Wooded and Whimsical: 15 Illinois Forest Wedding Venues

Venue Superpowers:

Lakefront Clubhouse

Non-Profit

Waterfall Ceremonies

Fab Features: intimate botanic garden and nature center with multiple stunning outdoor ceremony sites • snap photos amid the lush acres, which showcase native prairies, a sparkling lake, an arboretum, children's forest, and waterfall • the graceful clubhouse boasts large windows and a sweeping balcony that offer views of serene Lake Katherine

Venue Superpowers:

Private Estate

Scenic Pond

Honeymoon Cottage

Fab Features: a secluded venue on 30 expansive acres of private property • hold a romantic ceremony under a canopy of 100 year old lush trees with your guests seated next to the quiet pond • celebrate all weekend long in the cozy cottage reserved for couples on their wedding weekend

Venue Superpowers:

Enchanting Setting

Flexible Packages

Exclusive Use

Fab Features: serene 8-acre estate with a sparkling pond, winding creek, draping willows, and antique bridges • start-to-finish planning assistance and complete event design • secluded country vibes less than an hour from Chicago

Venue Superpowers:

Private Estate

All-Inclusive

Manicured Gardens

Fab Features: stunning 55-acre private estate dotted with ponds, waterfalls, and manicured gardens • ceremony locations include a classic iron pergola beside the oak-line pond, the charming "Narnia" clock, and a lush wildflower prairie • packages include exclusive use of the estate grounds, mansion, and custom tent, plus fabulous food & beverage packages 

Venue Superpowers:

All-Inclusive

Sweeping Lake Views

Destination Weddings

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

Venue Superpowers:

Modern Farmhouse

Luxe Prep Spaces

Panoramic Views

Fab Features: custom-built barn with sweeping views of the Galena countryside •. the light-filled interior impresses with its modern design, white walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows • luxurious and private spaces available for day-of pampering and prep

Venue Superpowers:

Panoramic Views

Waterside Ceremonies

Late Night Celebrations

Fab Features: a rustic venue sitting on 11 acres of beautiful woods and grassland • have fun prepping for your big day in the Bridal Suite, with wall to wall mirrors and a stocked coffee cubby • hold your ceremony under their waterside pavilion and dance the night away in the 5300 square foot barn

Venue Superpowers:

Cool Former Brickyard

Glamping Lodging

River Views

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

Venue Superpowers:

All-Inclusive

Secluded Setting

On-Site Accommodations

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!

Venue Superpowers:

Family-Owned

All-Inclusive

Private Estate

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

Venue Superpowers:

Picturesque Setting

Private Estate

On-Site Accommodations

Fab Features: whimsical property set on 36 gorgeous acres • endless photo ops next to the 1-acre pond, a cascading waterfall, the flower swing, a boho tiny house, and the wonderland woods • forested ceremonies followed by fun receptions in the rustic barn or in the covered pavilion with is large stone fireplace

Venue Superpowers:

Lakefront Lawn

Breezy Wood Pavilion

Cozy Cottage Lodging
 

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

Venue Superpowers:

Picturesque Panoramas

Rustic

Weekend Weddings

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

We couldn't leave out this absolute gem, located just a quick drive over the Wisconsin border!

Venue Superpowers:

Woodsy Ceremony Site

Rustic Barns

Private Estate Vibe

Fab Features: private 20-acre pastoral retreat just five minutes from Madison • ceremonies in a tranquil, wooded grove with tiered, handcrafted bench seating for guests, or in a charming, rustic white Barn • unique, beautifully refinished reception barn with exposed wood trusses, hand-milled spruce walls, and beautiful vintage chandeliers

Venue: The Shores of Turtle Creek