Welcome to the inner keep. You do not need to be a member to purchase a day pass, attend a public event or reserve the space for a private gathering.
What is the inner keep?
the inner keep is a private gathering place on Central Street in Evanston. It offers a comfortable setting to work, relax, connect with others and enjoy events.
Can I visit the inner keep if I am not a member?
Yes. You can purchase a day pass when available, register for a public event, reserve the space for a private gathering or visit as the registered guest of a member. Please arrange your visit before arriving.
What is a day pass, and how much does it cost?
A non-member Day Pass is $59 per person and provides shared access from 9:00 AM to 4 p.m. Other people may be using the space during your visit. A day pass does not reserve a table or the entire space.
How do I purchase a day pass?
Use this day-pass booking link to select an available date and complete your purchase. Review your confirmation for your access hours and arrival instructions.
Can I work from the inner keep for the day?
Yes. Bring your laptop or use the space to read, relax or meet with someone. Wi-Fi is available. Because access is shared, activity and noise levels may vary.
Can I bring someone with me on a day pass?
Each visitor needs their own $59 day pass, unless attending as a registered member guest or through a private booking or event.
Do I have to be interested in membership?
No. You are welcome to visit without any expectation of becoming a member.
Can I visit as a member’s guest?
Yes. Members may bring registered guests during regular member hours and available daytime member access hours. Your sponsoring member must be present throughout your visit. Members book each guest in the inner keep app (Guest Visit) before arriving, and the member must stay with their guest for the whole visit. Guest Visits are for member-accompanied guests only. For events, register through the event page as described below. Event guest policies may differ.
How do I attend a public event?
Select Events on our website, choose an event and follow its reservation or ticket instructions. Check the listing for pricing, availability and what is included. Registration is required for every attendee, including members. Select a ticket for each person attending and complete checkout, even when your member benefit makes admission complimentary. Membership, a Day Pass purchase, and checking in at the building do not reserve an event seat. Only a completed registration does.
Can non-members privately reserve the inner keep?
Yes. You do not need to be a member. A private rental reserves the entire space exclusively for your group, subject to availability, at $100 per hour.
Choose an all-day booking from 7 a.m.–4 p.m. ($900), a morning booking from 7:30–11:30 a.m. ($400), or an afternoon booking from noon–4 p.m. ($400).
Setup and cleanup must take place within your reserved time. Select Check Availability & Book to choose your date and reserve the space.
Check Availability & Book
What is the difference between a day pass and a private booking?
A day pass provides shared access. Other people may be using the space during your visit. A private booking reserves the entire space exclusively for your group during your confirmed rental period.
What kinds of gatherings can I host?
The space works well for meetings, celebrations, showers, retreats, alumni gatherings and Northwestern pregame gatherings. Contact our team at experience@theinnerkeep.com to discuss your group size and plans before booking.
How many guests can attend a private gathering?
Most private gatherings accommodate approximately 30 guests, depending on the setup. Confirm your group size with our team.
Is the inner keep BYOB?
Yes. You may bring your own beverages and prepared food or arrange delivery. Glassware, ice and basic drink-preparation supplies are available. Please follow any additional instructions provided for a specific event.
What is available for private bookings?
Available amenities include seating, Wi-Fi, glassware, plates, flatware, ice, a TV and a Sonos sound system. Confirm any equipment or setup needs with our team before your event.
Is there a kitchen for preparing food?
The space is intended for serving prepared food rather than commercial cooking. Catering and delivery are welcome. Contact our team about any specific food-service needs.
Can we decorate or rearrange furniture?
Please discuss decorations and furniture changes with our team in advance. Decorations must not damage the space. Ask before bringing candles, confetti, glitter, large decorations or equipment requiring installation. Return furniture to its original location unless other arrangements have been made.
Can we play music or hire entertainment?
Please discuss music, a DJ or live entertainment with our team before booking so we can confirm the setup and sound requirements.Volume must remain considerate of our neighbors.
Where is the inner keep located and what entrance should I use?
1804 Central Street, Evanston, Illinois, in the Central Street neighborhood near Ryan Field.Which entrance should I use? Use the green rear entrance. Follow the arrival and access instructions provided with your day pass, event registration or private booking.
What should we do before leaving?
Place used dishes and utensils in the designated dishwasher or collection area, dispose of trash and return furniture and supplies to their original places.Remove your food, decorations and personal belongings. Report spills or damage to our team and follow any cleanup instructions in your booking agreement.
What if I need to cancel or change my booking or have a special request?
Review the cancellation and rescheduling terms provided when booking. Contact our team as soon as your plans change. What if I have a question or special request? Email experience@theinnerkeep.com before booking. We are happy to help you plan your visit or gathering.