The Best Raw Wedding Spaces & Venues in Oak Park, IL

The Best Raw Wedding Spaces & Venues in Oak Park, IL

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12 Wedding Venues in Oak Park, IL

Raw space
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The Carter Chicago 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 275 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

The Carter Chicago offers a blend of historic elegance and modern amenities in the city’s Near West Side. The venue’s grand ballroom features ornate details and high ceilings, creating a timeless and sophisticated setting. Guests enjoy the exceptional service and gourmet catering options, tailored to individual preferences. The outdoor courtyard adds a charming touch, perfect for ceremonies and receptions. With its combination of historic charm and modern convenience, The Carter Chicago provides a refined and versatile space for unforgettable weddings.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Space for a large guest list
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Pets can join the celebration

Venue considerations

  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
My husband and I were fortunate enough to have our wedding reception at The Carter in June. From the moment we first toured The Carter up until a few days after our wedding, Chris (owner/operator) and the rest of The Carter staff went above and beyond for us. Chris was super responsive, so easy to work with, and created such an amazing vision for our day. Chris knows what is important to wedding guests and makes sure to prioritize those things - short lines for the bar, guests having a drink in their hand, food served quickly, etc. Everything about the space is perfect, the bridal suite is huge and has so much natural light. I got ready in the morning in the bridal suite and had 10 bridesmaids, my mom, 2 hair stylists, and 2 makeup artists in the space and there was plenty of room for all of us. Our hair stylists, makeup artists, and my bridesmaids raved about the bridal suite - definitely a huge perk of The Carter! The patio space is perfect for cocktail hour, I loved having that outdoor feature and so did our guests. The entrance/welcome space is stunning and such a great way to welcome guests into the space. The main reception area is so beautiful and has so much character with the brick walls and chandeliers that you need minimal decorations/florals which was a huge draw for me. The dance floor is big and fit our band along with all our guests. We were very fortunate to have a perfect 70 degree day so the garage doors were open throughout the entire cocktail hour and reception which was amazing. Literally, every single guest of ours raved about the space. I could go on and on about how amazing it is!! There is also parking easily available which is very rare for wedding venues in the city. We were also surprised the day of our wedding when they let us up onto the roof to get some fun golden hour shots. We had no idea they had roof space that was accessible for that type of pictures! I can't say enough about the staff at The Carter. I already mentioned how great Chris is. Stefan was a newer addition to The Carter staff and we were fortunate to work with him in the last week leading up to our wedding. He was there to let us drop off stuff a few days prior to the wedding and he had everything organized for us. The day of the wedding, Stefan was making sure our drinks for the bridal suite were on ice, he made sure trash was cleaned up, and would continually check on us to see if we needed anything. He told me, "you're not lifting a finger today" and me and my bridesmaids were so appreciative of everything he did for us. At the cocktail hour and reception, the servers and bartenders were great. Food came out quickly and there were no issues. Stefan was even sweet enough to let us leave some stuff after the reception and my friend came by to get the rest of it on Monday. Moral of the story is The Carter is hands down the best and really wants to make your wedding day perfect for you. Our day was literally perfection and we have The Carter to thank for that!
Claire B., 2 years ago
Quick responder
Loft Lucia 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 120 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

This 7,500 square foot lofty gem is nestled in the heart of the West Loop. The architecture is both modern and tasteful, showcasing both Venetian plaster and exposed brick walls, alongside marble slab bars harmonizing texture with elegance. Each of its two floors is impeccably decorated equipped with a full bar. The main floor, located on the third floor of the building, features a commercial-grade kitchen. The top floor features a stunning floor to ceiling retractable glass wall that vanishes to reveal the seamless flow between their indoor cocktail area and their outdoor terrace space. Their selection of lounge furniture, dining tables, and interior decor provides clients with an endless amount of arrangements to choose from. The flexibility of the space makes the venue suitable for private parties, fundraisers, corporate events (both intimate and large scale), and weddings. The venue can be rented in its entirety or each floor separately.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Provides event staff
  • Raw space for complete customization

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
Loft Lucia was our perfect venue. We found it through Zola initially and immediately fell in love. We knew we wanted to get married in Chicago but wanted something different and more unique! They were responsive to our initial inquiry and we booked it before ever touring it. The pictures are exactly what you get and ours was a perfect fay
Courtney M., 3 years ago
Quick responder
Bridgeport Art Center 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 750 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor & indoor

Located in a historic 1911 building, it’s been sustainably rehabbed while keeping its raw but elegant essence/nature, it is the most unique space in Chicago. Here you will find your ultimate space for any special event whether it’s a wedding, special occasion, or an intimate gathering. Skyline Loft is completely transformable to make your event unique and unforgettable.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Allows pets
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No all-inclusive dining options
We had an amazing experience with the Sculpture Garden at Bridgeport Art Center. We started our process with Claire who was super accommodating with a last minute Friday evening tour to accommodate my work schedule, once we booked we worked with Eleanor who was also wonderful. Communication with both was timely and efficient and they were super patient with all my questions! The space itself was stunning, guests are still commenting on it a month later! For us it was awesome to have an “outdoor wedding” that didn’t need a rain plan due to the cover on the ceremony space. You felt like you were outside with more of the comforts of an inside space, and the pictures turned out amazing with the natural light, tall ceilings and chandeliers! The indoor space is just as lovely and the night flowed beautifully thanks to the venue team!
Lauren, 5 months ago
GemHidden gem
The Pittsfield 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $10,000

Step back in time to 1927 and celebrate your special day at our elegant downtown Chicago wedding venue. The Pittsfield building is a key part of the Chicago skyline and nestled in it's heart, this historic atrium exudes timeless charm and sophistication. Imagine exchanging vows under soaring ceilings adorned with vintage chandeliers, surrounded by rich architectural details that tell a story of a bygone era. Our venue offers the perfect blend of vintage charm and contemporary luxury, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration of love and commitment.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers full flexibility in setup and decor
  • Designed for grand celebrations
  • Handles all cleanup logistics

Venue considerations

  • Does not provide event staff
  • No free parking
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
As a wedding vendor, I highly recommend The Pittsfield. The staff is professional, communicative and accommodating, and the venue itself is beautiful and versatile. It’s always a pleasure to work here, and the setting is ideal for a wedding.
Kendra S., a year ago
Quick responder
Field Museum 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 1000 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

Sip champagne on our terrace overlooking Lake Michigan. Dance under the shadowed silhouette of Máximo the Titanosaur. Pose for photos in front of an Egyptian mastaba. Celebrate with your guests amid millions of artifacts and specimens—and invite them to explore the exhibitions while they take a break from drinks and dancing. Our variety of spaces accommodate as few as 10 and up to more than 1,000 guests: Celebrate outdoors with a ceremony on the terrace or cocktails in the Rice Native Plant Gardens, or transform the museum’s iconic Stanley Field Hall or East Atrium for your dream wedding.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Provides event staff
  • Multiple event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • No in-house catering options
My husband and I just celebrated our wedding reception at the Field and it was beyond anything I could have dreamed. Peyton and every single Field staff member were amazing to work with. The Field works with the most remarkable vendors in the city and every minute detail is considered and covered. The museum has been a special place for my husband and I. For us to have had our reception there was a dream come true. There is no other space in the city like it! Our guests had a ball being able to explore the exhibits and grounds of the museum. It wasn’t just a reception, it was the experience of a lifetime!
Colleen M., 3 years ago
Grand Personal Chef 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 40 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,500

Welcome to the kitchen studio! With over 1800 sqft. of Indoor and outdoor private space. The space features a large open living area, full kitchen and private outdoor patio w/ fire pit. The kitchen includes a curated living room with a mix of vintage and new Mid-Century Modern furniture, free wifi, Sonos speakers, dual LG built-in wall ovens, electric countertop Whirlpool range, two reach-in LG refrigerator/freezers, tons of countertop space for prep and seating, and coffee/ wet bar. Equipped with all of the essential cooking tools and dining accessories. this bright kitchen studio is great for hosting a friends get-together, showers, meetings, family reunions and small intimate dinner parties.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Has an intimate feel for a small guest list

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • Better for more intimiate events
  • No built-in audiovisual options
Chef David was fun, knowledgeable, and definitely knows his way around the kitchen. The food was next level with out being unapproachable and all of our guests walked away with full hearts and tummies. He listened to our vision and made it a reality. We couldn’t be happier.
Timothy G., 3 years ago
Quick responder
Fulton Street Collective 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 80 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor

Our 1900 sq ft of open loft space overflows with natural light and character. Our space is fully customizable with gorgeous high ceilings and windows, wood floors, and rustic brick walls. Arrange the space with chairs, tables, standing room, or all three! We have a comprehensive list of vendors and will assist you with selecting the correct services for your event. Access shelves, mirrors, fridges, etc in our lounge/green room just inside the large rolling door. Foyer available for entrance decoration and signage. Parking is free in our lot and we have plenty of nearby street parking.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Bridal suite on site
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • No in-house catering options
  • Does not provide event staff
  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
Quick responder
Big Mini Putt Club Wicker Park 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 110 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Located in beautiful Wicker Park, right on the famous nightlife stretch of Milwaukee Ave, Big Mini Putt Club (Wicker Park) features 9 holes of challenging mini golf, delicious drinks, and a variety of other games to keep you busy before or after your rounds. With a capacity of 180 guests, there's something here for all skill levels.

Venue considerations

  • No venue-provided food services
  • No on-site bridal suite
  • Lighting and sound are not included
Studio 424 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,000

Studio 424 welcomes you to create unforgettable memories in our unique flexspace venue. Perfect for a unique and vibrant wedding experience. The storefront space serves as a blank canvas to fit your ceremony needs and the back warehouse area provides a hip urban ambiance for your reception. Our venue holds a special place in Chicago Hip Hop history as it was once the site for The Bassment underground performance venue in the early 2000's. In-House Vendor List: Choose from a list of our premium vendors from for DJ's, decorators, caterers, photographers and videographers to make your event a night to remember. Add-Ons: DJ, lighting, and sound equipment, tables, chairs, tablecloths, lounge couches

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Has onsite accommodations

Venue considerations

  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • Dance floor not included
Quick responder
The Rooftop Terrace 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 320 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $3,600

The perfect way to make your wedding one-of-a-kind is the picturesque, 360 degree view of Chicago from our Rooftop Terrace. With wet bars, surround sound speaker systems, bluetooth microphones, grills, high speed internet, and more, this venue is the ideal space for not only ceremonies and receptions, but also for engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, and more. We have had the pleasure of hosting some of the most beautiful and personal weddings, and we would love for you to be next. From the Rooftop Terrace to The Garage, this venue is an unmatched indoor-outdoor wedding space for chic and timeless couples who want their special day to be one their family and loved ones never forget. Our rooftop has become the destination of choice for any occasion, whether it be a cocktail party, reception, or wedding ceremony, and our team is so excited to transform the space into your dream spot. VENUE PRICING: (4 HR Event) Friday - $4,000 Sat/Sun Day - $3,600 Sat Night: $4,400 Sun Night: $4,000

Why you'll love this venue

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No in-house catering options
  • Does not have a dance floor
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International Museum of Surgical Science 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 100 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,200

The International Museum of Surgical Science is a distinctive venue for events, offering guests an elegant setting, fascinating exhibits, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan just minutes from downtown Chicago. Few other venues in Chicago offer such an opulent setting in this beautifully preserved early 20th-century mansion. With turn-of-the-century architecture in an idyllic setting, the International Museum of Surgical Science offers an elegant and totally unique space for your special day. The Museum has many unique features, including but not limited to Italian marble floors and fireplaces, decorative cut stone and floor-to-ceiling windows with sprawling views of the Lake. The beautiful walnut walls, decorated with historic murals and statues, compliment event decor for an engaging and intimate special event. This historic mansion truly embodies the Gold Coast splendor of the early 20th century and will provide for an unforgettable occasion.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Raw space for complete customization

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Additional event staff required
  • Does not allow pets

Location flexible? Discover venues near Oak Park, IL

About wedding venues in Oak Park, IL

Oak Park offers stunning wedding venues featuring Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural heritage, preserved Victorian mansions, and botanical gardens, all just 10 miles from downtown Chicago. You'll appreciate that Oak Park wedding venues typically cost 25-30% less than downtown Chicago options while giving you more distinctive historic character and space for your celebration. The savings are substantial without compromising on atmosphere or guest experience.

What Makes Oak Park Wedding Venues Uniquely Special?

Oak Park's venues boast authentic Prairie School architecture, original Art Nouveau glass windows, and preserved 1920s craftsmanship that you simply won't find elsewhere. The Nineteenth Century Club gives you grand classical columns and ornate woodwork that creates an instant wow factor, while Pleasant Home features George Washington Maher's geometric Art Nouveau patterns that photographers love. At the Oak Park Conservatory, the lush plants serve as both decor and natural conversation starters during cocktail hour so you'll need fewer floral arrangements, saving you money while creating a more memorable atmosphere.

How Much Does a Wedding in Oak Park Typically Cost?

Wedding budgets in Oak Park scale with your guest count and venue choice:

  • 50 guests (small wedding): $24,569
  • 100 guests: $41,426
  • 150 guests: $57,269
  • 200 guests: $71,423
  • 250 guests: $85,576
  • 300 guests (large wedding): $99,730

Venue costs average $10,878 representing about 19% of total wedding expenses, which aligns nicely with the national average range of $6,500-$12,000. You're getting tremendous value considering the historic significance and distinctive atmosphere these venues provide; something your guests will remember long after the celebration ends.

Which Oak Park Venues Offer Accessibility for All Guests?

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Pleasant Home, and The Carleton Hotel of Oak Park all provide excellent accessible options for guests with mobility needs. The Carleton Hotel gives you 6,000 square feet of ADA-compliant event space with multiple function rooms that work beautifully for different guest counts. Always reach out to venues directly about specific accommodations you need; they're typically very willing to discuss how they can make your day perfect for everyone attending.

Are There Oak Park Venues That Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

The Carleton Hotel features professional staff who work closely with renowned chefs to create exceptional dining experiences in an elegant setting. You'll love Cheney Mansion's beautiful garden settings with kitchen facilities that allow for tailored high-quality catering that matches your exact vision. The Nineteenth Century Club hosts weddings with fine dining options from respected caterers that will impress even your foodie friends, while Unity Temple partners with top caterers who emphasize quality ingredients and innovative presentation.

What Should You Consider When Booking a Venue in Oak Park?

August is Oak Park's busiest wedding month with venues typically booked 12 months ahead of time. You should know that Unity Temple requires respect for architectural heritage through limited decor additions; but the stunning architecture needs little enhancement anyway. The Carleton Hotel provides dedicated wedding planners who handle coordination with Oak Park's historic district commission for any special permits you might need, taking that stress off your shoulders.

How Can Couples Include Remote Guests in Oak Park Weddings?

While not explicitly advertised on their websites, venues like Cheney Mansion and the Nineteenth Century Landmark Building can support customized hybrid wedding experiences for your remote guests. You might consider partnering with tech providers for interactive elements like virtual reality participation, multi-camera setups and dedicated virtual reception spaces. These create more immersive experiences beyond standard streaming so your distant loved ones feel truly part of your celebration rather than just passive viewers.

Oak Park offers stunning wedding venues featuring Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural heritage, preserved Victorian mansions, and botanical gardens, all just 10 miles from downtown Chicago. You'll appreciate that Oak Park wedding venues typically cost 25-30% less than downtown Chicago options while giving you more distinctive historic character and space for your celebration. The savings are substantial without compromising on atmosphere or guest experience.

What Makes Oak Park Wedding Venues Uniquely Special?

Oak Park's venues boast authentic Prairie School architecture, original Art Nouveau glass windows, and preserved 1920s craftsmanship that you simply won't find elsewhere. The Nineteenth Century Club gives you grand classical columns and ornate woodwork that creates an instant wow factor, while Pleasant Home features George Washington Maher's geometric Art Nouveau patterns that photographers love. At the Oak Park Conservatory, the lush plants serve as both decor and natural conversation starters during cocktail hour so you'll need fewer floral arrangements, saving you money while creating a more memorable atmosphere.

How Much Does a Wedding in Oak Park Typically Cost?

Wedding budgets in Oak Park scale with your guest count and venue choice:

  • 50 guests (small wedding): $24,569
  • 100 guests: $41,426
  • 150 guests: $57,269
  • 200 guests: $71,423
  • 250 guests: $85,576
  • 300 guests (large wedding): $99,730

Venue costs average $10,878 representing about 19% of total wedding expenses, which aligns nicely with the national average range of $6,500-$12,000. You're getting tremendous value considering the historic significance and distinctive atmosphere these venues provide; something your guests will remember long after the celebration ends.

Which Oak Park Venues Offer Accessibility for All Guests?

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Pleasant Home, and The Carleton Hotel of Oak Park all provide excellent accessible options for guests with mobility needs. The Carleton Hotel gives you 6,000 square feet of ADA-compliant event space with multiple function rooms that work beautifully for different guest counts. Always reach out to venues directly about specific accommodations you need; they're typically very willing to discuss how they can make your day perfect for everyone attending.

Are There Oak Park Venues That Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

The Carleton Hotel features professional staff who work closely with renowned chefs to create exceptional dining experiences in an elegant setting. You'll love Cheney Mansion's beautiful garden settings with kitchen facilities that allow for tailored high-quality catering that matches your exact vision. The Nineteenth Century Club hosts weddings with fine dining options from respected caterers that will impress even your foodie friends, while Unity Temple partners with top caterers who emphasize quality ingredients and innovative presentation.

What Should You Consider When Booking a Venue in Oak Park?

August is Oak Park's busiest wedding month with venues typically booked 12 months ahead of time. You should know that Unity Temple requires respect for architectural heritage through limited decor additions; but the stunning architecture needs little enhancement anyway. The Carleton Hotel provides dedicated wedding planners who handle coordination with Oak Park's historic district commission for any special permits you might need, taking that stress off your shoulders.

How Can Couples Include Remote Guests in Oak Park Weddings?

While not explicitly advertised on their websites, venues like Cheney Mansion and the Nineteenth Century Landmark Building can support customized hybrid wedding experiences for your remote guests. You might consider partnering with tech providers for interactive elements like virtual reality participation, multi-camera setups and dedicated virtual reception spaces. These create more immersive experiences beyond standard streaming so your distant loved ones feel truly part of your celebration rather than just passive viewers.

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