Serene Escapes: 16 of the Best Weekend Wedding Venues Within a 3-Hour Drive of Chicago

Fab Features: a charming private estate on 130 acres just outside the village of Rockton • the Pavilion offers a rustic-chic setting with windows overlooking the rolling hills, a towering masonry fireplace, and chandeliers hanging from timber beams • the Copperstone Inn, a bed and breakfast located on the grounds, provides luxurious accommodations for family and friends

Fab Features: welcoming lakeside resort set on 6,800 sprawling acres • al fresco celebrations on the breezy patio or in one of two ballrooms, all of which boast spectacular views of beautiful Lake Galena • affordable, flexible packages keep the planning process simple

Fab Features: luxurious hotel nestled on 88 acres of stunning natural scenery just outside the city • the versatile event space can accommodate everything from sophisticated ballroom soirée or an open-air lakeside ceremony • the Grand Oaks Pavilion brings the outside in thanks to panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows

Fab Features: historic 1860s mansion with dramatic, Romanesque design and lovingly resorted interiors • intimate ceremonies in the lush gardens followed by dreamy dinners in the Main House or on the pretty grounds • luxe overnight B&B accommodations in the rooms, suites, and charming Carriage House (perfect for a honeymoon!)

Fab Features: remarkable 19th-century brickyard-turned-event venue offering a variety of unique indoor & outdoor spaces • an expansive deck connected to the event space boasts views of the Vermilion River • boutique camping options include lavish safari-style tents, inclusive meals, and on-site activities

Fab Features: relaxing resort surrounded by nature • variety of event spaces from the Grand Ballroom to the outdoor pavilion to the canyon deck • endless amenities like an indoor waterpark, cave arcade, and mini golf!

Fab Features: cool independent craft brewery • receptions in the modern-industrial Barrel Room, with floor-to-ceiling barrels and an adjacent Courtyard • inclusive packages feature fabulous, flavorful plated or buffet menus, with options for beer pairings

Fab Features: unique spot surrounded by 80 acres of row crop farmland, conservation reserve, and native wildflower fields • breathtaking Barn with dozens of windows, a soaring ceiling with whitewashed exposed rafters, delicate chandelier lighting, and a grand double staircase • the repurposed, 18,000-bushel Grain Bin serves as both a day-of prep area and a romantic honeymoon suit

Fab Features: exquisite setting on 10 acres in charming Peoria • wedding party prep in the Bridal House, followed by dreamy photos on the lush grounds • host a cool cocktail hour in the historic Carriage House, then dine and dance in the elegant white barn

If you're not tied exclusively to the Prairie State, might we suggest adding Southern Michigan and Wisconsin to your list? Take a peek at some of the incredible venues here—all less than 3 hours from Chicago!

Fab Features: exquisite French chateau-style manor accented by cascading ivy • weekend wedding packages include plush overnight lodgings, full access to the grounds, and even breakfast and mimosas! • events on the stone courtyard, among the sprawling gardens, or inside in the airy, natural light-flooded Celebration Room

Fab Features: secluded lakeside retreat set surrounded by lush forests • the manicured grounds boast a gorgeous "outdoor chapel," 16 cabins, and two wood-accented lodges • make it a weekend wedding and indulge in archery, boating, canoeing, fishing, nature trails, campfires, and more!

Fab Features: exquisite, secluded property with modern farmhouse-style cabins for a relaxing destination wedding • exchange vows in the Cathedral of Pines, a dramatic wooded glen, then snap photos among the flower fields and farmland • two lovely vintage barns, each with natural wood construction, stone accents, and flexibility for your decorations and style

Fab Features: unique 11-acre historic campus set along Lake Michigan’s bluffs in Racine • nationally-recognized American Gothic buildings nestled among gorgeous gardens and serene wooded areas • exchange vows in the soaring Chapel or gardens, followed by receptions in the Great Hall and Assembly Hall, both with lake views

Fab Features: urban-style event venue in the heart of downtown • the urban garden makes a statement with its large cedar pergola, custom iron gates, and a vintage camper bar • the interior impresses with original brick walls, honey-toned wood floors, modern lighting, and industrial design accents

Fab Features: stunning lakeside resort with fabulous amenities • variety of stunning event spaces from lux ballrooms to the rustic-chic chalet to the airy Pavilion • cozy accommodations and endless activities make it the perfect destination for weekend weddings

Fab Features: classic red 1840s barn with handcrafted wood walls, a cool birch focal wall, dimmable chandeliers, and unique handmade touches • outdoor ceremonies on a pretty stone patio, surrounded by lush greenery, shady trees, and a green lawn • two adorable furnished dressing suites for getting ready