When thinking about life in Illinois, one of the first things that come to mind is the hustle and bustle of Chicago.
Whether you’re used to things in the big city or prefer life to be a bit more laid back, when it comes to the perfect wedding, everything changes.
Not everyone wants to be traditional and say “I do” inside a church or huge event hall. Some of us want to step into the outdoors, breathe the fresh air, and experience one of the biggest events of our lives in the beauty of nature!
If you’ve always dreamed of a beautiful outdoor ceremony surrounded by those you love, then take a look at our list of the 10 best outdoor wedding venues in Illinois. Unique, off the beaten path, or on par with an evening of elegance, you’ll easily find a venue best suited to your wedding vision.
Wandering Tree Estates
For a unique wedding in the beauty of Illinois, Wandering Tree Estates is an ideal venue choice.
This secluded estate features immaculate gardens, a rock waterfall, a gorgeous lake, and even poolside dressing areas for the bride and groom!
Beauty surrounds you at this photogenic venue meaning you’re sure to capture undeniably enchanting wedding photos and make memories to last a lifetime.
Notably, there is an on-site manager to make sure everything goes smoothly and a complimentary photographer!
Price Range: $1,500 and up.
Seating Capacity: 50 guests.
Find Wandering Tree Estates at Wandering Tree Estates or check out Facebook or Instagram.
Chicago Botanical Garden
For a true dream wedding, this 365-acre oasis can become your personal garden of Eden!
The Chicago Botanical Garden is not only ideally located, but it is also a perfect spot for wedding photos and an event full of romance.
The English Walled Garden and the Rose Terrace are two of the most popular wedding sites. You’ll also find the McGinley Pavilion to be a sought-after spot for a lovely reception overlooking Evening Island.
Price Range: $2,000 and up (venue does have a food and beverage minimum of $30,000 to $40,000 depending on the day of the week.)
Seating Capacity: 350 guests.
Find Chicago Botanical Garden at Chicago Botanical Garden or check out Facebook or Instagram.
Events at Independence Grove
Who wouldn’t love hosting their outdoor wedding at a lush nature preserve? You’ll get this when you choose Events at Independence Grove as your wedding venue.
Featuring 1,100 acres and beautiful event spaces, this venue is your private destination only an hour from downtown Chicago.
You can say “I do” on a gorgeous brickyard, inside a stylish plaza, or overlooking a pristine lake. Every location on-site can make dreams come true!
Prices are determined by the day of the week but include the use of tables, chairs, and everything else you need for a memorable event.
A food and beverage minimum and other fees may apply according to what you need for your big day.
Price Range: $1,050 and up.
Seating Capacity: 300 guests.
Find Events at Independence Grove at Events at Independence Grove or check out Facebook or Instagram.
Storybook Gardens
Would you like a country vibe to your wedding while still in the heart of Chicago? If so, Storybook Gardens has what you’ve been looking for.
This secluded 8-acre estate not only provides beautiful scenery but its team will also help you plan the perfect wedding from start to finish.
Sparkling creeks, picture-perfect ponds, rustic bridges, and even whispy willow make this the type of wedding venue no one will ever forget!
When choosing Storybook Gardens as your outdoor venue, flexibility is at your fingertips. You’ll have use of the entire venue and the help every couple needs to make their big day more enjoyable.
Pricing at this venue is also easy on most wedding budgets!
Price Range: $1,000 and up.
Seating Capacity: 300 guests.
Find Storybook Gardens at Storybook Gardens or check out Facebook or Instagram.
Loyola at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens
This mansion from the 1900s is not only full of antiques, beauty, and history, but it also makes a charming venue for hosting a wedding!
Loyola at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens is surrounded by lush beauty and exudes a feeling of extravagance. You can whisper words of love to your partner as you start your life together, hand in hand, on the breathtaking pavilion.
At Loyola, you’ll have use of tables, chairs, and even a dance floor for sharing your first couple’s dance.
You and up to 300 friends and relatives can immerse yourselves in the elegance of the mansion and surrounding gardens to celebrate love and family.
Price Range: $4,500 and up.
Seating Capacity: 300 guests.
Find Loyola at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens at Loyola at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens or check out Facebook or Pinterest, or Instagram.
Garfield Park Conservatory
If your dream is an outdoor wedding, a conservatory may not be at the top of your list of most desired venues, but it should be. Especially if it’s Garfield Park Conservatory!
This unique wedding venue features some of the most beautiful plants and flowers as the backdrop for your nuptials.
The Bluestone Patio, the most popular wedding spot, is ideal for sharing your love with family and friends amongst the surrounding beauty.
If you want a more intimate setting, however, the entire conservatory can be reserved!
Rental fees for the Garfield Park Conservatory can fit any budget and start at only $400!
Price Range: $400 and up.
Seating Capacity: 250 guests.
Find Garfield Park Conservatory at Garfield Park Conservatory or check out Facebook or Instagram.
The Grove Redfield Estates
Hidden away in the Grove Nature Reserve is The Grove Redfield Estates. While the reserve itself is a historic landmark, it’s the serenity and beauty of the estate that attracts those in love.
Your ideal wedding can take place on the grounds with the iconic Redfield home in the backdrop or you can choose the gorgeous pavilion or scenic walkways for your ideal location.
Events held at The Grove Redfield Estates are more on the intimate side, so if a small wedding off the beaten path is what you’re looking for, this venue may be your answer.
Price Range: $1,500 and up.
Seating Capacity: 100 guests.
Find The Grove Redfield Estates at The Grove Redfield Estates or check out Facebook or Instagram.
The Armour House Mansion and Gardens at Lake Forest Academy
There’s more taking place at Lake Forest Academy than top-notch education. Yes, they also host weddings!
The Armour House at Lake Forest Academy is a turn-of-the-century mansion with a timeless, old-world feel. Whether you choose to say “I do” in front of the mansion or prefer one of the other locations on campus, the nostalgia and beauty will undeniably be a part of your wedding day.
There are wedding staff on hand to help plan your special day and ensure things go off without a hitch.
Price Range: $33 a person.
Seating Capacity: 200 guests.
Find The Armour House Mansion and Gardens at Lake Forest Academy at The Armour House Mansion and Gardens or check out Facebook or Pinterest.
Chicago History Museum
If you’re a fan of history and want to do your part to protect it for future generations, hosting your wedding at the Chicago History Museum is a step in the right direction.
Not only do the fees included help support the venue, but you’ll also have access to the beauty and breathtaking views they have to offer.
Outdoor weddings at the Uihlein Plaza overlook the Gold Coast and Lincoln Park making it a unique setting for your nuptials.
The Chicago History Museum offers flexible wedding packages to fit any budget with a seated outdoor ceremony, reception, and cocktail hour all available.
Price Range: $2,500 and up.
Seating Capacity: 300 seated guests; 1,000 standing.
Find The Chicago History Museum at The Chicago History Museum or check out Facebook or Instagram.
The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens
You may be visualizing a simple indoor wedding when you first hear of The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens, well this certainly isn’t the case!
The botanical gardens surrounding the barn are what outdoor dream weddings are made of! You can show your love in front of your closest loved ones while overlooking the serenity of a peaceful pond, then make your way to the barn for a celebration you and your guests will never forget.
If you prefer, a covered patio is also on-site and makes for another serene location to say “I do.”
The rental of The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens begins at $4,000 and includes everything you need for the wedding you’ve always dreamed of. A coordinator is also on hand to help make sure things run smoothly.
Price Range: $4,000 and up.
Seating Capacity: 350 guests.
Find The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens at The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens or check out Facebook or Instagram.
