Partying in Chicago on a budget and looking for a cheap venue for your event? We’ve got great news for you! The city is filled with great spaces for any celebration and any wallet. Whether you’re looking for a lively bar in the North Side, a versatile event space in the Loop or a fantastic restaurant in the South Side, there are hidden gems all around the city. Just scroll through our selection of cheap party venues in Chicago and find the perfect deal within minutes!
No matter what kind of party you’re planning, you can find somewhere fantastic and affordable in the Windy City. Dance studios, art studios, community halls, libraries other public spaces are usually blank canvas spaces which means you’ll be able to decorate them however you wish to. In case privacy is very important for you, check out the city’s private rooms. It is also possible to find great BYOB event spaces, so don’t hesitate to have a look at them as well.
Prices for renting a party venue in Chicago range depending on the place’s location, type and size. A lot of places offer special packages in which prices range between $16 and $92 per person. It is also possible to rent the whole place and pay a rental fee - rates vary from $200 to $5000 per session. In case you need a venue for just a few hours, prices start at $30 and can get up to $150 per hour. (All data from Tagvenue.)
Depending on the venue, rental services might include different types of amenities. Some places might offer in-house catering or staff service, while others will require you organize that on your own. If you’re unsure about the services your chosen venue provides, contact the venue manager to resolve your doubts.
It doesn’t matter where you go, you can find affordable gems in each corner of the city. Find cheap versatile event spaces are Lakeview, South Shore or River North. We recommend you also have a look around West Loop for charming restaurants and vibrant bars that won’t break the bank.
Throwing a party in Chicago on a budget? You’re in luck. From laid-back bars in Lakeview to affordable private rooms in The Loop, Chicago’s full of great-value venues that won’t drain your wallet.
More guests = more cost. Keep it tight with the people who matter most, and size your venue accordingly. Booking a space that’s too big means paying for empty seats.
Small to mid-sized venues (for 20–40 guests) are usually the best value. Ask about minimum spend or flat fees—some venues let you use the space for free if you hit a bar tab minimum.
Many affordable venues in Chicago allow you to bring your own alcohol and food. Always double-check for corkage fees or outside catering policies. Some will let you skip the in-house catering charge entirely.
Weekend nights are premium. Shift your celebration to a Thursday evening or Sunday brunch for better rates and more venue availability.
Some venues offer per-person pricing that bundles food, drinks, and rental. It’s not always the cheapest option, but it simplifies planning and avoids surprise costs.
Chicago has plenty of small venues that are great for budget-friendly parties, especially if you're planning something intimate like a birthday, baby shower, or casual get-together.
BYO-friendly venues typically allow you to bring your own food, drinks, or both—cutting out catering markups and letting you stick to your own budget and tastes.
You’ll often find BYO options in:
You don’t need a big budget to host a party that people remember. Use Tagvenue to find affordable venues in every corner of Chicago and book a space that suits your style and your wallet.