chicago skyline. No matter what type of event you're hosting, Ignite Chicago can accommodate your every need and create an event you'll never forget. The vision behind Ignite Glass Studios is connecting people back to the process of creating art and engaging in the beauty of the time-honored craft of glass blowing and the exquisite art it produces along with building a new sense of community through the interactive experience of blowing glass and glass making. Ignite Glass Studios is a thriving glass art community in a space where artists can create and grow, novices can experiment and learn, and young people’s lives are transformed by the power of this collaborative art form. Ignite sparks the imagination and the creation of amazing works of art, creates a space for unique, memorable events, and opens opportunities for individual growth in a learning community that values difference, participation and collaboration. Providing a safe place for youth to explore, grow and draw inspiration is a fundamental element of Ignite’s vision. Ignite Glass Studios’ commitment to strengthening community is enhanced by its partnership with Ignition Community Glass (ICG), a non-profit serving Chicago’s youth through the arts. ICG leverages the power of hands-on glass making to foster positive youth development and offer youth from Chicago’s under-resourced communities’ access to this powerful art form.

• Spaces for 40-150 Guests
• 4 Restaurants
• 1 Bar
• 4 Total Spaces

The Canvas by Ever is perfect for wedding receptions, ceremonies, rehearsal dinners, family celebrations, company meetings and business dinners. This large room is a blank canvas, a customizable space in which you can create an elegant, unforgettable event. The Canvas is located right next door to Ever restaurant and After lounge in Chicago's West Fulton Market. The Canvas is an extension of two-Michelin-starred Ever and thus pursues Chef Curtis Duffy's vision of unparalleled food, wine, ambiance and service. Our events team will go above and beyond to bring your personal vision to life and help you create a stunning event, whether your celebration is for eight or 100 people. In addition to the main Canvas room, we offer six other luxe private event spaces that can accommodate various aspects of your special event—from private rooms in Ever restaurant and After lounge, to a gorgeous rooftop space with stunning views of the downtown Chicago skyline. All of our spaces are in the same building We are in the business of giving guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences. It would be our honor to host your important event.

• Spaces for 90-900 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 4 Event Spaces

Located in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop, Moonlight Studios offers a unique and versatile venue for a wide range of events. This repurposed factory features: • 15,000+ square feet of industrial chic space • 6,100 square foot open studio • 4,000 square feet of gallery space • 1,500 square foot production office • Pre-function, prep, and green room areas All spaces are interconnected, providing endless configuration possibilities. The modern finishes and reclaimed accents reflect the building’s past, offering a visually appealing yet neutral backdrop. Moonlight Studios is the perfect canvas for all types of events, including corporate functions, virtual & hybrid experiences, experiential activations, product launches, social celebrations, and so much more. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or create a tailored, intimate experience, our venue offers endless possibilities! Venue Capacity Indoor: 750 | Outdoor: 150 **Final capacity determined by final floor plan**