Booking costs of ballrooms average $150 hire fee per hour. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Chicago, based on Tagvenue data:
| From $125 | to $225 | hire fee per hour |
| From $1200 | to $6615 | minimum spend per event |
| From $35 | to $69 | per person |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated October 2026), the best options include:
Chicago River Ballroom at Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown
in Streeterville - rated 4.9/5
Venue said: The spacious prefunction space surrounds the ballroom, serving as the ideal space for receptions or exhibit space. Private restrooms are also located on the ML level.
Entire Venue at Claddagh Ring Pub
in Ravenswood - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘There was no cost to booking the party room and the staff and drinks was amazing.’
The Clybourn at iO Theater
in Near North Side - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘The space was perfect for our event, and everything went beautifully.’
You'll find ballrooms in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Chicago, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (October 2026):
| Small | up to 80 guests | prices average $135 hire fee per hour |
| Medium | between 100 and 175 guests | prices average $200 hire fee per hour |
| Large | over 210 guests | prices average $6615 minimum spend per event |
These are the venues within 1 mi from central Chicago, available to book on Tagvenue:
Smaller ballrooms usually fit up to 80 guests standing. Here are some great options in Chicago, based on Tagvenue data as of October 2026:
Whole Venue at The Long Hall, rated 5/5 - event venue for 70 guests
Venue said: Features: The venue includes a PA system and speakers, Wi‑Fi and accessible, step‑free guest access. The main hall opens through large glass doors onto a small courtyard, and the timber floor and open plan accommodate a range...
Studio 1 at yogaview Chicago - yoga / pilates studio for 80 guests
Venue said: yogaview Chicago is a long-established yoga studio housed in a converted brick commercial building, operating from a bright practice loft. Venue highlights: The loft studio provides a large, light-filled practice area that...
Entire Venue at The Fulton West - event venue for 80 guests
Venue said: Ideal for: Creative teams and small social groups seeking a neutral, adaptable space for seated dinners or standing receptions with a contemporary, informal tone.
If you’re planning a large event for more than 100 people, you should start your search up to one and a half years in advance. This will allow you to thoroughly check the available spaces and choose the one that fits your guest list and meets all of your requirements. Generally in Chicago, there are only a few ballroom venues that can accommodate a crowd of over 200 people, and they are high in demand, so act fast to make sure that you have a wide range of options available on your preferred date, you should act fast.
In Chicago, you will find ballrooms in The Loop in close proximity to Grant Park and in the West Loop near N Ogden Avenue. The area also offers plenty of fabulous and stylish options, including some that can accommodate up to 600 people. River North is also worth considering if you’re planning an event up to 200 people–the selection of venues there is great for corporate events due to the professional surroundings.
Page last updated in October 2026
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