2026 OPENING DAY!
Pavilion reservations for the Forest Preserves of Cook County are OPEN!
Submit your application by email info@forestpreserveevents.com
Spots fill fast — don’t miss out!
LET’S PLAN A PARTY
The Forest Preserves of Cook County Event Pavilions offers Chicago area visitors and residents multiple gorgeous locations to best serve your event needs.
WELCOME TO FOREST PRESERVE PAVILIONS
THATCHER WOODS EVENT PAVILION
The Thatcher Woods Event Pavilion is a beautiful venue located in River Forest surrounded by woods with both outdoor and indoor options for hosting.
VOLUNTEER RESOURCE CENTER
The Mathew Bieszczat Volunteer Resource Center (The VRC) is a very versatile event venue featuring an amply spaced room with a stage, plus an outdoor stone patio separated by a row of classic, beautiful French doors.
DAN RYAN WOODS EVENT PAVILION
Versatility is the key word for the Dan Ryan Woods Event Pavilion. The wide open design can be arranged to suit a variety of affairs, functions and occasions for your next Chicago area event.
ROLLING KNOLLS EVENT PAVILION
The LEED-Platinum certified building includes a large meeting/event space that accommodates up to 80 guests and a smaller room for meetings that seats 20.
SWALLOW CLIFF EVENT PAVILION
Just north of the 100-foot bluff and popular fitness stairs, the Swallow Cliff Pavilion provides an intimate setting for birthday parties, showers, classes and meetings for up to 40 guests.
2026 PERMITS NOW AVAILABLE!
2026 Bookings Are Now On Sale!
Planning a family reunion, birthday bash, company picnic, or wedding celebration? Secure your perfect spot in the forest preserves!
Email your application to info@forestpreserveevents.com
Or apply in person at the VRC or Dan Ryan Pavilions from 9AM–3PM
ABOUT US
The Forest Preserves of Cook County, with nearly 70,000 acres, is the largest forest preserve district in the United States. It receives an estimated 62 million visits each year, providing an escape into a world teeming with wildlife and rich with outdoor recreation and environmental education opportunities.
Within its boundaries are rare habitats that offer plant and animal diversity on par with the rain forests of the world. This natural heritage offers something for everyone.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County Event Pavilions offer beautiful event venue options to best serve your upcoming wedding, party, banquet, celebration, corporate work retreat or any outing of any kind! Explore our event venue options below:
APPLICATION PROCESS
How to Apply: Applications are reviewed and processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Download the 2025 Permit Application below; Email your completed application to info@forestpreserveevents.com or schedule a time to bring it to the indoor permit office at 6100 N Central Ave, Chicago IL 60646.
Office & viewing hours vary. Call or text 773.558.2003 if you are interested in stopping by in person.
Contact Us Form
CONTACT US
We are here to help with any questions you may have about our event pavilions or hosting an event at one of our many Chicago area event venues.
FOLLOW US
Follow us on Facebook to stay updated with our locations: Thatcher Woods, The VRC, Dan Ryan Woods, Swallow Cliff, and Rolling Knolls Event Pavilion.