The Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Forrest, IL

The Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Forrest, IL

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11 Wedding Venues in Forrest, IL

Outdoor
Quick responder
Meyer's Castle 

5.0

  • Up to 350 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Meyer's Castle is a world class historic landmark set on a hill surrounded by beautiful manicured rolling gardens. The wonderful blend of polished elegance in a natural setting offers an exciting scenic departure from ordinary alternatives. Located only 35 minutes away from downtown Chicago, the estate's smallest room can host a minimum of 30 guests, while the largest ballroom can accommodate up to 350.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides catering services
  • Lush gardens
  • All-inclusive venue packages

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
Planning a wedding from 2,000 miles away was definitely a challenge. We live in California, but originally from Chicago where all our families still reside. Outside of one quick visit to Meyer's Castle, all our meetings and preparations were done remotely. Their team worked with us at every step of the journey, and we couldn’t be more grateful! They were highly communicative, exceptionally helpful, and ceaselessly encouraging throughout the entire process. The estate, building, furnishings, and amenities at Meyer's Castle are undeniably beautiful and meticulously curated. The people of Meyer's Castle make it so spectacular. We would not have been successful without the incredible staff at Meyer's Castle who made our dream a reality. Their professionalism and capabilities are outstanding! The owners immediately made a positive and lasting impression on us. They made us feel like family! Our coordinator, Brenda, worked tirelessly to ensure that our vision came to life. Her abilities were on full display the day of the wedding. She not only kept us all on the same schedule, which in and of itself is impressive, but she conducted the flow of the day, with all its moving parts, seamlessly and with remarkable poise! Though their hard work behind the scenes may have gone largely unseen, their efforts were tremendously appreciated by all, especially by my husband and me. In short, Meyer's Castle frequently exceeded all of our expectations. They continuously eased the hassle of planning our big day from afar. Any concerns and anxieties we had were immediately addressed and solved by the Meyer's Castle team! We highly recommend them for any wedding or other big event on your horizon!
Olivia, 6 months ago
Jennifer'S Garden Banquet And Convention Center 

5.0

Morris, IL
  • Up to 1200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,995
  • Offer

Jennifer’s Garden, the area’s premier site to host your very special occasion. We are excited at the possibility of bringing to you everything necessary to make this function a wonderful success and a delightful memory. Jennifer’s Garden is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction. We will do everything we can to meet your expectations. Our commitment to service remains our number one priority. With a variety of offerings to choose from, we are sure you will be happy working with us. Look around our website and if you have any comments or questions, please feel free to contact us.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Allows pets
  • Bridal suite on site
  • All-inclusive venue packages

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No on-premises lodging options
My husband and I decided last minute we wanted a winter wedding. We contacted JG and they were SO fast to get us in to talk (we waited weeks and weeks to hear back from other venues..) and Deb and her staff were nothing short of welcoming and amazing. They seriously made our day PERFECT. I can truly say I was only stressed about having nothing to do because this venue truly does it all for you and makes your dream wedding come true. There wasn’t a single thing I thought later that I wish we had done- they truly have everything covered. The amount of compliments we got throughout the night about the food and the staff was also heartwarming. Knowing we were getting taken care of so well but also our guests made the night just that much better. Not only did we have a perfect wedding, but we also gained life long family with Deb because of how sweet and caring she is. We didn’t want the wedding to end because we wouldn’t get to see and talk to Deb all the time! Truly the best venue ever. If you are struggling for a venue- look no further. This is the perfect venue
Haley J., a month ago
Quick responder
The Venue CU 

5.0

Champaign, IL
  • Up to 325 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

The Venue CU is an upscale urban wedding and event space located in the resurging east end of downtown Champaign, Illinois. We offer a wide range of event services, allowing you to create the event you desire in our modern, industrial setting. Our team truly believes each event should be an elegant representation of the people being celebrated. The Venue CU provides accommodations that will fit the vision of any wedding day!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Provides event staff

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
We loved working with the Venue CU. They were really helpful during the entire planning process and have great local connections with vendors in the area. We did the Platinum package and it was worth it. Our coordinator was Rylee and she was amazing at communicating with the vendors the week of and helping us out on the day of.
Alizabeth Taubert, 2 years ago
Old Rugged Barn 
Towanda, IL
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

The Old Rugged Barn property is extremely versatile and the perfect location for your rustic wedding and reception. On the property, there is a large main barn with a 2000 sq ft main floor and a large loft overlooking the aisle and dance floor. In addition to this main building, a large enclosed pavilion and grain bin gazebo also sit on the property, with multiple pastures surrounding it for either parking purposes or use for event activities. Ceremonies can be held in any of the buildings, or outdoors, so the venue can accommodate and bring to life any of your rustic wedding dreams!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic charm with elegance
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • No in-house catering options
  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center 
Bloomington, IL
  • Up to 350 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,000

The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center is the most iconic venue in Bloomington, Illinois for Weddings, Conferences, Showers, Parties, and Special Events! Whether it's a meeting for 5 guests, a wedding reception for 300, or anything in between, we are happy to assist you in all phases of planning and accommodate your event. Contact us for a free consultation to plan your special event in Bloomington's Castle at The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Bridal suite on site
  • Provides event staff
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • No free parking
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
DoubleTree by Hilton - Bloomington 
Bloomington, IL
  • Up to 600 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $2,500

DoubleTree by Hilton - Bloomington is a premier wedding venue in Bloomington, IL, that blends elegance and sophistication with modern amenities. Imagine exchanging vows in our stunning ballroom or picturesque courtyard, surrounded by your loved ones. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, our spacious venues can accommodate your vision perfectly. Let our expert team pamper you with exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and personalized attention to every detail, ensuring your wedding day is as effortless as it is unforgettable. Conveniently located near local attractions like Miller Park Zoo and easily accessible from several state highways, DoubleTree by Hilton - Bloomington is where your dream day comes to life.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Classic seating dinner
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Has onsite accommodations

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • On-site parking not available
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
Quick responder
Vrooman Mansion 
Bloomington, IL
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,500

Vrooman Mansion in Bloomington, Illinois can accommodate up to 75 seated guests for a more intimate ceremony and/or reception that is indoor or outdoor. Be amazed by the historic details of the mansion built in 1869, with it's beautiful sweeping staircase, stained glass windows, as well as the modern amenities you'd expect. Consider reserving our 7 rooms and suites for overnight accommodations for the wedding party before the event to relax onsite with confidence, and after the event to wind down. Our suites also provide ideal changing areas for the wedding party and capturing moments with your photographer. Our Carriage House is a luxurious choice for a honeymoon cottage that keeps you on property, yet privately tucked away when you want to be. We provide custom packages and choices: mimosa bars, cocktail receptions, family-style buffet, or plated formal dinners. The acoustics in the Main House will gently amplify our own piano or other acoustic musicians.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers convenient lodging options
  • Offers full-service amenities
  • Bridal suite on site

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not allow pets
Quick responder
Deer Ridge Barn Wedding & Events 
Kankakee, IL
  • Up to 1500 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,000

Beautiful 10-acre private wooded property to host all of your events large and small. Rent the house for smaller gatherings and overnight stays. Rent the barn for your larger gatherings or rent both for maximum enjoyment of the property.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides event staff
  • Has a fun and festive vibe
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
  • No free parking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Quick responder
WillowHaven Nature Park 
Kankakee, IL
  • Up to 95 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $140

The Willowhaven Nature Park is a restored 1900's barn that transforms into a spectacular location to host graduation parties, small weddings, bridal or baby showers, family gatherings, or business retreat. Large room with tables and chairs is available at limited times and the facility can accommodate up to 95 guests*. Alcohol is permitted with proper permit and additional fees. Willowhaven park also has outdoor rentals available at our amphitheater, gardens and picnic pavilion.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Unique barn setting
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Both indoor and outdoor options

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Lighting and sound are not included
Company 421 
Mahomet, IL
  • Up to 70 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,500

Company 421 was established in 2021 as the perfect space to host an intimate gathering. Owner Hillary of Hillary Rae Events found that she was running into problems when trying to find a local venue space for her events less than 100 people that made her clients feel at home. That is what led her to establish Company 421 the perfect space to host small intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, wedding showers, baby showers and so much more. Her goal was to create a space that her clients felt at home and comfortable, without having to deal with the stress involved with hosting a small gathering at her client’s actual house.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Provides event staff

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Does not allow pets
  • Not wheelchair accessible

Location flexible? Discover venues near Forrest, IL

About wedding venues in Forrest, IL

Planning your Illinois wedding opens up a world of venue options from The Seville's all-inclusive elegance in Streamwood to the industrial-chic vibes at Warehouse 109 in Plainfield. You'll find perfect spaces for everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations throughout the state.

What Makes Illinois Wedding Venues Special?

Illinois offers remarkable regional diversity in wedding settings. Downtown Chicago venues like The Gwen and Private Dining by Sepia treat you to stunning skyline views and sophisticated urban atmospheres. Head to the suburbs and you'll discover spots like Itasca Country Club with picturesque golf course backdrops. Central Illinois charms with converted barns and historic properties while Southern Illinois tempts with vineyard settings and lakefront locations.

Venue costs in Illinois typically range between $9,600 and $11,700 which aligns well with the national average of $6,500-$12,000 (representing about 25% of your total wedding budget).

How Much Should You Budget for Your Illinois Wedding?

Your guest count dramatically impacts your overall budget:

Guest CountTotal Budget
50 guests$24,093
100 guests$40,625
150 guests$56,164
200 guests$70,046
250 guests$83,928
300 guests$97,810

Where Can You Find Accessible Wedding Venues in Illinois?

If accessibility matters to you Illinois delivers several excellent options. Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton offers wheelchair accessibility while hosting up to 275 guests in naturally elegant surroundings. Loft on Lake in Chicago's West Loop combines wheelchair accessibility with industrial-chic style featuring exposed brick and timber beams. Need space for a larger crowd? Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville accommodates around 600 guests with full accessibility and air-conditioning.

Which Illinois Venues Offer Outstanding Culinary Experiences?

Food can make your wedding truly memorable. The Seville in the Chicagoland area features an award-winning chef who creates show-stopping flaming desserts as part of their comprehensive packages. For an urban setting Salvatore's in Chicago's Lincoln Park consistently earns praise for exceptional cuisine with guests particularly recommending their Tortellini and Tiramisu.

What Are the Cost Breakdowns for a 150-Guest Wedding in Illinois?

For a typical 150-guest wedding totaling $56,164 your budget will likely break down as:

  • Venue: $10,665 (19%)
  • Catering: $8,532 (15%)
  • Florists: $7,466 (13%)
  • Bar Services: $6,826 (12%)
  • Photographers: $4,835 (9%)
  • Videographers: $4,408 (8%)
  • Planners: $3,851 (7%)
  • Bands/DJs: $1,750 (3%)
  • Cakes/Desserts: $668 (1%)
  • Hair & Makeup: $400 (1%)

How Can You Maximize Value at Illinois Wedding Venues?

September stands as Illinois' most popular wedding month so you'll need to book well in advance. Most venues are secured about 15 months (457 days) ahead with venue inquiries typically representing couples' first wedding planning step.

Look for venues offering comprehensive packages that include essentials like tables chairs and audio equipment. This approach often delivers better value than piecing services together separately.

Can Illinois Venues Accommodate Remote Wedding Participants?

While traditional venues might not explicitly advertise advanced remote participation many can adapt for hybrid events. Consider working with places like Cheney Mansion Starved Rock Lodge or Mt. Zion Convention Center to implement interactive elements beyond basic streaming. You could incorporate virtual reality experiences or live polls to keep remote guests fully engaged in your celebration.

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