When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Space 1858
Why Space 1858 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Space 1858 is a modern and industrial event venue located at 1858 W Grand Avenue in Chicago's vibrant West Side neighborhood. This stylish space features a clean and minimal glass storefront paired with exposed beams and brick walls, creating an eclectic yet inviting atmosphere perfect for social, corporate, and wedding gatherings. The venue comfortably hosts up to 100 standing guests or 50 seated, ideal for intimate events where connection and ambiance matter most. With its versatile indoor space designed for events under 100 people, Space 1858 offers a contemporary setting with distinctive character and charm. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate meeting, or social celebration, the venue's blend of modern design and industrial elements makes it a welcoming place to meet up with friends or colleagues, fostering memorable experiences in the heart of Chicago.
Here's what people think of Space 1858
As of recent, Space 1858 holds a 4.5-star rating based on 67 reviews.
Reviews for Space 1858 generally reflect high satisfaction, with a 4.5-star rating based on 67 reviews. Many users praise the venue for its beautiful and unique industrial-modern aesthetic, highlighting the exposed brick, natural light from the glass storefront, and the intimate size that suits smaller weddings and social events perfectly. Positive feedback often mentions responsive and professional event staff who contribute to smooth and enjoyable event experiences. Reviewers also appreciate the venue's location in Chicago's West Side, making it easily accessible yet distinct from busier downtown areas. On the downside, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as limited seating capacity for larger guest lists, or minor logistical challenges with parking and event setup. A few guests have noted concerns about acoustics or event noise control in the open space, though these are not widespread complaints. Overall, the reviews conclude that Space 1858 is a stylish and well-managed venue that is especially well-suited for intimate, thoughtfully designed events, making it a recommended choice for those seeking a modern and eclectic setting in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
DD Harrell
I came here for a baby shower. Parking is not so good. However, I was able to get a parking spot down the street. It was across the street. It looks nice on the inside. Its clean & small. They do not have a sign on the place. It looks really plain on the outside.
V. Pedroza
What a lovely space! Highly recommended it for any event. You won't be disappointed. The pictures speak for themselves. Just beautiful!
Angela Brooks
Cozy place to have a nice event. What I dont like is that there is only 1 bathroom..
Jessica Scurlock
We had our 20yr Vow Renewal here and the space was amazing! Management was very professional and walked us through everything thoroughly to ensure our party was enjoyable.
Adeola Gideon H19
Nice place to host your next moderate event
How to reach Space 1858
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Website: None
Why Space 1858 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Space 1858 with your friends? Space 1858 offers an inviting, versatile loft-style venue that perfectly blends charm with affordability, making it an ideal spot to gather for celebrations and meetups. Its open and sunny layout, highlighted by a stunning exposed brick wall and large windows, creates a warm and vibrant atmosphere that encourages connection and fun. Whether you’re planning an intimate birthday party, a casual reunion, or a rehearsal dinner, Space 1858’s customizable setup lets you tailor the room to your group’s specific needs, ensuring a relaxed yet stylish environment. The venue’s location in Chicago also provides easy accessibility for guests, enhancing the convenience of meeting up. Furthermore, the friendly, responsive staff help every step of the way, making the planning stress-free and ensuring your event runs smoothly. This balance of aesthetic appeal, functional flexibility, and attentive service is why Space 1858 is a top choice for rallying friends or family for memorable gatherings.
What activities can we do at Space 1858? Space 1858 is designed to accommodate a wide range of activities that suit group interactions and celebrations. Its loft-style space is perfect for hosting rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, birthday parties, and casual social gatherings. Because the venue features an open floor plan with minimal fixed furniture, guests have plenty of room for mingling, dancing, dining, or even setting up interactive games and presentations. The customizable environment means you can arrange tables, chairs, and decor exactly as you want them, facilitating whatever activity—whether that’s a seated dinner, a standing cocktail party, or live music. The brick and wood elements add natural warmth and character, fostering an intimate vibe that encourages lively conversation and connection. Plus, its urban location affords easy access to local amenities, allowing groups to explore Chicago before or after their event. This adaptive space can also support corporate meetups or workshops, adding to its versatility for groups of nearly any interest or occasion.
Why is Space 1858 perfect for a group meetup? One key reason Space 1858 is ideal for group meetups is its affordability without sacrificing style or comfort. The venue offers some of the best price points for an event space in Chicago, making it accessible for groups on a budget. Despite this, it doesn’t compromise on aesthetic; the loft’s exposed wood beams and brick wall provide a trendy and cozy backdrop that impresses guests. The venue comes equipped with basic tables and chairs, and for groups who want a more upscale setup, they can suggest trusted rental partners to enhance the space further. Additionally, the venue’s open layout supports flexibility—groups can arrange the space to suit the vibe they want, from casual and informal to more structured and elegant. The staff’s proactive communication and accommodation of multiple walkthroughs also help groups feel confident and prepared for their event. Finally, the respectful and inclusive environment welcomes diverse communities, including LGBTQ groups, making everyone feel comfortable celebrating together.
How accessible and convenient is Space 1858? Located in Chicago, Space 1858 offers convenient access for guests from across the city and suburban areas alike. Chicago’s well-connected transportation infrastructure means that attendees can arrive easily by car or public transit. The venue’s urban setting allows groups to combine their meetup with other city experiences such as dining out, sightseeing, or entertainment, providing more value to their gathering. The staff at Space 1858 respond promptly to questions and offer flexibility, including allowing multiple walkthrough visits before the event, giving planners peace of mind and the ability to customize in detail. The ease of communication and approachability of the venue’s team simplify logistics and planning. Furthermore, parking availability and accessibility features ensure that guests’ needs are met, adding an extra layer of convenience and inclusivity to the experience of hosting here.
What makes the atmosphere at Space 1858 special? The unique loft aesthetic of Space 1858 creates an atmosphere that balances modern urban charm with warmth and comfort. The design highlights exposed wood beams and a beautiful brick accent wall that catches the eye and provides a visually appealing focal point. Large side windows fill the room with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness and making the space feel bright and inviting. This combination of industrial elements and soft sunlight fosters a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe—perfect for friendly gatherings or special occasions. Because the venue itself is visually striking but neutral in decor, it allows groups to personalize the space with their own style, whether through lighting, floral arrangements, or other décor. Guests often appreciate the airy, open environment that encourages mingling and interaction without feeling cramped, making it easier to socialize and enjoy the event fully.
Can the venue accommodate different group sizes and types? Space 1858 is highly adaptable, making it suitable for a variety of group sizes and event types, from small intimate gatherings to larger parties. Its open loft layout facilitates easy reconfiguration to accommodate everything from seated meals and small meetings to standing receptions and dance floors. Tables and chairs are provided as part of the venue rental, and additional furnishings can be brought in through recommended rental companies to suit larger or more formal occasions. This flexibility extends to the types of events hosted—whether it’s a rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, birthday, corporate meetup, or casual party, the venue can shift to meet your needs. Additionally, the welcoming and inclusive environment helps groups from different communities feel comfortable hosting diverse celebrations. The venue encourages creativity and personalization, so groups can make the event truly their own regardless of size or format.
How does the staff enhance the event experience? The team at Space 1858 plays a critical role in elevating the event experience through attentive and proactive service. Users consistently highlight the staff’s quick responses to questions, friendly communication, and willingness to accommodate walkthroughs and changes during the planning process. This approachable customer service provides reassurance for organizers, reducing the stress often associated with event coordination. Moreover, the staff work to ensure the venue is set up as requested and attend to logistical details promptly, allowing hosts to focus on enjoying their time with guests rather than troubleshooting problems. The venue’s openness to multiple visits and thorough communication fosters collaboration, enabling the event to run smoothly. A professional and committed staff creates an environment where guests feel welcomed and valued, contributing significantly to the positive vibe of any gathering at Space 1858.
What should guests expect in terms of amenities and setup? Guests at Space 1858 can expect a straightforward, no-fuss amenity package that covers the essentials needed to host a memorable event. The venue comes with tables and chairs, though they are practical rather than high-end, aligning with the affordable price point. For those who desire a more luxurious furnishing arrangement, Space 1858 offers recommendations for rental companies to elevate the décor. The open floor plan offers extensive space for customization, including various seating arrangements, buffet setups, or entertainment areas. Lighting is flexible, allowing event planners to adjust ambiance according to the occasion. While the venue focuses on providing a blank canvas, event hosts often bring in additional elements such as audiovisual equipment, catering, or décor to tailor the experience fully. The combination of essential amenities with the option for upgrades makes the setup suitable for different budget levels and styles.
Why choose Space 1858 over other event spaces? Space 1858 stands out primarily for its combination of affordability, stylish urban design, and personalized service. Many event venues in Chicago can be prohibitively expensive, but Space 1858 provides a rare blend of accessible pricing with a loft environment that is both trendy and welcoming. The venue’s exposed brick and wood beam design give it character without overwhelming the event with a fixed style, allowing hosts to imprint their own personality on the space. In addition, the ease of communication with the staff and their accommodating nature create a smoother event planning process than many other venues often provide. Its central location in Chicago also means guests have convenient access and opportunities to complement the event with other city activities. Overall, Space 1858 offers excellent value for groups wanting a memorable and customizable space without breaking the bank.
How inclusive and welcoming is Space 1858? Space 1858 prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming venue for all types of guests. Feedback from diverse groups, including LGBTQ couples, confirms that the space welcomes everyone without discrimination or hassle. This openness extends to all events, making the venue a comfortable environment for friends, families, and communities to gather freely and safely. The staff’s respectful and professional approach further amplifies the venue’s reputation as a friendly and supportive place. Accessibility features and thoughtful communication ensure attendees with different needs feel accommodated. This atmosphere of inclusivity makes Space 1858 an attractive option for anyone looking to host a celebration marked by warmth and acceptance.
What nearby attractions and conveniences complement the Space 1858 experience? The venue’s location in Chicago places groups close to a wide variety of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences that can complement any meetup or party held at Space 1858. Guests have the option to explore local restaurants, cafes, or bars before or after their event, enhancing the overall experience with a taste of Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene. Nearby cultural landmarks and entertainment venues offer additional opportunities for group outings or activities, turning a meetup into a multi-faceted event. Public transportation and parking options nearby make accessing these amenities simple for everyone. This convenient urban setting adds a layer of excitement and practicality, making Space 1858 not just a venue, but a gateway to a broader social experience in the city.