The Best Beach & Waterfront Wedding Venues in Aurora, IL

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5 Wedding Venues in Aurora, IL

Beaches, waterfront settings
300+ guests
Parkway Banquets 
Rating: 4.9 (7 reviews)
  • Up to 400 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Parkway Banquets has TWO amazing locations located just 2.8 miles apart! 1)PARKWAY BY THE LAKE - Ingleside, IL (capacity for 200), & 2)PARKWAY BANQUETS SALON - Round Lake, IL (capacity for 400). We're truly unique! Our Ingleside venue is waterside! Nestled on the shores of Long Lake, we're right next to the beautiful Lake County Forest Preserve. This is one of the most incredible settings you will ever find. The canopied, outdoor ceremony area is surrounded by nature! Our Round Lake venue boasts opulence & class with crystal chandeliers suspended from 12' ceilings, and dramatic ceiling drapery. Our AH-MAZING, all-inclusive wedding packages are inexpensive & straight forward, making planning stress-free. We work with you to customize a package that focuses on what's most important to YOU. What's the most common comment from Parkway's guests? "This is the BEST wedding I've ever been to!" Find out why Parkway Banquets is Lake County's BEST KEPT SECRET! We can't wait to tell you more!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Allows pets
  • Bridal suite on site
  • Multiple event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
“Jerry and his crew made out wedding day incredible! They helped run the whole day, they got the guests seated, kept everything on schedule, and ensured that Ben and I didn't have to worry about anything. When our flowergirl got stage-fright right before walking down the aisle, Jerry swooped in to save the day and helped her find her mom. We initially didn't plan to do a grand entrance into the reception, but Jerry and the DJ (Megan from Music that Moves) made one happen last-minute so our flower girl could have a second shot ar throwing her petals. You're not just getting a venue at Parkway, you're getting a whole team who will make your event run smoothly. If we ever do a vow renewal or anniversary party, we will be back!”
Emily-Paige & B., a year ago
Pinstripes Oak Brook 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
Oak Brook, IL
  • Up to 1000 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Whether you are hosting a wedding reception, ceremony, bridal shower or bachelor(ette) party our dynamic ballrooms and private event spaces provide an upscale yet relaxed space for your special day. We host truly unique events and deliver sophisticated fun through combining our from-scratch Italian-America menu with the classic games of bowling and bocce ball. Let our talented event team work with you on a customized event to suit your personal style and help you bring your dream wedding to life to create a perfect day that you and all your guests will be sure to remember!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Romantic vineyard setting
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No free parking
Awarded Best of Zola
“Pinstripes Oak Brook was an absolute pleasure to work with for our wedding. From the very beginning, their communication was fast, organized, and easy to access through their online portal, which made planning a breeze. On the day of, their team was incredibly flexible and professional, ensuring everything flowed seamlessly and efficiently. The venue itself was truly magical - a fun and unique space that provided great value for the money. Our guests raved about the experience, and we couldn't have asked for a more perfect setting to celebrate our special day. Highly recommend Pinstripes Oak Brook to any couple looking for a well-thought-out, fun, and memorable wedding venue. Shila & Nick were a dream team.”
Jessica W., 2 years ago
Quick responder
Elara Banquets at The Holiday Inn 
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
Crystal Lake, IL
  • Up to 1200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,000

Elara Banquets at The Holiday Inn features a flexible ballroom with 19 function rooms that can accommodate up to 1,200 guests. And introducing, The Statement at Elara, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication. With stunning oak flooring, soaring architecture, and an abundance of natural light. The Statement at Elara was designed to turn every gathering into an unforgettable experience. Featuring a wraparound outdoor deck overlooking our private pond, perfect for a shower, rehearsal, or cocktails. In addition to our banquet hall, the Holiday Inn features 197 newly renovated guest rooms on 6 floors, we offer our award-winning restaurant, lobby bar, and the area's largest resort-like indoor pool. Elara will provide you personalized event planning for wedding ceremonies, receptions, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, post wedding brunches and bridal showers. Choose your décor and menu from our on-site catering to make your special day your own unique vision.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Offers convenient lodging options
  • Allows pets

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
“I loved Elara banquets. I had several events ranging from birthday parties and family weddings at this hall and everything has always gone so smoothly. The staff is so friendly, the prices are great, and the space is beautiful.”
Samira, 8 months ago
Quick responder
City Cruises Chicago 
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 745 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $2,600

Create the wedding of your dreams on the most unique venue imaginable. Our all-inclusive packages and dedicated wedding team will help make planning as stress-free as possible. Custom-create your perfect day with chef-designed menus, exceptional service, and unforgettable views from our indoor and outdoor decks where there’s plenty of room for dining, dancing, and festivities. Come aboard and tie the knot with City Cruises!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Multiple event spaces
  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Full catering menu to choose from

Venue considerations

  • No on-site bridal suite
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not wheelchair accessible
“I had an EXCELLENT experience with City Cruises for my August wedding reception / brunch cruise. The sales manager, Serena, event coordinator, Andria, and all the service staff were wonderful. I had dozens of questions running up to the wedding about optimizing my budget and incorporating all kinds of guest preferences—Andria and Serena were so patient. In the actual day of, food was good, drinks were good, DJ was fabulous and incorporated French, English, and Spanish songs requests for my guests. I loved this choice for reception venue and would do it again in a heartbeat.”
Reine R., a year ago
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Offshore Rooftop 
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 350 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Offshore is the newest premier rooftop event space and restaurant in Chicago: located at the end of iconic Navy Pier, with sweeping views of the Chicago skyline, making this the perfect space for any event. Listed as the Largest Rooftop Bar in the WORLD by Guinness Book of World Records, there is a space and option for just about any event. Within Offshore, we allow full or partial buyouts, or there are a variety of semi-private indoor/outdoor spaces available. The modern design allows for a space that feels like a vacation without leaving town. With retractable walls that allow an indoor/outdoor feel, as well as floor to ceiling windows throughout the space, and an incredible amount of outdoor areas filled with lounge furniture, Offshore is the ideal space to show off Chicago hospitality in style.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Caters to out-of-town guests
  • Dressing room available
  • Space for a large guest list

Venue considerations

  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • Does not allow pets
  • No free parking
“Offshore Rooftop was the perfect venue for our wedding day. Their communication throughout the entire process was excellent - they were always responsive to our questions and provided clear information. The venue itself is absolutely gorgeous, with stunning city and Lake Michigan views, and the value was great, with no hidden fees or surprises with the final cost. We barely needed decor because the place is so beautiful, the pictures turned out incredible. Everything on the day of the wedding ran so smoothly, and they were incredibly flexible with any last minute changes or requests we had. We were fortunately able to have our ceremony outside but they already created a backup plan in case of inclement weather. We also loved that they allowed us to bring our dog to be part of the celebration. Offshore Rooftop truly contributed to making our special day perfect.”
Heidi C., 2 years ago

Location flexible? Discover venues near Aurora, IL

Quick responder
Acre 17 Weddings & Events
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
Ottawa, IL
Weber House & Garden
Streator, IL
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Pine Hills
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Ottawa, IL
Westclox Event Center
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)
Peru, IL
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The Ironwood on Vermillion
La Salle, IL
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The Silver Fox
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
Streator, IL
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Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
Rating: 4.8 (5 reviews)
Utica, IL
August Hill Winery
Utica, IL
Co. 614 Events
Rating: 4.0 (1 review)
Utica, IL
The Auditorium Ballroom
La Salle, IL
The Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Company
Ottawa, IL
The Mora Farm
Waterman, IL

Event types for wedding venues in Aurora, IL

About wedding venues in Aurora, IL

Aurora wedding venues offer exceptional value at $10,665 on average, a significant savings compared to downtown Chicago prices. You'll appreciate the stunning Fox River views and historic architecture that make this city special, plus the diverse venue options that accommodate different wedding styles while keeping you conveniently close to the metropolitan area.

What Makes Aurora Wedding Venues Stand Out?

Aurora features an impressive range of wedding spaces from the elegant Meyer Ballroom at Paramount to rustic settings like Venue 5126, with capacities spanning from intimate 50-person gatherings to celebrations for over 300 guests. Most venues give you flexibility with both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces. You'll love the picturesque river views and historic architectural details that create perfect photo backdrops, and many venues offer customizable all-inclusive packages that take the stress out of planning your special day. A typical Aurora wedding runs about $24,093 for 50 guests and scales up to $40,625 for 100 guests $56,164 for 150 guests $70,046 for 200 guests $83,928 for 250 guests and $97,810 for 300 guests. Your venue will represent around 19% of your total wedding budget which is actually better than the national average of 25% meaning you're getting great value for your celebration dollar.

Which Aurora Venues Are Fully Accessible?

Paramount's Meyer Ballroom delivers stunning riverfront views and gives you multiple ceremony options for up to 250 guests. You'll work with their professional team who ensures seamless communication throughout the planning process and the venue is fully accessible so all your guests can comfortably participate in your celebration. Venue 5126 brings elegant rustic charm across 7 acres of picturesque farmland with both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces that accommodate 201-250 guests. You should connect directly with the venue for specific accessibility features as these can vary by location and your specific needs.

How Do Aurora Venues Support Remote Participation?

Most Aurora venues provide basic streaming capabilities for your ceremony but if you're looking for enhanced remote experiences you'll want to discuss custom technology integration directly with your chosen venue. Nearby options like The Haley Mansion and The Emerald Acres offer spacious settings that can easily support customized audio-visual setups allowing your remote guests to feel fully included in your special day.

Where Can You Find Outstanding Culinary Experiences in Aurora?

Belle Salle Banquets sits on a beautiful six-acre private estate and delivers upscale catering experiences. You'll work with professional chefs who create memorable wedding menus tailored to your tastes and preferences. Mesón Sabika in nearby Naperville offers refined catering in an elegant mansion setting. Your guests will appreciate their highly praised culinary offerings that combine sophisticated presentation with exceptional flavor. Aurora Country Club and Blackberry Farm both feature excellent food quality with highly regarded in-house catering teams. You'll enjoy their focus on fresh well-crafted menus that can be customized to match your wedding vision.

How Much Should You Budget for Your Aurora Wedding?

Wedding ServiceAverage CostPercentage of Total Budget
Venue$10,66519%
Catering$8,53215%
Florists$7,46613%
Bar Services$6,82612%
Photographers$4,8359%
Videographers$4,4088%
Planners$3,8517%
Bands and DJs$1,7503%
Hair & Makeup$4001%
Cakes and desserts$6681%

When Should You Book Your Aurora Wedding Venue?

Most couples secure their Aurora venue about 16 months before their wedding date with November being the peak month for inquiries. You'll need to book earlier for summer weddings between June and August as well as early fall dates since these have the highest demand. Popular venues like Paramount's Meyer Ballroom fill up especially quickly so reaching out as soon as you set your date will give you the best chance of securing your dream location.

How Can Zola Help With Your Aurora Wedding Planning?

Zola's Aurora-specific venue tools include guest count calculators that match perfectly to venue capacities and budget planning features aligned with local pricing. You can create integrated wedding websites that showcase your chosen venue while providing your guests with essential details about transportation nearby accommodations and special venue features. This makes planning easier for you and attending more enjoyable for everyone on your guest list.

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