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

Planning a Chicago-area wedding, but want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? A short drive will have you surrounded by rolling vineyards, serene farmland dotted with rustic barns, and forested hillsides. From a luxurious log cabin surrounded by trees to a family-owned estate winery, we've gathered a handful of serene venues where you can just kick back and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer.



NORTHWEST | ROCKFORD



The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms

Rockton, Illinois

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

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$
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Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa

Galena, IL

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

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$
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WEST CHICAGO



Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook

Oak Brook, IL

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

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$ • $$$
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CENTRAL ILLINOIS | PEORIA



Vrooman Mansion

Bloomington, IL

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!)

Catering: Preferred list, BYO
Price: $ • $$
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Bricks & Stones at Camp Aramoni

Tonica, IL

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

Catering: In-house, Preferred list
Price: $ • $$ • $$$
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Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock

North Utica, IL

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!

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$
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DESTIHL Brewery

Normal, IL

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

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$
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The Barn at Fairview Acres

Biggsville, IL

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

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $$ • $$$
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Haven on the Farm

Edwards, IL

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

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $ • $$ • $$$
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EXPLORING FURTHER AFIELD


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!



MICHIGAN



Greencrest Manor

Battle Creek, MI

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

Catering: In-house
Price: $$$
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Camp Pinewood

Twin Lake, MI

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!

Catering: Preferred list, BYO
Price: $ • $$
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WISCONSIN



Abloom Farm

Saukville, WI

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

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $ • $$
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The DeKoven Center

Racine, WI

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

Catering: Preferred list, BYO
Price: $ • $$
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Mercantile Hall

Burlington, WI

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

Catering: Preferred list
Price: $ • $$ • $$$
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Grand Geneva Resort and Spa

Lake Geneva, WI

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

Catering: In-house
Price: $ • $$ • $$$
Click Here for More Info

The Cupola Barn

Oconomowoc, WI

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

Catering: Preferred list, BYO
Price: $$
Click Here for More Info

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