Photo-worthy: 15 Iconic Chicago Engagement and Wedding Locations

From gorgeous rooftop decks with spectacular skyline views to lush gardens and manicured parks, Chicago has no shortage of beautiful places to tie the knot. And while these venues serve as stunning backdrops for your wedding all on their own, most are also just steps away from iconic city landmarks and attractions that make for some glorious photo ops. So if having jaw-dropping engagement or day-of pix is on your “must-have” list, then you’re going to love these picture-perfect locations!



PICTURESQUE WEDDING VENUES



Chicago Botanic Garden

Glencoe, Illinois

Fab Features: stunning 385-acre garden situated on 9 islands surrounded by lakes • romantic celebrations in the English Walled Garden and fragrant Rose Terrace or the canopied McGinley Pavilion overlooking overlooks Evening Island • endless photo-ops thanks to flower-bordered paths, treelined walkways, water features, quaint bridges and world-renowned horticultural displays

Catering: In-house
Price: $$ • $$$

Garfield Park Conservatory

Chicago, Illinois

Fab Features: one of the nations largest and stunning conservatories nestled on 10 acres of outdoor gardens • exchange vows in the multi-room greenhouse with a skylit ceiling surrounded by exotic plants • al fresco celebrations on the landscaped Bluestone Patio

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $ • $$

Café Brauer at the Lincoln Park Zoo

Chicago, IL

Fab Features: architecturally stunning Prairie School design with a vaulted skylit ceiling and Tiffany-inspired glass chandeliers • variety of unique indoor and outdoor spaces • breathtaking views of Chicago's famous skyline available from the venue's terraces

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $$ • $$$

Chicago Athletic Association

Chicago, Illinois

Fab Features: 1893 Venetian Gothic landmark set on the doorstep of Millennium Park • intricate craftsmanship, monumental fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows lend elegance to the ballrooms • fun receptions in the Stagg Court or in The Tank, the original indoor pool framed by marble pillars and an elegant mezzanine balcony

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$ • $$$

River Roast Private Events

Chicago, Illinois

Fab Features: landmark building with a spacious veranda • beautiful views of the river and sparkling cityscape from indoor & outdoor spaces • chic vintage elements like exposed brick walls, tall columns, and pressed-tin ceilings

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$ • $$$

J. Parker

Chicago, Illinois

Fab Features: retractable glass roof allows for outdoor events year-round • unobstructed water views provide the perfect backdrop for intimate receptions • a generous selection of hors d’oeuvres and 3-hour bar service is included in their event packages

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$

Chicago History Museum

Chicago, Illinois

Fab Features: Georgian-style Chicago Room with views of Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast skyline• the interior is designed with a high, coffered ceiling and backlit cases displaying gorgeous stained-glass panels • al fresco or tented celebrations on the expansive Uihlein Plaza

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $ • $$

City Cruises Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

Fab Features: spectacular views of the shoreline & cityscape from Lake Michigan or the Chicago River • stunning ceremonies on the open-air Skydeck • generous all-inclusive packages

Catering: In-house
Price: $$ • $$$

Loyola at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens

Vernon Hills, Illinois

Fab Features: early 1900s mansion designed in the classic Italiante style encompassed by 50 acres of manicured lawns • the interior impresses with gorgeous antiques, paintings, tapestries and sculptures • elegant celebrations in the year-round pavilion or poolside next to the lush gardens

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $ • $$

Adler Planetarium

Chicago, IL

Fab Features: Cafe Galileo offers unparalleled city skyline views with its glass walls, enjoy the same panoramic vistas from the North and Sundial Terraces • receptions in the Grainger Sky Theater • event activities include a journey through the cosmos, or viewing the moon, planets, and stars through a telescope

Catering: In-house
Price: $$ • $$$

Chicago's First Lady Cruises

Chicago, Illinois

Fab Features: six private boats boasting open-air decks for dancing and viewing the cityscape • ceremonies held dockside or on Chicago’s waterways • thrilling add-ons like a whistle salute or sunset fireworks

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $ • $$


EPIC ENGAGEMENT SHOTS




Chicago Riverwalk


This 3.4-mile trail runs from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. Packed with restaurants, fountains, iconic bridges, and breathtaking views of Chicago’s stunning architecture.



North Avenue Beach


North Avenue Beach is one of Chicago’s most popular beaches located in Lincoln Park that stretches along the shore of Lake Michigan and affords breathtaking lake and skyline vistas.



Grant Park


Grant Park is a lush 319-acre urban park located in the heart of downtown is home to Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, The Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum Campus.



Olive Park


Milton Lee Olive Park is adjacent to Ohio Street beach, this large grassy area is shaded by tall honey locusts trees and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.


Hold up! Are you in our tribe?

Some clients may have paid to be placed in our editorial and some of these links may be affiliate; however, we never include a venue, vendor, or product unless they have a proper place here. This is part of our Core Values. We create our website first and foremost to be good for the couples using it to plan their Big Day. We won't stray from that for a few advertising dollars. #scoutshonor