Top Near South Side Holiday Party Venues

• 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 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/

• Spaces for 160-30,000 Guests
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 2 Theaters

Featuring an outdoor setting with soaring views, Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island is the perfect location to host your next conference, corporate event, fundraiser, private concert or graduation. Located 1.8 miles from Downtown, this unique venue serves as an iconic backdrop with versatile spaces including an open-air amphitheater, spacious lawn and intimate VIP Club offering limitless opportunities for your next private event. Accommodating up to 30,000 guests, this venue celebrates extraordinary hospitality and service creating a lasting impression from intimate experiences to full venue buyouts. With access to the world’s greatest musical entertainment, full-service event production, custom menus and mixology, our talented team of event specialist provide seamless execution to make your event one to remember.

• Spaces for 250-600 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 2 Event Spaces
• 2 Meeting Spaces

The Chicago Illuminating Company is a premier event venue and production space located in the heart of downtown Chicago. Known for its seamless blend of historic charm and contemporary elegance, our venue offers a sophisticated backdrop for weddings, corporate gatherings, galas, and private events. Housed in a restored early 20th-century industrial building, The Chicago Illuminating Company features soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and state-of-the-art amenities — creating a versatile canvas for unforgettable experiences. Our dedicated team is passionate about delivering exceptional service, from customized event planning to flawless execution. Whether you're hosting an intimate celebration or a large-scale production, we work closely with clients and partners to bring bold ideas to life in a setting that’s as dynamic as the city itself. Let The Chicago Illuminating Company light the way to your next extraordinary event!

• Spaces for 6 Guests
• 1 Boat

ChicaGo By Boat offers Chicago's premier affordable luxury boat charters. We invite private groups of up to six passengers aboard the S/V Nightswimming for two to four hours based on our guests' needs. The sails conveniently depart from Burnham Harbor, making getting on board a breeze, and the perfect pre or post destination for concerts and special events in Museum Park. While on board you can watch the sunset behind Chicago's skyline or watch a full moon rise out of Lake Michigan. You can also experience the Wednesday & Saturday Navy Pier Fireworks from the front row. Want to host your corporate outing? We can do it. Want to propose to your partner on a sailboat? Perfect! The annual Air & Water Show as well as Museum Campus, Northerly Island and Soldier Field events are some other opportunities to experience the water. Or, maybe just sail with us because it's your Sunday Funday or you're on a stay-cation! Whether it's your first time, only time or just the next time; we want your sailing experience with us to be the BEST time you have this Summer."

• Spaces for 250-500 Guests
• 1 Event Space

ABOUT US With large, open spaces that feature an inpouring of natural light, Mae District provides a brilliant canvas for your upcoming event. Our expert planners believe that it's all in the details - create a masterpiece in every moment with Mae District. OUR SPACE A jewel in Chicago's vibrant Motor Row District, Mae District is a gathering space and open-air terrace that embodies the classic beauty of old Chicago while celebrating the endless new beginnings of a City that never stops moving. Just blocks away from vast Lake Michigan and steps from McCormick Center, this two story space nestled within among a collection red stone brick buildings features an exceptional history. It is the perfect getaway on the doorstep of Chicago.

• Spaces for 300 Guests

King's is a luxury karaoke bar in Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood. This luxurious entertainment venue features 12 private rooms. Each room has unique decor with private bathrooms, custom lighting and Karaoke machines. Kings has an abundance of popular pre-recorded backing tracks, craft cocktails, elevated bottle service, and a curated menu from a renowned chef Jason Hedin. Kings Karaoke is a one-of-a-kind experience in one of Chicago's most historical neighborhoods.

• Spaces for 12-1,000 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Hotel
• 14 Total Spaces

The Union League Club of Chicago is a premier Chicago wedding and event venue offering timeless sophistication, historic charm, and modern amenities. Established in 1879, this iconic building is ideal for weddings, galas, mitzvahs, and corporate events — and membership is not required to host your event. Located in downtown Chicago, the venue features stunning ballrooms, intimate gathering spaces, indoor and outdoor ceremony options, and 160 guestrooms. With space for events from 2 to 1000 guests, the Club is perfect for both grand celebrations and intimate affairs. Culinary excellence is at the heart of the Union League Club experience. On-site executive chefs create custom menus featuring a wide range of cuisines and dietary options. Clients enjoy exclusive access to in-house décor, tables, chairs, and premium service from an experienced team of event professionals who ensure every detail is thoughtfully executed. With award-winning hospitality and a legacy of excellence, the Union League Club of Chicago offers an unforgettable setting for life’s most meaningful moments.

• Spaces for 20-325 Guests
• 4 Restaurants
• 4 Bars
• 4 Total Spaces

Located inside the historic Railway Exchange building on Michigan Avenue, The Exchange offers a sophisticated setting for private dinners, cocktail receptions, corporate gatherings, and social celebrations. The restaurant features soaring ceilings, elegant architectural details, flexible dining spaces, and sweeping views of Millennium Park that create a memorable backdrop for events. Seasonal cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and attentive hospitality complement gatherings ranging from intimate occasions to larger receptions. Blending the building's historic character with contemporary dining, The Exchange delivers a refined event experience in the heart of downtown Chicago.

• Spaces for 30-150 Guests
• 2 Restaurants

Midday meals, Happy Hour beverages, Post-Work Dinner, and everything in between can be found at 90th Meridian. For a spectacular experience in the Financial District, 90th Meridian combines a terrific ambiance with a captivating menu and huge bar in the iconic Central Standard Building. Chef Stephen Finney has a diverse culinary background, ranging from learning at Bistrot Saveurs in Castres, France, to bringing his skills to Chicago. In 2015, Finney was promoted to lead line cook at Sociale, and afterwards to Sous Chef at Gather, where he worked under highly regarded Chef Ken Carter. He was promoted to Sous Chef at MONEYGUN in 2019. We're fortunate to have him here today at 90th Meridian. Let us host your event! Parties of up to 120 people can be accommodated in our dining spaces. You'll be able to book the perfect environment thanks to flexible floor layouts, affordable catering packages, and a vast number of options. In the Downtown Chicago area, we also provide off-site catering services designed for any sized office gathering. Whether it is our individually boxed lunches, in-office happy hour, or large event, 90th Meridian offers a wide array of catering options. Treat your employees to a delectable lunch crafted with the finest ingredients.

• Spaces for 50-1,000 Guests
• 5 Event Spaces

Venue SIX10 offers stunning architecture and outstanding hospitality for clients ranging from wedding couples, Fortune 500s, non-profits and entrepreneurs. What sets Venue SIX10 apart is its jaw-dropping 10-story faceted window wall that provides panoramic views of Chicago’s skyline, Grant Park, Lake Michigan, Buckingham Fountain, Navy Pier, the Museum Campus, and even Indiana on a clear day. With numerous design awards, Silver LEEDs certification, catering provided by a select group of Chicago’s finest caterers, and impeccable service, Venue SIX10 delivers an experience second to none. There are four main event spaces and 13 additional breakout spaces within Venue SIX10, offering unique options for events from 12 to 800 people. With the help of the Event Sales Team and Production Team, Venue SIX10 is a full-service venue that ensures your event is executed seamlessly.

• Spaces for 8-600 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 6 Event Spaces

Looking for a cocktail party, lunch meeting, seated dinner or full dinner buffet, Kindling has multiple options for groups of 8 to 300. Host your guest in the heart of the city, offering both semi-private & private event options for corporate & social event outings. Select from our unique menu created by James Beard Award-winning Chef Jonathon Sawyer served from our open fire grill.