The Best Aquarium & Zoo Wedding Venues in Oak Park, IL

The Best Aquarium & Zoo Wedding Venues in Oak Park, IL

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4 Wedding Venues in Oak Park, IL

Aquariums, zoos
Quick responder
Pepper Family Wildlife Center (Lion House) 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 350 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $14,000

The Pepper Family Wildlife Center, more commonly known as the Lion House, has been newly renovated as of 2021 and is more beautiful than ever before. With glass exhibiting windows, your guests will have the opportunity to see our pride as they mingle, dine and enjoy in your big day. This space can accommodate 350 guests seated with room for dancing, bars and so much more.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Full catering menu to choose from
  • Blends luxury with trendiness

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Getting to photograph and film at the Lion House was a dream come true! We love Tigerlily Events and cherish the times getting to work with their team, and the new Lion House was no exception. From the unique environment the space provides to the luxurious service the staff provides, this venue is one of our favorites in Chicago. We're so excited to continue working together for future wedding days!
Elle Taylor Photography, 2 years ago
Quick responder
Cafe Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo 

4.8

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 230 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $12,000

Cafe Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo combines historic charm with natural beauty, creating a magical wedding venue in Chicago. The venue’s grand ballroom features stunning architecture and views of the surrounding park and skyline. Guests appreciate the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for ceremonies and receptions. The dedicated staff ensures a personalized and smooth event, from planning to execution. For couples seeking a unique and enchanting setting, Cafe Brauer offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Full catering menu to choose from
  • Blends luxury with trendiness
  • Offers full-service amenities

Venue considerations

  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • No on-premises lodging options
Café Brauer was my absolute dream venue, and the entire experience exceeded every expectation. The space is stunning, the architecture and historic charm speak for themselves and hardly need additional décor to feel wedding ready. We had the pleasure of working with Ellen from our first tour to the day-of (and even after!) and she was incredible every step of the way. Ellen was extremely attentive, she answered every question and handled every request with such grace and care. I always felt supported, and she truly went above and beyond—coordinating seamlessly with our planner, florist, and other vendors to ensure our day was nothing short of perfect. It meant so much to feel like someone genuinely cared about our day through it all. We also used Café Brauer’s in-house caterer, Tigerlily, and the compliments haven’t stopped rolling in. Guests are still reaching out to us—as well as our parents—saying it was the most beautiful wedding they’ve attended and hands-down the best wedding food they’ve ever had. I couldn’t recommend Café Brauer and Ellen more. It was everything we dreamed of and more!!
Natalie F., 4 months ago
Quick responder
Pinstripes Oak Brook 

5.0

Oak Brook, IL
  • Up to 1000 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Whether you are hosting a wedding reception, ceremony, bridal shower or bachelor(ette) party our dynamic ballrooms and private event spaces provide an upscale yet relaxed space for your special day. We host truly unique events and deliver sophisticated fun through combining our from-scratch Italian-America menu with the classic games of bowling and bocce ball. Let our talented event team work with you on a customized event to suit your personal style and help you bring your dream wedding to life to create a perfect day that you and all your guests will be sure to remember!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Romantic vineyard setting
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No free parking
Awarded Best of Zola
Pinstripes Oak Brook was the perfect venue for our wedding! From the beginning, their communication was excellent and efficient, making the planning process a breeze. The venue itself has a truly unique, spacious vibe - we loved the indoor/outdoor feel and the cozy firepit. They were incredibly accommodating, allowing us to do our own sweets table and include our specific liquor requests. The quality of their work and overall value was exceptional. Our guests raved about the experience, and we couldn't be happier with how our special day turned out at Pinstripes Oak Brook.
Carli M., 9 months ago
The Hotel Chicago Downtown 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor

Elegant and avant-garde, this downtown Chicago hotel serves as a hub to the pulsing Marina City playground. The hotel has preferred partnerships with all Marina City outlets, which include House of Blues, SPiN, Harry Caray's, Smith & Wollensky, Yolk and 10Pin. The hotel offers a total of 354 rooms, including 9 Studio King Suites and 11 King Suites, along with 2 Penthouse Suites. This design hotel is located in the heart of Downtown Chicago and within walking distance of State Street Shopping, Michigan Avenue, the Theater District, Merchandise Mart and Millennium Park. It has recently been renovated, and the hotel is an ideal choice for business or leisure. Chicago Midway International Airport is roughly 10 miles away and Chicago O'Hare International Airport is approximately 16 miles from the property.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Rustic yet refined style
  • Designed for grand celebrations

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Does not allow pets
  • On-site parking not available

Location flexible? Discover venues near Oak Park, IL

About wedding venues in Oak Park, IL

Oak Park offers stunning wedding venues featuring Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural heritage, preserved Victorian mansions, and botanical gardens, all just 10 miles from downtown Chicago. You'll appreciate that Oak Park wedding venues typically cost 25-30% less than downtown Chicago options while giving you more distinctive historic character and space for your celebration. The savings are substantial without compromising on atmosphere or guest experience.

What Makes Oak Park Wedding Venues Uniquely Special?

Oak Park's venues boast authentic Prairie School architecture, original Art Nouveau glass windows, and preserved 1920s craftsmanship that you simply won't find elsewhere. The Nineteenth Century Club gives you grand classical columns and ornate woodwork that creates an instant wow factor, while Pleasant Home features George Washington Maher's geometric Art Nouveau patterns that photographers love. At the Oak Park Conservatory, the lush plants serve as both decor and natural conversation starters during cocktail hour so you'll need fewer floral arrangements, saving you money while creating a more memorable atmosphere.

How Much Does a Wedding in Oak Park Typically Cost?

Wedding budgets in Oak Park scale with your guest count and venue choice:

  • 50 guests (small wedding): $24,569
  • 100 guests: $41,426
  • 150 guests: $57,269
  • 200 guests: $71,423
  • 250 guests: $85,576
  • 300 guests (large wedding): $99,730

Venue costs average $10,878 representing about 19% of total wedding expenses, which aligns nicely with the national average range of $6,500-$12,000. You're getting tremendous value considering the historic significance and distinctive atmosphere these venues provide; something your guests will remember long after the celebration ends.

Which Oak Park Venues Offer Accessibility for All Guests?

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Pleasant Home, and The Carleton Hotel of Oak Park all provide excellent accessible options for guests with mobility needs. The Carleton Hotel gives you 6,000 square feet of ADA-compliant event space with multiple function rooms that work beautifully for different guest counts. Always reach out to venues directly about specific accommodations you need; they're typically very willing to discuss how they can make your day perfect for everyone attending.

Are There Oak Park Venues That Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

The Carleton Hotel features professional staff who work closely with renowned chefs to create exceptional dining experiences in an elegant setting. You'll love Cheney Mansion's beautiful garden settings with kitchen facilities that allow for tailored high-quality catering that matches your exact vision. The Nineteenth Century Club hosts weddings with fine dining options from respected caterers that will impress even your foodie friends, while Unity Temple partners with top caterers who emphasize quality ingredients and innovative presentation.

What Should You Consider When Booking a Venue in Oak Park?

August is Oak Park's busiest wedding month with venues typically booked 12 months ahead of time. You should know that Unity Temple requires respect for architectural heritage through limited decor additions; but the stunning architecture needs little enhancement anyway. The Carleton Hotel provides dedicated wedding planners who handle coordination with Oak Park's historic district commission for any special permits you might need, taking that stress off your shoulders.

How Can Couples Include Remote Guests in Oak Park Weddings?

While not explicitly advertised on their websites, venues like Cheney Mansion and the Nineteenth Century Landmark Building can support customized hybrid wedding experiences for your remote guests. You might consider partnering with tech providers for interactive elements like virtual reality participation, multi-camera setups and dedicated virtual reception spaces. These create more immersive experiences beyond standard streaming so your distant loved ones feel truly part of your celebration rather than just passive viewers.

Oak Park offers stunning wedding venues featuring Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural heritage, preserved Victorian mansions, and botanical gardens, all just 10 miles from downtown Chicago. You'll appreciate that Oak Park wedding venues typically cost 25-30% less than downtown Chicago options while giving you more distinctive historic character and space for your celebration. The savings are substantial without compromising on atmosphere or guest experience.

What Makes Oak Park Wedding Venues Uniquely Special?

Oak Park's venues boast authentic Prairie School architecture, original Art Nouveau glass windows, and preserved 1920s craftsmanship that you simply won't find elsewhere. The Nineteenth Century Club gives you grand classical columns and ornate woodwork that creates an instant wow factor, while Pleasant Home features George Washington Maher's geometric Art Nouveau patterns that photographers love. At the Oak Park Conservatory, the lush plants serve as both decor and natural conversation starters during cocktail hour so you'll need fewer floral arrangements, saving you money while creating a more memorable atmosphere.

How Much Does a Wedding in Oak Park Typically Cost?

Wedding budgets in Oak Park scale with your guest count and venue choice:

  • 50 guests (small wedding): $24,569
  • 100 guests: $41,426
  • 150 guests: $57,269
  • 200 guests: $71,423
  • 250 guests: $85,576
  • 300 guests (large wedding): $99,730

Venue costs average $10,878 representing about 19% of total wedding expenses, which aligns nicely with the national average range of $6,500-$12,000. You're getting tremendous value considering the historic significance and distinctive atmosphere these venues provide; something your guests will remember long after the celebration ends.

Which Oak Park Venues Offer Accessibility for All Guests?

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Pleasant Home, and The Carleton Hotel of Oak Park all provide excellent accessible options for guests with mobility needs. The Carleton Hotel gives you 6,000 square feet of ADA-compliant event space with multiple function rooms that work beautifully for different guest counts. Always reach out to venues directly about specific accommodations you need; they're typically very willing to discuss how they can make your day perfect for everyone attending.

Are There Oak Park Venues That Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

The Carleton Hotel features professional staff who work closely with renowned chefs to create exceptional dining experiences in an elegant setting. You'll love Cheney Mansion's beautiful garden settings with kitchen facilities that allow for tailored high-quality catering that matches your exact vision. The Nineteenth Century Club hosts weddings with fine dining options from respected caterers that will impress even your foodie friends, while Unity Temple partners with top caterers who emphasize quality ingredients and innovative presentation.

What Should You Consider When Booking a Venue in Oak Park?

August is Oak Park's busiest wedding month with venues typically booked 12 months ahead of time. You should know that Unity Temple requires respect for architectural heritage through limited decor additions; but the stunning architecture needs little enhancement anyway. The Carleton Hotel provides dedicated wedding planners who handle coordination with Oak Park's historic district commission for any special permits you might need, taking that stress off your shoulders.

How Can Couples Include Remote Guests in Oak Park Weddings?

While not explicitly advertised on their websites, venues like Cheney Mansion and the Nineteenth Century Landmark Building can support customized hybrid wedding experiences for your remote guests. You might consider partnering with tech providers for interactive elements like virtual reality participation, multi-camera setups and dedicated virtual reception spaces. These create more immersive experiences beyond standard streaming so your distant loved ones feel truly part of your celebration rather than just passive viewers.

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