Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
The ALPLM offers venues for wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions, including the three-story atrium in the library. The museum plaza, the building’s magnificent rotunda, makes a spectacular backdrop for receptions, with a replica White House and a log cabin. Couples can even be introduced from the White House. Couples have the option to work with any licensed caterer they choose. The ALPLM also makes an ideal location for wedding rehearsal dinners. $500-$2,250. 212 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8873. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov.
Arlington’s
An elegant event venue and catering company for special occasions including weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and more. While we have incorporated modern designs into the venue, we still cherish the history that lives within the brick walls, thick crown molding and gorgeous wood features. Enjoy two floors of space that will surely fit even the largest parties, including private restrooms, free Wi-Fi, free parking, elevator access, full bars and sound systems. 210 Broadway St., 217- 679-6235. arlingtonsspi.com.
Camp Widjiwagan
Located on Lake Springfield, the enchanting 67 wooded acres are perfect for your special event. A majestic lake view, coupled with the rustic elegance of the stunning new LRS Leadership Center, creates a beautiful landscape to host weddings and events. Outdoor adventures such as a challenge course, zip line, archery, swimming and boating, as well as rustic lodging, are also available. 71 Wienold Lane, 888-623-1237. widjievents@girlscouts-gsci.org.
Columbian Grand Hall Event Venue
We offer a large banquet hall for any size wedding, party or business event. The built-in dance floor and full size, on-site bar make this the perfect place to celebrate many occasions. The venue accommodates up to 300 guests. 2200 S. Meadowbrook Road, 217-787-2360. Kccolumbiancenter.com.
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Whether your wedding is an intimate dinner for 20 or a lavish party of 400-plus, the Crowne Plaza is the perfect backdrop for your special day. With an abundance of settings – all flexible, customizable and beautiful – we can help create a unique and stunning celebration. The Crowne Plaza offers ceremonies and receptions to fit all cultures and lifestyles. We also offer themed rehearsal dinner packages. A complimentary suite for the newlyweds and special guestroom rates for out-of-town guests are available. 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, 217-529-7777. cpspringfield.com.
Edwards Place
Once a popular site for social and political events in the 19th century, the historic Italianate mansion is perfect for small, elegant ceremonies. The parlors can seat up to 75. Additional space is available in the art gallery which seats 58 for dinner or up to 120 for cocktail receptions. The lawn is also available to rent. $300-$1,500. 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631. springfieldart.org. edwardsplace.org.
Firefighters / Postal Lake Club
Located on Lake Springfield, the club is an event space fit for any occasion. Perfect for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate and private events. The club has a large banquet room with seating up to 300, a spacious bar with beverage options available to accommodate all budgets, a beautiful outdoor patio area, and plenty of on-site parking. Renters do not have to be a firefighter or member of the club to host an event. The Firefighters Lake Club is ready to host your next business meeting or conference and fully customizable for a memorable wedding or private event. 940 West Lake Shore Drive. 217-691-6472. fflc37events@gmail.com.
Hilton Garden Inn
This premium banquet/event venue offers guests a variety of set-up options that suit various occasions. Enjoy an intimate celebration with close friends and family or stage a grand affair for more than 100 guests in the 3,100-square-foot Presidential Ballroom. Treat guests to delicious culinary creations that will please all palates. At the end of the night, newlyweds and guests alike can retire to comfortable and modern guest rooms. 3100 S. Dirksen Parkway, 217-529-7171.
Hoogland Center for the Arts
Ornate, old-style theater and balcony offer a unique site for weddings with up to 200 guests for the ceremony and 140 guests for receptions. Starts at $850 for the day. 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787. hcfta.org.
Illinois State Fairgrounds
Four beautifully distinct locations for any size wedding and reception. • The Orr Building features a water fountain in the center of an open area and glass windows throughout the site. • Built in 1898, the Artisans Building features hardwood floors and an open floor plan for endless possibilities. • The Illinois Building has a 470-seat theater, main floor and mezzanine. • The Exposition Building has nearly 35,000 square feet on the main floor alone. It is a two-level building with iron framing, brick walls, and segmented arched windows. Unlike the other three venues, the Expo Building does not have A/C or heat but is a comfortable venue at certain times of the year. Check the website for current rental rates. 801 Sangamon Ave., Springfield. https://statefair. illinois.gov/non-fair-events/facilities.html.
Inn at 835
The Inn at 835 Boutique Hotel Catering & Events offers a premier wedding destination as well as a top-rated bed and breakfast in the area. Two luxurious parlors in the historic hotel building accommodate cocktail style events of up to 125 and seated events of up to 64. The attached 3,400-square-foot Conservatory event space holds cocktail receptions up to 300 guests and seated reception up to 240 guests. Adjacent to the Conservatory, the Caucus Bar Lounge features a full built-in bar and is included with the Conservatory rental. Garden wedding packages also are available with outdoor seating for up to 150. With wedding packages starting at $60 per person, the Inn at 835 is a completely inclusive wedding venue, with the ability to provide furnishings, linens, tableware, on-site catering and complete bar and beverage services by our team of hospitality professionals. 835 S. Second St., 217-523-4466. innat835.com. angiec@connshg.com.
Lake Springfield Beach House
Nestled in Center Park, the Beach House sits on beautiful Lake Springfield. The facility has two large rooms connected by a central foyer, fireplaces, a large patio and a kitchen. Tables and chairs can seat up to 200 guests. 101 Long Bay Drive, 217-757-8660, ext. 1095. lakereservations@cwlp.com.
Legacy Theatre
This intimate, jewel-box theater offers a dramatic setting for weddings and receptions. The theater seats 300. The swanky lounge offers reception seating for up to 150. The venue also includes a beautiful outdoor courtyard. No catering restrictions. Rates start at $1,250. 101 E. Lawrence Ave., 217528-9760. AtTheLegacy.com.
Lincoln Memorial Garden
A woodland garden with seasonal wildflowers, colorful trees in the autumn and a view of Lake Springfield accent this outdoor ceremony site for up to 200 guests. Wide trails, mostly shaded by huge trees, crisscross the garden and lead to stone-ringed areas for ceremonies in natural settings. Golf cart rental is available. 2301 East Lake Shore Drive, 217-529-1111. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. joel@lincolnmemorialgarden.org.
Long Bridge Golf Course
From mid-April to the end of October, hold your ceremony in a climate-controlled tent that seats 275 and has an adjacent courtyard. Rentals include a bride’s room, photos on the course and the use of a tent for three days. Site includes turn-around drive at the entrance for convenient drop off and reserved, close parking for the bridal party. 1055 W. Camp Sangamo Road, 217-744-8311. longbridgegc.com.
Northfield Inn, Suites and Conference Center
Two chandelier-lit ballrooms are available for romantic ceremonies and receptions accommodating 150-400 guests. Wedding packages available. The venue provides a complimentary changing room for the bridal party. Space is also available for small, intimate family-style rehearsal dinners. The wedding coordinators can expertly assist with the smallest of details. Complimentary King Jacuzzi room is available for the couple after the wedding. 3280 Northfield Drive, 217-523-7900. northfieldinn.com.
Panther Creek Country Club
It is the perfect setting for ceremonies and receptions, whether you desire an outdoor, open-air ceremony, one that is under a covered patio or an indoor space sheltered from the weather. The beautiful main dining room that overlooks the 18th hole of our pristine golf course is available for receptions. The beautiful vaulted ceilings make this warm, classic space the perfect backdrop for your reception. 3001 Panther Creek Drive, 217-546-4431. panthercreekcc.com. membership@panthercreekcc.com.
Piper Glen Golf and Social Club
The Grand Tent, with accommodations for up to 250 guests, features a 20-by-20 dance floor, tables, linens and other accessories. The Palmer Room, surrounded by windows overlooking the spectacular golf course, seats 150 guests for quaint and intimate events. 7112 Piper Glen Drive, 217-483-6537. piperglen.com.
Poe’s Catering
Poe’s Catering provides a memorable space for an outdoor ceremony, overlooking a tranquil pond. For receptions, the banquet rooms seat up to 300 guests in 5,400 square feet of festive space. 295 East Andrew Road, 217-487-7601. poescatering.com.
Pole Barn Chic
Ease into the wedding with use of our Instagram-ready home. Have the ceremony and cocktail hour on the illuminated outdoor courtyard. Treat guests to an unforgettable reception inside the glamorous and climate controlled pole barn. When the fun ends, spend the night in the honeymoon suite. Pole Barn Chic offers onsite parking, full bar, event staff to assist with a multitude of things and much more. Both full service and DIY pricing available. 4491 Old Chatham Road, 217-685-7389. polebarnchic.com
President Abraham Lincoln Springfield, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
This downtown venue features a talented culinary team, experienced wedding professionals, and an elegant ballroom with Venetian glass chandeliers. Wedding packages include a menu tasting, special room block pricing, and suite for the wedding couple. Suite based on availability. 701 E. Adams St., 217-321-2453, dtspringfieldil.com, spias_ds@hilton.com.
Rail Golf Course
This spectacularly elegant outdoor facility for 300 guests offers a dance floor and breathtaking views of the gorgeous grounds. The outdoor patio accommodates up to 60 guests for smaller events. 1400 S. Club House Drive, 217-525-0365. mary@railgolf.com.
Springfield Park District
The park district offers beautiful outdoor wedding and reception venues at several locations. Seating for 60-300 guests. There is something for everyone and every style of wedding. $70- $2,000. Duncan Park band shell at MacArthur Boulevard and Madison Street. Erin’s Pavilion features a 5,280-square-foot banquet hall to accommodate up to 300 guests and features a charming terrace with a panoramic, peaceful lakeside view, a banquet hall and two dressing areas for the couple. Caterers may be selected from our list of preapproved caterers. Southwind Park, 4965 S. Second St., 217-585-2941. Lincoln Greens Golf Club banquet room has large windows with a view of Lake Springfield. Room seats approximately 130 guests. 700 E. Lake Drive. Lincoln Park bridge or pavilion. The pavilion is perched on a hilltop with a scenic view, large chandeliers and 8-foot windows that light the grand banquet hall. Fifth St. and Sangamon Ave. 217-544- 1751. Southwind Park terrace, gazebo, butterfly garden, tree house or Selvaggio arches are options for beautiful outdoor ceremonies. 4965 S. Second St., 217-585-2941. Washington Park’s Botanical Garden annual display beds, rose garden, outdoor gathering plaza and the Roman Culture Garden provide stunning, colorful settings for outdoor weddings. 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116. Washington Park gazebo or pavilion. The gazebo is a quaint spot in Washington Park to hold a lovely wedding ceremony. The pavilion was built around 1900 and has an elegant cobblestone event lodge complete with a banquet room, kitchen and dining room. South Grand Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard, 217-544-1751. springfieldparkdistrict.org.
State House Inn
The State House Inn offers the 3,500-square-foot Governor’s Ballroom for couples looking for a grander site. The venue has a personal wedding planner, tables, linen and accessories and five-star catering accommodating up to 275 guests. 101 W. Adams St., 217-528-5100. thestatehouseinn.com.
The Brinkerhoff Mansion
Step into the timeless elegance of The Brinkerhoff Mansion, the perfect setting for every special moment leading up to and beyond your wedding day. From bridal showers and bridal suites to picture-perfect first looks and unforgettable receptions, this historic venue offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for celebrations. Host a bridal luncheon, gift opening or capture stunning photography in a space that blends romance with history. Whether an intimate gathering or a grand affair, The Brinkerhoff Mansion is here to make every moment memorable. 1500 N. Fifth St., 217-361-5555. Brinkerhoffinfo@gmail.com. Thebrinkerhoffmansion@gmail.com.
The Pasfield House
This historic mansion offers an inspired mix of the past and the present: Comfort and ease, while being elegant and luxurious. The venue accommodates 50 seated inside the ballroom and up to 200 seated outside in the courtyard. Event spaces are fully customizable and start at $1,700 for weddings or $400 for other events. The house has six luxury suites, and a one-night stay is included with your wedding booking. 525 S. Pasfield St., 217-670-2449. Pasfieldhouse.com.
Trish & Mary’s Event Space
Located inside historic Vinegar Hill Mall, this indoor/outdoor event space is the perfect blend of eclectic, vintage and urban design. With exposed brick walls, industrial metal beams, a built-in bar, lounge area, eclectic furnishings and a spacious open floor plan, it can accommodate seating for up to 120 guests and cocktail receptions for up to 200. The attached outdoor space features cafe lights over a brick paved road and a scenic backdrop of the state Capitol. Both spaces offer a unique and beautiful setting for a wedding ceremony, reception or rehearsal dinner. Rental includes set up of tables with linen and chairs. Catering is provided by Conn’s Catering. 107 W. Cook St. 217-523-4466, ext. 2308. angiec@connshg.com.
Venue 1929
Our unique venue is surrounded by romance with a vine-draped candelabra, two walls with arched windows, two fireplaces, chandeliers and two-story high exposed wood beams. Have your ceremony or first dance in the mezzanine balcony overlooking the main floor or in front of the stunning stone fireplace. Built in 1929, this venue is a perfect balance of vintage character and rustic elegance. The venue is available for rehearsal dinners, parties and showers and accommodates receptions for up to 150 guests. Venue 1929 can seat 110 people with a dance floor. Without a dance floor it can seat 135. Cocktail receptions can accommodate 150. 711 S. Fifth St., 217-899-5688 or 217-899-9061. venue1929.com.
VFW Post 755
VFW Post 755 offers a large dance floor, two bars and catering for weddings and receptions with up to 300 guests. 2211 Old Jacksonville Road. 217-546-9515 or 217-836-6032.
Wyndham Springfield City Centre
This venue has more than 50,000 square feet of event space available with elegant, spacious ballrooms seating up to 600 guests. Includes scenic event space on the 29th floor overlooking the city and modern exclusive space on the 30th floor, famously known for its panoramic views. On-site catering, complimentary tasting, complimentary suite for the newlyweds with contracted event space, and discounted blocks of rooms for guests. 700 E. Adams St., 217-789-1530. wyndham.com/hotels/49084.
SURROUNDING AREA
Bullard’s 311 South Sixth
Located in downtown Morrisonville, Bullard’s 311 South Sixth offers a unique experience. The venue is housed in a building that was built in the early 1800s complete with original ornate metal ceiling and hardwood floor which makes for a very warm, cozy experience. The facility is perfect for rehearsal dinners, smaller weddings/receptions, bridal/baby showers, class reunions and much more. Bullard’s 311 South Sixth can accommodate up to 100 people. It includes a full bar and beautiful beer garden. 217-827-0587. cbullard1957@yahoo.com.
Clayville Historic Site
Rustic, peaceful and romantic are words that describe Clayville Historic Site, located only 15 miles west of Springfield. Our 100-year-old, climate-controlled barn leads into an open pavilion, with side curtains for year-round use. This allows us to accommodate up to 200 people. For larger groups there is space to set up a tent or use our picnic tables outdoors. Many brides choose to do rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and reception here. $1,750, plus a $250 deposit. 12828 State Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-481-4430. clayville.org.
Edgewood Golf Club
Edgewood offers a distinctive banquet facility along with the peaceful atmosphere of the golf course. The upper-level banquet room offers panoramic views of the tree-lined golf course. Relax and enjoy a stress-free rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or wedding reception. We have seating accommodations for up to 250 people when including lower-level facilities. 16497 Kennedy Road, Auburn, 217-438-6131. golfedgewood.com.
Elkhart Hill Farm & Vineyard
Elkhart Hill Farm offers an intimate outdoor venue set on a rustic and historic country estate just north of Springfield. With a breathtaking, panoramic view of central Illinois prairie, beautiful vineyards and amazing, color-changing timber, weddings on Elkhart Hill are nothing short of magical. With provided indoor seating of up to 75 guests or option for outdoor seating for 200-plus, the farm is versatile for any size event. Menu creation is available to meet any budget. 4 Drake Lane, Elkhart, 217-523-4466, Ext. 2308, ElkhartHillFarm.com. angiec@connshg.com.
Hamilton’s @ 110 North East
An award-winning, New Orleans style look with three separate rooms available are available. The South Ballroom seats 420 with a 1023-square-foot dance floor, bridal room and your own special entrance. The Fireside Room seats 150 guests with a dance floor, and the Westside Room holds up to 80 guests. Chairs, tables, set up and cleanup are included. The building features Wi-Fi, elevator accessibility, an outdoor patio for pictures and a TV lounge and there’s ample parking. 110 North East St, Jacksonville, 217-675-2720, hamiltonscatering.com, info@hamiltonscatering.com
Hamilton’s at The Lake
Your ceremony pictures will be gorgeous with unlimited sites to choose from on the grounds of the Western Illinois Youth Camp. Chairs, benches and tables are included, and setup can be however you envision it. The Craft Hall, Krell Cabin, Dining Hall and Pavilion are all available to create the perfect setting for the special day. 2244 4H Club Lane, Jacksonville, 217-675-2720, hamiltonscatering.com, info@hamiltonscatering.com
Hill Prairie Winery
Couples can choose from several stunning sites, including next to the vineyard, pond, windmill, rolling hillside or inside a 100-year-old barn. Outdoor ceremonies accommodate up to 300, while inside events seat up to 150. The 100-year-old barn has been beautifully renovated with seating, bar and restrooms. We have a list of caterers from which to choose. 23753 Lounsberry Road, Oakford, 217-635-9900. hillprairiewinery.com.
The Homestead
The Homestead is a rustic, rural venue on a working 10-acre farm. It offers generous indoor and outdoor space for ceremonies and receptions for up to 300 people. The venue is climate-controlled with five restrooms and a dressing room for both the bride and groom’s party. There are also two bars with a seven-keg capacity. Guests will enjoy this natural setting complete with dance floor, fire pit and full kitchen for your choice of caterer. Located northwest of Springfield on I-97 in Tallula. 217-502-0019. homesteadreceptioncenter.com.
Marian Banquet Hall
Marian
Banquet Hall is located just three miles outside Springfield. The venue
is one of the largest in the area and seats up to 370 but rents for $800 on a
Saturday, with a two-day rental costing only $1,100. It has a full bar,
walk-in cooler, kitchen, dimmable lights, stage, disco ball, WiFi and
decorations for rent. There are separate rooms for dressing and a large
parking lot. The adjacent park with the Sangamon River offers wonderful
photo opportunities. To help keep wedding costs low, there are no
catering restrictions. 334 S. Fourth St., Riverton. 217-629-7202.
MarianBanuqetHall.com or MarianBanquetHall@gmail.com.
Paul’s Paradise
Paul’s Paradise is located 10 miles west of Springfield on an 80-acre tree farm. It includes a large indoor/outdoor stage, audio and dance lighting system, two decorative patios, a large lit concrete parking lot, seven restrooms, grills, outdoor games and more. Brides love the large bridal suite with a private restroom, bridal bar, lounge area and private balcony. Grooms like to hang out on the three-tier deck that overlooks the lake. Utilize any catering company you wish or bring your own food. Visit the complimentary décor closet and use all the decorations at no additional cost. Tables, chairs, photography backdrops, the VIP room, luxury furniture and a complimentary arcade are part of the package. Perfect for 125-300 guests. 12430 State Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-971-7876. paulsparadise@mail.com.
Prairie View Reception Center
Guests will be impressed with the elegantly updated interior of this 8,800-square-foot space. Complimentary event planner and professional staff, large hardwood dance floor and custom lighting, complimentary linens, free Wi-Fi, onsite private parking and your choice of caterers are all available. The venue accommodates 320 seated guests. 8865 State Route 4, Chatham, 217-483-7999. prairieviewreception.com.
Oak Terrace Resort
Oak Terrace Resort is an all-in-one location with an outdoor wedding venue where you and your guests can enjoy your big day and utilize all the resort has to offer. Three different types of on-site lodging are available as is the outdoor wedding location, reception facility, golf course and Mulligan’s Bar &Grille. 100 Beyers Lake Estates, Pana, 217-539-4477. koltmanns@oakterraceresort.com.
RiverBank Lodge
In the heart of historic Menard County, RiverBank Lodge offers a unique and memorable wedding experience on the banks of the Sangamon River. The 24 rooms are filled with the amenities of a modern upscale hotel including jacuzzis, fireplaces and multi-head walk-in showers. We also have on-site banquet facilities, an excellent lounge in which to relax as well as remote bar service. 522 S. Sixth St., Petersburg, 217-632-0202. Riverbanklodge.com.
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This article appears in The Wedding Issue 2025.
