The Best Wedding Venues in Lake Forest, IL

The Best Wedding Venues in Lake Forest, IL

How do we sort results, including Sponsored Ads and personalized results?


12 Wedding Venues in Lake Forest, IL

Beaches, waterfront settings
Historic estates, mansions
Hotels, inns, resorts
Aquariums, zoos
Quick responder
Parkway Banquets 

4.9

Ingleside, IL
  • 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
Parkway Banquets provided an exceptional experience for our wedding day. Their communication was very prompt, friendly, and helpful throughout the entire planning process. The quality of their service was outstanding - the venue was beautifully maintained with a gorgeous lake view that created the perfect backdrop for our ceremony. The staff worked tirelessly to orchestrate the event flawlessly, ensuring everything ran smoothly without a hitch. We were thoroughly impressed by their attention to detail and hard work in making our special day truly perfect. I would highly recommend Parkway Banquets to any couple looking for a stunning venue with impeccable service.
Tammy S., a month ago
Quick responder
Bay Pointe 

5.0

  • Up to 300 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $6,000

When you celebrate your wedding or special event at Bay Pointe, you and your guests will experience distinct personalized service centered around you and your dreams. Conveniently located between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo or Chicago and Detroit, Bay Pointe Inn overlooks the islands of Gun Lake and offers a variety of unique onsite event venues. The Lakefront Pavilion, BoatHouse Villa and the all new Bay Pointe Woods, are each exceptionally designed and comfortable event spaces. As a flexible all-season, venue, our events and banquet teams specialize in vibrant spring weddings, lavish summer ceremonies, twilight autumn weddings and indoor winter weddings where up to 300 guests are warmed by a floor to ceiling fireplace. Each of our unique venue spaces has been designed to ensure a successful event by enjoying a variety of event styles and effortless entertaining with family and friends.

Why you'll love this venue

  • All-inclusive venue packages
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
My husband and I recently got married at the stunning Lakefront Pavilion at Bay Pointe Inn — and from the very beginning, we knew it was the place we wanted to say “I do.” We have absolutely no regrets! The venue is breathtaking on its own, with gorgeous waterfront views that created the most peaceful, romantic atmosphere. On top of that, the staff’s hospitality was next-level. They provided so much helpful guidance throughout the planning process and truly made everything feel seamless. Even without a wedding planner, I felt fully supported thanks to their incredible in-house catering and event managers (shoutout to Mariesa and Juno!) and our amazing day-of coordinator, Meagan. She ran the show flawlessly and went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect — I truly can’t thank her enough. We also hosted our rehearsal dinner onsite in the Fireside Room, which made everything so easy and gave us extra time to enjoy with our family and wedding party. The food was delicious, and another huge perk was staying in the beautiful Bay Pointe cottages. Having a place right at the venue for all of us to stay and celebrate together made the weekend even more special. All night long, our guests raved about how beautiful the venue was. It was everything we dreamed of and more — the most magical place to start our forever. We truly couldn’t recommend Bay Pointe more!!
Kate O., 4 months ago
The Armour House at Lake Forest Academy 

5.0

Lake Forest, IL
  • Up to 200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $15,000

The house, known today as Reid Hall, was completed in 1908 and the family moved in on May 5, led by J. Ogden Armour, until approximately September of 1927. Many of the house’s mantle pieces, there are 15, and the paneling of the library reading room (or former living room), were imported from Paris, Vienna and London, including the marble dining room while the main walls are of Italian marble, the central panels of each wall have been painted over the plaster to simulate actual marble. It is also reputed that the marble staircase was built with the primary purpose in mind that their daughter, Lolita Ogden Armour, would descend the curving stairway on her wedding day, which she did in 1921, to John J. Mitchell, Jr. Eventually the property was sold to Lake Forest Academy where classes began in 1948. Today, Academy grounds total approximately 170 acres.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Provides event staff

Venue considerations

  • Lighting and sound are not included
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No free parking
The Armour House is truly a dream venue, it feels like you're at an Italian villa but in the middle of Lake Forest, IL. The entire staff is fantastic and they also help manage day of coordinating. I could not recommend this venue enough!
Kelly B., a year ago
The Forester Hotel 
Lake Forest, IL
  • Up to 115 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor

“Love of Science and Nature” - It’s the founding motto of Lake Forest, IL, and the inspiration for the identity of our hotel. A forester, by definition, is an expert in the science of forestry. But at The Forester Hotel, they are also someone who is at the heart of two roads diverged; be it the crossroads of science and nature, tradition and innovation, or in your case, past and future, as you make plans to embark on a lifelong journey together. We’re passionate about preservation, but we’re not afraid to blaze new trails or unearth something new as part of the scientific method. Are you ready to discover innovative event spaces, deluxe dining, and memorable experiences? Are you naturally curious? Let your beautiful wedding blossom at The Forester. From the rehearsal to the "I do" to the farewell, we can host it all. With one phone call, you can check your room block, rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, and farewell brunch off your to-do list.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Dressing room available
  • Has onsite accommodations

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No free parking
The Highland Park Community House 

5.0

Highland Park, IL
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $8,000

The Highland Park Community House is an elegant wedding venue located in the heart of Highland Park's vibrant and well-known downtown district. This warm and inviting venue is a beautifully renovated historic landmark that evokes the glamour of the past with its art deco fixtures, vaulted ceilings and gorgeous hardwood floors. With stunning indoor and outdoor space, this venue can be converted into many configurations to graciously accommodate smaller events and weddings. One of the unique aspects of our special venue is you can bring in any vendor, caterer, food, beverage, decor of your choosing making it affordable on all budgets to create the wedding of your dreams.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • No free parking
  • Requires outside catering services
  • Not wheelchair accessible
HPCH is a beautiful venue in Chicago's North Shore. The ballroom is gorgeous and the garden areas are lovely. Highly recommend!
Maya, 5 years ago
Cuneo Mansion & Gardens 

5.0

Vernon Hills, IL
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $25,000

Located in Vernon Hills, Illinois, Loyola Lake County is home to the Cuneo family collection of fine art and furnishings, set in a beautiful 100-acre estate. Since receiving the estate, Loyola has completed a number of renovations and added a meeting and event pavilion for courses, lectures and special events. Loyola will continue its investment in the mansion.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Classic, vintage atmosphere
  • Blends luxury with trendiness

Venue considerations

  • Lighting and sound are not included
  • No free parking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Cuneo Mansion was perfect for our 220 guest wedding! #1 reason why we booked was for the outdoor space and mansion grounds - it is breathtaking! You will have one of the best cocktail hours, plus it gives your guests a place to mingle outside if they aren't dancing.
Sarah Y., a year ago
Quick responder
Royal Melbourne Country Club 

5.0

Long Grove, IL
  • Up to 220 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $10,000

This is the moment you've always envisioned, a unique celebration that will hold a cherished spot in your memories forever. Allow the seasoned team at Royal Melbourne to transform your country club wedding in Long Grove into an unforgettable affair for you and your guests. We're committed to delivering the premier golf course wedding experience in Lake County. At Royal Melbourne Country Club, we feature a sophisticated ballroom with sweeping French windows and a secluded veranda that offers views of the 18th green. Our exclusive private rooms, exceptional chef, and dedicated staff all work together to make your event remarkable. Your extraordinary golf course wedding will be an event that both you and your guests will treasure for years to come.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Space for a large guest list
  • Historic touches
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • Lighting and sound are not included
It doesn't get better than the Royal Melbourne. Wedding couples and their guests are immediately surrounded in country club level elegance. Both indoor and outdoor ceremony options are eye popping which means wedding photos you'll treasure for a lifetime. -Rev. Michael Vargas
Rev. Michael V., 7 months ago
Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Deerfield 
Deerfield, IL
  • Up to 42 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $100

Discover a stay that moves you forward at Courtyard Chicago Deerfield. Our hotel in Deerfield IL has everything you need to maintain your momentum on the road. Recharge in our rooms and suites with plush Marriott bedding, ergonomic workspaces, and flat-panel TVs with streaming services. Savor balanced entrees, Starbucks® coffee, and craft cocktails at the Bistro or try restaurants nearby like Sarpino's, J. Alexander's, and Carson's Ribs. Stay active at our indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center or enjoy outdoor recreation nearby at the Park District of Highland Park. During your stay, experience the best of the North Shore with a visit to attractions like Chicago Botanic Garden, Hidden Creek Aquapark, and Ravinia®. Our free parking and convenient location near the Loop also makes our venues a great choice for your upcoming event. No matter what brings you to town, make the most of it at Courtyard Deerfield.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers convenient lodging options
  • Provides catering services
  • Perfect for a micro-wedding

Venue considerations

  • Small venue, not ideal for a large guest lists
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not allow pets
Hyatt Deerfield 
Deerfield, IL
  • Up to 300 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,000

With over 20,000 square feet of elegant event space, the Hyatt Regency Deerfield is a great wedding venue in the North Chicago area. For a grand-scale wedding nothing beats our 4,100-square foot ballroom ideal for up to 260 guests, while our 2,100-square foot ballroom can accommodate about 180 people. Experts in planning and executing unforgettable wedding experiences for our guests, we specialize in Jewish weddings. We will work with you to ensure your cultural traditions are upheld and celebrated. Our event facilities can accommodate everything from intimate ceremonies to lavish events, and our dedicated wedding team will help coordinate every detail along the way. From flowers, photography, catering (including Kosher wedding catering suggestions), entertainment, to booking room blocks for your wedding guests, we’ll help guide your wedding from beginning to end.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Has a chic vibe
  • Provides setup and cleanup

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • On-site parking not available
Quick responder
Doubletree By Hilton Libertyville-Mundelein 
Mundelein, IL
  • Up to 400 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor

With flawless attention to detail, a variety of settings and a star-quality catering staff, we will turn your dream wedding into reality! The team at DoubleTree will work with you to create your wedding celebrations using a stylish and personalized approach. We offer so many amenities that will make your whole day come together. We cater to only one wedding per evening so you are assured our unwavering attention! We look forward to making your wedding dreams come true- book today!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Surrounded by nature
  • Provides catering services
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No on-site guest accommodations
The Westin Chicago North Shore 
Wheeling, IL
  • Up to 900 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Experience elegance and sophistication at the Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, where sleek, modern ballrooms with soaring 20-foot high ceilings set the stage for unforgettable events. Complementing the grandeur of our indoor spaces is an enchanting outdoor ceremony and cocktail reception area, featuring a tranquil water feature surrounded by a stunning natural setting. Indulge in world-class cuisine crafted by our renowned chef, and allow your guests to unwind in the luxury of our signature "Heavenly Beds" in every guest room. With impeccable service and top-tier amenities, we promise to dazzle your guests from the moment they arrive until the very last farewell.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides catering services
  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Handles all cleanup logistics

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • No free parking
  • Does not provide event staff
Renaissance Hotel 
Northbrook, IL
  • Up to 500 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $10,000

Our wedding venues on Chicago's North Shore offer beautiful backdrops for ceremonies and receptions Select from our hotel's 18 event venues and accommodate up to 500 guests for your Illinois wedding Ask about The Greenery at our Northbrook hotel, a unique wedding venue with views of the North Shore Indulge your guests at your wedding reception with culinary delights from our talented catering team Let our expert planners handle all the details of your wedding or mitzvah in Northbrook, Illinois Select from our hotel wedding packages and choose your cake, linens, bridal suite and more

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a fun and festive vibe
  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Provides lighting and sound

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists

Location flexible? Discover venues near Lake Forest, IL

About wedding venues in Lake Forest, IL

Planning your Illinois wedding opens up a world of venue options from The Seville's all-inclusive elegance in Streamwood to the industrial-chic vibes at Warehouse 109 in Plainfield. You'll find perfect spaces for everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations throughout the state.

What Makes Illinois Wedding Venues Special?

Illinois offers remarkable regional diversity in wedding settings. Downtown Chicago venues like The Gwen and Private Dining by Sepia treat you to stunning skyline views and sophisticated urban atmospheres. Head to the suburbs and you'll discover spots like Itasca Country Club with picturesque golf course backdrops. Central Illinois charms with converted barns and historic properties while Southern Illinois tempts with vineyard settings and lakefront locations.

Venue costs in Illinois typically range between $9,600 and $11,700 which aligns well with the national average of $6,500-$12,000 (representing about 25% of your total wedding budget).

How Much Should You Budget for Your Illinois Wedding?

Your guest count dramatically impacts your overall budget:

Guest CountTotal Budget
50 guests$24,093
100 guests$40,625
150 guests$56,164
200 guests$70,046
250 guests$83,928
300 guests$97,810

Where Can You Find Accessible Wedding Venues in Illinois?

If accessibility matters to you Illinois delivers several excellent options. Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton offers wheelchair accessibility while hosting up to 275 guests in naturally elegant surroundings. Loft on Lake in Chicago's West Loop combines wheelchair accessibility with industrial-chic style featuring exposed brick and timber beams. Need space for a larger crowd? Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville accommodates around 600 guests with full accessibility and air-conditioning.

Which Illinois Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

Food can make your wedding truly memorable. The Seville in the Chicagoland area features an award-winning chef who creates show-stopping flaming desserts as part of their comprehensive packages. For an urban setting Salvatore's in Chicago's Lincoln Park consistently earns praise for exceptional cuisine with guests particularly recommending their Tortellini and Tiramisu.

What Are the Cost Breakdowns for a 150-Guest Wedding in Illinois?

For a typical 150-guest wedding totaling $56,164 your budget will likely break down as:

  • Venue: $10,665 (19%)
  • Catering: $8,532 (15%)
  • Florists: $7,466 (13%)
  • Bar Services: $6,826 (12%)
  • Photographers: $4,835 (9%)
  • Videographers: $4,408 (8%)
  • Planners: $3,851 (7%)
  • Bands/DJs: $1,750 (3%)
  • Cakes/Desserts: $668 (1%)
  • Hair & Makeup: $400 (1%)

How Can You Maximize Value at Illinois Wedding Venues?

September stands as Illinois' most popular wedding month so you'll need to book well in advance. Most venues are secured about 15 months (457 days) ahead with venue inquiries typically representing couples' first wedding planning step.

Look for venues offering comprehensive packages that include essentials like tables chairs and audio equipment. This approach often delivers better value than piecing services together separately.

Can Illinois Venues Accommodate Remote Wedding Participants?

While traditional venues might not explicitly advertise advanced remote participation many can adapt for hybrid events. Consider working with places like Cheney Mansion Starved Rock Lodge or Mt. Zion Convention Center to implement interactive elements beyond basic streaming. You could incorporate virtual reality experiences or live polls to keep remote guests fully engaged in your celebration.

Planning your Illinois wedding opens up a world of venue options from The Seville's all-inclusive elegance in Streamwood to the industrial-chic vibes at Warehouse 109 in Plainfield. You'll find perfect spaces for everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations throughout the state.

What Makes Illinois Wedding Venues Special?

Illinois offers remarkable regional diversity in wedding settings. Downtown Chicago venues like The Gwen and Private Dining by Sepia treat you to stunning skyline views and sophisticated urban atmospheres. Head to the suburbs and you'll discover spots like Itasca Country Club with picturesque golf course backdrops. Central Illinois charms with converted barns and historic properties while Southern Illinois tempts with vineyard settings and lakefront locations.

Venue costs in Illinois typically range between $9,600 and $11,700 which aligns well with the national average of $6,500-$12,000 (representing about 25% of your total wedding budget).

How Much Should You Budget for Your Illinois Wedding?

Your guest count dramatically impacts your overall budget:

Guest CountTotal Budget
50 guests$24,093
100 guests$40,625
150 guests$56,164
200 guests$70,046
250 guests$83,928
300 guests$97,810

Where Can You Find Accessible Wedding Venues in Illinois?

If accessibility matters to you Illinois delivers several excellent options. Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton offers wheelchair accessibility while hosting up to 275 guests in naturally elegant surroundings. Loft on Lake in Chicago's West Loop combines wheelchair accessibility with industrial-chic style featuring exposed brick and timber beams. Need space for a larger crowd? Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville accommodates around 600 guests with full accessibility and air-conditioning.

Which Illinois Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

Food can make your wedding truly memorable. The Seville in the Chicagoland area features an award-winning chef who creates show-stopping flaming desserts as part of their comprehensive packages. For an urban setting Salvatore's in Chicago's Lincoln Park consistently earns praise for exceptional cuisine with guests particularly recommending their Tortellini and Tiramisu.

What Are the Cost Breakdowns for a 150-Guest Wedding in Illinois?

For a typical 150-guest wedding totaling $56,164 your budget will likely break down as:

  • Venue: $10,665 (19%)
  • Catering: $8,532 (15%)
  • Florists: $7,466 (13%)
  • Bar Services: $6,826 (12%)
  • Photographers: $4,835 (9%)
  • Videographers: $4,408 (8%)
  • Planners: $3,851 (7%)
  • Bands/DJs: $1,750 (3%)
  • Cakes/Desserts: $668 (1%)
  • Hair & Makeup: $400 (1%)

How Can You Maximize Value at Illinois Wedding Venues?

September stands as Illinois' most popular wedding month so you'll need to book well in advance. Most venues are secured about 15 months (457 days) ahead with venue inquiries typically representing couples' first wedding planning step.

Look for venues offering comprehensive packages that include essentials like tables chairs and audio equipment. This approach often delivers better value than piecing services together separately.

Can Illinois Venues Accommodate Remote Wedding Participants?

While traditional venues might not explicitly advertise advanced remote participation many can adapt for hybrid events. Consider working with places like Cheney Mansion Starved Rock Lodge or Mt. Zion Convention Center to implement interactive elements beyond basic streaming. You could incorporate virtual reality experiences or live polls to keep remote guests fully engaged in your celebration.

What types of wedding venues are in Lake Forest, IL?

What other Lake Forest vendors will I need?

What other wedding venues are nearby?