Skip to main content
Weddings

About

The Murphy is a vintage banquet hall wedding venue situated in downtown Chicago, Illinois. Built in 1926 to serve as an everlasting tribute to Dr. John B. Murphy, this impressive auditorium features French Renaissance-style architecture and a breathtaking dome ceiling. Having hosted hundreds of fashion shows, galas, and other celebratory events, this spectacular building is eager to provide the setting for more unforgettable festivities. For those seeking a one-of-a-kind environment that oozes sophistication in the heart of The Prairie State, The Murphy is sure to deliver.

Facilities and Capacity

As guests arrive at this venue, they are immediately greeted by large green doors and stone pillars either side that is reminiscent of ancient Rome itself. The main auditorium is a grand event space that boasts two floors of chic decor, wooden floors, and a truly marvelous dome ceiling. For intimate ceremonies, the area includes a stunning stage where couples can exchange vows as guests on both floors watch on in pure joy. The stage is overlooked by the property’s undeniable masterpiece, a larger than life stained-glass window which is accompanied by an arched ceiling and further pillars. For receptions, this ample space can accommodate up to 300 guests and include tables, a dance floor, and live entertainment upon the stage. Receptions can be arranged in several ways to make use of both floors in the auditorium. Additionally, there is a luxurious side lobby adjacent to the auditorium that makes for ideal cocktail hours before the reception gets underway. Here, guests can converse, congratulate the happy newlyweds, and look forward to a night of dancing and celebration.

Services Offered

Upon booking The Murphy for your wedding, you will receive full access to the building and its range of event services and items. This includes the help of an experienced on-site event coordinator who can help create the wedding you’ve always envisioned. From the stylish decor to ensuring that every inch of space is optimized, this coordinator makes sure that no small details are overlooked. The help staff at this site will also help in the setup and breakdown of the event. This allows you to focus on more pressing matters as you get ready to walk down the aisle. A relaxing suite is also provided on the fifth floor for you and your wedding entourage to prepare yourselves for the grand day ahead.

illustration popular

Venues you may like

See other venues that are popular with couples right now

Frequently asked questions

Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during peak season?

$7,500

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during off-peak season?

$7,500

Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during peak season?

$750

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during off-peak season?

$750

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Bridal Suite
Chairs
Clean Up

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

1

Describe your venue:

Banquet Hall
Historic Building

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party
Elopements
Rehearsal Dinner

What event services do you offer?

Event Rentals
Get Ready Rooms

What event items are available?

Altar/Arch
Chairs
Dance Floor

What transportation and access is available?

Valet
Wheelchair Access

What months are included in your peak season?

April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

What months are included in your off-peak season?

January
February
March

Reviews of The Murphy

S
Suzanne Sent on 07/08/2009
5 out of 5 rating
This venue was spectacular; it FAR exceeded our expectations. Catherine was very prompt in returning emails. They are well organized and will ensure everything is perfect for your wedding day.
M
Melanie Sent on 09/30/2015
5 out of 5 rating
This was the best venue ever! It was incredibly unique and the layout is amazing for a wedding around 160 people with a large dance floor area! Our guests were mesmerized by how gorgeous and spacious it was inside and had a blast dancing on the stage, sitting in the wooden thrones, going up to the second level (with auditorium seats). We also had a private suite on the 5th floor which was perfect for us to have a quiet moment together and our wedding party to store their stuff! Would 100% recommend having your wedding at The Murphy.
N
Nicole Sent on 11/19/2013
5 out of 5 rating
My husband and I first saw photos of The Murphy on Chicago Wedding Venue's and our hearts dropped. There was no way we could get such a grand and beautiful place for our big day. Thankfully we made an appointment anyway. After a few long days of searching for venues we walked into The Murphy and for the first time throughout the search we both were grinning ear to ear. This was IT, period. The Murphy is magnificent. The space is breath taking. It has been recently restored to its original glory and updated with the modern amenities every good events space needs. It is pristine, artfully maintained, and you can tell someone loves this place and cares for it constantly. From our first conversation until our last with Catherine Carey, the Event Coordinator, she was professional, helpful, knowledgeable and a huge asset to the success of our day. She put us at ease, walked us through the major milestones and provided industry knowledge we never would have known. She is invaluable to The Murphy. The day of our wedding went off without a hitch. Cathy worked with our vendors to ensure that everyone knew their role that day and executed it to perfection. It was a joy to work with everyone at The Murphy. The security staff was fantastic, kind and professional; our restroom attendants kept the rooms clean and came prepared with mints and bobby pins and other MacGyver types of things you need but never have during a formal event. And all of our vendors worked with Cathy and her team to make our day special. Go and look at the space and you will love it. And Cathy and team will do their best to make sure you have everything you need; you are in good hands at The Murphy.
We're all about trust. Our community relies on honest reviews to help you make those big decisions with ease.

Awards

10

Professional Network & Endorsements

Preferred Vendors
Jewell Events Catering
4.9 out of 5 rating , 42 reviews
· Wedding Caterers
Kloeckner Preferred Flowers
4.9 out of 5 rating , 27 reviews
· Wedding Florists
Blue Plate Catering
4.8 out of 5 rating , 71 reviews
· Wedding Caterers
Entertaining Company
4.7 out of 5 rating , 23 reviews
· Wedding Caterers
Food For Thought
4.9 out of 5 rating , 176 reviews
· Wedding Caterers
Paramount Events
4.9 out of 5 rating , 24 reviews
· Wedding Caterers

Map

Next Historic Weddings: Historic Pleasant Home

Other vendors in Chicago for your wedding

Wedding Venues