When it comes to wedding venues in the Chicago suburbs, there are so many great options! From the scenic charm of Lake Forest to the elegance of Wheaton and the peaceful beauty of Vernon Hills, I’ve had the chance to explore them all as a Chicago wedding photographer. If you’re looking for the perfect venue outside the city, take a look at my list of the 8 best Chicago suburb wedding venues I’d recommend!
Chicago Botanic Garden
The Chicago Botanic Garden is one of my absolute favorite Chicago suburb wedding venues! Located in Glencoe, about twenty miles north of downtown Chicago, this stunning venue offers expansive views and an array of breathtaking backdrops. Whether you envision a ceremony surrounded by vibrant flowers or an elegant reception in a serene garden setting, this venue has it all.
Things we love about this venue:
- It’s a blank canvas with multiple venue options for your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, so you can make it truly your own.
- We can take photos throughout the gardens with no additional permit needed.
- Dogs are welcome to join in our photo fun, making it even more special for couples with furry friends!
Don’t miss this post with even more details and photos from Chicago Botanic Garden weddings!
The Armour House
Dreaming of Italian-inspired elegance right here in Illinois? The Armour House at Lake Forest Academy is a must-see! Located about thirty-five miles north of downtown Chicago, this stunning venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Set on a sprawling 162-acre private school campus, it offers endless picturesque spots for your wedding photos.
Things we love about this venue:
- The venue provides breathtaking scenery that looks like it’s straight from a storybook.
- Couples who’ve tied the knot here rave about the venue’s top-notch coordination team.
- The in-house catering team is known for amazing meals and impeccable service.
Chicago Golf Club
Situated in Wheaton, Illinois, the Chicago Golf Club is not only the oldest 18-hole course in North America but also a breathtaking wedding venue. With its perfectly manicured grounds and classic charm, this private golf club provides a stunning backdrop for a Chicago suburb wedding.
Things we love about the Chicago Golf Club:
- It’s the perfect venue for a tented wedding reception, offering plenty of space and style.
- The secluded location ensures privacy for you and your guests, creating an intimate atmosphere.
- The beautifully maintained golf course offers endless photo opportunities, with lush greenery and open views.
Conway Farms Golf Club
Conway Farms Golf Club is a fantastic option for couples dreaming of a Chicagoland golf course wedding. Located in Lake Forest, about thirty-five miles from downtown Chicago, this venue offers a blend of elegance and intimacy. The cozy clubhouse is ideal for ceremonies, while the expansive lawn is perfect for a tented reception.
Things we love about this wedding venue:
- Non-members can host weddings here, as long as they receive a referral from a current member.
- The venue offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, giving you flexibility no matter the weather.
- The scenic grounds and pristine golf course make for timeless wedding photos.
Westmoreland Country Club
Westmoreland Country Club, located just fifteen miles north of Chicago in Wilmette, Illinois, offers a classically beautiful setting for your wedding day. Most couples love starting with an al fresco cocktail hour, followed by a tented reception on the patio, and ending the night with dancing in the elegant indoor ballroom.
Things we love about Westmoreland Country Club:
- The venue offers several distinct spaces for your reception, including an expansive lawn, a lovely patio, and a spacious indoor ballroom.
- It can comfortably accommodate up to 350 guests indoors, perfect for larger celebrations.
- There are countless unique photo spots throughout the property, giving you plenty of variety for your wedding album.
Have a look at Kate and Peter’s Westmoreland Country Club wedding on the blog!
Cantigny Park
This stunning 500-acre estate in Wheaton, Illinois, is a spectacular choice for a wedding venue. The gardens at Cantigny Park provide a beautiful backdrop of colorful blooms and lush green lawns, perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.
Things we love about Cantigny Park:
- Couples have seven different ceremony locations and three unique reception venues to choose from, offering plenty of flexibility.
- The staff is known for delivering impeccable service and delicious food.
- The expansive grounds offer endless options for gorgeous wedding photos, with a mix of floral gardens, manicured lawns, and serene landscapes.
Monte Bello Estate
Located in Lemont, this Tuscan-style estate overlooks the largest private wildflower preserve in Illinois. It’s truly a unique wedding venue in the Chicago area! Monte Bello Estate is sure to wow your guests with its beauty, from the lush landscapes to the stunning tented glass house used for receptions. The glass house is climate-controlled and comes with many amenities included in the rental fee.
Things we love about Monte Bello Estate:
- Wedding couples get exclusive access to the entire 55-acre property, which gives us endless gorgeous backdrops for photos.
- There are two spacious suites for the wedding party to get ready in.
- You can choose from three ceremony locations, and there’s an additional indoor option available in case of inclement weather.
Cuneo Mansion
The Cuneo Mansion is a historic mansion and museum located on the Loyola Lake County campus in Vernon Hills, about forty miles north of downtown Chicago. The property features sprawling lawns and stunning gardens, all complemented by breathtaking Venetian-style architecture that adds an old-world charm unlike any other.
Things we love about Cuneo Mansion:
- The antiques, tapestries, and paintings throughout the mansion provide a unique experience for you and your guests.
- The Pavilion Ballroom can host large weddings, accommodating up to 300 guests comfortably.
- You have several catering options to choose from, with each team known for exceptional service and delicious food.
With so many incredible Chicago suburb wedding venues, you’re sure to find the perfect place for your celebration! Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy ceremony at the Cuneo Mansion or a lavish reception at Monte Bello Estate, these locations are all wonderful options. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless love stories in these stunning locations. If you’re planning your own Chicago suburb wedding, be sure to get in touch about our wedding photography services!
