Benchmark

Private Event Venue in Old Town, Chicago | Benchmark Chicago Benchmark Chicago blends industrial‑chic design with vibrant energy as Chicago’s first convertible beer garden, featuring two sprawling floors, retractable rooftop deck, and six distinct event spaces ideal for any gathering Located at 1510 North Wells Street in Old Town, Benchmark offers a dynamic event environment perfect for birthday parties, rehearsal dinners, corporate mixers, and sports-watch gatherings. The venue’s versatile layout—a welcoming first-floor bar with wraparound seating and a second-floor rooftop with retractable roof—provides options for both intimate and large-scale events. Expect a buzzing sports-bar vibe with over 40 flat-screen TVs, shareable American‑style menu items like burgers, pizza, sliders, and signature cocktails, plus rotating specials and weekend brunch features. Venue Features & Event Spaces - Capacity - Guest groups from 15 to 375 - Private buyout available for full‑venue events up to 375 standing guests - Spaces - Back Lounge (35 standing) - Upper Lounge (35) - Sundeck (20) - The South Side of first floor (cocktail up to 100) - Second-floor seating area (up to 100 seated or 175 standing) - Full venue buyout for up to 375 standing guests - Amenities - DJ booth, audio/visual capability, full bar, and in-house catering packages - Retractable roof for indoor/outdoor flexibility - Street parking and public transit access via Sedgwick (Brown/Purple Line) and West & Wells bus - Food & Beverage Packages - Food options: shareable apps (sliders, empanadas, wings, dips, pizza stations) priced between $65–145 per order, plus salads and savory bites - Beverage packages from $25–55 per person, ranging from beer & wine to premium cocktails; signature cocktail add-ons available Why Choose Benchmark Chicago? Benchmark offers a seamless blend of energetic sports‑bar atmosphere and flexible event design, with a retractable rooftop that adapts to weather or guest preference. Ideal for groups raising a toast to sports, celebrating milestones, or hosting corporate gatherings in a trendy Old Town setting. Venue Features - Capacity: Up to 375 standing / 100 seated - Spaces: Multiple zones across two floors including rooftop, South Side, lounges, sundeck - Amenities: In‑house catering, full bar, DJ booth, AV, TVs, retractable roof - Transit: Near Sedgwick Station, local bus routes, street parking available - Food & Beverage: Casual American fare, event catering, beverage packages & signature cocktails Book your next event at Benchmark Chicago—one of Old Town’s most dynamic private event venues for weddings, corporate parties, birthdays, and game-day gatherings. A versatile, high‑energy space perfect for groups in Chicago.