We couldn't be more pleased with the setting for our wedding and reception. Chicago is a treasure trove for the lovers of history and architecture, and the Historical Society offers generous portions of both. Located at the southern point of Lincoln Park, its structural elegance pays homage to knowledge and reflects great pride in the city's history. As the first public exhibit space in Chicago, it set a high standard, and it continues to be a vital community organization.
The Society houses many artifacts from the Columbian Exposition of 1893, a world fair that has been called "America's coming-out party". For years, this event, and the temporary "White City" that housed it, has captured our imaginations, and we are pleased to incorporate it into our wedding celebration. Artwork and memorabilia from the event are showcased in the atrium where dinner will be served, and the dance floor is set in a hall modeled after the Exposition's "Court of Honor". We encourage you to visit during regular museum hours to enjoy the full 1893 exhibit.
If you are interested in architecture and/or photography, we recommend the Historical Society's current exhibit on Hedrich Blessing, a photography firm specializing in architectural images.
CHS also has some great online exhibits, such as What George Wore and Sally Didn't, a collection of Americana artifacts that illuminate times past.
For more information, and to see photos of the wedding and reception spaces, please visit the Chicago Historical Society online, or call 312-642-4600.
How to Get There
CHS is easy to reach by public transportation: CTA buses #11, #22, #36, #72, #151, and #156 stop nearby. You can also try the Free Lincoln Park Trolley.
From Lake Shore Drive, take the North Ave exit onto LaSalle Drive. From the Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94), exit onto North Ave and travel east approximately two miles. CHS is just north of North Avenue on Clark Street. Public parking is located one block north of CHS at Clark and LaSalle Streets (enter on Stockton Drive). Handicapped parking is available upon request.
