Columbus Park Refectory
You'll have myriad photo ops by the waterfalls, stone ledges and lush foliage at the Columbus Park Refectory, and that's just the outdoor space. With picturesque Spanish-inspired architecture, arched entryways and terra-cotta walls, this Chicago landmark has three porticos that fill with sunlight in the daytime. The entire space can fit up to 870 guests, but for a smaller reception, we like the outdoor terraces with views of the water. (773) 287-0856, ChicagoParkDistrict.com
The Crystal Gardens at Navy Pier
Ever consider hosting your reception at an indoor botanical garden? The six-story atrium at The Crystal Gardens has a 50-foot arched glass ceiling and is home to more than 80 palm trees. With hanging "twinkle" lights and dancing "leapfrog" fountains, this magical venue also offers views of the Chicago skyline. (312) 595-5436, CrystalGardensCatering.com
The Grand Ballroom at Joliet Union Station
For historic flair, hold your cocktail hour on the outdoor balcony of Joliet Union Station before moving up to 300 of your guests into the Grand Ballroom. Check out the classic architecture, palladium windows, crystal chandeliers and high ceilings. (815) 727-1200, JolietUnionStation.com
The Great Hall of Café Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo
This urban hot spot features an outdoor space on the South Pond at Lincoln Park Zoo with an expansive view of the city. If you're looking for a modern venue, you'll love the hardwood floors, two-story atrium with enormous skylight and the exposed steel beams. The space fits up to 250 guests for dinner and dancing. (312) 742-2400, LPZoo.org
The Hyatt Lodge at McDonald's Campus
For a suburban wedding with a chic urban feel, The Hyatt Lodge at McDonald's Campus in Oak Brook is a great choice. The Prairie Ballroom seats 350 guests and features 14-foot ceilings, elegant chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows. Smaller groups of up to 70 people can enjoy the Q-Room's private outdoor balcony. (630) 581-6621, The Lodge.Hyatt.com
The Modern Wing at the Art Institute of Chicago
With oak floors, expansive skylights, a suspended staircase and floor-to-ceiling skyline views, The Modern Wing's architecture will ensure an unparalleled reception. Plus: Guests can walk out the wing's third floor and cross the pedestrian bridge to Millennium Park. Seats up to 1,000 guests. (312) 443-3530, ArtIC.edu
Morton Arboretum
Have a romantic outdoor ceremony at The Morton Arboretum in Lisle. With 69 sheared hedges on more than two acres, the Hedge Garden could be mistaken for an English garden. The Thornhill Lawn, lined with trees that flower in the spring, would be a fresh, colorful backdrop for your photos. Afterwards, head inside to either the Ginkgo Room or the Thornhill Education Center for your reception. (630) 725-2045, MortonArb.org
Ravenswood Event Center
At the Ravenswood Event Center, you'll have the choice of three distinct loft-style venues, all offering decks with views of the city. For larger parties of up to 200, choose the Billboard Factory Atrium & Loft, a space with large factory-style windows. If you want a lofty space with a rooftop deck, go with the Industrial Ballroom, which seats 180 guests. For up to 500 guests, we'd pick the Showroom -- it features an auto and vintage neon sign collection. (773) 388-2170, RavenswoodEventCenter.com
River East Art Center
If you want a prime reception location with a contemporary look, host up to 350 guests in The Mandala, a two-story lofted space with a 60-foot-wide illuminated Venetian water wall and mother of pearl inlay terrazzo floors. For cocktail hour, we like the outdoor terrace -- it overlooks the water. (312) 321-1001, RiverEastArtCenter.com
63rd Street Beach House
Located in Jackson Park, the 1919 Classical Revival-style bathing pavilion is a fantastic outdoor summer venue. You'll have a sprawling view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan with great photo ops in the Fountain Courtyard or on the lakeshore. Seats up to 1,500 guests. (312) 742-4847, ChicagoParkDistrict.com
-- Amy Beth Frye