11 of Our Favorite Small Town Wedding Venues In Illinois
Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the Windy City? Within the rolling landscapes and low hills of Illinois, you’ll find serene wedding venues with all the charming small-town vibes. These amazing locations offer all the conveniences of a big city—but with the added bonus of stunning natural scenery paired with a cool, laid-back atmosphere. Our personal favorites come in the form of family-owned farms passed down from generations, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems with some major historic cred. So if this sounds right up your alley (or winding country road!), check out these picturesque wedding venues that are small-town spaces yet big on charm!
EAGLES NEST at the Lake
West Frankfort, IL
Fab Features: a lakeside wedding and event venue nestled in the heart of southern illinois • hold your ceremony on the Lakeside Stage featuring a gorgeous water view • make your celebration last all weekend and stay in Eagle’s Hideaway, the four bedroom cottage on-site
Catering: Preferred listPrice: $ • $$
Grand Bear Resort at Starved Rock
North Utica, IL
Fab Features: relaxing resort surrounded by nature • ten unique event spaces provide lots of flexibility, from the Grand Ballroom to the outdoor pavilion to the canyon deck • endless amenities for destination weddings like a year-round indoor waterpark, cave arcade, and mini golf!
Catering: In-housePrice: $ • $$
Legacy Farm
Stonefort, IL
Fab Features: welcoming rustic retreat surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest • multiple event venues include the white wooden Lakeview Pavilion, the pastoral Woodland site, shaded by mature trees, and the Grandview Pavilion with its centerpiece stone fireplace and French Country vibes • ample guest accommodations invite destination weddings, with ample time to enjoy the stunning surroundings
Catering: Preferred list, BYOPrice: $ • $$
Historic Bell Hill
Cobden, IL
Fab Features: breathtaking panoramic views of the Shawnee National Forest • say “I do” on the manicured lawn or with a pre-Civil War barn backdrop • multiple event spaces can accommodate intimate to large-scale celebrations, with cozy accommodations in the historic mansion for relaxing wedding weekends
Catering: Preferred list, BYOPrice: $ • $$
Epiphany Farms Estate
Downs, IL
Fab Features: 70-acre working farm focused on organic and regenerative agricultural practices • dreamy al fresco ceremonies on the verdant lawns, set against the lush vines and rolling prairies beyond • delectable menu options from the Epiphany Hospitality Group, prepared with farm-fresh, seasonal ingredients
Catering: In-housePrice: $ • $$ • $$$
The Wagner House
Freeport, IL
Fab Features: beautifully restored 1903 urban destination with a range of unique event spaces and independent businesses • The Green Room is timeless and industrial-chic, with exposed brick, beautiful windows, and polished wood floors • a built-in bar has a cool speakeasy vibe—or rent the actual speakeasy for a cool afterparty option
Catering: In-housePrice: $ • $$
The Pavilion at Orchard Ridge Farms
Rockton, Illinois
Fab Features: secluded yet glamorous country getaway • the Pavilion is appointed with a towering masonry fireplace, chandeliers hanging from timber beams, and state-of-the-art audiovisual enhancements • farm-to-fork cuisines provided by their exclusive caterer, Henrici’s
Catering: In-housePrice: $ • $$ • $$$
The Ink House
Edwardsville, IL
Fab Features: an event space offering a balance of historical significance and contemporary charm in the heart of Downtown Edwardsville • say ‘I do’ in The Headliner, their large indoor space • guests can mingle in The Press Room that also boasts an in-house photo booth that lends an element of fun to any event held here
Catering: Preferred listPrice: $ • $$
The Shores of Turtle Creek
Spring Grove, IL
Fab Features: exchange vows under a wooden arbor in a quiet glen shaded by oaks • plenty of al fresco photos ops, including mature trees, bountiful wildflowers, dozens of ponds, and a romantic footbridge that spans Turtle Creek • dinner and dancing in the gracious, lodge-inspired reception room, or outdoors on the sprawling lawn
Catering: Preferred listPrice: $ • $$
A Pocket Full of Sunshine
Mount Vernon, IL
Fab Features: sweet, family-owned venue surrounded by lush meadows, a sparkling pond, and mature shade trees • the pretty whitewashed barn boasts features an attached covered patio that opens to a courtyard • choose from their wide collection of décor to make your unique vision come to life
Catering: Preferred listPrice: $ • $$
Walnut Grove Farm
Knoxville, IL
Fab Features: a historic and rustic farm venue • hold your outdoor ceremony surrounded by the natural beauty of the spacious lawns • make the planning process a breeze with the help of their experienced staff who are happy to assist with your special event
Catering: Preferred list, BYOPrice: $ • $$
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Some clients may have paid to be placed in our editorial and some of these links may be affiliate; however, we never include a venue, vendor, or product unless they have a proper place here. This is part of our Core Values. We create our website first and foremost to be good for the couples using it to plan their Big Day. We won't stray from that for a few advertising dollars. #scoutshonor