Top Near South Side Holiday Party Venues

• Spaces for 100-700 Guests
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 1 Rooftop
• 4 Total Spaces

Ideally situated in Chicagoʼs Pilsen neighborhood, Lacuna Events by LM offers a truly unique setting for your next event. Built in 1897 as what once was the worldʼs largest macaroni factory, the 5 story, 250,000 sq. ft. space maintains much of the original charm as the building has been carefully restored using a variety of the original materials. Lacuna Events by LM is also home to many talented Chicago artists and their one of a kind creations can be found throughout building and used as decor for private events. In the Summer months, the rooftop provides stunning views of the cityʼs skyline and is perfect for an outdoor ceremony or cocktail reception. Every event at Lacuna is catered by our in-house caterer, LM Catering & Events, who expertly handles all food and beverage needs as well as acting as the on-site event management team. The culinary team of experts at LM will work with you to build your menu using only the freshest and most seasonal ingredients.

• Spaces for 12-1,945 Guests
• 3 Landmarks
• 5 Event Spaces
• 5 Total Spaces

Convene Willis Tower is a premium venue in one of the most iconic trophy buildings in the world. Spanning 90,000 square-feet across the entire third floor and offering 11 unique meeting spaces, it is conveniently located in the Loop neighborhood of Chicago. This column-free general session space for over 1,945 guests has plenty of break-out spaces with the largest meeting room able to accommodate just under 650 guests. It is ideally suited for large summits, events that require substantial exhibitor space, and corporate galas. The design was inspired by the Chicago city motto "Urbs in Horto" - i.e. "city in a garden" - and features park-like design elements as well as 24-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, five private outdoor terraces, and plenty of natural light. Convene Willis Tower 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. The venue is located near the Washington/Wells Station, Quincy Station, and Union Station and additionally offers nearby paid parking.

• Spaces for 14-2,000 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 3 Bars
• 12 Total Spaces

Host Unforgettable Events at Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park Located in the heart of downtown, Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park is one of the city’s premier venues for corporate events, luxury weddings, and social gatherings. With over 63,000 square feet of flexible event space — including elegant ballrooms, sleek boardrooms, and skyline-view suites — our venue seamlessly blends timeless sophistication with modern amenities. Whether you’re planning an intimate executive meeting, a multi-day conference, or a glamorous gala, our dedicated team will help you craft a fully customized event experience. Guests enjoy elevated cuisine crafted by globally inspired chefs, locally sourced ingredients, and expert service that ensures every detail is effortless from start to finish. With breathtaking views of Millennium Park and the Chicago skyline, Fairmont Chicago sets the stage for memorable occasions. From corporate retreats and brand activations to milestone celebrations and luxury weddings, discover why event planners choose Fairmont Chicago for their most important moments.

• Spaces for 30-400 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 2 Event Spaces

The Gage is the iconic restaurant at 24 South Michigan Avenue, located along the Chicago Cultural Mile—just steps from Millennium Park and The Art Institute. Consistently ranked among Chicago’s most booked restaurants, The Gage offers refined, rustic, European-inspired fare paired with an innovative libations program, all served in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. With vintage-inspired design details and warm hospitality, The Gage is a go-to for after-work cocktails, dinner before the symphony, private celebrations, and corporate events. Voted one of the Top 100 Restaurants in America by OpenTable, The Gage also features semi-private and private dining rooms that offer guests the buzz of the main dining room or the intimacy of complete privacy. A critically acclaimed menu, commitment to service, and unmatched location combine to create an exceptional private event experience.

• Spaces for 40-300 Guests
• 2 Event Spaces
• 3 Meeting Spaces

Designed with meetings and special events in mind, the Gleacher Center at University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business features streamlined architecture, versatile room formats and state-of-the-art technology. With stunning views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, the location in the heart of Chicago’s business community, just blocks away from the Loop and steps away from the Magnificent Mile, the Gleacher Center offers the perfect atmosphere to conduct impressive meeting and events in prestigious surroundings.

• Spaces for 55-1,800 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Theater
• 3 Event Spaces

With access to the world’s greatest musical entertainment, state-of-the-art lighting and sound, custom menus and mixology, this phenomenal 55,000 square-foot entertainment arena is part Mississippi Delta juke joint and part 1920s opera house. The four-level space is comprised of three distinctive environments including a VIP Lounge, a rocking Restaurant & Bar featuring contemporary and traditional Southern art and cuisine and a spectacular multi-story Music Hall.

• Spaces for 16-1,300 Guests
• 4 Restaurants
• 1 Landmark
• 5 Total Spaces

Situated in the heart of the city, with striking views of the Chicago River and city skyline. RR Events offers an impressive setting for your next party or meeting. Run by a successful and seasoned Culinary team, RR Events is a lively social house and gathering place. Experienced event planning and service teams aim to accommodate and anticipate your needs for a flawless event. Whether you’re planning a grand gala for 600 people or an exclusive affair for 8, the delectable, customized menus and exceptional views will impress! The RR Events team offers assistance with all aspects of planning, including booking, menu design and beverage pairing, audio-visual needs, parking, floral and event decor, and additional logistics as requested. With seven event spaces to choose from – each featuring sophisticated decor that pays tribute to the historical landmark building the restaurant is housed in – the options for corporate and social events are endless at RR Events.

• Spaces for 10-300 Guests
• 1 Bar
• 8 Hotels
• 11 Total Spaces

Situated along the Chicago River at the juncture of North Michigan Avenue and River North, Trump International Hotel & Tower® Chicago is the city's most enviable address. The lush, contemporary guestrooms start at a spacious 600 square feet, are furnished with kitchenettes and feature 10-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River and the city skyline. Contemporary, custom-designed furniture grace the living areas and bedrooms. Take your meeting or event to the next level with exceptional views and unparalleled service in each of our Chicago event spaces. Reinventing Chicago meeting space, we offer ideal event venues for both business and pleasure. Whether it's an important meeting, intimate social gathering, or a glamorous formal affair, your event will certainly make the right impression. All of our meeting rooms are easily accessible to guests staying in our Chicago suites and offer a private entrance that is separate from the hotel's main entrance as a convenience for attendees not staying in the hotel, providing a seamless transition between events. With over 26,000 square-feet of function and meeting space, including six salon rooms, several boardrooms, the Skyline Room, Riverside Room, and The Grand Ballroom, we have a space that fits every occasion. Each venue showcases both Chicago’s historic architectural landmarks and spectacular lake, river, and city views. By pairing our spectacularly designed spaces with the hotel's well-appointed amenities and prime location, we ensure that an event at Trump Hotel Chicago is not one to be missed. Going beyond a typical event planning experience, each venue comes equipped with the watchful eye and specialized attention of our team at Trump International Hotel & Tower® Chicago. With experience, expertise, and an endless amount of resources at their disposal, the events specialists at our Chicago Loop hotel will craft your occasion into the incredible affair you’ve always imagined and your guests will never forget. Our culinary team will design a catering menu to accompany the style and mood of your event, offering bold flavors and a brilliant selection and each Chicago conference room comes equipped with top of the line videoconferencing and audiovisual capabilities. Leaving no detail overlooked, our professionals guide you through the entire planning process offering the skills and expertise vital to make your event a success.

• Spaces for 40-750 Guests
• 4 Restaurants
• 1 Outdoor
• 4 Total Spaces

NAIA features Greek-Levantine cuisine from the same chef partner, Athinagoras Kostakos, the culinary force behind some of DineAmic Hospitality’s most notable restaurants, including Lyra, Violi, and La Serre. NAIA is 12,000 square feet. The space is thoughtfully designed to host multiple fully private events at the same time. NAIA is divided into two areas: restaurant and lounge. Each area has its own layout, design, full service bar, and river views. An airwall separates the two spaces and can be opened for a seamless flow between the two or closed to create a fully private area. On the restaurant side, the private dining room accommodates up to 40 guests and features a mirrored wall that allows you to see out while maintaining privacy so outside guests cannot see in. The space is situated toward the back of the restaurant, but guests still have a view of the river. There is also a semi-private round table in the main dining room for 8 to 12 guests. The full restaurant seats around 250 guests. The lounge features soft seating and hosts up to 200 to 250 guests for a cocktail style event, or it can be divided into two private spaces using an additional airwall. The lounge can also be set with dining tables upon request. The full venue accommodates upwards of 750 or more guests for a cocktail style event.

• Spaces for 40-1,499 Guests
• 4 Theaters
• 4 Event Spaces
• 4 Total Spaces

The Harris Theater is located in the cultural heart of downtown Chicago, against the spectacular backdrop of Millennium Park – the top tourist attraction in the Midwest. As the home venue of nearly 30 of Chicago’s not-for-profit arts organizations and a presenter of great artists from around the world, the Theater boasts some of the most diverse offerings of any multi-use venue in downtown Chicago. A destination venue for live performances and cultural events, the Theater provides a unique setting for conference keynotes, corporate meetings, product launches, live tapings, and commercial productions. Prominent artists, companies, and thought leaders that have appeared on the Harris stage include Mikhail Baryshnikov, Joshua Bell, English National Ballet, Tom Hanks, Chelsea Handler, Angélique Kidjo, Marie Kondo, Ernst & Young, KPMG, Paris Opera Ballet, Stuff You Should Know, and Sheryl Sandberg, among others. With a range of private event spaces, lighting and technical inventory, and modern amenities included in the rental rate, the Harris Theater is a flexible and accessible space that can be tailored to any event. Beyond the facility itself, the Theater’s in-house technical expertise, box office and ticketing support, marketing services, and experienced customer service staff will ensure that each renter has the support and infrastructure they need to execute a successful event for their clients, employees, and audience.

• Spaces for 50-320 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom
• 4 Total Spaces

The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Chicago offers an Art Deco-inspired setting along the Magnificent Mile for weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, receptions, rehearsal dinners, and private celebrations. Set within the historic McGraw-Hill building, the hotel features 15,901 square feet of event space across 13 rooms, including The Gallery Ballroom for up to 400 guests, The Grand Salon, intimate boardrooms, and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city. Custom catering, adaptable audiovisual technology, high-speed Wi-Fi, and dedicated event planning support gatherings of varying styles and scales. With art-filled interiors and panoramic city views, The Gwen creates a distinctive backdrop for memorable Chicago events.

• Spaces for 40-1,100 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 13 Museums
• 14 Total Spaces

Founded in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s major museums, housing an extraordinary collection of objects from across places, cultures, and time. We are also a place of active learning for all—dedicated to investigation, innovation, education, and dialogue—continually aspiring to greater public service and civic engagement. From gardens to galleries, Gilded Age glamour to modern minimalism, the Art Institute of Chicago has several exceptional spaces that can accommodate a variety of special occasions. Whether you’re hosting an elegant seated dinner, the wedding of your dreams, or a theater meeting, the museum has the perfect venue to suit your needs. With the help of our professional planning experts, you can create an event that your guests won’t soon forget.

• Spaces for 1-330 Guests
• 4 Restaurants
• 2 Bars
• 12 Total Spaces

TheWIT Chicago. Located in the heart of downtown Chicago’s theater district, theWIT provides guests with unparalleled access to Chicago’s greatest sites. Known for the unique blend of upscale, resort amenities, with the feel of a boutique hotel, theWIT expertly cultivates a luxury experience for guests. With a famed rooftop deck and sophisticated fifth floor spa, theWIT caters to all your needs. Nine private rooms (including a private, multimedia theater, rooftop space, tavern and dining space) are available to book for your next meeting or event. The ROOF at theWit was voted by the Illinois Meetings and Events Magazines as the "Best Outdoor Meeting and Event Space” in the city. With history of hosting countless corporate meetings, exquisite weddings, and an array of other social events, theWIT can make any event unforgettable. Choose theWIT as the venue for your next Chicago extravaganza!

• Spaces for 200-350 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 1 Bar
• 1 space at this venue

Garcia’s Chicago is where flavor and rhythm meet. Located in Chicago’s West Loop our venue unites inspired design, elevated dining and live music all rooted in the legacy of the great Jerry Garcia. The venue blends California mid-century modern with a subtle psychedelic flair, evoking the Santa Cruz & San Francisco years that shaped Jerry — without falling into parody. With room for about 300 guests, the floor is designed to keep sight-lines clean, encourage interaction and let the music breathe. Tech-forward audio infrastructure and a live-streaming and multitrack setup mean that every night professionals and fans alike feel connected to the moment.

• Spaces for 180-450 Guests
• 2 Ballrooms
• 2 Event Spaces
• 1 Meeting Space

Set along the Chicago River near Navy Pier, Loews Chicago Hotel offers a contemporary setting for meetings, weddings, and social events. The venue features more than 31,000 square feet of flexible event space, including elegant ballrooms, modern meeting rooms, and a rooftop terrace with sweeping skyline views. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in natural light, creating a polished backdrop for both intimate gatherings and large-scale celebrations. With elevated design, thoughtful service, and a prime downtown location, the hotel delivers a seamless and memorable event experience.

• Spaces for 20-350 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 2 Bars
• 3 Total Spaces

Inspired by the coastal regions of Provence and Saint-Tropez, co-founders Luke Stoioff and David Rekhson have tapped French-trained heavy hitters and Mediterranean all-stars to execute the compelling menu at La Serre. Helming the kitchen are Chef Nikitas Pyrgis, hailing from La Guérite in Cannes; plus, Chef Partner Athinagoras Kostakos, formerly of Alain Ducasse in Monaco and Partner in both DineAmic’s LÝRA and VIOLÍ concepts.

• Spaces for 1-275 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 3 Event Spaces
• 4 Total Spaces

The Ivy Room is a modern oasis in the heart of River North at Medinah Tree Studios, just two blocks from the Magnificent Mile, and in close proximity to the Loop, Navy Pier, and Millennium and Grant Parks. When you host your event at The Ivy Room, your guests will appreciate the beauty and convenience of such an incredible Chicago venue. The Ivy Room embodies a history of artistic elegance. The ballroom windows offer picturesque views of the courtyard garden, transforming every event into an extraordinary experience. Host your intimate dinner party, engagement party, or shower in our event spaces, or choose The Ivy Room for your luxury wedding ceremony and reception.

• Spaces for 90-600 Guests
• 4 Event Spaces

RPM Events is the premier location for private dining, corporate gatherings, and weddings in downtown Chicago. At more than 6,000 square feet our space can accommodate a maximum of 300 guests for a seated function and up to 600 guests reception style. The grand ballroom can be divided into three independent spaces, each with access to the outdoor terrace. The terrace offers sweeping views of the Chicago River and cityscape. Our chef team provides a fully customizable culinary experience that combines favorites and brand signatures from RPM Italian, RPM Steak, RPM Seafood and fun, coastal fare from Pizzeria Portofino! RPM Seafood features the truest expression of the world’s best fish and seafood. Our menu showcases a variety of crudo & tartare, seafood towers, globally-inspired preparations and more. Our robust wine program and curated cocktails are the perfect way to toast your memorable event. Whether booking the full restaurant as a buyout, or our most petite boardroom, our versatile space has something for every occasion. Pizzeria Portofino is a sun-drenched, casual, coastal-Italian restaurant. Featuring hand-stretched pizzas, coastal wines, an all-season patio and airy decor, guests are instantly transported to the Italian Riviera. The menu showcases imported ingredients from the Mediterranean as well as local artisans. Our patio can be booked in sections or as a full outdoor gathering. Full buyouts lend themselves seamlessly to corporate receptions and social celebrations.

• Spaces for 20-400 Guests
• 4 Restaurants
• 1 Bar
• 4 Total Spaces

Located along the Chicago River in River North, The Carlyle Club is an upcoming dining destination designed for private dinners, corporate gatherings, cocktail receptions, and social celebrations. Housed within the historic Reid Murdoch Building, the restaurant is expected to feature warm interiors, a full bar, expansive river views, and a 72-seat patio connected by dramatic indoor-outdoor doors. Classic American cuisine with global influences will complement the waterfront atmosphere, with offerings ranging from steaks and pasta to sushi and seafood. Opening is currently planned for September 2026.

• Spaces for 32-250 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 1 Bar
• 3 Total Spaces

Set in Chicago’s Fulton Market District, Fioretta offers a glamorous Italian steakhouse setting for private events, dinners, and social gatherings. The venue features richly layered interiors, dramatic lighting, and stylish dining spaces that blend modern sophistication with old-world inspiration. Flexible layouts accommodate both intimate celebrations and larger receptions, while elevated Italian cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and skyline views create a lively yet refined atmosphere for memorable events in the heart of the city.