Washington Park Refectory

Located in the Washington Park/Woodlawn neighborhood, the Washington Park Refectory sits adjacent to the Aquatic Center, which houses a 36-foot water slide plus a swimming pool with a patio and fountains. The Refectory has a rich history that is interwoven with Chicago’s architectural design legends. Daniel H. Burnham & Company designed and built the pool and Russell Drive in 1891, two years before the Columbia Exposition. The Refectory features ground level colonnades and four open-roof towers. The classically designed Refectory building and grounds offer two distinguished floors: "Cafe Lounge" and "Miniature Ballroom."

Cafe Lounge: This level gives you a “bird’s eye” view of the 36-foot water slide and pool. This space also contains a fireplace (which features a remnant of the building’s original mosaic flooring), mid-room elevators and side stairwells that lead to the Tower Level, along with complimentary coffee & tea station.

Miniature Ballroom: This level provides a bright and airy panoramic view overlooking the park to the north and the Aquatic Center on the south. The amenities include a full-service kitchen and a dazzling fireplace mantle reminiscent of the turn of the century.

This facility is available for rent for such occasions as: Small Weddings, Receptions, Baby Showers, Repasts, Company Meetings, and Small Events.

Each level holds up to 100 people comfortably - 80 with dance floor.