Chicago is famous for its stunning waterfronts—from the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan to the vibrant Chicago River running through downtown. For couples planning a wedding in the Windy City, these waterfront venues offer picturesque backdrops, elegant settings, and unique experiences that will wow your guests and look amazing in photos. Whether you’re dreaming of a skyline view ceremony or a romantic reception by the water, here are some of the best lakeside and riverfront wedding venues in Chicago to suit a range of budgets and styles.

Lakeside Venues on Lake Michigan

Chicago’s lakefront venues provide sweeping views of Lake Michigan’s blue waters and often the city skyline as well. These locations combine natural beauty with urban elegance, perfect for everything from glamorous black-tie affairs to relaxed beachy celebrations.

Adler Planetarium (Museum Campus)

A one-of-a-kind lakeside venue at the tip of Museum Campus, the Adler Planetarium is known for its unmatched skyline views and celestial ambiance. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the Adler’s Rainbow Lobby and Solarium wrap guests in panoramic vistas of the city across Lake Michigan. Couples can exchange vows outdoors on the lakefront terrace with the entire skyline as a backdrop, then dine and dance under the stars in the ultra-modern Grainger Sky Theater.

Guest Capacity: Up to 320 guests for a seated dinner, or 1,000+ for a standing reception.

Amenities: Multiple event spaces (lakefront terrace, glass-walled solarium, immersive sky theater), in-house catering and bar, plus options for unique add-ons like private sky shows or telescope experiences.

Pricing: Rental fees range from $6,400 to $13,000 depending on the season, with catering packages starting around $150–$250 per person.

What Makes It Special: There’s simply no other venue with a 360° postcard view of Chicago’s skyline and lake like Adler has.

Theater on the Lake (Lincoln Park)

This historic venue features a beautifully restored prairie-style building right on Lake Michigan, with skyline views visible beyond its terrace. Once a 1920s theater, Theater on the Lake is now a versatile event venue combining vintage charm with modern design. The fully enclosed main space has soaring truss ceilings and no pillars, plus huge windows that showcase the lake.

Guest Capacity: Flexible—host an intimate event for 25 or scale up to as many as 1,500 guests with a full venue buyout.

Amenities: In-house catering, on-site event coordination, built-in lighting/sound, and retractable walls for an open-air feel in nice weather.

Pricing: Rental rates start around $3,000 for smaller events, increasing based on guest count and season.

What Makes It Special: A perfect blend of Chicago history, natural beauty, and modern amenities.

63rd Street Beach House (Hyde Park)

For a beachfront wedding with a touch of Chicago history, the 63rd Street Beach House offers a breezy, historic setting directly on the sands of Lake Michigan. This 1919-built Mediterranean Revival gem sits in Jackson Park, providing a courtyard with fountains and sweeping lake views.

Guest Capacity: Up to 1,500 guests for a banquet-style event or 3,000+ for a cocktail reception.

Amenities: Multiple outdoor and indoor spaces, a built-in stage/dance area, and the ability to bring in your own licensed caterer.

Pricing: Budget-friendly, with rental fees starting around $2,250–$3,750.

What Makes It Special: A relaxed, beachy celebration right in the city.

Offshore Rooftop at Navy Pier

Perched at the far east end of Navy Pier, Offshore boasts unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. It’s one of the largest rooftop venues in the world, featuring retractable glass walls and a spacious terrace.

Guest Capacity: Up to 350 guests seated or 750 for a standing reception.

Amenities: Climate-controlled indoor space, a large outdoor deck, in-house catering, and event planning services.

Pricing: Venue fees range from $10,000–$12,000, with catering packages starting at $165 per person.

What Makes It Special: Say “I do” with sailboats behind you, then dance under the stars as fireworks light up Navy Pier.

Chicago Riverfront Venues

If you love the energy of the city, Chicago’s riverfront venues provide a unique urban backdrop with bridges, skyscrapers, and boats passing by to toast you!

River Roast (Downtown on LaSalle St.)

A restaurant and event space right on the Chicago River, River Roast features outdoor terraces just feet from the water and a warm, loft-style interior with exposed brick and wood beams.

Guest Capacity: Up to 250 guests.

Amenities: All-inclusive wedding packages with in-house catering, custom wedding cakes, open bar, and a bridal suite.

Pricing: Packages range from $100 to $185 per person, making this a budget-friendly downtown option.

What Makes It Special: Arrive by boat for a grand entrance and enjoy skyline and river views without a penthouse price tag.

LondonHouse Chicago (Downtown - Michigan Ave.)

LondonHouse is a luxe hotel perched at the confluence of the river and Michigan Avenue, famous for its iconic rooftop cupola and elegant ballrooms.

Guest Capacity: Up to 200 guests for a seated reception.

Amenities: Full-service luxury hotel with gourmet catering, bridal spa services, and a rooftop bar.

Pricing: Venue rental fees start at $7,000–$15,000, with catering packages from $150–200 per person.

What Makes It Special: The rooftop cupola offers a breathtaking 360° view of the river and skyline.

Conclusion

Chicago’s waterfront truly offers something for every couple—from grand ballrooms and rooftop decks high above the river to sandy beach houses and boat cruises on the lake. Whether you prefer a historic venue, skyline views, or a relaxed beachfront setting, you’ll find the perfect backdrop for your special day.

If you’re ready to book your Chicago waterfront wedding and want breathtaking photos to match, contact Albany Capture LLC today. Let us help you capture the magic of your unforgettable day!