Harold Washington Library Receptions
Chicago, IL 60605
Phone: (312) 747-4130
- Cross Street:
- Harrison Street
Editorial Review for Harold Washington Library Receptions – by Meghan McEwen
The Space
Topping the Harold Washington Library is the massive ninth floor Winter Garden, which also tops our list of reception gems. The spacious room rises more than 100 feet through the 10th floor and through a skylight that stretches wall to wall, exposing the night sky. No matter the weather outside, the Winter Garden creates the illusion of its namesake with benches, marble floors, lit olive trees and ivy that crawls up the slate blue-gray walls.
Details, Details
You can hold both ceremony and reception here, but you'll also have to rent out the Grand Lobby on the first floor, where guests can enjoy cocktails while the room is set for dinner. There's a preferred catering list, but other caterers are considered on a case-by-case basis. Some limitations: There's absolutely no on-site cooking, all candles must be votive, there's no changing room for the bride, and rectangular tables must be brought in (gift table, bridal party table, etc).
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Insider Tips
Price Tag$2,800 for four hours, about $560 per extra hour (only available until midnight). Grand Lobby rents for $1,000. Tables and chairs are included in rate.
En RouteIt's not just a simple elevator ride up to the ninth floor. You have to take two escalators, walk through the library, and then take an elevator up the rest of the way.
See For YourselfIt's a public building. Just stop by and check it out.
