Top 10 Stunning Spaces for Your Big Day, from a Chicago Wedding Photographer
Luxury Wedding Venues in Chicago that offer style, elegance, and unforgettable experiences are definitely not hard to come by. Whether you’re planning a huge celebration, a stunning city wedding, or a more intimate wedding day, the city’s venues have something for every couple. I’ve compiled my top 10 favorite spots, including insights on pricing, the vibe, and what makes each location special. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in tips from my perspective as a Chicago wedding photographer, so you know what to expect when it comes to capturing your day because the venue also sets the vibe for your photos.
Artifact Events – Chicago, IL an iconic Luxury Wedding Venue in Chicago
Artifact Events offers an urban loft atmosphere with exposed brick and modern design, perfect for couples who want an industrial chic wedding in the city. There are two floors with different rooms plus a courtyard. When it comes to finding Luxury Wedding Venues in Chicago, this venue is one of my favorites.
Pricing: Inquire with them for accurate pricing!
Vibe: Urban loft with industrial flair
Guest Count: 50-1,500 guest count according to their website.
The combination of industrial and elegance here is beautiful, also the open space allows for creative, editorial-style photos that are both romantic and fun.
Monte Bello Estate – Lemont, IL
If you’re dreaming of an elegant wedding surrounded by nature, Monte Bello Estate is a showstopper. On 65+ acres of gardens and wildflowers, this estate offers multiple ceremony options, from forested paths to beautiful indoor spaces.
Pricing: $7,000–$14,850 depending on the day of the week according to their website.
Vibe: Elegance meets natural beauty
Guest Count: 275 max
As a photographer, I love Monte Bello because of the variety of backdrops. From stunning gardens to charming indoor details it creates endless photo opportunities that feel timeless and romantic. It is a private area, and it has a luxury feel to it.
The Penthouse Hyde Park – Chicago, IL
The Penthouse Hyde Park combines a unique and historic charm with breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
Pricing: $4,000–$10,000 for full wedding packages depending on the season based on a quick search, however inquire for more accurate pricing too.
Vibe: Art sophistication with skyline and lake views
Guest Count: 150-200 depending on the space you go with
From a photography standpoint, the rooftop terrace is a dream for sunset portraits, and the indoor ballroom offers classic, very unique and luxury feels that highlights the energy of your wedding day.
Firehouse Chicago – Chicago, IL
For a cozy yet stylish wedding, Firehouse Chicago offers vintage charm with modern touches. Located in Edgewater, the venue has high ceilings and a balcony view of their gardens.
Pricing: Inquire with them for more accurate pricing!
Vibe: Vintage charm with modern rustic flair
Guest Count: 100 guest capacity, great for a more intimate wedding for sure.
Having photographed weddings here, I can tell you the light and layout make it easy to capture authentic, heartfelt moments without sacrificing elegance. It has a cozy intimate feel.
Chicago Winery – Chicago, IL | an intimate Luxury Wedding Venue in Chicago
The Chicago Winery is a stunning location for up to 200 guests or even a more intimate wedding day. They have indoor and outdoor spaces for the ceremony set up, its very elegant but feels cozy with their dim lighting. Of course they also have an incredible drink and food menu. If you’re interested in Luxury Wedding Venues in Chicago that also feels intimate, this one may be for you.
Pricing: Inquire with them directly for more accurate pricing!
Vibe: Elegant, cozy, intimate… and WINE.
Guest Count: 200 guest capacity
I recommend the Chicago Winery for couples looking for an elegant yet intimate wedding day with full service.
The Drake Hotel – Chicago, IL | A Classic and Luxury Wedding Venue in Chicago
Iconic and timeless, The Drake Hotel has long been a go-to for classic Chicago weddings. Featuring a ballroom, beautiful dining room, right in the city.
Pricing: Starting at $11,190 for 50 guests as shown online, however inquire with them for more details.
Vibe: Timeless elegance with grand ballrooms and lakefront views
Guest Count: Online shows it can accommodate 360-900 guests.
From a photography perspective, the grand architecture and ballroom details make it easy to create images that are both elegant and emotional.
The Langham – Chicago, IL
With stunning Chicago views, The Langham has a luxury grand ballroom and exceptional service making sure your day feels perfect. It shows you can have an indoor or outdoor ceremony here too.
Pricing: You need to inquire with them for pricing, as it’s not directly listed.
Vibe: Luxury with panoramic views of the city
Guest Count: 250 max capacity
The natural light, staircases, and elegant interiors allow for both classic portraits and candid moments that feel effortless, authentic, and high end.
The Rookery Building – Chicago, IL
For couples seeking historic charm, the Rookery Building provides beautiful architecture, has a glass atrium, and other classy and beautiful details.
Pricing: Contact the venue for details on cost!
Vibe: Historic charm with a very classy, and elegant feel
Guest count: 200-400 guests
I love this venue as a photographer because it offers a dramatic, timeless backdrop while allowing couples to add their own touches.
The Peninsula – Chicago, IL
Known for exceptional service, panoramic city views above The Magnificent Mile, and luxurious accommodations this venue choice is one for the books.
Pricing: No pricing listed online, however make sure to reach out for cost.
Vibe: Modern elegance
Guest Count: On Their site it shows up to 500 guests
The clean, bright interior combined with rooftop access allow for both intimate portraits and elegant shots that capture the beauty of your day. Plus we’re right in the city so we can run off for some city portraits too.
Chicago History Museum – Chicago, IL
If you’re drawn to history and culture, the Chicago History Museum is a unique wedding venue.
Pricing: Contact venue for details, however their site shows a starting cost of 6,000 and going up to 11,000+ based on the day and season.
Vibe: Classic elegance with a touch of history
Guest Count: 260 to 350 guests
From a photographer’s perspective, the museum’s mix of indoor and outdoor space gives you variety in your wedding gallery. From dramatic architectural shots to soft, garden-lit portraits.
Why Booking the Right Photographer Matters when securing Luxury Wedding Venues in Chicago
As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’ve worked in some Luxury Wedding Venues in Chicago and know how to capture the best angles, lighting, and moments that make each wedding different. A venue can be gorgeous, but having someone who can anticipate the light, guide your timeline, and capture your connection authentically is priceless and truly makes a big difference. I’m Kim — and no, it’s not short for Kardashian 😉 I’m here to make your wedding day as stress-free and fun as possible while creating photos that make you feel all the feels every time you look at them. I specialize in blending candid, emotional moments, with true to color photographs so your gallery feels exactly like the day was.
MY AVERAGE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY INVESTMENT STARTS AT $4,500
Your venue sets the scene, and I make sure your memories are framed perfectly. Ready to capture your day? Let’s chat, I’d love to help make your wedding unforgettable!
