Chicago’s skyline is more than a backdrop—it’s a promise of elegance, sophistication, and timeless beauty. For couples planning a luxurious wedding in 2026, hotel venues in Chicago offer not just convenience, but elevated style, unmatched service, and a perfect setting for cinematic wedding films.
As EverAfter – Wedding Films, one of Chicago’s premier wedding videography teams, we’ve had the honor of capturing unforgettable love stories in some of the city’s most iconic hotels. From rooftop vows to grand ballrooms, each space adds its own charm to the story. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top hotel wedding venues in Chicago for 2026, each paired with insider tips and visual storytelling potential.
Why Choose a Hotel Wedding Venue in Chicago?
✅ All-in-One Convenience
Hotels offer ceremony and reception spaces, overnight accommodations, catering, and event coordination under one roof.
✅ Rainproof Luxury
No weather anxiety. Hotels provide stunning indoor options that are just as beautiful as any outdoor setting.
✅ Cinematic Potential
The elegant architecture, dramatic lighting, and elevated design make hotel weddings a cinematographer’s dream—and that’s where EverAfter shines.
📍 Top 5 Hotel Wedding Venues in Chicago for 2026
1. The Peninsula Chicago
Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL
Website: peninsula.com
The Peninsula is not just a hotel—it’s an icon. With a Michelin-starred kitchen, private rooftop terraces, and the opulent Grand Ballroom, this venue is a favorite for upscale weddings.
Why we love filming here:
The natural light in the rooftop ceremony space is ideal for soft, elegant footage. Their wedding team is incredibly professional, which keeps the day stress-free for couples and videographers alike.
Capacity: Up to 300 guests
Best Feature: The Sky Rink rooftop in winter or Z Bar terrace in summer.
EverAfter Tip: Choose sunset for rooftop portraits—Chicago’s skyline does the rest.
2. The Langham, Chicago
Address: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL
Website: langhamhotels.com
Located inside a Mies van der Rohe-designed skyscraper, The Langham offers art-deco elegance with modern luxury. The Devonshire Ballroom features floor-to-ceiling riverfront views.
Why we love filming here:
The lighting is perfect—clean, warm, and flattering. Their grand spiral staircase creates a breathtaking first look moment.
Capacity: Up to 250 guests
Best Feature: Riverwalk access for portraits
EverAfter Tip: Book a riverboat for an epic couple’s video shot right outside the venue.
3. Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Address: 11 E Walton St, Chicago, IL
Website: waldorfastoria.com
A Gold Coast gem, the Waldorf blends Parisian glamour with Chicago charm. From private courtyards to lavish ballrooms, this hotel is built for timeless romance.
Why we love filming here:
There’s a subtle old-Hollywood feel to this venue. The light fixtures, mirrored hallways, and classic white décor create a luxe canvas.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests
Best Feature: The Parisian-style courtyard
EverAfter Tip: Great location for getting ready footage with your bridal party—stylish and spacious suites.
4. The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Address: 521 N Rush St, Chicago, IL
Website: thegwenchicago.com
If you’re looking for a venue with personality, The Gwen offers bold Art Deco design, colorful terraces, and a rooftop ceremony site with lake views.
Why we love filming here:
The contrast of modern and vintage textures gives your wedding film character. This is perfect for couples who want a non-traditional, fashion-forward vibe.
Capacity: Up to 150 guests
Best Feature: Rooftop terrace with skyline views
EverAfter Tip: Consider this for intimate or micro-weddings in style.
5. The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago
Address: 160 E Pearson St, Chicago, IL
Website: ritzcarlton.com
Timeless, elegant, and grand—the Ritz is an excellent choice for those who want black-tie luxury. Located on the Magnificent Mile, it boasts lakefront views and refined ballrooms.
Why we love filming here:
It’s a venue that speaks for itself. Whether we’re filming a ballroom dance or rooftop champagne toast, the Ritz never fails to impress.
Capacity: Up to 400 guests
Best Feature: Grand Ballroom + Lake Michigan views
EverAfter Tip: Schedule a private rooftop session during golden hour.
🎥 What Makes These Hotels Ideal for Wedding Videography?
At EverAfter – Wedding Films, our style is rooted in cinematic storytelling. We use natural light, Steadicam movement, and professional audio capture to preserve your day in the most emotional, elegant way possible.
Hotel venues allow us to:
- Shoot everything in one place = cohesive visual style
- Use grand staircases, mirrored elevators, or rooftop bars as dramatic visual elements
- Capture sound-controlled environments, which improves vows and speeches in films
See some of our hotel weddings portfolio here:
💰 Cost Breakdown for Hotel Weddings in Chicago (2026 Estimate)
| Venue | Avg Rental Fee | Avg Catering (per person) | Avg Total (100 guests) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peninsula Chicago | $12,000+ | $250–$350 | $37,000–$47,000 |
| Langham Chicago | $10,000 | $220–$300 | $32,000–$42,000 |
| Waldorf Astoria | $9,000 | $200–$280 | $29,000–$38,000 |
| The Gwen | $7,000 | $180–$250 | $25,000–$33,000 |
| Ritz-Carlton | $11,000+ | $240–$320 | $35,000–$44,000 |
Always confirm updated pricing directly with the venue.
📝 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a black-tie soirée or an intimate city escape, hotel venues in Chicago offer unrivaled elegance and convenience. And when paired with a professional wedding videographer who knows how to capture the space, light, and energy, your memories will live on as more than just clips—they become legacy films.
At EverAfter – Wedding Films, we specialize in turning your wedding day into an emotional time capsule. We’ve filmed at every venue on this list and would love to help you tell your story beautifully.