9 Chicago Venues with Outdoor Spaces
Event Planning
Venues
Spring is here! After a particularly cold and snowy winter in the Midwest, what better way to celebrate the warmer months than with a party outdoors?
Here’s a list of 10 Chicago venues with unique outdoor spaces to provide some inspiration for your next gathering.
Located directly on the sands of Lake Michigan, this open-air facility features grand patios overlooking the bluest of waters. You can soak up the sun or catch some shade with this perfect summer venue.
Art Institute of Chicago- Bluhm Family Terrace
The outdoor Bluhm Family Terrace is located on the third level of the Modern Wing, just outside Terzo Piano, and offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Millennium Park. The terrace is shaded just enough that you and your guests can experience the ambiance of an evening outdoors without having to brave the elements.
This two-story Great Hall, situated on the banks of Lincoln Park’s south lagoon, serves as a picturesque setting for weddings, corporate events, and fundraisers. The loggias provide stunning views of the city, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and Lake Michigan.
As the city’s oldest cultural institution, the Chicago History Museum is uniquely Chicago. This space is as beautiful inside as it is outside, providing a gorgeous, romantic backdrop for outdoor wedding ceremonies.
When you think of the Field Museum, you probably think of Sue the Dinosaur or maybe the hanging gardens, but the Field Museum also has amazing outdoor terraces that shouldn’t be overlooked. There are three outdoor terraces including the Northwest Terrace that recently underwent an extensive landscape renovation. These terraces provide incredible views of the skyline, Lake Michigan, or Soldier Field.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park, one of Chicago’s most famous destinations, is perfect for any Chicagoan or out-of-state guest. Exquisite landscaping and a 100-ton public art piece are among the many attractions. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion stage features magnificent skyline views, beautiful wood floors, and glass doors for weather protection. The Harris Theater Rooftop Terrace includes a tent, private restrooms, and an open-air patio.
Located just south of the Adler Planetarium and east of Soldier Field, Northerly Island is a 91-acre peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan at the heart of the Museum Campus. This underrated gem features beautiful strolling paths, casual play areas, and a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline.
The 3.5-acre green space is complete with a running track and basketball court, not to mention plenty of space to relax, host a casual meeting, or find new inspiration with a stunning change of scenery.
Blue Plate gives you access to more than 85 of the city’s most sought-after special event venues. From great halls and historic landmarks to sleek downtown galleries, we’ll help you select the perfect backdrop to make your event truly unforgettable. Explore more spaces on our venues page or contact us to talk about your event.
Theater on the Lake has floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal gorgeous views of Lake Michigan. This 20-acre venue also includes a long terrace that faces the lake and shows off skyline views. Various spaces within the venue can accommodate groups from 25 to 1,500 guests.
