View From The Top: Indoor and Outdoor Rooftop Venues

Visitors and locals to Chicago will agree about this fact: The city and surrounding communities are flat as the proverbial pancake. The prairie landscape shouldn’t hold back those who have lofty ideas for holding a party or other special event. In this sea-level, altitude-challenged metropolis, there are places that offer a view from the top.

Private clubs, like the Metropolitan Club in the Sears – make that – Willis Tower and the University Club on Monroe Street at Michigan Avenue, offer unparalleled views, facilities, cuisine and service. But these and others only allow members and guests the privilege of hosting events. Here are some venues that will give you and your guests a window to the world that is Chicago.

One private club does open its doors to non-members: The Mid-America Club on the 80th floor of the Aon Center at 200 E. Randolph St. Founded more than 40 years ago, the club boasts something others can’t match: A 360-degree view of the Chicago skyline and lakefront parks and attractions. Planners can host small receptions for 20 guests, a seated banquet for more than 600, or reception for 1,000. The club offers various private rooms and an expandable ballroom in its more than 8,000 square feet.

Perhaps the hottest new sky-high venue to come on line recently is the aptly-named ROOF, the lounge and party space taking up the 27th floor of the Wit Hotel at 201 N. State St. Lines to visit the high-rise venue stretched 30-plus deep this summer to make the scene at ROOF’s indoor and outdoor areas. Reserve this party location and have all 7,000 square feet for you and your guests. They’ll enjoy handcrafted drinks, food from an Italian-themed small plate menu and views of the Chicago River and beyond. ROOF will accommodate up to 150. Contact theWit Hotel

Long-time Chicagoans know the “grand dame” of vertical venues is the Signature Room at the 95th in the John Hancock Center, 875 N. Michigan Av. Known for fine food, romantic dinners, floor-to-ceiling windows and views that can bring in three surrounding states, the Signature Room also can be reserved for a wide range of events, from rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and weddings to themed parties, receptions and corporate dinners.

Want someplace a little more “down-to-earth?” Here are three locations that are, indeed, up on the roof, only a lot closer to the pavement than the aforementioned.

A stalwart on the Greek Town dining circuit, Pegasus at 130 S. Halsted St. opens its Veranda, a second-level outdoor space between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Guests can dine on Greek tapas-style cuisine and take in awesome views of the Chicago skyline. The space can be reserved for 20 to 80 people, depending on the day of the week.

The Rock Bottom Brewery anchors the southwest corner of Grand Avenue and State Streets. Along with various traditional style indoor party rooms, this brewery and casual restaurant offers a rooftop deck during summer months. The views include surrounding office buildings, but Rock Bottom is perhaps the only outdoor venue of its kind within the downtown area. Contact Rock Bottom Brewery

Out in west suburban Oak Park, the Avenue Ale House, 25 S. Oak Park Av., is a popular, spacious year-round restaurant and lounge for after work drinks, a great “pub” menu, live music and catching sports on huge plasma TVs. When the weather warms up, patrons often head upstairs to the only outdoor rooftop deck in the west suburbs. The views aren’t great, but the casual atmosphere, great food and drink make the Ale House a great option.

Visit our directory for a list of all of Chicago’s best indoor and outdoor rooftop venues and spaces for your next friends gathering, bachelor/bachelorette party, birthday party, anniversary, company party, corporate event, wedding reception, rehearsal dinner, wedding, holiday party and more.

theWit Hotel
201 N. State Street
Chicago, IL 60611

Lose yourself in the vibrant epicenter of the Windy City at theWit, a Doubletree Hotel, the newest downtown Chicago boutique hotel. Located on historic State Street — in the heart of the revitalized theater and Loop business districts –, this all-new destination pulls the chair from underneath pomposity and seriousness … igniting the neighborhood with a new energy and spirit of fun. Relax in plush accommodations with breathtaking views of the Chicago River, the skyline, and Millennium Park. Take a short stroll and marvel at the city’s premier museums, cultural landmarks, and entertainment. Experience the allure and style of the Chicago Loop. Make theWit, a Doubletree Hotel, your shining star among downtown Chicago hotels.

Blending the amenities of a resort with the flair of a boutique hotel, theWit, a Doubletree Hotel, has brought a new energy and vitality to the downtown Chicago Loop. Striking design, unparalleled comfort, and remarkable services create a dramatic sensory experience.

Total Capacity of Venue:
300

Private or Semi Private Space Available:
Yes

Room Set at Capacity:
350 Theater Style

Contact theWit Hotel Chicago for your next meeting or event

The Private Dining Rooms of Fulton’s on the River offers a number of unique rooms for you to choose from for your next private event. The spectacular location serves as an excellent backdrop for social and corporate events. In the heart of Chicago, The Private Dining Rooms of Fulton’s on the River unites the finest in classic and contemporary dining. Located on the east bank of the Chicago River with a spectacular view of the skyline, it’s the prime location for your next private event. Whether you’re hosting a wedding or a corporate function, we can accommodate 10 – 1,500 guests with grace and ease. Select one of our seven dining spaces to create your perfect party.

Fulton’s on the River, located on the Chicago River with views of downtown, offers the best of both worlds. A classic seafood and steak house, with an unparalleled devotion to procuring nothing but the highest quality ingredients. Quality service and an extensive wine and cocktail selection provide a
great place to dine, relax and celebrate!

Our Distinctive Event Areas Seated or Reception
330
500

The Bridge House Room also offers pristine views of the river.
125
175

A semi-private space with a lovely view, the Main Branch Room is elegantly lined with windows overlooking the water and city skyline.
60
100

If your dream is an outdoor affair, plan your party on the Veranda and enjoy the open air.
80
300

In the west end of the building, also at river level, sits the exclusive Falling Waters Room.
125
175

The Murdoch Lounge, with plush design and relaxed atmosphere, provides the perfect atmosphere for a casual event or cocktail party.
75
150

For an intimate affair, have your guests dine among the extraordinary vintage selections of Fulton’s on the River in The Wine Room.
10
N/A

For larger-than-life events, book the entire restaurant.
1000
1500

Total Capacity of Venue:
1500

Private or Semi Private Space Available:
Yes

Unique views?
The Chicago River

Contact Fulton’s on the River steakhouse for your next private dining function. ”Tell em Hereschicago.com sent you”

For a complete list of Chicago Steak Restaurants with Private Dining, visit our directory at Hereschicago.com

Fascinating design, soaring 27 stories up, with panoramic views of the City, lake, Chicago River and Millennium Park

Exceptional comfort, showcased in our 298 chic guest rooms and stunning suites

Business savvy, with 7,000 square feet of flexible meeting, banquet, and entertainment space
In tune with your tastes, with three dazzling restaurants and two unique bars ROOF, our 27th floor indoor/outdoor lounge, featuring soaring panoramic views, roaring fire pits, live music, telescopes, and unparalleled ambiance The Library, enjoy an area of colorful relaxation with interestingly humorous pieces of “Witerature” from our available collection.

SCREEN, our luxurious multimedia theater, ideal for a film screening or media presentations, major broadcasts of athletic events or a product launch.

Eco-conscious, employing responsible green practices. Technologically and service driven, providing the highest level of support and service for sophisticated, discerning, and tech-savvy guests

Profoundly different, offering a warm welcome and premier spa and technology services, a playful, boutique-inspired oasis surrounded by downtown attractions, businesses, and theaters
Experience the difference of our Chicago boutique hotel

For a comlete guide to Chicago meeting space, visit Hereschicago.com, Chicago’s meeting planner resource.

Beyond the Ivy Rooftops Chicago
1010 Waveland
Chicago, IL

Have your next party, bachelorette party or company outing/client outing at one of Beyond The Ivy Rooftops three historic Wrigley Field venues. All locations provide spectacular views of the game, amazing food and friendly service. Each venue has a unique identity, making each rooftop a special experience. We offer all food, drink and meeting space all included in one ticket price. Our venue is unique because we offer bar type bleachers where the person who books the venue can get around to the entire crowd without blocking anyone’s views! Visit BeyondtheIvy.com for more information!

We offer 3 venues all on Waveland with great views into Wrigley Field. We included all food and drinks. We offer an experience where you can get work done and have a great time.

1010 Waveland is LARGER THAN LIFE! Everything is over sized! The bleachers are huge, the food and drink service bars are huge, even the pictures on the walls are over sized! Where else can you have a private sky box big enough for 200 of your closest friends or colleagues?

1038 Waveland
A hip and modern vibe kick inside and out of 1038 West Waveland. The low club style seating, sleek shiny tall tables, and over the top artwork all immerse Cub’s fans in a club like game experience.

1048 Waveland
Nostalgia and history make 1048 Waveland. The traditional feel and historic photographs at 1048 Waveland immerse a Cub’s fan in what makes us Cubs fans different… our rich history. Speaking of rich—the club house is filled with marble, granite and wood!
Our most Important Target Market is ?

People looking to have a first class event with little to no work with managed costs and an amazing venue and value. Our rooftop’s space, design and amenities make it easy for people to enjoy a Chicago Cubs game!

We are most proud of our ability to?

We are proud that the person who spends the money to host an event at Beyond the Ivy can get the value from his or her event by easily getting around our space and not blocking anyone’s views and spending quality face time with everyone!
We are famous with customers for our ability to?

We put together an event from start to finish, with all food and drinks included, we are the event that people want to come to and we provide great value for your expense. Our staff works to make sure people’s needs are met and exceeded.

Unlike our competition, we offer customers?

Other roofs have limitations about where certain clients can be during games- we offer free rein and space for people to be in different places. Bar Bleachers with great views of the game, outdoor beer gardens, and 3rd floor clubhouses!

We would like our customers to tell their friends that we provide the best?

We want our guests to walk out and say that they had a good time at Beyond the Ivy and we want the person who planned the event to say they got a good value by being able to communicate with the people they have paid to have with them at BTI.

Our company enhances customer lives by offering?

Beyond the Ivy understands giving back is important and we offer many half price days that can be used as fundraisers for not for profit groups! We love hosting your benefits and work closely with many organizations throughout Chicago and the USA.

We offer our customers the best?

Experience for a group to see a Chicago Cubs game. We offer more room, more convenient seating where you can see the game and enjoy the people you are with.

Recent Clients:

Please call for references or to tour the facility. Banks, Casinos, Accounting Firms, Manufacturing, Service, Hotels, Meeting Planning Firms, we take groups of 2-500.

Awards/Achievements:
Recognition on Radio, TV News, Architecture Books, and customer comments!

Visit Beyond The Ivy Wrigley Rooftops on Hereschicago.com for more information and to book your Chicago Bachelorette Party, Corporate Event, Company Outing, Client Outing, Birthday Party and more…

Chicago Watercraft small boat custom cruises for northerly island concerts, bachelorette parties, corporate events, unique client outings, and more.  10 - 12 people on your own boat on Lake Michigan!

Enjoy a Northerly Island concert and hear a great show surrounded by all your conveniences of your CW party boat! It’s like Ravinia on the water. Why spend $100+ on tickets, parking, drinks? Listen to Your favorite music on the lake with spectacular views. Charter a CW party boat/yacht; use our caterer or BYO food and beverage. Spilt costs!

Visit Chicago Watercraft and ask for Captain Vernon Patrick.  Tell em Hereschicago.com sent you!

Visit Hereschicago.com for a complete list of Chicago’s best Wrigley rooftops for your next company outing, friends get together, bachelorette party, or corporate event. Wrigley rooftops are one of the best networking venues in Chicago. It’s truly a unique and cost effective way to bring friends or clients together for one of Chicago’s most memorable corporate activities during the summer.

Prior to or after the game, book your group space at Cubby Bear or Vine’s on Clark. Both Wrigleyville venues are across the street from Wrigley Field and have group space for small and large groups!

Wrigley Rooftops Video produced by

Contact Chicago Indoor Racing if you are seeking great suburban meeting space, fun Chicago Corporate Activities, Buffalo Grove Meeting Venues, North West suburban conference space or a West suburban meeting venue for your next conference or Chicago suburban sales meeting, fun things to do in Chicagoland, or Chicago team building.

Each event at Chicago Indoor Racing is customized by one of their group coordinators. They will assist you in all the finer details of your event and can help you achieve all of your goals, no matter how simple or complicated. Chicago Indoor Racing Buffalo Grove or Chicago Indoor Racing Addison can work with groups of six to groups of 600 or more. Chicago Indoor Racing’s group event space features the latest in Audio Visual capabilities, including complimentary LCD projectors with pull down screens, as well as flip charts.

Chicago Indoor Racing in Addison | NOW OPENED!

Our new 105,000 square foot location in Addison features two new tracks and a variety of state of the art meeting spaces & entertainment concepts, including CyberSport. Groups events can be booked by calling Alisa Peters at Chicago Indoor Racing; individual walk-ins and same day reservations are happily accepted. Corporate and Group Events.

Five Meeting Rooms featuring the latest in Audio Visual Technology and wireless Internet access.

(The entire facility is a “hot-spot”)

Stewart’s Bar and Grille, a full service Restaurant and Bar, features a large array of cuisine sure to delight any palate! After the Race each location features a full service restaurant with a variety of dining options for individuals and groups of all sizes. They also feature a multitude of alternative entertainment that can be enjoyed before and after racing or dining.

Click here to email or call Alisa Peters at Chicago Indoor Racing for either location (Buffalo Grove or Addison) and tell her Hereschicago.com sent you!

The awards honor the dedication and creativity of event professionals who have earned the respect and admiration of their clients and peers. The award winners were selected through an online reader poll. The winner are:

Best Attraction – Navy Pier
Best Audio-Visual – The Meetinghouse Companies, Inc.
Best Banquet/Reception Venue – Tie between Galleria Marchetti and River East Art Center
Best Boats/Cruises/Charters - Kanan Cruises
Best Caterer – Blue Plate Catering
Best Conference Venue – Gleacher Center
Best Convention & Visitors Bureau – Chicago Convention & Visitors Bureau
Best Destination Management Company – On the Scene
Best Eco-Friendly Supplier – Greg Christian Catering and Events
Best Entertainment – Just for Fun Entertainment and Events, Inc.
Best Décor – Kehoe Designs
Best Florist – The Meetinghouse Companies, Inc.
Best Golf Resort – Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
Best Historic Venue – Chicago History Museum
Best Hotel with Meeting Space (less than 440 rooms) – The Blackstone Hotel
Best Hotel with Meeting Space (more than 440 rooms) – Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile
Best Photography/Videography – Tie between Promax Productions and Studio T Photography
Best Rental Service – Classic Party Rentals
Best Teambuilding Facility/Organizer – Corporate Event Interactive
Best Transportation – Windy City Limousine
Best Unique Venue – Chicago Illuminating Company
Best Venue Outside Chicagoland – Pheasant Run Resort
Editor’s Pick Best Event Décor – Ivan Carlson & Associates
Editor’s Pick Best New Intimate Event Space – Vertigo Sky Lounge
Editor’s Pick Best Casino – Horseshoe Casino Hotel
Editor’s Pick Best Experimental Event Expert – Minding Your Business

New this year, Illinois Meetings + Events magazine recognized its first-ever Hall of Fame, chosen by the magazine’s editorial advisory board.

Lifetime Achievement – Bill Pry, Partner – BBJ Linen
Best Special Events Planner – Andrew Schorr, President and Principal – In the Loop
Best Meeting Professional – Kimberly LaBounty, President – Apex Management & Special Events Inc.
Best Up-and-Coming Meeting Professional – Justin Rhodes, Associate – Corporate Events for Jones Lang LaSalle, Chicago
Best Supplier – Jim Grillo, President – hereschicago.com
Best Up-and-Coming Supplier – Renee Barricklow, Event Producer – Kehoe Designs, Chicago

“We are pleased to recognize the outstanding contributions of these organizations and individuals to the meetings and events industry, which plays an important role in Illinois’s vitality and economy,” says Lauren Hurley, editor of Illinois Meetings + Events magazine.

Thank you to our event partners; Underground, The Meetinghouse Companies, Inc. and Classic Party Rentals.

Illinois Meetings + Events magazine is one of eight regional meetings and events magazines published by Tiger Oak Publications, headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn.  The idea-driven magazine focuses on the issues facing today’s meeting and event professionals in Illinois and beyond and looks to address all aspects of the industry through in-depth feature stories, insightful departments and helpful news and updates on tips and trends. For more information and to view photos from the event, visit www.ilmeetingsmag.com.

Visit Hereschicago.com, Chicago’s event planner resource guide featuring Chicago’s top Planner Preferred vendors for Chicago meetings and events.

the Mitchell Dental Spa is a full-service facility in Chicago’s Water Tower Place

Unlike other cosmetic dental offices which are only spas or salons in name, the Mitchell Dental Spa is a full-service facility offering dentistry along with massage, facials, and skin rejuvenation. Dental appointments include a complimentary 10 minute spa treatment, where clients can choose anything from a back massage to a lip hydration treatment.

I visited the the Mitchell Dental Spa for a teeth whitening, but as you can see in the following video, this is not your ordinary dental visit which most of us dread.  It was more like a one hour stress free vacation that would make anyone look forward to going to the dentist.

Here’s Chicago Presents Mitchell Dental Spa. A video By BMP. from Video that rocks. on Vimeo.

Sample their fully-stocked refreshment bar. Let one of their massage therapists knead the tension out of your neck and shoulders. Then lay back with your own private flat screen TV while Dr. Mitchell creates the smile of your dreams. 30-90 minute spa treatments are also available.

Mitchell Dental Spa
Water Tower Place
845 North Michigan Ave
Suite 922 East
Chicago, Illinois 60611
Phone: 312.642.1014
http://www.mitchelldentalspa.com/

Visit our directory of Chicago Spa’s and more on Hereschicago.com, Chicago’s meetings and event planning directory.