Ah, summertime in Chicago, with people flocking to Lake Michigan’s sandy shores and the city’s outdoor spaces to enjoy the warm weather and the sun. What better time to party under the open sky than now? If you’re planning an outdoor party and looking for the perfect place to host your celebrations, you’re in good hands. We’ve done our research and come up with a selection of the best al fresco party spots in town. Whether you’re looking for a restaurant with a romantic patio, a trendy rooftop bar with city views or a laid-back beer garden, there’s enough choice to suit everyone. Scroll through our list of outdoor party venues in Chicago and find the perfect place for you!
The cost of outdoor party venues in Chicago averages around $3200 minimum spend per event. The final price will depend on location, size, amenities, and demand. Some venues also offer additional packages that include catering, AV equipment, or additional services. Take a look at the usual price ranges in Chicago, based on Tagvenue data from September 2025:
From $2000 | to $10000 | minimum spend per event |
From $30 | to $50 | per person |
From $100 | to $1000 | hire fee per hour |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated September 2025), the best options include:
Outdoor Bonita Bar at Bar Cocina West Town / West Loop
in East Village - rated 5/5
Venue said: Whether you're planning a casual get-together or a memorable celebration, the space is perfectly suited for various activities and events. The cheerful, rustic décor and the welcoming vibe make it an ideal spot for socializing...
Outdoor Patio at The Dandy Crown
in West Town - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘It was an ideal party space for our birthday event for 21 people.’
Summer Outdoor Couches at Bar Cocina Lakeview / Lincoln Park
in Lakeview - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘The staff was great and super accommodating to our party!’
Yes! Picking a rooftop bar or terrace is a great way to elevate your party (quite literally). There are a bunch of amazing rooftop venues across Chicago, some of which boast fabulous views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.
If you’d like to honor the occasion by throwing a picnic in one of the city’s public outdoor spaces, there are plenty of options to choose from! Wherever you are in Chicago, there’s almost always a park around the corner. Some of the most popular ones include iconic Millennium Park, picturesque Lincoln Park or sprawling Humboldt Park. If you’re after stunning water and city views, Lakeview offers postcard-worthy stretches of green fields by the lake. And if you’re interested in a beach party, check out the beautiful sandy beaches located along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, such as North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach or Margaret T. Burroughs Beach.
Chicago has many outdoor venues for spectacular summer gatherings, from lakeside patios and rooftop terraces to verdant beer gardens. You’ll find numerous scenic and adaptable spaces ideal for any occasion, be it a wedding reception, a casual barbecue, or a birthday picnic.
Planning an outdoor party in Chicago means thinking beyond just the guest list, weather shifts, permits, and venue features can make or break the day. From rooftop cocktails to backyard-style picnics, here’s how to stay ahead of the curve and throw an event your guests will actually remember.
Choose a venue that fits your vibe
Chicago’s best outdoor venues range from cozy garden courtyards in Lincoln Park to industrial rooftops in West Loop with skyline views. Planning a birthday? Try a bar patio in Wicker Park. Wedding reception? Consider riverfront spots in downtown or hidden-gem terraces in the Gold Coast.
Check what’s included in the booking
Essential amenities vary by venue:
Food and drink options
For hassle-free planning, book venues with in-house catering or bar service. Want more flexibility? Opt for outdoor spaces that allow food trucks or BYOB. Picnic-style potlucks work well at lakeside parks, while private patios are perfect for pizza parties or summer brunches.
Keep guests entertained
Plan for lawn games, dancing, or even a DIY photo booth. If music is part of your vibe, check sound restrictions or if amplification is allowed. Bonus: some venues offer fire pits or string lighting to extend the party into the evening.
Prep for Chicago weather
The weather here changes fast. Always check the forecast and pack extras:
Know the rules, especially for public spaces
Hosting in a park or beach? You'll likely need a permit, especially for amplified music, food vendors, or large setups. Plan ahead and factor in any city fees or restrictions.
Looking for a party spot to host a small birthday, garden brunch, or al fresco dinner? These small outdoor venues in Chicago are perfect for groups under 60 and deliver atmosphere without overwhelming your guest list:
If you’re planning an outdoor celebration outside the city bustle, Chicago’s suburbs have relaxed settings, spacious venues, and plenty of character for birthdays, family reunions, or even micro-weddings: