The Best Wedding Venues in Waukegan, IL

The Best Wedding Venues in Waukegan, IL

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7 Wedding Venues in Waukegan, IL

50-100 guests
100-150 guests
150-200 guests
Dandelion Gallery & Studio 
Waukegan, IL
  • Up to 125 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $625

Looking for unique and creative venue for your event? The Dandelion Gallery is a artistic slate for a creative gatherings. The gallery is 2500 sq feet of space with three movable walls. The outdoor deck overlooking the urban ravine and is a beautiful spot for a summer wedding. The deck has 600 sq feet of space. This intimate space is very versatile for day or evening events.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Has an energetic and exciting atmosphere
  • Both indoor and outdoor options

Venue considerations

  • Additional event staff required
  • No on-site bridal suite
  • No on-premises lodging options
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 at Lake Forest Academy is an exceptional wedding venue that exceeded our expectations every time we works with them. Their communication style is attentive, detailed, and dependable throughout the entire planning process. The quality of their work and the overall ambiance is truly elegant, historic, and traditional. The attention to detail and the organized, reliable staff contributed greatly to making each wedding day run smoothly and seamlessly. We would highly recommend The Armour House to any couple looking for a beautiful, well-managed wedding venue with a wonderful team.
Eileen Weber, 6 months ago
The Venue at Millburn Stables 

5.0

Old Mill Crk, IL
  • Up to 250 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $16,000

Welcome to The Venue at Millburn Stables, where rustic charm meets timeless elegance for your dream barn wedding. Our venue offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and sophisticated amenities, making it the perfect backdrop for your special day. As you arrive at The Venue at Millburn Stables, you'll be greeted by the enchanting sight of our beautifully restored barn, with its classic architecture exuding a sense of warmth and romance. The surrounding grounds feature lush greenery, and charming white fence, providing endless opportunities for stunning photo opportunities and unforgettable moments. Step inside, and you'll be transported to a world of rustic luxury. Our spacious interior boasts soaring ceilings adorned with elegant beams and lights, creating a romantic and inviting atmosphere. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our versatile layout can be tailored to accommodate your every need.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Classic seating dinner
  • Space for a large guest list
  • Provides event staff

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • No on-site guest accommodations
Awarded Best of Zola
I just had my wedding here this past weekend. There are no words to describe the experience we had with Terry and Robin. They are kind, attentive and responsive. They will do anything they can to make sure your day goes as planned. The venue itself is absolutely stunning and comfortably accommodates a large number of guests. The catering choices are fairly priced and the food is delicious. I would not think twice about booking your event here!
Shannon F., 8 months ago
Illinois Beach Hotel 
Zion, IL
  • Up to 220 guests
  • Starts at $2,000

Imagine exchanging vows with the breathtaking beauty of Lake Michigan as your backdrop. The Illinois Beach Hotel, a true gem and the only hotel of its kind in the state, offers an unparalleled wedding experience. Nestled directly on the pristine sandy shores of Lake Michigan, it provides a unique and unforgettable setting for your special day. Conveniently located between the vibrant cities of Chicago and Milwaukee, the hotel welcomes you and your guests with warm hospitality, locally sourced culinary delights, and inviting accommodations. Picture saying "I do" as the sun rises over the glistening lake, painting the sky with hues of romance – a truly magical start to your forever.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Dance floor not included
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
Mickey Finn's Brewery 
Libertyville, IL
  • Up to 200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $6,500

Mickey Finn's Brewery offering boutique weddings! Classic architecture, a mix of contemporary, yet approachable design with a warm, pub-like feel (and plenty of parking). High ceilings, original brick walls, exposed metal beams, a view of the brewery and a custom-built solid oak bar with retro bar stools. The Amber Room can accommodate up to 175 seated or up to 250 for cocktail style parties – day or night, 7 days a week. Residing in the heart of Downtown Libertyville, Mickey Finn’s is Lake County’s original brewpub, crafting upwards of 30 unique and delicious beers a year. Join Mickey Finn's Brewery for the HOPPIEST Day of Your Lives!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Provides catering services
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • On-site parking not available
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
White Deer Golf Club 
Vernon Hills, IL
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor

White Deer Run Golf Club is a stunning golf and country club located in Vernon Hills, Illinois. It offers couples gorgeous views of Lake Charles and immaculately landscaped greens. Situated on the famed Cuneo Estate, this venue features 240 acres of rolling hills. White Deer Run Golf Club is happy to host both your ceremony and reception. Couples can accommodate up to 200 guests at this golf club. You can have an outdoor ceremony surrounded by beautiful trees and picturesque lakes. Then guests can make their way to the Clubhouse for an elegant, indoor reception.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Provides catering services
  • Has a dance floor for celebration

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No free parking
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists

Location flexible? Discover venues near Waukegan, IL

About wedding venues in Waukegan, IL

Why Choose Waukegan for Your Wedding?

Waukegan, Illinois delivers an impressive array of wedding venues that span from historic theaters to elegant country clubs, all with Lake Michigan's beautiful shoreline nearby. You'll find venue costs averaging between $9,630 and $11,770 here; that's about 19% of your total wedding budget compared to the national average of 25%. You're getting better value right from the start. The best venues in the area combine easy accessibility with spaces you can truly make your own, plus professional services that help create the celebration you've been dreaming about.

What Are the Top Wedding Venues in Waukegan, IL?

Genesee Theatre dominates the Lake County wedding scene with its magnificent historic architecture that's fully accessible and can welcome up to 2,403 guests. You'll be amazed by the grandeur. Lakehurst Banquets excels at hosting large milestone events with room for up to 3,000 people in accessible spaces that can transform to match your vision. The Morgan Arts Complex gives you 150,000 square feet of blank canvas to design your perfect day, comfortably fitting up to 1,000 guests. If you're looking for natural beauty, Bonnie Brook Golf Course and Glen Flora Country Club offer gorgeous scenic settings with excellent banquet facilities and accessibility features that ensure all your guests feel welcome.

How Much Does a Waukegan Wedding Cost?

A typical Waukegan wedding runs about $56,164 for 150 guests, with costs that adjust based on your guest count. Smaller gatherings of 50 guests average $24,093 while celebrations with 100 people typically cost around $40,625. Larger events increase proportionally; 200 guests averages $70,046, 250 guests costs about $83,928 and 300-person weddings reach approximately $97,810.

ServiceAverage Cost% of Budget
Venue$10,66519%
Catering$8,53215%
Bar Service$6,82612%
Florists$7,46613%
Photography$4,8359%
Videography$4,4088%

When Should You Book Your Waukegan Wedding Venue?

August sees the highest number of wedding inquiries in Waukegan. Most couples secure their venues about 17 months (or 525 days) before their wedding date. This gives you plenty of time to plan. Booking early is especially important if you've got your heart set on popular spots like the Genesee Theatre or Lakehurst Banquets where prime dates can disappear quickly.

Which Waukegan Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

Bonnie Brook Golf Course delivers respected country club catering with menus you can tailor to your tastes. You'll appreciate their flexibility. Glen Flora Country Club stands out for their upscale banquet service that impresses even the most discerning guests. Just a short drive from Waukegan, Relish Catering at Independence Grove sits 7 miles away in Libertyville featuring farm-to-table cuisine made from scratch. For truly exceptional dining, Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest; only 9 miles from Waukegan; offers celebrated in-house chefs creating luxury menus that will elevate your celebration.

How Can Waukegan Venues Accommodate Remote Guests?

Waukegan venues now go beyond simple streaming to offer interactive experiences for guests who can't attend in person. The Genesee Theatre's historic ambiance creates a stunning backdrop that translates beautifully to virtual viewing. Your remote guests won't miss the magic. Both Bonnie Brook Golf Course and Glen Flora Country Club collaborate with couples to integrate technology that connects everyone meaningfully. You might also enhance the experience for distant loved ones with virtual venue tours ahead of time, interactive livestreams during the event, or private social media channels where everyone can share moments and reactions in real time.

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