When searching for a wedding venue that combines historical elegance, a natural setting, and modern amenities, Café Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is a top choice.

This iconic venue, nestled within the lush surroundings of Lincoln Park Zoo, offers a unique and unforgettable experience for couples looking to tie the knot amidst Chicago’s natural beauty.

From breathtaking views of the city skyline to the classic charm of a restored Prairie School building, Café Brauer provides an extraordinary setting for both ceremonies and receptions.

A Venue with Historic Charm and Architectural Beauty

Café Brauer is a Chicago Landmark known for its early 20th-century Prairie School architecture. Originally constructed in 1908, this historic venue has been beautifully restored, maintaining its iconic stained-glass windows, stunning chandeliers, and intricate details.

With its spacious Great Hall, large arched windows, and unique blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, Café Brauer creates a romantic atmosphere that perfectly complements any wedding style.

As one of Chicago’s most beloved landmarks, Café Brauer has been featured in various publications, including Chicago Magazine and Modern Luxury Weddings, as a premier wedding venue.

Known for hosting high-profile events and celebrity weddings, this venue is celebrated for its unique design and picturesque setting, making it a popular choice for couples seeking a wedding venue with character and history.

Exceptional Guest Management for a Flawless Experience

Café Brauer’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for both the couple and their guests is reflected in its guest management and dedicated team.

• Dedicated Event Planner: A professional event planner will be assigned to your wedding, working closely with you to ensure that every detail of your big day aligns with your vision. They assist with timelines, vendor coordination, and all elements of the setup and breakdown, allowing you to fully enjoy your celebration.
• Valet Parking: Café Brauer offers valet parking services, providing your guests with easy access to the venue. The valet service allows guests to arrive and leave hassle-free, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
• Guest Comfort: Equipped with climate control, spacious restrooms, and lounge areas, Café Brauer is designed for guest comfort and accessibility. The venue’s layout allows for a seamless transition from the ceremony to the reception, creating a smooth flow that enhances the guest experience.

A Variety of Stunning Spaces for Your Ceremony and Reception

One of the highlights of Café Brauer is its selection of versatile spaces that can be customized for different parts of your wedding celebration. Each area offers a unique ambiance, allowing you to tailor the setting to your style.

The Great Hall

The Great Hall is the crown jewel of Café Brauer, featuring vaulted ceilings, exposed wood beams, and intricate stained-glass windows that add a timeless beauty to the space. This grand room is perfect for both ceremonies and receptions, with ample space for dining, dancing, and celebrating.

• Capacity: The Great Hall can accommodate up to 250 guests for a seated dinner and up to 350 guests for a cocktail-style reception, making it suitable for both large and intimate gatherings.
• Décor Flexibility: The neutral palette and classic architectural features allow for endless décor possibilities. The space can be dressed up with floral arrangements, candlelight, and custom lighting to create a romantic and elegant atmosphere.
• Stunning City Views: The Great Hall features large arched windows that offer beautiful views of Lincoln Park and the Chicago skyline, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos and adding to the overall ambiance of the celebration.

The Outdoor Terrace

For couples dreaming of an outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, the Outdoor Terrace at Café Brauer offers a scenic space surrounded by nature. Overlooking the pond and with views of the city skyline, this terrace is an ideal spot for al fresco gatherings.

• Capacity: The Outdoor Terrace can comfortably accommodate 150 guests for a seated ceremony or cocktail-style gathering.
• Natural Beauty: The terrace provides a natural setting, allowing you to exchange vows surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque views of the park and zoo.
• Perfect for Photos: With the Lincoln Park Zoo, Nature Boardwalk, and Chicago’s skyline as a backdrop, the Outdoor Terrace offers countless opportunities for stunning wedding photos.

The South Loggia

For smaller gatherings or intimate celebrations, Café Brauer’s South Loggia offers a cozy and elegant space. This area is perfect for pre-ceremony gatherings or as a retreat space for the bridal party.

• Capacity: The South Loggia can accommodate up to 50 guests, making it ideal for more intimate gatherings or cocktail hours.
• Charming Architecture: With its historic charm and intricate architectural details, the South Loggia provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, adding to the venue’s timeless appeal.

Premium Services and Customizable Wedding Packages

Café Brauer offers comprehensive wedding packages, which include a range of premium services that can be tailored to fit the specific needs of each couple. From catering and décor to entertainment, Café Brauer ensures that every detail of your wedding is handled with care.

Catering and Bar Services

Café Brauer works with exclusive catering partners who offer a variety of menu options, from plated dinners to buffet-style receptions. Each catering package is customizable, allowing you to select the perfect dining experience for your wedding.

• Classic Package: Starting at $180 per person, the Classic Package includes a three-course plated dinner, a selection of hors d’oeuvres, and a premium open bar.
• Luxury Package: For a more elaborate dining experience, the Luxury Package starts at $240 per person and includes a five-course meal, wine pairings, a champagne toast, and a full top-shelf open bar.
• Customizable Menus: The catering team is experienced in creating personalized menus that reflect each couple’s taste and cultural preferences. Options include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, ensuring that every guest’s dietary needs are met.

Décor and Floral Services

Café Brauer collaborates with top floral designers and decorators in Chicago to create elegant floral arrangements and décor that complement the venue’s historic charm.

• Floral Packages: Floral arrangements start at $3,500 for basic packages, including centerpieces, bouquets, and ceremony arches. Custom floral installations are also available for a more elaborate setup.
• Lighting and Audio-Visual Services: Café Brauer offers a range of lighting options to enhance the ambiance, from soft romantic lighting to dramatic uplighting. AV packages, which include microphones, sound systems, and projectors, start at $1,500.
• Furniture and Décor Rentals: The venue offers an array of high-quality furniture rentals, including Chiavari chairs, lounge furniture, and custom tables. Full rental packages begin at $4,000.

Exclusive Wedding Packages and Pricing

Café Brauer provides a range of exclusive wedding packages designed to accommodate various preferences and budgets, allowing couples to create a memorable experience.

• Classic Wedding Package: Starting at $35,000, this package includes access to the Great Hall, catering for up to 150 guests, valet parking, basic floral arrangements, and AV services.
• Luxury Wedding Package: For a more upscale experience, the Luxury Package starts at $55,000. It includes enhanced floral designs, premium open bar, upgraded lighting and décor, a custom wedding cake, and a five-course meal with wine pairings.
• Intimate Wedding Package: Designed for smaller gatherings, the Intimate Wedding Package begins at $20,000 and includes a private ceremony on the Outdoor Terrace, followed by a reception in the South Loggia with a custom three-course meal.

Why Choose Café Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo for Your Wedding?

Café Brauer offers a unique combination of historic charm, scenic beauty, and top-notch service, making it a favorite for couples looking to celebrate in style. Here are a few reasons why Café Brauer stands out as a wedding venue:

• Historic Landmark with Timeless Appeal: As a Chicago Landmark, Café Brauer brings character and elegance to any wedding, offering a setting rich in history and architectural beauty.
• Natural Surroundings: Located within the Lincoln Park Zoo and Nature Boardwalk, Café Brauer provides a serene, natural backdrop for wedding photos and ceremonies.
• Convenient Location: Situated just minutes from downtown Chicago, Café Brauer offers guests easy access to nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making it ideal for both local and out-of-town guests.
• Versatile Event Spaces: With its mix of indoor and outdoor areas, Café Brauer can accommodate weddings of various sizes, from intimate ceremonies to grand receptions.
• Experienced Team and Customizable Packages: The dedicated team at Café Brauer works closely with couples to create a seamless, stress-free wedding experience, with customizable packages to meet each couple’s unique needs.

A Truly Unforgettable Wedding at Café Brauer, Chicago

Choosing Café Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo means celebrating your love in a venue that combines historical charm, scenic beauty, and personalized service. With its iconic Great Hall, stunning Outdoor Terrace, and premium amenities, Café Brauer offers a setting that is both timeless and breathtaking.

From the warm, welcoming staff to the elegant details and picturesque surroundings, Café Brauer ensures a memorable experience for you and your guests.

For couples looking for a venue that reflects both classic elegance and natural beauty, Café Brauer is the ideal choice. With customizable packages, exquisite catering, and a team dedicated to bringing your vision to life, Café Brauer provides everything you need for a truly magical wedding day in the heart of Chicago.