Have you ever imagined saying “I do” in a historical landmark? At the Aquatorium, you can do just that. A stunning, stone structure in the neo-classical style is what awaits you at the Aquatorium in Gary, IN. Weddings at this venue are popular due to its historical significance, gorgeous architecture, and magnificent Lake Michigan views. Indeed, one Gary Aquatorium review on TripAdvisor.com states that the space is the “perfect wedding location”. The clean, polished look of the space is a perfect setting for a modern-style wedding. For a more rustic or classic look, any décor is sure to look splendid on such a simple backdrop. And of course, not much is needed with that view!

Since 1995, Denna & Jim Fyock have been making weddings everything the happy couple could envision and more. When Aberdeen Manor first opened, the goal was not only to be the perfect venue for weddings and receptions, but they also wanted clients to feel pampered, appreciated and accommodated in every way. Most of all, they wanted to take as much stress out of the wedding planning process as possible.

The History

The Aquatorium was first constructed as the Gary Bathhouse in the early 1920s for locals to enjoy after a day on the shores of Lake Michigan. The bathhouse eventually fell into disrepair as bathhouses became less popular in the United States and was officially closed in 1971. There was talk of demolishing the structure at that time, as it was so dilapidated, but thankfully the bathhouse was left intact. In 1991, the Chanute Aquatorium Society began the process of fundraising and sought to rehabilitate the bathhouse. It was eventually reopened as the Aquatorium and the Chanute Aquatorium Society continues the process of renovation to this day.

All proceeds from Gary Aquatorium rentals go into the continued maintenance and repair of the facility.

The Location

The Aquatorium is located in Marquette Park in Gary, IN. Marquette Park originally dates back to the early 1900s, and has since been revitalized several times into the beautiful landscape you see today. The park is complete with the Aquatorium, a historical monument, and a recreational pavilion.

Gary is a thriving Indiana town, located just a half-hour from downtown Chicago, and even closer to Crown Point, IN. Bordering Lake Michigan and a nearby national park, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Gary is a centralized location that offers wedding guests a wide range of options for lodging and entertainment. Hotels near Gary Aquatorium include Best Western Plus Portage Inn and Suites, Country Inn and Suites by Carlson, and Holiday Inn Express. These are just a few of the many viable options for out-of-town wedding guests and wedding party members.

The Gary Aquatorium address is: 6918 Oak Avenue, Gary, IN 46403. Gary Aquatorium directions can be found online using this address. Parking is available on-site, so there is no need to worry about shuttles, walking long distances, or paying to park.

The Gardens

After much effort by the Chanute Aquatorium Society, the Aquatorium is now functional as a wedding venue. The lower level of the venue has two separate wings, either of which would make a lovely wedding space. The east side of the Aquatorium contains the Tuskegee Room, holding up to 75 guests, and a private garden. The garden has space for up to 100 people. The lower east side of the Aquatorium is a perfect setting for any intimate garden-style wedding.

The west side of the venue contains three small enclosed rooms, including the Chanute Room, and a private garden. The Chanute room’s capacity is 50 people, while the garden can hold up to 150. The smaller rooms are a perfect option for dressing areas prior to the wedding, and the garden can be used as both the ceremony and reception site with a short turn-over in between. Because the Aquatorium is in such a beautiful location, guests won’t mind waiting on the turn-over as they enjoy the beach views and a cocktail.

The Terrace

The upper floor terrace in the Aquatorium is the largest of the available spaces, with a maximum capacity of 300 wedding guests. The terrace is open-air with excellent views of Lake Michigan and Marquette Beach, making it a beautiful setting for a wedding. The space is large and versatile enough to be utilized for both a ceremony and a reception. As it is open to the elements, the terrace is best for weddings in the warmer months.  Imagine marrying at sunset overlooking the beautiful lake and Chicago skyline view! At Gary Aquatorium, wedding photos will be simply stunning.

Options

Brides and grooms have the option of selecting one space (Terrace, east wing, or west wing) for their special day, or they can choose to rent the entire facility to ensure plenty of room for their guests and bridal party. Imagine using the small rooms to get ready for the big event, having a romantic garden wedding, and then retreating to the open terrace to dance the night away while enjoying amazing beach views. Or, you could marry on the terrace overlooking the water, and use one of the gardens for “cocktail hour” as the terrace is being rearranged for the ceremony. The options are truly limitless with a Gary Aquatorium wedding.