Top Near South Side Wedding Venues

• 3 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 160-1,000 Guests
• 3 Hotels
• 3 Ballrooms
• 3 Total Spaces

The Congress Plaza Hotel, located in the heart of Chicago is just minutes away from some of the city's most prime attractions. The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center was originally designed and constructed in 1893 to accommodate visitors from around the globe attending the World’s Columbian Exposition. The legendary Congress Plaza Hotel has been home to many of the world’s greatest notables such as our nation’s presidents, foreign dignitaries, opera, stage, and movie celebrities. Every year our property is visited by hundreds of guests attending conventions, meetings, and events in our beautiful city. Our property is conveniently located in the heart of the downtown area here in Chicago just minutes away from some of the premier attractions that our city has to offer including, The Art Institute of Chicago, Buckingham Fountain, Orchestra Hall, Willis Tower, and The Shedd Aquarium. The Congress Plaza Hotel is located directly across from Grant Park, known as one of Chicago’s prime attractions for great outdoor jazz and blues music throughout the summer. Our property features 871 guest rooms, including 36 deluxe suites, many of which overlook the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan. The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center is the perfect place to experience Chicago at just about any time of the year!

• 3 Wedding Albums

It was originally constructed in 1892 as a Czech meeting hall and is now a historically significant building that has been landmarked. As of the year 2013, it has reopened and been re-imagined as a modern day town hall; a central meeting place with a tavern called Dusek's Board & Beer, two bars called Punch House and Tack Room, and a world-class performance space called Thalia Hall. The location is perfect for hosting large events such as weddings, holiday parties, galas, and other special occasions where you want to spend a memorable evening with your closest friends and family. 16" on Center (16OC) is a hospitality collective that was founded by Bruce Finkelman and Craig Golden in collaboration. The group takes on projects and buildings in neighborhoods where its members can't wait to hang out. Although each restaurant, bar, and venue that is a part of the collective operates as an independent company, 16OC is here to provide the support and services necessary to make each and every one of them stronger. The term "16" on Center comes from the construction industry and refers to a center mark that produces the most durable build. This describes our approach to each project, which is to produce spaces of the highest quality that are intended to be used for a long time. From Evanston to Hyde Park, our venues, bars, and restaurants coax Chicagoans out of their homes and into their respective neighborhoods, giving them the opportunity to participate in the life of those areas.

• 3 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 200 Guests

The Rookery is the most historically significant building in Chicago. It represents an era that has been lost in this new world of technology while staying up to date on technological advancements. Go back in time and have your event in a completely different era from the present. Revel in the old architecture, the spiral staircase and everything the Rookery has to offer. Labeled a Chicago landmark in 1972, The Rookery is perfect for a unique and interesting event. Time travel happens here and you know you want to take part in it. Able to accommodate any kind of event- bring your guests to this renowned site and celebrate amongst history.

• 1 Wedding Album
• Spaces for 40-450 Guests
• 5 Hotels
• 5 Ballrooms

Inspire creativity here in the heart of downtown Chicago with a meeting or event at our hotel. Whether you are looking to host a toast or get down to business, the dynamic, recently renovated meeting rooms and spaces at W Chicago - City Center provide perfect setting for your needs.

• 2 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 50-1,119 Guests
• 7 Hotels
• 7 Ballrooms
• 1 Convention Center

This iconic Chicago hotel, The Palmer House Hilton has undergone a $170 million renovation, positioning itself for the next era of downtown Chicago accommodations. The Palmer House Hilton has multiple event spaces that are sure to wow your guests, no matter what kind of event you're hosting. The famed golden Empire Room is renowned for hosting the most famous entertainers, such as Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong. There is also the Grand Ballroom at The Palmer House Hilton, and all three ballrooms can accommodate up to 1,653 people. All this grandeur makes The Palmer House Hilton perfect for a luxurious wedding. The Palmer House Hilton offers many wedding venue amenities, bridal services, packages, and more. There are also smaller meeting spaces available at The Palmer House Hilton. There are a total of 78 breakout rooms, perfect for a corporate event or meeting venue.

• 3 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 56-800 Guests
• 2 Hotels
• 2 Ballrooms
• 8 Total Spaces

Originally designed in 1914 by renowned architect Daniel Burnham, our landmark hotel hosts Chicago's premier wedding and reception venues. JW Marriott Chicago offers classic elegance, with delicious catering options and the upscale amenities you expect from the Loop's only luxury hotel.

• 3 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 25-700 Guests
• 4 Hotels
• 4 Ballrooms
• 6 Total Spaces

Located on Michigan Avenue, just steps from Millennium Park, the Chicago Athletic Association offers a historic yet contemporary setting for weddings, meetings, and events. With 17,000 sq. ft. of iconic spaces, including grand ballrooms, vintage basketball courts, Topgolf Swing Suites, and bocce courts, we provide unforgettable backdrops for every occasion. Whether you envision a stained-glass ballroom wedding or a dynamic corporate gathering, our dedicated events team ensures flawless execution. Executive Chef Kaleena Bliss crafts menus from scratch using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while 240 guest rooms, including 24 suites, offer convenience and charm under one roof. Step into history and celebrate in style.

• 1 Wedding Album
• Spaces for 80-200 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Located in the heart of the business district, an elevator ride up to the 29th floor of The Franklin, you will find the sleek and stylish design of the R29 event space. Rich woods and lush colors blend to create a swanky atmosphere perfect for any special event, highlighted by trendy leather bar stools, cozy banquettes enhanced with fireplaces and private pergola cabanas with views over the West Loop. Corporate or social, business or pleasure, R29 is a versatile and inviting venue for any gathering. R29 can accommodate 175 guests for a cocktail reception.

• 3 Wedding Albums

It began rather modestly, more than a century ago, when a small group of college alumni formed the founding charter. Their goal was a simple one - to create an environment in which excellence thrives and develop a place where they, their guests and all future members could draw upon the sustaining values of a common educational experience. Here, at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Monroe Street at the eastern gateway to the city, they established a permanent residence for their shared ideals. Through the generations, this magnificent 12-story structure has provided a stimulating atmosphere where members conduct business, gather socially and expand culturally.

• 3 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 80-800 Guests
• 3 Museums
• 3 Landmarks

The Chicago Cultural Center, amongst the ornate decor of marble, polished brass, fine hardwoods, and colorful mosaics holds a rich history of the Windy City. Initially built as the first central public library of Chicago, this building has become one of the most visited attractions in the city. Home to not one, but two spectacular crystal domes, this building will serve as a decadent background to any private event or wedding. Close to numerous hotels, shopping and across the street from Millennium Park, The Chicago Cultural Center is convenient for those traveling near and far.

• 2 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 300-750 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 1 Event Space
• 1 space at this venue

Located steps away from Old St Patrick’s Church at the cross-section of Quincy and Desplaines, Amazing Space is the ultimate West Loop Gate locale for your wedding reception or social event. A separate lobby entrance is around the corner at 207 S. Desplaines, and next to the parking garage - a welcome respite from the challenges of the city of Chicago parking. (Imagine after saying your “I Do’s” you and your guests will walk across the street to be greeted by a sun-drenched foyer for cocktails.) Amazing Space includes a catering kitchen, distinctive bars, tables and chairs, restrooms on the first and second floors, an elevated lighting system, a sunny bridal suite, and a sophisticated A/V. The 6,000 sq. foot event space boasts soaring ceilings and architectural elements inspired by Old St. Pat’s. The 2nd-floor mezzanine overlooks the main floor providing a beautiful flow for your cocktail reception and the chance for your guests to enjoy the dancing and merriment from above.

• 3 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 50-3,563 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Theater
• 3 Event Spaces

The Lyric Opera House is a majestic setting for entertaining on any scale. The theatre, spacious back of house, lobby, grand foyer and four private dining rooms are available to rent for public ticketed and private events. The Lyric Opera House is a world class concert venue and has featured artists including David Byrne, Bryan Ferry, Seal, Andrew Bird and Wilco. The 3,563-seat theater is the second-largest opera auditorium in North America and holds the largest stage in downtown Chicago. Excellent sightlines, premium acoustics, and intricate architectural detailing make for a fantastic and unique venue. Host your wedding or private event in one of the world's most beautiful buildings. The Lyric Opera House is one of Chicago's historic landmarks and among the world's most beautiful buildings. Built in 1929 and fully restored in 1996, the Lyric Opera House is a hybrid of Art Nouveau and Art Deco designs and a majestic setting for entertaining on any scale. The theater, spacious back of house, lobby and grand foyer, and four private dining rooms are available to rent for public ticketed and private events.

• 3 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 30-275 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Outdoor
• 2 Event Spaces

Centrally located downtown, Avli on The Park is complete with a seasonal rooftop, private banquet room, and multiple semi-private event spaces. The venue has an attached parking garage as well, making it very accessible to guests the day-of your event. With private, semi-private, and full-buyout packages, we offer the option to host a variety of events from corporate happy hours, team dinners, bridal & baby showers, bachelorette parties, and more. For groups of 18 or less, please visit our Avli on The Park Reservation Page to book: www.exploretock.com/avlionthepark Avli venues are creative, reinvented Greek restaurants in Chicago where tradition meets new contemporary elegance. We welcome you in to host an event where you’ll enjoy our inspired dishes, lively beverage program, and an ambiance that reflects life in Greece.

• 2 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 100-500 Guests
• 3 Hotels
• 3 Ballrooms

Whether you're joining us in the Windy City for work or for fun, the recently renovated Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel is ready to help you create lasting memories. Located steps from the Theater District, our award-winning hotel will captivate you from the moment you arrive until the day you say your goodbyes, with thoughtful amenities and world-class service. Step into our intuitively designed lobby, which features a VIP R Lounge, Artist Studio, Coffee Bar and Library. Unwind in your spacious room or suite and enjoy deluxe bedding and superb downtown Chicago views. Take a refreshing dip in the indoor pool or get your workout in at our Fitness Center. Our dining options include a hip rooftop bar with great views, as well as American cuisine and terrific cocktails. Host an event in one of our elegant venues, including the Chicago Ballroom, or walk outside of the hotel and explore the Theater District and other notable downtown attractions. We look forward to welcoming you to Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel.

• 1 Wedding Album

• 2 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 200-350 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom
• 1 Outdoor

Our Health & Safety Protocols for COVID-19 • Daily Team Wellness & Temperature Checks • Protective Equipment and Masks for Whole Team • Frequent & Extensive Handwashing • Safe Distancing Measures & Reconfigured Layout • Contactless Check-In and Check-Out with Digital Key • All Guest & Service Areas Frequently Disinfected with EPA Approved Disinfectant Products • Expert-Guided Food Safety Protocols & Audits the Exceed Health Department Standards LondonHouse Chicago is a full-service, luxury lifestyle hotel with 452 luxury guest rooms and suites featuring scenic views of North Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, the Chicago River and many other city landmarks. The amenities at LondonHouse Chicago include LH, Chicago’s only tri-level rooftop featuring private dining spaces, an indoor bar, outdoor rooftop terrace and a private top floor Cupola, a chef-driven restaurant and Bridges Lobby Bar. LondonHouse Chicago also has 25,000 square-feet of meeting and event space, including two ballrooms for social dinners and weddings of up to 300 guests, or receptions for 350 or more. When just as many locals as guests gather to sip, taste and take in the views, you know you are in one of the Chicago’s best spots. From the reception champagne bar to the tri-level, indoor/outdoor rooftop bar to intimate in-dome dining, you’ll come together at LondonHouse Chicago for the skyline views and stay for the amazing dining, cocktails and conversations.

• 1 Wedding Album
• Spaces for 300-600 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

Experience a mature, refined and authentic experience in Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhood at Crowne Plaza West Loop. For a lovely, unforgettable event in downtown Chicago, look no further than Crowne Plaza West Loop Hotel. Located in the heart of the city, their elegant wedding and special event venue is perfect for your celebration. Up to 300 guests can sit comfortably in the Grand Ballroom, where they can dine from a gourmet catering menu. Their brilliant chefs can accomodate any dietary needs, including providing certified kosher cuisine. If you need assistance finding a florist or photographer, they provide complimentary wedding and special event consultation services as well. Looking for an impressive venue to stage events and meetings? Plan your next big occasion with Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop. With 8,000 square feet of available space, including 9 meeting rooms, the hotel is a premier West Loop corporate event venue. Their elegant, modern facilities are perfect for 10-person meetings, a cocktail soirée of 600 guests, and everything in between!

• 1 Wedding Album
• Spaces for 6-250 Guests
• 6 Boats

Dazzle your guests with an amazing private yacht party amongst Chicago’s glittering skyscrapers and take in skyline views along our spectacular lakefront. Whether you’re planning a wedding, private corporate event or Chicago dinner cruise, we’ll work with you individually to make your event perfect. If there’s one piece of feedback we hear again and again, it’s that events aboard Chicago’s First Lady Cruises are the ones people rave about and remember years later. Call us today and let’s get started planning your unforgettable event.

• 2 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 24-150 Guests
• 2 Restaurants
• 1 Bar
• 2 Event Spaces

Our expert private dining team offers concierge-level service and will work with clients individually to create a completely unique and custom experience. Gibsons Restaurant Group offers à la carte dining in a private setting, including a choice of entrée on-site, customizable menus, and steaks ordered to temperature. Other turn-key amenities such as flatware, table settings, linens, chairs, and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment are on hand to tailor the space to every client's needs. We can accommodate a wide range of events at our locations in the suburbs as well as downtown Chicago, from weddings and graduations to corporate parties and seminars. Private spaces are available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and include dedicated service staff. A modern Italian steakhouse located along the Chicago River in the West Loop neighborhood of Chicago. The elegant and comfortable four-level restaurant and bar features outdoor dining on two levels, two fireplaces and a rooftop bar and lounge with a retractable roof showcasing stunning views of the Chicago River and the city's skyline. The menu consists of refined Italian dishes and American steakhouse classics, including a variety of meats, seafood, vegetables, risotto and gold-extruded pasta. At the heart of the menu is a world-class tour of beef starring Gibsons Prime Angus Beef, Gibsons Grassfed Australian Beef and Japanese Kobe featured along with fresh crudo, classic cocktails, and an extensive wine list.

• 2 Wedding Albums
• Spaces for 60-140 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 1 Event Space

Private Dining by Sepia serves as the ideal backdrop for the inventive, American cuisine created by James Beard Award nominated Chef Andrew Zimmerman. Available seven days a week for lunch or dinner, it can accommodate up to 60 guests for a seated meal and up to 100 for a standing cocktail reception. Private Dining by Sepia offers a unique venue for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and small weddings. Michelin-starred Sepia restaurant, located next door to the private dining room, may be available for a full buyout on select dates. Accommodating up to 120 for a seated meal, the main dining room offers a warm and intimate setting for a memorable event.