Here are 12 perfect party venues to take the chill off winter.
Winter is the perfect time for your annual party, whether it’s a social gathering or employee appreciation event. The holiday season has passed and there’s a social lull this time of year, so you’re sure to have a great turnout. These are some of our favorite venues in which to host a winter wonderland affair.
Bridgeport Art Center
The big draw in this historic 1911 structure is the unique Skyline Loft, offering spectacular views of the Chicago skyline. Featuring ample windows, hardwood floors and timber beams, the 18,000 square foot space can accommodate up to 600 guests for a sit down dinner and up to 900 for a cocktail party. Another plus is that the loft is easily transformed depending on the type of event.
1200 West 35th Street, 773.247.3000
Café Brauer
Overlooking Lincoln Park and its zoo, the Great Hall of Café Brauer is a beautiful space no matter the season. Two loggias flank either side of the hall and are heated and tented during the winter season. The space fits 500 guests reception-style.
2021 North Stockton Drive, 312.742.2400
Chicago Cultural Center
With a location that can’t be beat, the Chicago Cultural Center has multiple rooms, but the stunning Tiffany ceilings in Preston Bradley Hall would be a great accent for your celebration. Room capacities vary, but Preston Bradley can hold 700 reception-style.
78 East Washington Street, 312.744.6630
Chicago Illuminating Company
The Chicago Illuminating Company is an ideal venue, with incredibly high ceilings and built-in bars – perfect for corporate and social occasions looking for that “cool” factor. About 750 guests fit comfortably in the space for a cocktail reception.
19 East 21st Street, 312.326.9500
Garfield Park Conservatory
Summer in winter? Nothing would be more gorgeous than hosting your party against the greenery of the Garfield Park Conservatory. There’s ample parking and it’s conveniently located for suburban guests. The space allows for 300 guests.
300 North Central Park Avenue. 312.746.5100
Joffrey Tower
This venue is ideal for fans of the iconic ballet and of stunning views of State Street. Events can take place by utilizing one or all of the tower’s studios. With floor to ceiling mirrors, these rooms are lovely in the evening with just the right amount of dramatic lighting. Entire floor rentals allow for up to 400 guests.
8 East Randolph Street, 312.739.0120
Murphy Auditorium
Murphy Auditorium is a wonderful winter event venue. While it’s largely booked for weddings, this space is also ideal for social gatherings and corporate dinners. Featuring a large ornate room in blues and golds, it doesn’t take much to dress up this venue. Up to 300 guests fit reception-style.
50 East Erie Street, 312.280.8447
Prairie Prodcutions
For a more unique space, Prairie Productions in the West Loop is a great loft spot. With white walls and minimal embellishments, Prairie is a blank canvas on which you can design the event of your dreams. Guest capacity of 200.
1314 West Randolph Street, 312.933.7599
Pritzker Pavilion
If it’s a winter wonderland you’re looking for, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park is the way to go. The stage is glassed in with floor to ceiling windows in the wintertime. Guests can look out onto Millennium Park while enjoying winter cocktails. Reception capacity is up to 250 guests.
201 East Randolph Street, 312.742.1168
River East Art Center
Originally an historical warehouse on the north bank of the Chicago River, the River East Art Center is a collaborative building comprised of art galleries, restaurants and a contemporary event space. With a white landscape, rustic timber and white columns, plus waterfront views, it’s a great space for a party. Up to 1,000 guests fit comfortably for a reception-style event.
435 East Illinois Street, 312.321.1001
Union Station
If you’re throwing an extra large party, the magnificent Great Hall at Union Station is the way to go. Originally designed by Daniel Burnham, not only is it one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks, the 20,000 foot Beaux Arts style space with its atrium ceiling can host a dinner for 1,000 or a cocktail reception for 2,500. Transportation is an obvious upside of this venue, especially in the chilly winter weather when it may – or may not – snow.
210 South Canal Street, 312.655.2465
Venue One
Larger events are a great fit for the West Loop’s eye-catching Venue One. Featuring an all-white grand room, Venue One can be anything you want it to be. The venue package comes with a limited number of unique tables, bars and seating. 500 guests and under fit well in the first floor space.
1044 West Randolph Street, 312.327.0111 x116
