When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Row 24 Chicago
Why Row 24 Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Row 24 Chicago is a beautifully restored industrial-style event venue that offers a warm, intimate atmosphere ideal for weddings, baby showers, and various social gatherings. Located in the South Loop, this venue blends urban chic with historic charm through features like exposed brick walls, high ceilings, ivy-accented décor, and a stunning massive chandelier which serves as a captivating centerpiece. With a capacity to host up to 200 standing guests or 125 seated guests, Row 24 provides a spacious yet cozy environment that encourages connection among attendees. The venue’s unique loft layout allows for separate spaces, enabling events to flow seamlessly between areas, such as having the wedding ceremony upstairs and the reception downstairs. Its location outside the crowded downtown area offers a peaceful city vibe without sacrificing accessibility. Row 24 prides itself not only on the aesthetic appeal but also on its exceptional customer service, with attentive owners and staff who prioritize client satisfaction and personalization. Whether you are planning a wedding, corporate event, or celebration, this venue’s flexibility with catering options, alcohol policies, and parking accommodations make it remarkably convenient and welcoming for groups looking for an alternative to typical ballrooms or convention halls.
Here's what people think of Row 24 Chicago
As of recent, Row 24 Chicago holds a 4.6-star rating based on 192 reviews.
User reviews of Row 24 Chicago consistently praise the venue for its striking ambiance and exceptional service. Many reviewers highlight the unique industrial charm created by exposed brick walls, elegant lighting fixtures, and thoughtfully crafted design details that elevate the overall atmosphere, making it feel both upscale and intimate. Numerous clients appreciate the personalized support from the venue’s management, noting that the owners and staff go above and beyond to ensure every detail is managed smoothly, contributing to a stress-free event experience. Positive reviews often mention flexibility with event layout, responsiveness during planning stages, and the venue's ability to accommodate mid-sized gatherings without feeling cramped or too large. The professionalism and friendliness of the provided staff have also been commended for enhancing guest interactions during events. On the other hand, some critiques focus on the venue’s sound system, with a few guests recommending that hiring an external DJ might be preferable to using the venue’s default app-connected sound setup, which reportedly had limitations. However, this aspect was rarely cited as a major drawback. Overall, the collective feedback depicts Row 24 Chicago as a highly recommended, beautiful, and efficient event space that successfully creates memorable experiences, standing out for its combination of ambiance and attentive service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christina Coleman
There are simply not enough words to explain how AMAZING this venue is! Finding a venue that checked all the boxes for the event I was having was extremely hard until I happened upon Row 24. It’s spacious, they provide you with everything you could ever need, and a HUGE plus, there’s parking! The GM, Leighann, is such an amazing individual, not only does she have a warm personality, but she is also VERY communicative and actually listened to my ideas. I was even able to text her a few times to tell her my thoughts and she was on it! She definitely made it feel like I was planning with family! (My photos are screenshots from videos I took during set-up, but trust there’s more than enough room for dancing, eating, and mingling!)
Markella Mason
Such a nice place. Went for R&B Sunday with Sean Mac and Joe Starnesm Food excellent, nice ambience. Drinks on point, music had you dancing the entire time.
Rani Williams
Words are insufficient! I was blown away by the customer service and responsiveness from the day I first requested a tour, but when I saw the space, I was stunned! It is such a beautiful raw space that you do not need much in terms of decor, but also it adapts to the decor beautifully no matter the use of the space. We hosted our anniversary party here this past weekend, and not only was Lydia a pleasure to work with over this past year, but the staff from the bartenders to the barbacks were pleasant and helpful throughout the evening. Communication during planning was easy and clear, and they worked seamlessly with my event planner and vendors. The location is central and convienient and having the ability to add your own flair as we did with a cigar truck outside, or being able to use the outside courtyard are a huge bonus. We had a fantastic party all of our guests raved about, and it was in large part due to the beautiful space and ambiance. My husband has now decided we need to have an anniversary party every year!
Rachel Selby
The perfect venue for our corporate event! Lydia and her team went above and beyond to make sure our cocktail reception exceeded our client's expectations. We look forward to planning future events at Row 24 now that we have a trusted partner and a gorgeous venue with top-notch service!
Elaina Dixon
We just had our wedding at Row 24 and it was incredible! Chris and Kelley, the venue manager, were so helpful and on top of every detail. Our guests loved the space and all the staff were so professional and efficient. Drinks were perfect and the bartenders were quick! There was even a parking option for our guests that were driving which is hard to come by in the city! We were over the moon with how everything turned out and can’t recommend Row 24 highly enough for your wedding or special event!
How to reach Row 24 Chicago
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Why Row 24 Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Row 24 Chicago with your friends? If you’re searching for a venue that blends a unique urban vibe with elegant charm, Row 24 Chicago stands out as an exceptional choice to gather your friends or family. This industrial-style venue features stunning exposed brick walls, soaring high ceilings, and a breathtaking 20-foot chandelier that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort, encouraging lively conversations and relaxed enjoyment in equal measure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a weekend brunch, or simply looking for a memorable hangout spot, Row 24’s intimate yet spacious layout enhances every gathering. Many guests appreciate that it isn’t your run-of-the-mill ballroom or banquet hall; instead, it delivers a refreshing alternative with its artistic details and cozy charm. Moreover, the attentive and professional staff ensure your event flows smoothly, handling everything from setup to service with exceptional care. This makes it a stress-free destination to rally at, promising an experience that feels both exclusive and down-to-earth at the same time.
What activities and amenities does Row 24 Chicago offer for group meetups? Row 24 Chicago is a versatile venue designed to cater to a broad range of social activities, making it perfect for group meetups of any nature. One of its standout features is the lofted mezzanine, which offers a unique vantage point overlooking the main floor—perfect for mingling or enjoying a bird’s eye view of the action below. The open floor plan is ideal for dynamic gatherings like cocktail parties, birthday celebrations, weddings, or corporate mixers, allowing hosts to customize the space according to the group's preferences. It comfortably accommodates up to 200 guests for standing events and provides seating for around 125, supporting both casual and formal meetup styles. A full-service bar is available onsite, staffed by skilled bartenders who are praised for their friendly, efficient service, ensuring everyone stays refreshed. For food lovers, Row 24 allows outside catering, so groups can bring in favorite cuisines or select from a variety of culinary options that suit the event style. The venue’s classic yet industrial décor lends itself as a perfect backdrop for photos and creating memorable moments.
What makes Row 24 Chicago perfect for hosting weddings and special celebrations? While Row 24 Chicago doubles as a chic event venue for any group gathering, it is especially renowned as a wedding venue, praised repeatedly for its romantic ambiance and flawless service. The combination of exposed brick, ivy walls, warm wooden floors, and elegant chandeliers bridges the gap between historic charm and modern design. Couples and their guests frequently highlight how the venue feels intimate despite being able to support nearly 200 people, providing enough space to celebrate without losing the cozy feel of a close-knit gathering. The venue offers two floors, allowing for seamless transitions—ceremonies can be held upstairs with receptions downstairs, optimizing flow and guest comfort. The staff goes above and beyond to personalize setups, catering arrangements, and event planning support, helping turn complicated logistics into smooth, enjoyable experiences. This includes in-house event coordinators who assist with timeline management, vendor coordination, and decor setup. The consistently glowing reviews speak volumes, confirming that Row 24 is ideal for couples and groups that want a memorable, beautiful event space without the impersonality often found in larger ballrooms.
Can you bring your own catering and alcohol to Row 24 Chicago? One of the appealing aspects of Row 24 Chicago that makes it well-suited for group meetups and celebrations is its relaxed but professional approach to catering and beverage service. Unlike many venues with strict in-house catering rules, Row 24 permits guests to bring in their own catering services, giving groups the flexibility to tailor the menu to their tastes, dietary needs, or event theme. This is particularly valuable for gatherings where food preferences are diverse or when the group wants to include special dishes meaningful to their occasion. Similarly, the venue allows for BYO (bring your own) alcohol, which is a considerable cost saver and adds freedom to customize beverage selections, whether it’s craft beers, unique wines, or specialty cocktails brought from preferred local suppliers. Of course, there is also an option for in-house bar service, complete with professional bartenders who receive excellent accolades for their friendly, efficient service. This combination of flexibility and professional hospitality ensures that every group can craft an ideal food and drink experience for everyone in attendance.
What about parking and location—how accessible is Row 24 Chicago for groups? Location and accessibility are critical for any group meetup, and Row 24 Chicago scores high marks on both fronts. Situated centrally on South Michigan Avenue in Chicago’s Near South Side, the venue is convenient for locals and visitors alike, making it easy for groups scattered across the city or arriving from nearby suburbs to converge effortlessly. The venue offers a number of parking options: six paid on-site spaces are available for guests, supplemented with free street parking for additional convenience. There are also multiple paid public parking facilities nearby for larger groups or those needing guaranteed spots. This accessibility is complemented by the venue’s proximity to public transportation, which makes it a practical choice whether guests prefer driving or taking the CTA. The neighborhood itself adds an urban edge that complements the industrial chic style of Row 24, offering plenty of pre- or post-event dining and entertainment options. Being in such a vibrant part of Chicago means your group meetup can easily extend into a full day or night of fun without long commutes or complicated logistics.
How does the ambiance and design enhance the experience for groups at Row 24 Chicago? The ambiance at Row 24 Chicago is a major factor that sets it apart as a prime venue for hosting friends, family, or colleagues. Upon entering, guests encounter a stunning mix of historic elements with modern touches: exposed brick walls, high concrete ceilings, ivy accents, and a grand 20-foot chandelier that serves as the room’s centerpiece. This design creates an atmosphere that feels both stylish and inviting. Unlike sterile or generic event spaces, Row 24’s industrial loft aesthetic offers a unique visual appeal that acts as a conversation starter and photo-worthy backdrop. The natural light filtering through large windows during daytime events adds brightness and warmth, while the elegant lighting transforms the venue into a romantic or lively setting by night. The two-tier setup—with an open main floor and a mezzanine—allows groups to spread out but still feel connected, promoting social interaction and comfortable movement. This thoughtful design reflects a perfect marriage of flexibility and charm, making your group event distinctive and memorable.
What kind of events have successfully been hosted at Row 24 Chicago? Row 24 Chicago has proven to be an incredibly adaptable venue for a wide spectrum of events. Aside from weddings and wedding receptions, it is well-suited for baby showers, birthday parties, corporate mixers, product launches, and casual brunches. Many guests have praised the venue’s ability to easily transform and adapt to varying themes and scales—from intimate gatherings of under 50 to larger groups nearing 200. The space has also been used for photographed shoots thanks to its visually appealing decor. This adaptability is enhanced by the attentive event staff who work actively with clients to customize layouts, audio-visual setups, and catering arrangements. Customer testimonials repeatedly underscore how the venue’s atmosphere elevates special occasions, while the staff’s professionalism ensures plans unfold without stress. Whether you want a lively space for a festive celebration or a cozy yet elegant setting for a more refined gathering, Row 24 can rise to the occasion.
In conclusion, Row 24 Chicago is much more than just a venue—it’s a destination where friends and family can reconnect, celebrate important milestones, and create lasting memories. Its unique blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and flexible service options make it ideal for hosting group meetups of any kind. The superb ambiance, accessible location, and excellent staff support elevate every event, turning what could be an ordinary gathering into something truly special. Whether you’re planning a casual brunch, a lavish wedding, or a corporate event, Row 24 Chicago provides the perfect backdrop to rally your group and enjoy a remarkable experience together.