The 16 Best Outdoor Venues for Rent in Chicago, IL

FAQs about Top Outdoor Venues in Chicago, IL

Are food and beverage available on-site at all outdoor venues?

Many outside locations, such as restaurant patios and backyards, can satisfy your catering requirements.However, since some outdoor locations are merely lawns or gardens, they may be unable to provide on-site cuisine, but they'll be able to suggest catering options for your event. Other outdoor locations, such as restaurant patios and backyards, can satisfy your catering requirements.

Can I bring my own food for my birthday party to an outdoor restaurant?

Probably not! Because most restaurants rely on their food service, you'll probably be asked to use their in-house catering options unless you're planning a larger event that necessitates the use of additional caterers, such as a wedding cake or sweets. Several venues would gladly work with you to suit your catering requirements.

What are some of the best outdoor spots in Chicago?

Chicago boasts a variety of amazing outdoor spots from affluent neighborhoods to idyllic beaches. If you’re planning to rent a venue by the beach, consider hidden beaches like Osterman Beach which looks over the city’s breathtaking skyline, or 63rd Street Beach for its smooth sand and beautiful pavilion, built in the early 20th century. If you love big cities and their energy, pick an outdoor spot in Lake View or Lincoln Square. These bustling districts offer a myriad of options when it comes to culture, arts, and entertainment.

What events can I organize in a small outdoor venue in Chicago?

The possibilities for events are delightful and limitless! Here are some ideas:

Weddings and Receptions: Small outdoor venues offer a romantic setting for weddings, especially for couples looking for a more personal experience.
Birthday Parties: Whether it's a milestone birthday or a casual celebration, an outdoor venue provides a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
Corporate Events and Team Building: Host your next corporate retreat, team-building session, or small conference in an outdoor setting to break the monotony of the office.
Family Reunions and Gatherings: Utilize the open space for a family day filled with games, a picnic, and quality time with loved ones.
Art Exhibitions: Showcase local artists or your own work in an open, airy outdoor space, adding an interesting twist to the exhibition.
Workshops and Classes: Conduct yoga classes, photography workshops, or cooking classes in a refreshing outdoor environment.
Networking Mixers and Social Events: Small outdoor spaces in Chicago are perfect for networking events, allowing for comfortable mingling in a less formal setting.
Themed Parties: From garden tea parties to summer barbecues, the outdoor setting complements various themes beautifully.

No matter what event you’re going to throw, check out our Definitive Event Planning Checklist to make sure it’s organized with attention to detail!

What are the starting prices for renting outdoor venues in Chicago?

In Chicago, outdoor venues are available across a wide range of prices, catering to various budgets and event needs. Pricing for these venues vary, offering flexibility in how you plan your event.

For hourly rental, which is ideal for shorter events or gatherings, spaces like Pegasus Protein Juice Bar offer attractive rental starting from $85 per hour. This is great for events where you need the venue for a few hours, like workshops or small celebrations.

Alternatively, you have the option to rent a venue for the entire day. This is particularly beneficial for events that require longer durations, such as weddings or full-day corporate retreats. Deals for day-long rentals start from $250 per session, with venues like the Sky Garden at Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown offering this option.

Many venues also offer per person pricing, which typically includes not just the space, but also other services like catering, basic decor, and sometimes even entertainment. This package deal is quite convenient for events where you want most of the details taken care of by the venue. For example, the Patio at Cuisine of India Restaurant offers attractive deals starting at $21 per person, which can be a great choice for birthday parties, family gatherings, or corporate events. (All data from Tagvenue.)

Tagvenue team

Your Guide to Renting Outdoor Venues in Chicago, IL

Whether it’s a beach party at North Avenue or a garden brunch in Lincoln Park, Chicago makes it easy to find the best outdoor venues for any vibe or occasion.

Top Neighborhoods for Outdoor Events in Chicago

Lakeview

Lakeview blends urban energy with green spaces, making it one of the most versatile areas for outdoor events. You’ll find everything from lakefront golf courses to hidden park venues.

Best for: Outdoor weddings, corporate picnics, golf-themed team outings
Venue tip: Check out venues near the Marovitz Golf Course or Diversey Harbor for skyline views and open space.
Top Pick: Barcocina Lakeview This venue’s rooftop and semi-outdoor areas offer views, vibes, and tacos, ideal for stylish yet easygoing gatherings just steps from the lake.

Humboldt Park

Packed with vibrant culture and a massive namesake park, this west side gem is perfect for a relaxed, outdoorsy event. Think paddle boats, murals, and great Puerto Rican food.

Best for: Family parties, birthday picnics, casual receptions
Venue tip: Look for event spaces near the lagoon or Boathouse for a scenic, laid-back setting.
Top Pick: Gold Star Bar Just east of Humboldt Park, this bar offers an outdoor patio and a no-fuss vibe, great for birthday bashes or music-filled meetups with friends.

Lincoln Park

Home to Chicago’s most famous zoo, this lakeside neighborhood is ideal for events that mix nature with city charm.

Best for: Engagement brunches, tourist group events, wedding receptions.
Venue tip: Consider reservable spaces near the Conservatory or Café Brauer for stunning garden views and elegant backdrops.
Top Pick: Blackall Events A stylish, flexible event space just off the park with access to both indoor and outdoor areas—great for intimate receptions with class and character.

Hollywood Park

A quieter, lesser-known neighborhood with over 40 acres of forest preserve—great for low-key or rustic-style events.

Best for: Retreats, camping-themed gatherings, nature-lovers
Venue tip: Look for picnic grove rentals or bring-your-own setups under the trees.
Top Pick: Le Village A charming, tucked-away venue not far from Hollywood Park, ideal for creative gatherings, family meetups, or small outdoor workshops.

Chicago’s Beaches

From buzzing volleyball courts to quiet coves, Chicago’s beaches offer serious flexibility for outdoor events.

North Avenue Beach: Lively, high-energy beach for large parties or active group events—DJ, games, volleyball.
Montrose Beach: Pet-friendly and picnic-ready with open grassy areas nearby.
57th Street Beach: Quieter and ideal for family gatherings or sunset dinners.
Ohio Street Beach: Great for central location and post-swim eats.

Affordable Outdoor Spots In Chicago

From rooftop patios with skyline views to hidden garden courtyards, we’ve got standout spaces for every style and budget. Imagine sipping drinks under the stars in East Village or hosting a lively get-together near Logan Square’s brewery scene. Need a yacht near Museum Campus or something low-key in West Town? Sorted. We’re talking spots like Barcocina, Cleos, and La Parra – real crowd-pleasers without crushing your wallet.

Barcocina West Town / West Loop – East Village, Chicago

Outdoor vibes? Yes – perfect for relaxed rooftop or patio gatherings
Standing Capacity: 40 or up to 400 (multiple space options)
Seated Capacity: 30–250
Price: From $30–$35 per person (session-based)
Why we love it: Think tacos, cocktails, and an easygoing crowd. Ideal for birthdays, reunions, or happy hours with a lively twist.

La Parra Restaurant & Bar – Berwyn, IL

Standing Capacity: 70–165
Seated Capacity: 60–160
Price: Just $28 per person
Why we love it: Spanish-inspired charm meets wallet-friendly pricing. A great pick for family-style dining or classy celebrations without downtown prices.

Pilot Project Brewing – Logan Square, Chicago

Standing Capacity: 291
Seated Capacity: 190
Price: Starts at $2100 hire fee per hour
Why we love it: Sleek brewery with semi-outdoor setups, loads of craft beer, and room to mingle. Great for team parties or casual receptions with flair.

Chicago’s Outdoor Event Spaces for Large Groups

Chicago’s outdoor event spaces can handle large groups with style and space to spare. From breweries to banquet-style patios, you’ll find plenty of roomy venues across the city and suburbs that are perfect for big crowds. Here are three options you haven’t seen yet that are built to host large groups comfortably:

Church Street Brewing Company – North Itasca, IL

Standing Capacity: 1,200
Seating Capacity: 100
Price: $20 per person
Why it works: With a massive open layout and beer garden vibes, this is a go-to for festivals, company picnics, or casual large-scale gatherings. It’s spacious, affordable, and ready to pour.

Pinstripes – Northbrook

Standing Capacity: 250
Seating Capacity: 300
Price: Starts at $5,000 minimum spend
Why it works: This place is a hybrid playground—outdoor space, private areas, plus bowling and bocce inside. It’s great for corporate outings, fundraisers, and weddings with big guest lists.

Azul – West Town, Chicago, IL

Standing Capacity: 240
Seating Capacity: 160
Price: $55 per person (evening session)
Why it works: Known for its vibrant decor and smooth transition from patio to interior lounge, Azul nails the balance between space and atmosphere—ideal for stylish, large-scale dinners or celebrations.

Chicago’s Outdoor Spots with Indoor Alternatives In Case of Bad Weather

Many of Chicago’s outdoor venues are prepared for those classic Windy City weather surprises. Plenty of them offer indoor backup options or flexible semi-outdoor spaces so your event stays on track, rain or shine.

Spirit Elephant – Winnetka, IL

Outdoor/Indoor Setup: Covered patio with seamless transition to indoor dining – very weather-friendly

Standing Capacity: 70–210

Seated Capacity: 43–131

Price: From $40 per person

Ideal for: Wellness retreats, small weddings, or eco-conscious events with great food (it's plant-based and proud)

Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery – Washington Heights, Chicago

Outdoor/Indoor Setup: Gorgeous vineyard-style outdoor area with an indoor tasting room for rain plan

Standing Capacity: 150

Seated Capacity: 90

Price: $1000 minimum spend

Ideal for: Laid-back celebrations, wine tastings, and artsy events with a rustic twist

The Ivy Hotel – Rooftop Lounge – Streeterville, Chicago, IL

Outdoor/Indoor Setup: Rooftop terrace with access to a sleek indoor lounge

Standing Capacity: 100

Price: From $58 per person

Ideal for: Chic cocktail parties, engagement dos, or anything with skyline views

Unique Outdoor Party Ideas That Work in Chicago

Break out of the usual BBQ routine with outdoor event ideas that feel fresh but don’t require an event planner:

Backyard Movie Night:
Rent a projector, toss down poufs and beanbags, and screen a nostalgic favorite—whether it’s Clueless or The Matrix.
Wine & Cheese on the Patio:
Book a venue with terrace seating and scenic views. Some venues offer curated pairings; if not, bring your own sommelier or keep it casual with local wine shops.
90s Dance Party Outdoors:
Dig up your throwback playlist and book a venue with outdoor lighting or a covered pavilion. Spice Girls, disco balls, and plenty of room to dance.

Booking Outdoor Venues in Chicago – What to Know

Minimum spend vs hire fees: Most venues operate on a minimum spend model—great if you plan to cater or set up a bar tab.
BYOB vs in-house catering: Many garden and park venues are BYOB-friendly; beaches may have stricter rules.
Sound & music: Double-check sound ordinances, especially in public parks or near residential areas.
Accessibility: Look for flat ground, nearby public transit, and ADA-compliant restrooms if needed.