Adler Planetarium Wedding Cost Guide (2027)

Planning a wedding at the Adler Planetarium? As wedding videographers who’ve filmed there, here’s the realistic cost breakdown.

Venue Rental Fees

Facility rental runs $6,800 for Fridays and Sundays up to $9,800 for Saturdays and holiday weekend Sundays, consistent with the venue’s own published $5,000 to $12,000 range. The fee covers a 5-hour event, dance floor, access to exhibits and the outdoor telescope (based on staff availability), and it includes tables, chairs, linens, and equipment through the exclusive caterer. Additional hours run about $500 each, and event insurance is around $200. The ceremony itself is free to add, but you must hold your reception at the venue too. There’s a 150-guest minimum on Saturdays from June through October.

Food and Beverage

Catering is exclusive to Food For Thought, the same caterer behind our own AJ & Aaron and Karen & David weddings there. Per-person pricing typically runs $170 to $220 depending on guest count, bar package, and rental selections, covering passed hors d’oeuvres, dinner service, beverage service, staffing, and equipment.

Other Costs to Budget

Beyond venue and catering, plan for floral and decor, photography and videography, entertainment, hair and makeup, and event insurance. Both AJ & Aaron and Karen & David booked live music (Chris Somera/Elegant Chicago, and Amaryllis Strings with Spoken Four respectively), which adds to the entertainment line beyond a DJ package.

Sample Budget: 150 Guests, Saturday

For a 150-guest Saturday wedding, expect facility rental around $9,800 plus a food and beverage total in the $25,500 to $33,000 range at $170 to $220 per person. All-in, a full Saturday wedding with catering, florals, photography, videography, and entertainment commonly lands around $45,000 and up, according to third-party venue cost research, before add-ons like extra hours or premium bar packages.

Is the Adler Planetarium Worth It?

If the Chicago skyline across the water is non-negotiable for your wedding film, yes. AJ and Aaron married under the planetarium’s soaring architecture with the skyline behind them, then danced until 1 AM to close the night. Karen and David timed their ceremony for sunset, then surprised guests with a Garrett’s Popcorn station on the dance floor. Two more couples, Mina and Ammar and the couple behind our Ann & Hansen wedding, have also celebrated here. No other Chicago venue gives you the full skyline as a backdrop this way.

Adler Planetarium Wedding Cost Guide FAQ

How much does an Adler Planetarium wedding cost?
Facility rental runs $6,800 to $9,800 depending on the day. With catering at $170 to $220 per person, a 150-guest Saturday wedding typically starts around $45,000 before florals, photography, videography, and entertainment.

Can you have an outdoor ceremony at the Adler?
Yes, the outdoor terrace hosts ceremonies with the lake and skyline behind you, weather permitting, and the ceremony fee is included as long as you hold your reception at the venue.

Is there a guest minimum?
Yes, 150 guests on Saturdays from June through October.

Getting married at the Adler Planetarium? We know exactly where the skyline light falls. Check your date with 312FILMS →