Top Merrillville Venues

• Spaces for 50-325 Guests
• 6 Historic Spaces
• 6 Estates
• 6 Mansions

Meyer's Castle is a world class historic landmark set on a hill surrounded by beautiful manicured rolling gardens. The wonderful blend of polished elegance in a natural setting offers an exciting scenic departure from ordinary alternatives. Located only 35 minutes away from downtown Chicago, the estate's smallest room can host a minimum of 30 guests, while the largest ballroom can accommodate up to 325. ​ Our customized proposals are designed to reflect every client's taste, tailored specifically to their creative visions. At Meyer's Castle we are passionate about events, and look forward to making your celebration a success!

• 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.

• Spaces for 18-225 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 1 Bar
• 7 Total Spaces

Set along the tree-lined Midway Plaisance and framed by University of Chicago's iconic Gothic architecture, The Study offers a setting for gatherings that feel elevated, timeless, and unmistakably Chicago. Opened in 2021, the hotel features approximately 10,500 square feet of thoughtfully designed event space with on-site catering and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. WINTER GARDEN The heart of the hotel’s event offerings, the Winter Garden is a striking space where art and architecture meet. Guests are welcomed by a dramatic mural by Dean Barger and a sculptural light installation by John Pomp. Expansive windows create an atmosphere that is airy and luminous, while a private walled terrace offers an intimate outdoor extension. The Winter Garden is ideal for weddings, receptions, and large celebrations, accommodating up to 160 guests for a seated dinner or 225 for a standing reception. SECOND FLOOR STUDIOS & TERRACE Accessible via a photo-worthy grand staircase or private elevator, the second floor provides a versatile environment for both social and corporate gatherings. Function spaces include a terrace overlooking the leafy Midway Plaisance, a generous pre-function area with built-in bar, and four studios flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows. Airy, bright, and fully A/V equipped, these rooms are popular for board meetings, baby showers, and everything in between. GUEST ROOMS & SUITES The property’s 167 guest rooms and suites feature warm wood finishes, curated artwork, and sweeping views of campus, the downtown Chicago skyline, and Lake Michigan. For wedding parties or VIPs, suites boast generous layouts ideal for hosting pre-event preparations or intimate in-room gatherings. TRUTH BE TOLD, The hotel’s British-inspired pub and lounge offers a cozy yet refined setting for rehearsal dinners, farewell brunches, or fireside cocktails. Its inviting atmosphere and approachable menu make it a natural complement to any event.

• Spaces for 15-250 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Event Space
• 1 Meeting Space

A rooftop ballroom and open-air terrace, The Penthouse Hyde Park offers Art Deco-inspired design with expansive views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Sleek, sophisticated, and simple, our venue acts as a blank slate to make your dream event come to life. Whether you’re planning a seated reception for 150 with dinner and dancing or a cocktail-style gala for 200, The Penthouse Hyde Park provides the perfect setting. A Century in the Making The Penthouse Hyde Park, located atop the former Piccadilly Hotel & Theater, offers an air of refined elegance that nods to its 1920’s roots. Our north and east walls feature 20’ arched windows that showcase skyline and lakefront views, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Intricate crown molding has been restored to its original glory to provide just a touch of character. The space has been outfitted with modern lighting and a sound system to provide guests with a high-end experience they’ll remember for years to come.

• 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!

• 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.

• Spaces for 417 Guests

Welcome to our NEW craft distillery & special event space located at Illinois oldest standing brewery, built in 1857. We’ve revitalized our historic brewery, marrying character and charm. Our rooms serve as the perfect setting for a magical time. With fine catering and unique drinks available, it will be a perfect day you’ll remember forever. Our event hall has the character to make your celebration one to remember. Built as an extension of The Well during its time as Frederick’s Brewing Company, the Distiller’s Hall is both industrial chic and hometown rustic. With original fixtures and modern touches, the hall is great for festivities of all sorts and sizes. With our limestone bar nearby, the drinks will be always ready. The Distiller’s Hall is perfect for ceremonies, receptions, parties, cocktail hours and corporate events. We also have full facility rentals available for large special events such as weddings.

• Spaces for 100-1,200 Guests
• 4 Ballrooms
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 6 Total Spaces

Avalon Manor Banquet Center has served Northwest Indiana for more than 40 years, offering a 30,000-square-foot full-service facility in Merrillville. The property features five distinct event rooms with collapsible walls that can be opened to accommodate up to 900 guests, making it one of the largest banquet and meeting centers in the region. The Somerset Room seats up to 280 guests and is the facility's largest ballroom; the East Ballroom accommodates 250 and includes a second-floor bridal suite; and the Fountainview Room and Stratford Room each seat up to 100 guests for intimate gatherings or business events. Two outdoor gazebos set among ponds, fountains, and landscaped gardens provide ceremony space for up to 200 guests. An onsite kitchen and full bar service handle food and beverage in-house, and dedicated sales coordinators and lead servers support events from initial planning through the final hour.

• Spaces for 150-800 Guests
• 4 Ballrooms

Nestled on a picturesque 18-hole golf course, our venue offers an unforgettable setting for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to lavish celebrations. Whether indoors or out, our venue blends beauty, luxury, and versatility to bring your vision to life. Inside, our grand ballrooms welcome guests with sparkling crystal chandeliers, gleaming marble dance floors, and refined décor that exudes timeless elegance. Each space is designed to elevate your event, providing both sophistication and comfort for you and your guests. The Terrace Ballroom, with its expansive windows overlooking the lush greens, bathes every moment in natural light and breathtaking views. For those dreaming of an outdoor celebration, our charming gazebos offer a storybook setting. Surrounded by manicured gardens, vibrant seasonal blooms, and tranquil lakes, they create a romantic backdrop perfect for ceremonies and photo opportunities you’ll treasure forever.

• Spaces for 30-40 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Luxury Children’s Venue. Ideal space for all children events. Space details: 600 square feet, 1 6ft adult table, 15 adult folding chairs, 3 white cake columns, green wall, street level access, Bluetooth speaker. Capacity is 40 guest.

• Spaces for 25-120 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Event Space

Sophisticated and eclectic, SOPHY® Hotel embodies the crafts and passions of art, science, literature, and music that are the inspiration of today’s Hyde Park. At the turn of every corner is an eclectic collection of art that celebrates community and the artists and artisans that create it. Our stunning restaurant, Mesler with our intimate Private Dining Room provides an inspiring setting for 50-75 guests. Begin the celebration with cocktails in our outdoor Sanctuary or in the bar and lounge area followed by vows and a reception in Mesler and our Private Dining Room. Our Opus Suite allows the curious visitor to delight in discoveries at every turn. This spacious suite offers a large living space, a private king bedroom, and a dining area ideal for an intimate gathering of your closest family and friends. 1411 East 53rd Street. 773.289.1003. sophyhotel.com.

• Spaces for 75-120 Guests
• 1 Restaurant

Mesler, a full-service Chicago restaurant, bar, and lounge is artfully composed with a contemporary library and an intimate Private Dining Room offering an inspiring setting for 50-75 guests. Begin the celebration with cocktails in our outdoor Sanctuary or in the bar and lounge area followed by vows and a reception in Mesler and our Private Dining Room. Designed to stimulate thoughtful conversation, the private dining room is ideal for petite weddings, brunches, showers, rehearsal dinners or engagement parties.

Sweet Vegan Bakes: A Stylish, Flexible Space for Celebrations of Every Kind Located just outside of chicago in the quiet peaceful Richton Park, Sweet Vegan Bakes is a bold, beautiful event space designed for versatility, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning a milestone moment or a branded production, our venue provides the perfect backdrop to bring your vision to life. Our Space Is Ideal For: Weddings & Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Bridal & Baby Showers Birthday Parties Corporate Events & Meetings Photo Shoots & Film Productions Pop-Ups, Panels, & Private Dinners With a modern, vibrant aesthetic and a welcoming atmosphere, our venue can be transformed to suit elegant affairs, casual gatherings, or creative activations. What Sets Us Apart: Signature in-house vegan catering that’s top-12 allergen-free, fresh, and full of flavor Outside catering allowed, including non-vegan options Thoughtfully designed interiors with flexible layout options Accommodations for both intimate and larger-scale events A passionate team committed to making your event seamless and stunning At Sweet Vegan Bakes, we welcome all types of events and all kinds of guests. Whether you’re walking down the aisle or launching your next big idea, we’re here to host it — your way.

• Spaces for 300-400 Guests

TSR is an upscale banquet hall venue; every inch of this breathtaking space was designed to encapsulate the glamorous life. If you are looking for a space that will wow your guests, this is the place to be. The space is over 6000 sq ft, has a private foyer, spacious ballroom, private suite, large kitchenette for catering, private coat room and more. This is a modular space that can be transformed to suit any special event from weddings, anniversaries, birthday's, or corporate events. If you don't need that much space, we offer our large foyer as a separate space for intimate events & meetings. TSR has 11 bathroom stalls, including ADA and a family room designed for women with children. The bathrooms have plenty of lighting, large bowl sinks and waterfall faucets. This space has everything you need from 72 inch round tables, 8 ft rectangular tables, standard black chair or clear chiavari seating. We have five 80 inch tv's for your viewing pleasure, a 12x12 dance floor, pipe and drape backdrops and more.

• Spaces for 28,000 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Event Space

Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre is the ideal venue for your upcoming conference, corporate event, fundraiser, private performance, or graduation thanks to its outdoor setting and breathtaking views. Our skilled staff takes care of every detail so you don't have to! With access to the best musical entertainment in the world, cutting-edge lighting and sound, personalized menus, and mixology, the Amphitheatre truly is the perfect backdrop for any occasion. This distinctive 235,500 square foot venue, which can hold up to 28,000 guests, is just one mile from the convention center and will go above and beyond expectations. The Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre Chicago offers customizable event space and has a private VIP Club and open-air lawn. These characteristics combine to create the ideal setting for celebrating, no matter what type of event you’re hosting. Everything from grand celebrations to refined corporate events can be held in this versatile space. Your event should leave guests inspired! Our skilled crew is here to manage every detail, from unique menus and handcrafted beverages to personalized décor, theme, and entertainment. Large-scale event production, including hiring local bands, DJs, or headliner acts, is made easy with our in-house team. Let us handle every last detail so you can enjoy a lavish celebration!

• Spaces for 70-400 Guests
• 1 Theater
• 3 Event Spaces

The Beverly Arts Center boasts modern, distinctive, and flexible spaces that are perfect for your celebration, presentation, meeting, shower, charitable event, or photo/video shoot. Our unique 40,000 square foot venue features vaulted ceilings, polished concrete floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Indoor spaces can accommodate up to 100 guests for a seated dinner, 200 in the outdoor courtyard, and up to 400 using the entire facility. The Beverly Arts Center is a vibrant and multifaceted not-for-profit organization serving the Chicago metro area with high-quality programs in dance, visual arts, music, film and theater. The 40,000 square foot space houses a 400-seat theatre, art gallery, exhibition spaces, music and dance studios, art classrooms and event rental spaces including a courtyard and light-filled atrium. Founded in 1967 and located in Chicago’s historic Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood, the BAC is also home to an extensive community outreach program.

Wild Blossom Meadery & WineryWild Blossom Meadery & Winery is a one-of-a-kind urban winery and meadery rooted in craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation. As Chicago’s first winery and Illinois’ first meadery, Wild Blossom has been a pioneer in producing small-batch wines and meads made from locally and globally sourced honey. With a true “hive-to-glass” philosophy, the team raises honey bees and partners with beekeepers to create distinctive, handcrafted beverages that highlight the natural complexity of honey. Their offerings range from traditional meads to creative, flavor-forward blends infused with fruits, spices, and botanicals. Beyond production, Wild Blossom offers a welcoming tasting room and event space where guests can enjoy curated flights, educational experiences, and intimate gatherings. Whether you’re discovering mead for the first time or seeking a unique venue with character, Wild Blossom delivers a memorable experience rooted in tradition and creativity.

• Spaces for 600-800 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

We have a variety of versatile event venues, including our Grand Ballroom, which spans 15,000 square feet. With the help of our experienced event planner, you can plan the perfect occasion. We offer three versatile ballrooms, the largest of which can accommodate up to 800 people. Our culinary team creates personalized menus, and our wedding packages include a wedding planner and a honeymoon suite. Our hotel is 20 minutes by free shuttle from Chicago Midway International Airport, which is located along I-294. Lake Katherine Nature Center and SeatGeek Stadium, home of the Chicago Fire soccer team, are both within 10 miles of us. It's 22 miles to downtown Chicago. Free parking, an indoor pool, and a warm DoubleTree cookie await you upon arrival. Create your own attendee webpage or request that the hotel do it for you. Your room block booking confirmation email has everything you need, including your event dates, the 7-letter hotel code, and your group's special pricing code. It's cool, it's sophisticated, it's tasty, and it's the place to be. The newly rebuilt Allgauer's Restaurant upholds the restaurant's illustrious reputation of excellence and exquisite service. Daniel Ramon, the commissioned artist, created all of the artwork. Allgauer's new menu takes a creative culinary twist to classic dishes. To improve the flavor of each item on the American menu, only the freshest ingredients and superior culinary methods are used. Every pallet will be pleased by fresh seafood, large slices of USDA steaks, and flavorful pasta dishes. The Spotlight Lounge, located next to Allgauer's, is the ideal place to end or start your evening. The bar is known for its unique cocktails and vintage-era specialty beverages.

• Spaces for 110-120 Guests