Top Skokie Venues

Lake Shore is a family-oriented private club on the shores of Lake Michigan that was founded in 1908. For more than a century, the Club has been a home away from home for generations of families and friends in Chicago and the North Shore. The Club, which is located on 127 acres in Glencoe, Illinois, is a haven for outdoor sports, leisure, and camaraderie about 25 miles north of Chicago. In addition to formal and informal dining and a bustling social schedule, Lake Shore has a championship 18-hole golf course, a full racquets program, and a waterfront swimming complex. Lake Shore's historic Howard Van Doren Shaw-designed Clubhouse, perched above a bluff, provides panoramic views of the lake and a lovely backdrop for in-season activities and private Member functions. Glencoe was a rural community, Sheridan Road was a dirt road, and the 127 acres where the Club now stands was primarily muddy scrubland known as Beck's Farm when the Club was created. Frederick Law Olmsted, widely regarded as the pioneer of American landscape architecture, and his sons, Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. and John Charles Olmsted, were engaged in 1909 to assist with the development of the site. In the same year, Howard Van Doren Shaw, another prominent Chicago architect, won a national architectural competition to design and build a clubhouse overlooking Lake Michigan. His vision of architecture that blended seamlessly into the landscape was identical to Olmsted's. The spirit of Lake Shore has remained the same for generations of families, many of whom are descendants or members of the original founding families, despite the fact that the Club's facilities and activities of interest have changed over the past century.

Roosevelt University, a private institution founded in 1945 on the principles of inclusion and social justice, has more than 4,000 students in five colleges. With campuses in the Chicago Loop, Schaumburg, Peoria, and Lake County. Roosevelt offers 75 undergraduate and 15 graduate and doctoral programs across five colleges and online, including arts and sciences, business, performing arts, education, culinary, health sciences and pharmacy. Roosevelt University prepares students to become socially conscious citizens who are leaders in their professions and their communities. With the integration of Robert Morris University Illinois, the expanded University will be nationally recognized as a catalyst for students from all walks of life to receive transformational learning experiences.

The state-of-the-art amenities at Vertiport Chicago cater to the specific needs of helicopter passengers. From a 30,000 sq ft hangar with a private maintenance bay and 24/7 line service, to a dedicated business center and office space, Vertiport offers a premier FBO experience to all of its clientele. Vertiport Chicago is North America's largest helicopter landing facility, with 30,000 square feet of event space in the manner of an industrial helicopter hangar. This uncommon find offers a completely transformable area with many branding possibilities and the city's easiest load in and load out. Vertiport is situated on a 10-acre private property with a 5-acre tarmac and spectacular views of the Chicago skyline. The tarmac can be used for guest parking, additional outdoor areas, or to triple the event's footprint by tenting it. This location is ideal for car shows, sporting activities, and large-scale private/corporate gatherings. Our venue serves as a blank canvas that can be converted into any size or kind of event. Full-service, on-site planning is provided as an option to help with all the specifics. The return of a dedicated commercial helicopter facility to Chicago is marked by Vertiport Chicago. Vertiport Chicago, North America's largest and Chicago's only vertical helicopter landing facility, opened in April 2015. The company’s expansive facility serves as a Fixed Base Operation (FBO) for helicopter owners and operators and is located on ten acres of land boasting 30,000 square feet of hangar space, 11,700 square feet of office space, a 24-hour refueling station, a single take off and landing spot and eight helicopter parking spots. Because of its location in the Illinois Medical District, Vertiport has become an ideal center for EMS services, handling emergency medical flights for neighboring hospitals.

• Spaces for 55-400 Guests
• 8 Museums
• 2 Landmarks
• 8 Total Spaces

The Harold Washington Library has nine event spaces for you to transform into your perfect space. With capacities ranging from 500 to 20 people, one of these spaces is waiting to accommodate you and your guests. Dance in the Winter Garden, Harold Washington's architectural centerpiece or dine next to the floor to ceiling windows in South Hall. Your options are many, but there is only one perfect fit for you. Their event professionals wants to bring your ideas to life; whether that be for your son's bar mitzvah, your wedding or your companies holiday party. Wow your guests by having your next event in this historical and elegant venue.

• Spaces for 100-150 Guests
• 1 Boat

We are a modest business run by a Chicago native with a long family history in the maritime industry. The "Summer of George" was created with the intention of being a party boat. The 100-foot, two-story yacht is available for guests to experience. Cocktail tables and bench seating are set up on the open-air rooftop terrace. It's ideal for relaxing and taking in the scenery, as well as dancing the night away. The climate-controlled lower deck allows passengers to sail in comfort regardless of the weather. On both sides, enormous mahogany-trimmed windows provide 360-degree vistas for sightseeing. This level also houses the restrooms and the main bar. There are a variety of floor plans to choose from. The boat is in River City Marina, 900 South Wells Street, and beneath Bertrand Goldberg's famous "River City" structure. On the South Branch of the Chicago River, it's about 6 blocks south of the "Willis Tower," also known as the "Sears Tower." Our goal at Chicago Lakefront Cruises is to provide the finest level of service to our customers. Being on board our yacht is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and we'll make sure it's one you and your guests will never forget! We are dedicated to ensuring that our customers are satisfied! The journey begins on the Chicago River's South Branch. The boat then travels up the Main Branch of the Chicago River and out to Lake Michigan. Navy Pier, The John Hancock Building, Buckingham Fountain, and the Adler Planetarium are just a few of the sights that you and your guests will see! The "Summer of George" is a vessel that has been certified by the United States Coast Guard. All passengers will have access to life rafts and life jackets. The vessel is piloted by licensed 100-ton captains and is inspected annually by the USCG. CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications are held by the entire crew.

The North Rose Garden at Buckingham is located in Grant Park, Chicago's "front yard," and contains a lovely fountain, award-winning rose gardens, and lush foliage. Enjoy its tranquil natural beauty, with spectacular natural landscapes and majestic ancient structures serving as stunning backgrounds for your wedding day. North Rose Garden is a perfect spot to say your "I do's" whether you want a quiet garden soiree or a large gala under the sky. Host the exquisite ceremony adjacent to the historic Buckingham Fountain, one of the world's largest and most famous fountains, beneath a charming white gazebo. The ethereal setting, which provides spectacular backdrops of both the city skyline and Lake Michigan, will wow family and friends. This historic location is turned into a mysterious, moonlight wonderland after nightfall, ideal for savoring great cocktails and meals, as well as dancing the night away! You'll find everything at North Rose Garden, whether you're looking for an elegant, calm, historic, modern, or traditional setting. The options are limitless!

• Spaces for 50-200 Guests
• 2 Restaurants

Francesca's Restaurants Group, founded in 1992 by restaurateur Scott Harris, has developed from a modest, inviting Italian restaurant on Chicago's North Clark Street to into a multi-million dollar enterprise. Francesca's Restaurant Group, based in Chicago, now owns and runs 20 Francesca's Restaurants, five Davanti Enoteca locations, five Glazed and Infused locations, Disotto, and Fat Rosie's Taco & Tequila Bar locations, among other things. The concepts include Francesca's Restaurants, which offers handwritten menus of classic Italian favorites in an ambiance of sophisticated comfort; Davanti Enoteca, which is a neighborhood wine bar and restaurant that serves contemporary takes on rustic Italian cuisine; and Glazed and Infused, which is a classic American artisan doughnut shop experience. Through all of its concepts, the multi-unit restaurant business is committed to the original restaurant's founding idea of Italian hospitality, where simple food made with high-quality ingredients and considerate service can transform an ordinary dinner into a memorable occasion. A casually elegant ambience, rustic food, courteous service, and reasonable rates can be found at Francesca's Tavola in Arlington Heights. The cuisine of Rome and the neighboring regions of Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio is included on the menu, which is characterized by its zesty earthiness.

• Spaces for 30-300 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 1 Outdoor
• 5 Total Spaces

Douglas Park (named for Stephen A. Douglas, a United States Senator who was instrumental in bringing the Illinois Central Railroad to Chicago) was also under construction at the same time as Humboldt Park during the time of its construction. The Douglas Park Cultural & Community Center, which opened in 2010, is a near-exact copy of the Humboldt Park Field House, which is startling. Several event areas are housed in the historic Field House, which boasts terrazzo floors and a large plaster ceiling with complex designs. Cocktails on the balcony with a view of the lagoon are a popular choice among guests. Gardens and the "Flower Hall" may be found outside, as well as an in-ground swimming pool and lily pools among the acres of stunning landscaping in Douglas Park's exterior. Douglas Park is the ideal location for receptions, cotillions, weddings, and other casual gatherings since it offers both indoor and outdoor alternatives.

• Spaces for 120 Guests

We are firm believers that food and wine have the ability to establish long-lasting bonds, so laying the groundwork for a fulfilling and fulfilling life. We cordially welcome you to join us for an evening filled with unforgettable moments centered around cuisine, wine, and good company. Cheers! Cooper's Hawk can help you make your event memorable. With the warmth and elegance of the wine world, our private event spaces are created to welcome Guests into our establishment. Our one-of-a-kind restaurant is well suited to showcasing wine and cuisine combinations like no other venue. Our trademark style of hospitality, which is anticipatory, informed, and courteous, only adds to the beauty of the surroundings and the unforgettable culinary options. Exceptional wine and cuisine, we think, bring people together, and that the spirit of celebration is at the heart of every successful event or gathering. Our goal is for you to enjoy life's finest moments with family, friends, and coworkers at Cooper's Hawk Restaurant & Bar.

Bring your event to Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods, a gathering place nestled deep in the 565 acres of the tranquil wooded sanctuary of the Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods, Illinois. We invite you to discover this little known treasure. Just 25 miles from Chicago’s downtown, Brushwood Center is worlds away from the busyness of life. ​ Plan your event at Brushwood Center and experience the warmth and charm of the historic Ryerson estate with the benefits offered through the surrounding nature. Turn into Brushwood Center and leave the world behind. The beauty, peace, and quiet of a pristine oak woodland is the backdrop to your event. You’ll enjoy stunning tree or garden views from every window. We promise that your family gathering, life celebration, or business retreat will only gain clarity and inspiration when it takes place at Brushwood Center.

• Spaces for 16-75 Guests
• 2 Restaurants

Harbor is located in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago. Gourmet versions of traditional meals, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, are served at Chef Anthony Bernal's restaurant, which pays respect to the Great Lakes region. Drinks include regional tasty beers, delectable and balanced cocktails, as well as a diverse variety of wines from all over the world, including those from the United States. The interior of the resturaunt, created by Barker/Nestor in collaboration with Ingrassia Design, represents the sensibilities of the surrounding neighborhood while also paying homage to the region's illustrious history. The dining tables, which were custom made by Timberwolf Slabs of Crystal Lake, Illinois, included a 17-foot single slab live edge walnut table. There are several eating choices available to guests, including raw bar dining, dining by the fireplace dining, relaxing at a banquette dining, and watching Chefs make their meal while seated at the dining counter.

Established in 2019, Osito’s Tap is a “speakeasy” style bar focused on the art of craft spirts, craft beer & craft cocktails. Located in the heart of the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago, our community oriented bar brings a modern Latin flair to a classic Chicago vibe.

Bruna’s is located at 2424 S. Oakley Ave, near the southwest side of Chicago, only 12 minutes from the Loop. It is a convenient location for dinner before or after events at Soldier Field, Guaranteed Rate Stadium, United Center, McCormick Place and Wintrust Arena. "Bella Bruna" is an Italian name for "Bella Bruna." Bruna's was founded by Cani in 1933, the same year that prohibition was lifted. With a long history as Chicago's third-oldest Italian restaurant, Bruna's swiftly established a reputation for offering out substantial quantities in a vibrant, neighborhood setting. Bruna would dance on the bar as her clients sung in the background when she wasn't busy cooking for them. It was still possible to find her daughter Marylyn (Mickey), who passed away in 2013 at the age of 94, relaxing on a neighborhood bench when the weather was nice. Bruna's legacy continues to live on through Chicago lore, and until recently, you could find her relaxing on a neighborhood bench when the weather was nice. Following a bout with illness, Bruna decided to sell the restaurant to Luciano Silvestri in 1981. There was a lot in common between the two of them. Both were originally from the central Italian area of Tuscany, and they both had a penchant for traditional Italian cuisine. Several of Bruna's original recipes were kept, and Luciano added several of his own family's valued Italian specialties to the menu, which became a hit with the customers. Because Luciano is originally from Siena, Italy, he regularly returns to his hometown to seek culinary inspiration. He began working in the restaurant sector at an early age, and has since traveled widely around Switzerland and London. A native of Como, Italy, Luciano spent his early years working at the world-renowned Villa d'Este resort and aboard cruise ships for the Sitmar and Princess lines until settling in Chicago in 1977. Bruna's is today recognized for a diverse selection of pasta dishes, tender veal, and, of course, Bella Bruna's original roast chicken recipe, which is still served every Sunday at Bruna's Restaurant. It's also the location of what many consider to be the greatest tiramisu in the city, which is made by Luciano himself. Bruna's has a large wine list that is dominated by Italian wines, with a few Californian selections thrown in for good measure. Wines such as the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which is produced near Luciano's homeland in Italy, are also imported by Bruna's. The Vino Nobile is available by the glass and by the bottle at the winery. Luciano is usually found welcoming clients, serving wine, and preparing espresso shots for the establishment.

Relax in this South Loop martini lounge while sipping on a martini. M Lounge hosts live music on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (currently on hiatus due to COVID) that may be enjoyed while sipping on a variety of speciality martinis and exquisite liquors. Every Tuesday and Wednesday, live performances ranging from jazz to blues to R&B are held, and on Friday and Saturday, various DJs spin their records. There is something for everyone in this intimate urban oasis. No matter what genre of music you enjoy, you will feel right at home here—whether you're settling into one of the comfortable couches or low-slung chairs, or taking a seat at the 28-foot long walnut bar. Whether you're searching for a reservation for 6 people or a reservation for 30, M Lounge is the top destination for celebrations in the South Loop. Two VIP spaces are available for your consideration at M Lounge. Our VIP alcove can accommodate up to ten persons in comfort. There is a $250 minimum bar requirement, and a 20 percent tip will be applied to your final bill as part of the service. Our Stage VIP section can accommodate parties of up to about 30 people and can accommodate groups of 12-25 individuals. The minimum bar need ranges from $250 to $600, depending on the number of attendees and the amount of space required. In addition, a 20 percent gratuity will be added.

• Spaces for 120 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Boat
• 1 Waterfront

Our enormous Free Spirit luxury yacht, which can seat up to 120 guests, has been custom-designed for your leisure and comfort, both inside and outside the vessel. Free Spirit is ideal for bigger groups such as business meetings, company trips, networking events, family celebrations, weddings, and other social gatherings. A boat makes any event more memorable, no matter what the occasion is! Spend an evening with your coworkers taking in the spectacular views of Chicago's world-renowned skyline while enjoying cocktails and an exquisite dinner at the Chicago Athletic Association. For a more relaxed affair, consider hosting a brunch cruise with mimosas and bloody marys while cruising along Chicago's picturesque lakefront or along the Chicago River. Wow, talk about combining business and pleasure. Those of you who have spent time in Chicago during the summer months are aware of how much we like our lakefront. In addition, if you've ever taken a Free Spirit Yacht charter trip, you know how much fun they can be. Not to mention that it is decadently soothing.

• Spaces for 40-115 Guests
• 1 Event Space
• 2 Country Clubs
• 1 Meeting Space

Arlington Lakes Golf Club is an 18-hole, 90-acre municipal golf course in Arlington Heights, Illinois, owned and managed by the Arlington Heights Park District. The course was renovated in 2016 and sits on land that once served as a Nike Missile Base, with water hazards coming into play on 13 of 18 holes. The clubhouse offers two dedicated event spaces suited for private celebrations and corporate gatherings. The Hearth Room accommodates up to 95 guests and features a dance floor and a wrap-around balcony overlooking the fairways — a setting that works well for wedding receptions, anniversary parties, and retirement events. The Festival Room seats up to 40 and is well suited for showers, luncheons, and smaller corporate meetings. Outside food is welcome, and the club provides a range of beverage packages, table linens, and optional add-ons including a projector and sound system. An elevator serves both floors of the clubhouse.

• Spaces for 250 Guests

22Thirty9 is a 2,200-square-foot private event loft situated above Pressure Point Recording Studio, part of the Bassline Music Complex on historic Record Row in Chicago's South Loop. The space is acoustically tuned and fully wired for presentations, live performances, and recorded entertainment, reflecting the building's deep roots in Chicago's music culture. The loft features floor-to-ceiling atrium windows, exposed brick walls, and high ceilings alongside a full-service bar and lounge area. Built-in A/V systems, in-house A/V specialists, and an experienced hospitality team are available for events. The venue sits steps from McCormick Place and Wintrust Arena, with convenient access to major roadways throughout the city.

• Spaces for 30-80 Guests
• 2 Restaurants

Francesca's Amici is an Italian trattoria set in vibrant downtown Elmhurst, Illinois, drawing on the flavors of Rome and the surrounding regions of Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio. Since opening in July 1999, the restaurant has built a following around its rustic, casually sophisticated atmosphere — where the warmth of Italian hospitality and the chatter of guests around the table set the tone for every meal and gathering. For private events, Francesca's Amici accommodates groups ranging from 10 to 180 guests across two dedicated event spaces. Room 1 seats up to 30 guests in a more intimate setting, while the North Room handles larger parties of up to 80 seated. Both spaces offer family-style, plated, and appetizer reception service options, with in-house catering and private event menus available for each.