Top Near South Side Graduation Party Venues

• 1 Graduation Party Album
• 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.

• 1 Graduation Party Album
• Spaces for 350-400 Guests
• 1 Event Space
• 1 Historic Space
• 1 Meeting Space

Built in 1914, the Wildman Boiler & Tank building is approximately 12,000 square feet with 16-foot ceilings and a rare double-bow truss with 48-foot ceiling expanses. Located just off of Sacramento Blvd, where West Town, Humboldt Park and East Garfield Park meet, Wildman BT is easily accessible from downtown and all Chicagoland suburbs. The Wildman Boiler & Tank building is home to Trope Gallery, a boutique publishing and film company. From working production studio to a glamourous setting for the poshest private events, Wildman BT has been designed with the ultimate flexibility and functionality needed to make our guests’ visions become a reality. We’ve paid attention to incorporating every detail that makes a space easy to work and gather in, including features like a street-level drive in loading bay (or VIP parking space!), multiple entrance points for guests and vendors, floor-to-ceiling drapery system, multi-layered and dimmable lighting, polished concrete floors with flush mounted electric outlets, 23’ Media wall, state of the art audio/visual system, wi-fi handling up to 500 concurrent users, ample HVAC for comfort and more…

• 1 Graduation Party Album
• Spaces for 450-1,500 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Located at Fullerton Avenue and Lake Shore Drive, Theater on the Lake is a historic building that offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s skyline. Designed in 1913 and constructed in 1920, Theater on the Lake, is a Prairie style structure constructed in brick with sweeping steel arched pavilions throughout. Theater on the Lake is the most unique venue in Chicago with flexible event space for groups of 25 to 1,500. From corporate events to weddings and social galas, Theater on the Lake is one of the only Lakefront event venues in the City. The fully enclosed space offers clean, open sightlines without pillars and a gorgeous view South to the skyline while overlooking Lake Michigan. Elegantly restored and enhanced to its deserved beauty, Theater on the Lake joins many of the other iconic architectural gems of Chicago. The fully enclosed and air-conditioned space offers clean, open sightlines without pillars and breathtaking views of the city and lake.

• Spaces for 40-5,500 Guests
• 6 Museums
• 5 Landmarks
• 7 Total Spaces

Our rooms tell the stories of civilizations. Imagine what they could say about your event. Guests at the Field Museum will discover artifacts from civilizations past, explore almost every corner of the globe, learn about new scientific discoveries, and walk away inspired! No where else can guests dine under the largest dinosaur ever discovered! As you enter Stanley Field Hall, you are standing on 300 million year old fossilized limestone. As you look up—the museum’s skylights and solar roof panels contribute to museum conservation efforts to save energy. In nearby Rice Hall, travel to Africa and stand toe-to-paw with the man-eating lions of Tsavo. Header image courtesy of Kent Drake. Profile image courtesy of © Field Museum, 2019.

• Spaces for 100-2,000 Guests
• 5 Landmarks
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 5 Total Spaces

Revel Motor Row, a city landmark rich in Chicago history, has been restored as an event production space to help fuel the resurgence of an iconic neighborhood into a thriving entertainment district. Built in 1936 and previously home to the Illinois Automobile Club and the Chicago Defender building, Revel Motor Row provides an impressive backdrop for any vision. The adjacent building and original home to the city's first Cadillac dealership adds flexible space to the campus. Construction is underway to restore the illustrious building to its former glory. - Designed and built by acclaimed architect Philip Maher - Across from Chicago’s premiere convention center, McCormick Place - 50,000 sq. feet in total event space - Versatile design with over 20 event spaces - 2,600 total capacity - 4,000+ sq. ft. outdoor courtyard - 12-20 spaces for breakout rooms and private dining including a ornate boardroom - Stunning green room or bridal suite with breathtaking details

• 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.

• Spaces for 12-10,000 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 2 Hotels
• 9 Total Spaces

Step into the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, where great things happen seamlessly. Our convenient location makes exploring Chicago attractions easier than ever once you’ve wrapped up business in the city. We are connected to the McCormick Place Convention Center and our downtown Chicago hotel offers the ideal destination for you to work, relax and explore. Not only is Soldier Field, host to concerts, runs, and football games, a 10-minute walk via a connecting bridge, but The Museum Campus is located steps away from our lakefront. We’re located conveniently close to some of Chicago’s best attractions, such as: 0.5 miles from the Cermak/McCormick Place Green Line CTA stop 0.6 miles from Soldier Field 1.8 miles from Northerly Island 1.2 miles from Shedd Aquarium 1.6 miles from Adler Planetarium 2.3 miles from U.S. Cellular Field 5 miles from Museum of Science and Industry 15 miles from Horseshoe Casino Hyatt Regency McCormick Place also offers over 63,000 sq. ft. of flexible and customizable event space with access to over 50,000 square feet of event space at McCormick Place Convention Center. Our venue is ideal for a wide range of events like board meetings, midsize conferences, large galas, weddings and more. Our experienced staff are trained to deliver premium service from start to finish. Let’s start the planning process!

• Spaces for 200-275 Guests
• 1 Event Space

ROW 24 is a family-run event space, located in the historic Motor Row district in Chicago’s South Loop area. We were captivated by the newest arts and entertainment neighborhood, and we know you will as well. Our venue’s historic sophistication provides a perfect backdrop for unforgettable events. From a corporate lunch meeting to a fairytale wedding, ROW 24 is eager to work with you to create a memorable experience. Two of the original founders of ROW 24, Chris Fountain and Dana Louder, are entrepreneurs with many years of experience in the wedding and entertainment industries. Chris managed a live music venue in the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood, while Dana’s business, Pin Me Up, a bridal beauty agency, has won the Best of Weddings award from The Knot for the last four years. At ROW 24, Chris and Dana work with their family, who collectively have over 20 years of experience in hospitality. The family has come together to cultivate a business that is more than just another event space. By offering a truly collaborative experience and a highly customizable venue, ROW 24 is a distinct wedding and special event location.

• Spaces for 50-63,500 Guests
• 1 Museum
• 1 Landmark
• 10 Total Spaces

Soldier Field is the premier destination for events in Chicago, hosting a wide range of events including corporate events, social events, meetings, expos, sporting events, and concerts,. With sweeping views of the downtown skyline and beautiful Lake Michigan, Soldier Field is the perfect venue to “wow” your guests. The talented event team at Soldier Field will take care of every detail to ensure that your event is spectacular! Now is the time to book your next exciting event at Chicago's most prestigious event venue.

• Spaces for 20-200 Guests
• 1 Museum
• 1 Landmark
• 4 Total Spaces

Glessner House invites you to host your corporate lunch, dinner, or cocktail event; your lecture, program, meeting, or photo shoot in our exquisite mansion located near McCormick Place in the heart of the Prairie Avenue Historic District of Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. (Please note we no longer host weddings). Featuring a private outdoor courtyard, this intimate venue offers a distinct alternative to hotels and banquet halls. Café-style lighting illuminates the courtyard, while a modern Bose sound system provides an intimate environment for any occasion. Once home to prized horses, our updated coach house serves as a beautiful interior event space and is fully accessible. Located directly north of the Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens, Glessner House is both easily accessed by public transportation and is within walking distance of three major hotels. A nearby parking lot is also available as needed. Prairie Avenue once boasted over 90 mansions built by the movers and shakers of Chicago. One of only seven remaining, Glessner House stands tall at the corner of 18th Street and Prairie Avenue, a treasure for all time. Our Mission: To spark excitement in architecture, history, and design through a dynamic exploration of Glessner House, its family, and its preservation.

• Spaces for 30-160 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Event Space

Located in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago, two Michelin starred Moody Tongue Brewing Company may be found within walking distance of McCormick Place, numerous area hotels and a growing hospitality community. The Private Dining & Events Program at Moody Tongue showcases chef-driven beers, elevated service and a focused food menu from eleven-time Michelin-starred recipient Executive Chef Jared Wentworth. The brewery's mid-century modern aesthetic and refined industrial design set the tone for a distinctive dining and event experience, while a professional onsite event team ensures attention to every detail. Coordinating these details leading to a successful event can be stressful, and the event team at Moody Tongue brings focus, care and hospitality to you throughout the process. Our goal is to help create a unique and memorable event, tailored to your needs. Whether you would like to entertain a select group of clients or host a reception or private dining experience, we offer a number of possibilities within the brewery’s three venues. All three venues offer flexibility, style and comfort which may be curated for a variety of engagements. Moody Tongue's award-winning beer and Chef Jared Wentworth's elevated dining offerings provide an undeniable backdrop to distinguish your next event. For additional information or to reserve a space for a private event, please reach out us via the link below or send us an e-mail at contact@moodytongue.com. -- "THE DINING ROOM" offers our most intimate experience. Leather booths and chairs, large blackened oak table tops and sophisticated tablewares combine to elevate the perception of a brewery dining experience. Brewmaster Jared Rouben's dream of marrying fine dining with exceptional beer pairings may now be experienced in private engagements with our 6 to 15 course tasting menus. Plated and family-style dining options are also available for seated dinners while an extensive banquet menu provides excellent options for reception style events. The Dining Room can accommodate 28 guests seated or 50 guests for a standing cocktail reception. "THE BAR" provides a comfortable backdrop for larger events. A vibrant fireplace lounge and library of historic brewing books anchors the room beneath the original industrial skylight. The central black marble bar focuses guests attention inward towards 18 gleaming draft towers. The room is open and flexible, without feeling too expansive. Dining options may be catered to either seated plated and family-style meals or standing reception-style affairs. Semi-private reservations are available in this venue upon request as well. The Bar can accommodate 50 guests seated or 100 for a standing cocktail reception. "THE BREWERY FLOOR" is available for our largest engagements. Located immediately within Moody Tongue’s brewing facility and beneath an expansive skylight and original bowstring truss roof, the brewery has dedicated over 2,500 square feet to private reservations. Flanked by exposed brick walls and racks of whiskey and wine barrels, this venue enjoys a private entrance, coat check and dedicated restrooms. The Brewery Floor can accommodate 120 guests seated or 160 for a standing cocktail reception.

• 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.

Welcome to Decadent Chicago, your premier event destination nestled in the vibrant heart of the South Loop. Our stunning two-story loft-style venue boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for any occasion. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering, a corporate event, or a grand celebration, Decadent Chicago offers the perfect backdrop with its modern elegance and versatile layout. Our in-house catering team is dedicated to crafting delicious menus tailored to your event, complemented by a selection of artisanal coffee and handcrafted cocktails. Experience exceptional service and a captivating environment at Decadent Chicago—where every event is a celebration of style and sophistication. Let us help you create unforgettable memories!

• Spaces for 45 Guests
• 1 Boat

Adeline's Sea Moose is an extraordinary floating vessel, perfect for corporate events, holiday parties, birthday celebrations and family reunions! We love hosting weddings and personalizing events! About the Sea Moose: At 68 feet, Adeline's Sea Moose boasts private, panoramic views from multiple decks and her bar and lounge and be opened to the elements. Her expansive entertaining spaces, both in and outdoors, make her a perfect venue! While aboard, our attentive and professionally trained crew are on hand to cater to all of your needs. She is Coast Guard Certified to comfortably host up to 45 guests! Ask about our Skyline Charter packages, Architectural Lake Front Tours, & Navy Pier Fireworks Shows!

• Spaces for 10-2,100 Guests
• 3 Hotels
• 3 Ballrooms
• 9 Total Spaces

Elevate your events in Chicago with over 90,000 square feet of versatile space, perfect for conferences, meetings, and weddings. Located in the heart of downtown, our conference room is steps away from McCormick Place, offering seamless connectivity with high-speed Internet and advanced audiovisual capabilities. Choose from 63 magnificent event locations, providing approximately 90,000 square feet of flexible space to accommodate weddings of any size and style. Our Level 33 venue offers panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan, ensuring a memorable experience. Whether hosting a meeting or celebrating your wedding, enjoy the grandeur of the Great Lakes Ballroom, accommodating parties of up to 2,100 people, with stunning views of downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan from every direction.

• Spaces for 20-3,000 Guests
• 9 Hotels
• 9 Ballrooms
• 11 Total Spaces

From large to intimate, formal to casual — any event you hold at the Hilton Chicago will be memorable. Design a custom dining experience from our catering menu and tap into the expertise of our staff of professional event planners to ensure that your Chicago event is a success from start to finish. The Hilton Chicago hotel offers unparalleled wedding venues and a talented team of experienced culinary and service professionals— Our wedding team creates matrimonial experiences that engage, delight, and—above all—reflect the distinctive style and personality of each couple. With a full range of wedding venue options, a dedicated catering professional, a specially-designed wedding package, you’ll have the storybook wedding you’ve always dreamt. For over 85 years, couples have chosen the Hilton Chicago as the place to say “I Do” and to celebrate their new life together. Whether you’re looking for a majestic space – such as our Grand Ballroom – or more intimate setting like the Conrad Hilton Suite, you’ll find the ideal match for your wedding ceremony and reception. Our wedding specialists and executive chef will assist in discovering inspiration and design that reflect your perfect day and individual style. From “I do” to the honeymoon, there is a multitude of decisions to be made when planning your wedding. Our wedding team will assist with all the particulars – big or small, from commissioning photography to floral, transportation to entertainment, we’ll pay close attention to all the intricate details of your special day. After the vows have been exchanged and the guests have gone home, luxuriate in one of our stunning suites. Spend your wedding day at the Hilton Chicago and leave the work to the experts. Your wedding means everything to you, and it means everything to us. Together, we’ll make it unforgettable. From the exciting Magnificent Mile, River North location to delectable culinary creations and subtle, yet meaningful service, your wedding at the Hilton Chicago will exceed your expectations at every turn. The Ceremony Residing in the Cultural Mile across from Grant Park, the Hilton Chicago, creates an ideal setting for photo opportunities for your entire bridal party with 1541 guest rooms. We boost captivating outdoor and indoor settings for the ceremony to be performed. Our team can assist in selecting an officiator to conduct the ceremony at Hilton Chicago or assist in selecting an ideal place of worship in close proximity. Ballroom The Grand Ballroom features over 12,000 square feet as well as a large foyer with high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows accommodate up to 1,100 guests while the intimate, Waldorf Ballroom can accommodate up to 170 guests. Both venues can easily be transformed to match the unique style of each couple, all in an effort, to make your wedding day everything that you have dreamt. Rehearsal Dinners and Post Wedding Brunch Let Hilton Chicago’s culinary team custom design a menu for the occasions leading up to and following your wedding. The hotel features stand-out settings to host a rehearsal dinner or post wedding brunch. 720 South Bar and Grill can accommodate 10-75 guests and also offers a private dining room in addition to multiple suite and social gathering space.

• Spaces for 100-350 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 2 Event Spaces
• 2 Meeting Spaces

Make your next event one to remember at LM Studio. The light filled two-level atelier overlooking historic Michigan Ave and Grant Park features an open floorplan, custom bar and a modern design; the perfect setting for your special day. When you choose to host your event at LM Studio our in-house caterer, LM Catering & Events, will handle all of your food and beverage needs. Their culinary team of experts will work with you to build your menu using only the freshest and most seasonal ingredients. LM Catering & Events is the team people turn to when they want a different take on catering. We’re cool and artsy and we show people how to think outside the ballroom. Our customers love us because on the one hand we’re a touch unconventional, but on the other we’re completely professional. We pay attention to every last detail.

• Spaces for 50-1,500 Guests
• 1 Theater
• 8 Event Spaces

Chicago Symphony Center, home of the world-famous Chicago Symphony Orchestra, with impressive views of Downtown Chicago, is an architectural gem built in 1904 by renowned architect Daniel Burnham. In addition to performances by some of the world's greatest classical, jazz and pop artists, Symphony Center provides an historic atmosphere to host first-class special events, including Corporate Dinners and Receptions, Cocktail Hours, Galas, Weddings, Private Shows and more. Whether you're in need of a completely unique space your company's annual meeting or an elegant ballroom for a wedding reception, Chicago Symphony Center has the facilities, in-house catering and professional event management team to make your next event a complete success! Chicago Symphony Center offers a variety of elegant spaces that can be the setting for everything from an intimate breakfast to the grandest gala. A/V equipment rental and multiple amenities make event planning a song.

• Spaces for 20-400 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 5 Event Spaces
• 7 Total Spaces

High above the rest, The Metropolitan offers a setting like no other, where sweeping skyline views, chef-driven cuisine, and elevated hospitality come together to make every event unforgettable. Perched on the 66th and 67th floors of the iconic Willis Tower, the Club transforms gatherings into experiences, whether it's a board meeting, networking mixer, milestone birthday, wedding celebration, or holiday party. Step inside and prepare to be wowed. Richly appointed interiors with subtle nods to Frank Lloyd Wright set the stage for 16 distinct event spaces, from the Oak Ballroom (up to 400 guests) and East Room to intimate boardrooms and an interactive golf simulator lounge. Every detail, from chef-driven menus to seamless AV, is handled by an experienced team of event specialists. Known for impeccable service and an unforgettable Chicago skyline backdrop, The Metropolitan is designed for hosts who want their event to feel polished, memorable, and distinctly Chicago. Your occasion, our Club. You do not need to be a member to host your event here.

• Spaces for 80-1,200 Guests
• 3 Museums
• 3 Landmarks
• 1 Theater

With breathtaking skyline views, the Adler Planetarium is an iconic Chicago venue providing a unique and memorable location for your private event. Whether a seated event for 50 or a reception for 1,200, your guests will be dazzled by everything the Adler has to offer. Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Solarium: Be awe-inspired by the panoramic view of the Chicago skyline from our Skyline Solarium. The Skyline Solarium features floor to ceiling windows making it the premier event space at the Adler. The terraces are included with the rental of the Sky Solarium. Clark Family Welcome Gallery: The Gallery features futuristic architecture and colorful lighting, which can be customized, creating a one-of-a-kind venue for cocktails or an intimate dinner. Grainger Sky Theater: With a domed ceiling scaling 36 feet high, the Grainger Sky Theater offers your guests a truly unique, 360-degree, immersive experience for a seated dinner, cocktail or lounge area, dancing, wedding ceremony or a presentation. Rainbow Lobby: The Adler’s Rainbow Lobby, named for the rainbows created by afternoon sunlight streaming through its prismatic doors, is a regal entrance for any party. Use the area for cocktails or as a grand entrance for your event. Terraces: Enjoy unparalleled views of Chicago’s skyline from the North Terrace and Sundial Plaza. The terraces provide a scenic spot for cocktails, wedding ceremonies or just taking in the city’s world–famous sight. Samuel C. Johnson Family Star Theater: Our newly renovated Samuel C. Johnson Family Star Theater is the perfect setting for a lecture or presentation. Additional Services: Enhance your event with experiences only the Adler can provide. Treat your guests to a show in the Grainger Sky Theater or Definiti Space Theater, telescope viewing on our terraces or in the Doane Observatory, or custom logo projection in the Clark Family Welcome Gallery. Visit our website for more details: http://www.adlerplanetarium.org/private-events/