1st Birthday Party Venues for Rent in Chicago, IL

Downtown Chicago offers a variety of upscale venues and easy access to iconic attractions. In the North Side, notably around Lincoln Park and Wrigleyville, you will find family-friendly venues near parks and zoos. Areas such as Hyde Park in the South Side provide a more laid-back atmosphere with community centers and open spaces suitable for kid-friendly parties. Neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Logan Square in the West Side boast trendy, versatile spaces that can be easily decorated for a child’s birthday.

Birthday party rental spaces in Chicago can range from $10 to $150 per person. Many places operate on the basis of a minimum spend, which starts at $100 and can reach $20000 or more depending on the venue’s capacity, standard, and location (but we wouldn’t worry about those high price ranges unless you’re planning to invite 200+ guests to your toddler’s birthday party). If you want to cut costs, you’ll find plenty of relaxed cafes and small dining spots that charge affordable rates. (Based on data from Tagvenue.)

• Horton Luxury Events. Full of natural light and boasting amazing city views, this spacious and versatile event space can become anything you wish! Its carefully designed interior will appeal to the most demanding guests, and the experienced team will work tirelessly to make your party vision a reality.
• Wandering Tree Estate. Alfresco parties are their specialty, and your little ones will love the celebration in nature! With unique plants and a beautiful lake, this is a truly stunning setting.
• Event Space at Hangout Lighting. This venue is a blank canvas for all kinds of events, and it has a special kids' party offer you might just love! You can pick their soft play area package, perfect for keeping the toddlers occupied and safe.

If you want to save some money on throwing your toddler’s first birthday party in Chicago, follow these tips:

• Book in Advance: Booking early can often help you secure lower rates.
• Off-Peak Timing: Consider weekday or off-peak hours for lower rental costs.
• Community Centers: Look into local community centers or church halls, which often have lower rental fees.
• Public Parks: Use public parks for a low-cost, natural setting (just be sure to check permit requirements).
• Partner with Other Parents: To split costs, consider co-hosting with another family celebrating a child's birthday around the same time.
• Negotiate Extras: If a venue offers birthday packages, see if you can negotiate on items you may not need to reduce the overall cost.
• DIY Decorations and Food: Opt for homemade decorations and food instead of professional services.

Here are a couple of ideas you can use to make your baby’s 1st birthday special, Chicago-style:

• Zoo Party: Host the celebration at Lincoln Park Zoo. Many zoos offer birthday party packages, and the animal exhibits provide entertainment for all ages.
• Aquarium Adventure: The Shedd Aquarium is another great venue, offering an immersive experience for little ones.
• Park Picnic: Choose a picturesque park such as Millennium Park for a summer picnic with family-friendly games and activities.
• Indoor Play Center: For a worry-free environment, consider an indoor play center specifically designed for toddlers.
• Children's Museum Celebration: Celebrate at the Chicago Children's Museum located at Navy Pier. This venue offers interactive exhibits that are perfect for toddlers, providing a fun and educational environment for the birthday celebration.