The suburban market certainly offers a plethora of choices to meeting and event planners. Hotels, conventions centers, public buildings, even restaurants and stores are offering rental space for events.

But for companies looking for a unique venue for its next corporate meeting or outing, area communities offer some interesting alternatives.

In Naperville, business groups can meet the way folks did in the 19th century, in the Pre-Emption Tavern at Naper Settlement. This tavern and adjacent patio is a good match for meetings and luncheons and networking, and is suited for groups up to about 40 people. Business meetings also can be hosted in the Heritage Hall, with breakout sessions in the Fort and other buildings on the grounds.

“Many area corporations and local businesses have had meetings on site,” said Donna DeFalco, marketing coordinator for Naper Settlement. “In one case, a corporation combined a company meeting with a scavenger hunt. They used one of our approved caterers to bring in lunch and breakfast, and then enjoyed a beautiful day at Naper Settlement.

“In another case, a local newspaper group wanted to hold a brainstorming session with its editorial staff offsite, so they scheduled an all-day meeting here.”

In addition to business meetings, companies also have held picnics and dinners here at the historic museum.

“One corporation combined an evening company outing with a lesson in townball—the forerunner to baseball,” said DeFalco. “And yet another corporation wanted to have an old-fashioned, Midwestern barbecue for out-of-town and international guests.”

Most of all, DeFalco said, Naper Settlement allows business to meet in a warm, historic setting, but with modern amenities.

“We have six approved caterers that can bring in breakfast, boxed lunches or dinners that range from sophisticated buffets to barbecues,” she said. “Also, meeting attendees can walk outside on the beautifully landscaped grounds and be transported to another era during their break.”

If another era is what a business wants for its next meeting, Medieval Times in Schaumburg could be a viable choice. Located 10 minutes west of O’Hare Airport, businesses can meet, and then enjoy a luncheon and show featuring knights on horseback, jousting and gallantry.

If historic is a good choice for an upcoming event, the classic Arcada Theater in St. Charles could be just the ticket. The Arcada Theatre was opened as a Vaudeville Showroom in 1926, and became a cinema house, which it served as until recent years. Closed to moviegoers several years ago, the property was taken over by Onesti Entertainment in 2005.

“Restoration efforts have brought the theatre back to its original splendor,” said Ron Onesti.

The theater seats 900 with a full stage, and a 50-foot screen. It is located in the heart of downtown St. Charles with ample free parking. Full catering and bar service are available as are custom video packages and power point presentations.

Another unique meeting destination is Arabian Knights Farms and Training Center in Willowbrook. Just 39 miles from Chicago, Arabian Knights is a complete equestrian center located on ten acres of wooded property. The Barn at Arabian Knights Farms specializing in corporate events and personal events, and a 4 1/2- acre park and a large Cedar Gazebo, an indoor Country Western Show Arena, with a 1,200-square-foot dance floor and a 24-foot by 12-foot stage. On-site chefs can accommodate up to 500 guests for a buffet or a formal sit down lunch or dinner.

If formal is what a company is after, Elmhurst Art Museum boasts a formal atmosphere with a modern creative flair. Combining stunning architecture and beautiful park surroundings, not to mention a unique modern art gallery, Elmhurst Art Museum makes a unique and exciting backdrop for corporate events.

The facility can accommodate as many as 150 guests for a sit-down dinner and up to 275 for a cocktail-style reception. Because the Museum maintains regular hours, all special events may begin no earlier than 6 p.m. Available spaces include the Hostetler Gallery, exhibition galleries, multipurpose room and an outdoor patio.

One of the area’s most well-known event locations is the Brookfield Zoo, which has played host to everything from corporate events and sales meetings to holiday parties, company picnics, team building, client appreciation, product role-outs and employee award parties. An on-site catering staff and professional culinary team can provide everything from casual dining fare to exquisite plated dinners.

Event-goers can enjoy “Cocktails with the Animals” receptions as they network within one of many exhibits, including Seven Seas, Tropic World, The Living Coast or Habitat Africa.

Now serving as Brookfield Zoo’s premier banquet facility, Discovery Center offers an array of indoor options ideal for receptions, banquets, dances, and business meetings.

The Grand Ballroom can accommodate 300 guests in a reception, banquet or theater setting. The Brookfield Room can hold about 80 guests. On the southwest side of the park, Bocaditos banquet and meeting facility features hardwood floors, hand-carved South American artwork, and stunning balcony views. It is available for receptions, dinners, dances, and meetings from 40-250 guests

Currently under construction is the newest event venue The Pavilions at Brookfield Zoo. Ready for business in spring 2008, the four new Pavilions will create a “park within a park” setting. These classic structures, unique water feature, and the landscaped setting will accommodate approximately 2,500 guests during both day and evening hours.