Take your next big event outside, with Chicago’s breathtaking cityscape and river views as a backdrop. The city offers an array of unique outdoor venues — from rooftops to wine gardens — that are perfect for groups of 125 to 400. Check out our 10 suggestions.
Get a taste of old-school glamour at BLVD Steakhouse in the Fulton Market District. Invite 125 reception attendees to savor passed and plated appetizers in The Atrium, with its lush secret garden covered by a wood pergola. For 100-person seated dinners, options range from steak tartare and crab cakes to classic entrees like salmon, roasted chicken, and prime steaks that include New York strip and filet mignon.
When planning a cocktail reception for 150 guests, book the secluded Terrace at Chicago Winery in River North. Expand the guest list to 400 by combining the Terrace space with the indoor Overlook venue. Receptions feature custom choices served on a grazing table plus six passed hors d’oeuvres. The open bar package includes a selection of Chicago Winery vintages, craft beer, and soft drinks. As a bonus for your attendees, schedule tours of the working winery, which includes five tastings.
Book your event in the gorgeous Wine Garden at City Winery in the West Loop. Host 120 attendees for a buffet or plated dinner. Or opt for a reception for 250, with food stations or passed hors d’oeuvres. Food choices might include spicy chicken meatballs, bacon-wrapped dates, and mini lobster rolls. After your event, guests who plan ahead can schedule a winery tour and tasting or attend a comedy, rock, or R&B show at the on-site Concert Venue.
Stunning views of the Chicago River and city skyline take center stage during rooftop receptions at Gibsons Italia in the West Loop. The deck offers a retractable roof, fireplace, and stylish furniture for 60 seated guests, or 150 for a reception. Work with the event staff to curate a menu of classic Italian and American steakhouse fare, including appetizers like charred octopus, meatballs, prosciutto and mozzarella, and beef tartare.
Invite a group of 400 to a standing cocktail reception at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Streeterville. Sophisticated outdoor areas include the sculpture garden and terrace overlooking Lake Michigan. Request a table setup with overhead twinkling lights for a magical evening event. For seated meals for 200 guests, MCA Catering offers food featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and artisan producers.
Host up to 250 seated attendees at the indoor/outdoor space (or 70 on the patio) at Norman’s Bistro, serving upscale American Creole, Caribbean, and Brazilian food in North Kenwood. Appetizer selections for receptions include a choice of meats, salads, cheeses, and fruit displays. Guests can also enjoy smooth jazz and R&B sounds. Planners can look forward to the debut of Norman’s Bistro on the Lake, opening on Memorial Day 2025, featuring a bar and lakefront deck at Rainbow Beach.
Plan a reception with a big wow factor along the downtown Chicago Riverwalk. Pizzeria Portofino welcomes groups of 150 to the patio at its casual restaurant to socialize and watch boats pass by. Create your event menu with Italian appetizers like burrata and meatballs, hand-tossed pizzas, passed desserts, and more. All ingredients are imported from Italy or sourced locally. Beverage options include wine, beer, cocktails, spritzes, and zero-proof drinks.
Party in the Cadillac Courtyard of Revel Motor Row, a 1930s South Loop building that was once the home of the Illinois Automobile Club. Conveniently located near McCormick Place, the 4,000-square-foot courtyard accommodates 500 reception guests or 220 seated. Let Revel Global Events’ planning staff handle the details to bring your vision to life in its space, whether it’s a catered dinner or a reception with drinks and live music.
Customize any event at the exceptionally versatile Rockwell on the River in Avondale, which includes a 3,000-square-foot deck along the Chicago River to accommodate 500+ guests. Arrange for hi-top, cabaret, or commercial dining tables and metal French country chairs. The three-acre waterfront complex, dotted with Italian cobblestone walkways and courtyards, houses a coffee roastery, distillery, marina, and barbecue restaurant.
Guests will be awed by the city views surrounding ROOF on theWit in the Loop. Your 325 reception guests can gather under the retractable glass roof, making the hotel’s 27th-floor venue accessible year-round. The 5,400-square-foot space combines its Patio, Living Room, and Loft areas, plus Hangover — a platform seating area surrounded by windows. Work with the hotel staff for recommendations on what to include in your food and beverage menu.
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