Evanston may be Chicago’s closest Northern suburb, but it’s also a vibrant city in its own right. With sandy beaches and a thriving downtown area, Evanston offers something for everyone — including myself. Choosing to get married in Evanston was a no-brainer for me. It’s convenient location — poised perfectly between Chicago and the North Shore — meant it was easily accessible for all of my guests. Despite having an indoor wedding, I was able to find gorgeous outdoor photo ops for a first-look. Best of all, there were plenty of nearby activities for my friends and family (without the traffic jams).
Now that you’ve finalized your location, it’s time narrow in on your venue choice. As Managing Editor of PartySlate, I spend most of my days looking at the best wedding venues in the country. These 6 Evanston wedding venues won me over with their big city thrills and small-town charm. Discover critically-acclaimed museums, elegant hotels, and dedicated event spaces. Admire the Gothic architecture of Northwestern University, and enjoy breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline from the lakefront. With so much to do and explore, your guests just might forget to visit downtown Chicago altogether.
*Listed in no particular order…
For a chic industrial venue with rustic charms…
This warm and spacious industrial venue features double bowtruss ceilings, two custom bars, and on-site rentals for planning made easy. We especially appreciate how drapery tracks make it easy to divide the room for further privacy and great event flow.
Palmhouse can host up to 400 seated guests.
For a historic clubhouse with elegant backdrops…
The Woman’s Club of Evanston is proudly listed in the National Register of Historic Places and boasts opulent details like a white marble entrance and a double staircase leading to the Grand Ballroom. Best of all, this stunning venue is “BYOB”, which means you can save a portion of your budget for fun add-ons like end-of-night snacks.
The Woman’s Club of Evanston can host up to 250 seated guests.
For the city’s most iconic hotel…
This historic hotel’s sweeping staircase guarantees a memorable entrance into the Grand Ballroom. Lofty ceilings, flush-mount crystal chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows contribute to the room’s palatial backdrop. The historical Heritage Ballroom also astonishes with its 1920s crown molding and grand Baccarat crystal chandeliers.
Hilton Orrington Hotel Evanston can host up to 500 seated guests.
For a grand ballroom closer to home…
Located in the heart of downtown Evanston, The Crystal Ballroom and Lounge maintains the glamour of the roaring 1920s with its original crown molding and architectural details. This spacious 6,000 square-foot event space includes a two-story ballroom and adjoining lounge for flexible seating arrangements.
The Crystal Ballroom & Lounge in Evanston can host up to 200 seated guests.
The Halim Time and Glass Museum will transport guests into another time with its exquisite stained glass windows and historic timepieces. The Wisteria Room captures the imagination with its masterful stained glass dome, Tiffany landscape and portrait windows. You can also take in impressive views of downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan from the Rooftop Garden.
Halim Time & Glass Museum can host up to 220 seated guests.
For exquisite architectural details at every turn…
The Charles Dawes House is a National Historic Landmark designed in the French chateaux style. The interior showcases a Louis XVI-style parlor and a dining room that integrates elements of English Renaissance Revival styles.
Charles Dawes Gates House can host up to 150 seated guests.
People Also Ask…
Where can I find a Chicago wedding planner for my suburban wedding?
We always recommend booking a full-service wedding planner before you check off any other item on your to-do list. Your wedding planner will save you time and money (yes, really). They will also take the stress out of the planning process, so you can savor every moment from your engagement to the big day.
Most Chicago wedding planners will happily travel to one of Chicago’s numerous suburbs — especially one as close as Evanston. Click on the link to check out PartySlate’s curated directory, and look for the “featured” tags to learn more about PartySlate’s top recommendations. If a particular planner catches your eye, make sure to check out their PartySlate profile for real examples of their work. If you like what you see, you can send an inquiry directly through their profile or the directory page.
Where can I find more wedding inspiration?
PartySlate is your go-to resource for the best wedding and event ideas. Whether you’re looking for the latest trends or classic wedding themes that never go out of style, click below for our curated picks:
featured entertainers
Arlen Music Productions
Arlen Music is an Evanston-based entertainment company that specializes in providing live customized music for special events. We love their broad range of bands, from dance bands to small groups, Arlen Music Productions will help you find the perfect band for your event. photographer: Victoria Saint Martin Photography