Galleries with soaring ceilings, courtyards with manicured gardens, walls decked in priceless, built-in décor — these are a few of our favorite things. Aside from being bastions of knowledge and academic charm, museums often offer striking spaces for a wedding ceremony or reception. Whether it’s the blank canvas of a stark modern art collection or the ornate details of a historic house, museum settings can make your wedding day stand out either by celebrating a passion you and your fiancé share or just giving your guests an unforgettable wedding locale. Here are a few of our Chicagoland favorites and others nearby:
Adler Planetarium
In addition to giving guests access to some of the museum’s permanent out-of-this-world exhibits, events at the lakefront space offer one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the city through the Skyline Solarium’s floor-to-ceiling windows. Weddings can be held in the Solarium or on the lakeside outdoor terrace if weather permits. Read real brides’ reviews here!
Peoria Riverfront Museum
Weddings at this museum dedicated to art, history, science, and more can make use of the riverside building’s grand lobby, outdoor sculpture garden, Lakeview Room or Dome Planetarium. The only museum in downstate Illinois to be affiliated with the Smithsonian, exhibits here are constantly changing, making each event unique.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Bold, artsy couples will find a lot to love about this downtown space. Not only does the museum have modern, striking interiors, but the outdoor Kern Terrace gives guests panoramic views of the city and Lake Michigan. Read real brides’ reviews here!
See More: Create Invitations as Beautiful as Your Museum Wedding With These Local Vendors
Elmhurst Art Museum
Overlooking Wilder Park, this west suburban art museum boasts an airy, light-filled environment that can be expanded with tenting for extra dancing or dining room. Galleries remain open for guests throughout your event so they can take in some culture when their feet need a dance floor break. Read real brides’ reviews here!
DuSable Museum of African American History
Events at this independent Hyde Park museum named for Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, who in 1779 established the trading post and settlement that would become Chicago, are surrounded by historic details and a permanent and rotating collection of engaging art and cultural galleries.
Cantigny Gardens and Museums
It’s no wonder the makers of baseball classic “A League of Their Own” looked to this Wheaton estate to film some of the most scenic parts of their movie 20 years ago. The historic grounds and museums here provide an impressive backdrop of gardens, water features and reception venues, including the Robert R. McCormick Museum and The First Division Museum, which features thousands of Army artifacts. Read real brides’ reviews here!
