Best Places to Elope in Chicago
Looking to elope in the windy city? Not sure where to say I do? Well, you’re going to want to keep reading because this post was made for you! From the nature filled oasis’s scattered throughout Chicago to the hustle and bustle of downtown, whatever you’re looking for for your elopement Chicago has it. With so many options it can be hard to decide on where to actually have your elopement though, that’s why I wanted to put together a list of the best places in Chicago to elope!
1. J. Parker
Honestly one of the best rooftops in Chicago, J. Parker has the best little lounge you can rent out to spend your evening sipping drinks and snacking on some horderves with you
2. The Lake Front/North Avenue Beach
With arguably the best view of the Chicago skyline in the background, North Avenue beach is one of the best places to elope in Chicago. If you are planning to elope at North Avenue beach, think about choosing a time of year or a time of day where there are fewer people at the beach so that you can have some privacy for your elopement. Sunrise on North Avenue Beach in the summer is probably my favorite in terms of lack of people and beautiful views. Weekdays and fall/early spring generally have fewer crowds there soaking in the view.
3. Air Bnb’s or Your Home(or your bestie’s home!)
If you live in the city and have a little backyard space (or you know someone who does) this could be the perfect location for your intimate elopement. There’s nothing like having your own little slice of the city to enjoy for your special day. There are also a number of Air Bnb’s that would make for a beautiful intimate elopement. The amount of people you can have with you for your elopement will depend on the size of the space, so be sure to check in your friend, family member, or Air Bnb host for the max capacity of the space you plan to use.
4. Lincoln Park Zoo/The Honeycomb
One of the most recognized city views, getting married in the HoneyComb at Lincoln park zoo is a beautiful way to say I do. The gorgeous architecture of the HoneyComb, the beautiful backdrop of Chicago, and the nature of the Lincoln Park Zoo combine in such a way that is truly breathtaking. There is a permit policy for photos taken at the zoo, but if you are renting space photos/videos taken during rental time cost no additional fee. Here are the specifics for your planning.
5. The South Garden at the Art Institute
The iconic Art Institute of Chicago is host to this incredible space that is a dream location for any elopement. The blooming trees surround the fountain pool in the center which makes for some incredibly romantic backdrops for your elopement photos. More intimate parties can host their elopement in the South Garden at the Art Institute without a permit or fee, for more information on the guidelines in getting married in the south garden please visit this page.
Have your ceremony in the gardens and then head inside with your photographer to take some photos with bae throughout the iconic exhibits throughout the museum!
6. The Robey
The Robey is a boutique hotel located at the center of Wicker Park in Chicago and has a rooftop view of the city that is to die for. While the rooftop is the selling point of the building the hotel rooms themselves, brick hallways naturally lit by the building’s windows, golden elevator doors, and cozy indoor bar make for some awesome backdrops for your elopement photos. Host your ceremony on the rooftop then share a meal with your family and friends in The Robey’s iconic bar.
7. Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
If you’re looking for a super unique city elopement location Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool might be for you. This beautiful Chicago location is perfect for intimate elopement ceremonies and micro weddings. If you’re wanting a space immersed in nature while still getting some glimpses of the city skyline be sure to check this spot out as it really is something special. To get a closer look at what I mean check out my blog post about Katie and Tim’s elopement that they had here.
8. City Hall
If you’re passionate about Chicago and its rich history this is the spot for you. There is something so iconic about getting married at Chicago’s famous city hall. The feeling you get when walking through the building is like you’ve just walked into a different decade and it is the coolest thing. It carries that classic Chicago vibe of gorgeous architecture with a little bit of outdated interior décor which adds to the charm and overall feel of the building.
9. The Chicago River Walk
In the heart of Chicago, the Chicago River Walk is one of the most popular locations to host your Chicago Elopement/newlywed portraits. With the buildings towering over you and the calming sounds of the river going by it makes for a truly unique and memorable experience for your city elopement.
10. Rent a boat on lake Michigan!
For those that want a more adventurous experience while eloping in Chicago, consider renting a boat! There are a lot of different types of boats you can rent throughout the city of Chicago. Grab your closest friends and family, park your boat out in Lake Michigan and say your vows with a stunning backdrop of the Windy City. Then pop some champagne and have some fun as you get up close and personal wandering around the city via the Chicago River.
11. The University of Chicago
Looking for somewhere a little more ornate for your elopement? The University of Chicago’s Victorian Gothic Architecture is the perfect backdrop for your intimate elopement. Rich in history campus has trees spread throughout and then vines on the buildings to mix in that bit of nature with its incredible architecture. There are seriously so many intimate spaces throughout the campus that make for the perfect ceremony with the ones you love the most.
12. The Loop
Lastly, for the couples that are going for the ultimate urban set elopement, look no further than The Loop itself. Chicago’s downtown loop has so many places where you can elope and get some incredible pictures. Surrounded by the towering buildings, the train tracks of the CTA overhead, and did I mention the food? The loop makes for SUCH a cool experience for your wedding day. Be ready for lots of cheering and honks with this one!
With all these different places to elope in Chicago it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to do so. There’s really something for everyone here, no matter what you are looking for and that is something truly special. When deciding where to elope in Chicago it’s important to figure out what kind of experience both you and your partner are looking for so that you pick a spot that you both can enjoy celebrating your love at. Are you planning your own elopement and need a photographer? Hit up my contact page and let’s get to planning!
