The Top 25 Orlando Venues for 2020
Skift Take
While it is most commonly known as the home of Disney World, Orlando is also a popular destination for events. Outside of the amusement parks, the city has a lot to offer in terms of its art scene, culinary and sporting attractions, and intellectual capital. The city itself carries a slower pace of life than the bustling tourist attractions, but its event venues offer the perfect balance of entertainment and functionality. If you are searching for an Orlando venue for your next event, these 25 locations are a great place to start.
The Best City of Orlando Venues
The Best Orlando Concert Venues
The Best Orlando Meeting Venues
The Best Cheap Venues in Orlando
The Best City of Orlando Venues
Harry P. Leu Gardens
WHY IS IT COOL? Harry P. Leu Gardens is a 50-acre botanical garden and indoor/outdoor art gallery just minutes from downtown Orlando. In addition to its beautiful gardens, the property also offers fully equipped indoor meeting space.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, small conferences, cocktail receptions, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 6,019 square feet of event space across 5 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: Leu Gardens practices sustainability in part by offering classes in native and sustainable horticulture.
CATERING: In-house
Mennello Museum of American Art
WHY IS IT COOL? The Mennello Museum of American Art is a beautiful example of Modern architecture and the permanent home of a collection of paintings by Earl Cunningham. The museum features an airy gallery, beautifully landscaped terrace and garden spaces, and soaring windows that look out on Lake Formosa.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail receptions, parties, small banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 70 seated banquet style and 150 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
The Best Orlando Concert Venues
Timucua Arts Foundation
WHY IS IT COOL? The Timucua Arts Foundation is an intimate concert hall, featuring exposed brick and a small stage. The Timucua Arts Foundation has a community-based mission to bring great music, art, and arts education to Central Florida.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Concerts, performances
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Intimate concert venue
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Street and garage parking
The Plaza Live
WHY IS IT COOL? The Plaza Live is one of Orlando’s oldest performance spaces and has retained that retro character. The Plaza Live is undergoing a $10 million renovation to portions of the property and will be fresh for your next event.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Concerts, performances
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 40,000 square feet of amphitheater-style event space
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: On-site parking
The Best Orlando Event Venues
Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
WHY IS IT COOL? The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is a stylish 5-star conference venue with terraces, fire pits, and gorgeous pools, recently renovated in 2018. Of particular note is the Ritz’s rustic outdoor reception venue, Whisper Creek Farm, which includes a large vegetable garden, orchard, and lawn.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, banquets, galas, cocktail receptions, board meetings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 55,000 square feet of event space across 36 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes practices sustainability by conserving water and energy, reducing waste, and creating native habitat on its grounds.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: On-site and valet parking
The Mezz
WHY IS IT COOL? The Mezz is a generously sized venue located in the Sanctuary high rise building overlooking Downtown Orlando. The Mezz offers a glamourous, highly customizable event space.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, banquets, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 7,000 square feet of event space; can accommodate 240 seated banquet style and 300 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house state-of-the-art LED lighting and sound system
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Valet and garage parking
The Citrus Club
WHY IS IT COOL? Located in Downtown Orlando, the Citrus Club is a luxury private club with several bright, stylish function rooms overlooking the city.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, cocktail receptions, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 7,100 square feet of event space across 4 function rooms; the Ballroom can seat 210 banquet and 450 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
Snap!
WHY IS IT COOL? Snap! is a spacious warehouse gallery space located at the Cameo Theater in the Mills 50 district. The venue’s open-concept floor plan and white walls provide the opportunity for event planners to create a custom event.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Small galas, small banquets, meetings, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 5,000 square feet, can accommodate 75 seated banquet style and 300 reception style inside and on the terrace
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: On-site parking
The Rooftop
WHY IS IT COOL? The Rooftop is an open-air venue with expansive views of downtown Orlando. Sitting 20 stories up, the Rooftop offers 10,000 square feet of modern terrace space.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Banquets, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 125 seated banquet style and 170 reception
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet and on-site parking
The Acre
WHY IS IT COOL? Located in Orlando’s historic College Park neighborhood, The Acre is an outdoor venue offering tons of rustic charm, native foliage, and photo ops. The venue features a stage as well as an insta-worthy, vine-covered mirror patio. Indoor and outdoor spaces are available to accommodate groups of all sizes.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail receptions, banquets, retreats, company picnics, client events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: A one-acre property with indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate groups of all sizes
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Acre practices sustainability in part by encouraging planners to work with caterers who use locally sourced ingredients.
CATERING: N/A
The Best Orlando Meeting Venues
JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes
WHY IS IT COOL? The JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is a sprawling luxury resort and conference facility, adjacent to its sister property, the Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes. Featuring 500+ lush acres, the JW Marriott offers extensive meeting facilities, an outdoor pool complex with a lazy river, and an 18 hole golf course.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conventions, conferences, meetings, banquets, galas, cocktail receptions, board meetings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 144,785 square feet of event space across 47 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes practices sustainability by conserving water and energy, reducing waste, and creating a native habitat on its grounds.
CATERING: In-house
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
WHY IS IT COOL? Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is a 4-star convention hotel with 2 floors of reasonably priced, fully customizable meeting space. The Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek recently introduced a “Meet with a Purpose” program, which can integrate healthy meals, exercise, and sustainability into your meeting program.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conventions, conferences, meetings, board meetings, cocktail receptions, banquets, galas
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 132,000 square feet of meeting space across
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet and on-site parking
Four Seasons Orlando
WHY IS IT COOL? Located on the World Disney World Resort property, the Four Seasons Orlando is central Florida’s only AAA Five Diamond luxury hotel. The resort combines Spanish architectural details with contemporary interiors to stunning effect.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, cocktail receptions, banquets, galas
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 66,587 square feet of event space across 10 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet parking (self-parking is not available), complimentary transportation to Disney theme parks
Waldorf Astoria, Orlando
WHY IS IT COOL? The Waldorf Astoria, Orlando offers planners an elegant, traditional backdrop for their meetings and conferences. Guests of the Waldorf Astoria enjoy a high level of service and amenities, including Extra Magic Hours at Disney World, a zero-entry pool, an exercise trail through its beautifully landscaped grounds, and more.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, cocktail receptions, banquets, galas
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 42,000 square feet of event space across 23 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: Waldorf Astoria practices sustainability by training its staff in energy conservation, water conservation, air quality, and other environmental practices.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet parking with in/out privileges
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
WHY IS IT COOL? The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is Disney’s premier conference venue. This sun-drenched Victorian-style hotel is located on the monorail and convenient to Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Highlights of the Grand Floridian include meeting space that’s located all on one floor, two dedicated meeting planner offices, and outdoor venues for nightly fireworks viewing.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, cocktail receptions, banquets, galas
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 40,000 square feet of event space across 27 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: Walt Disney World Resorts practice sustainability by conserving energy and water, setting aside park land for native habitat, promoting recycling, and supporting conservation and environmental education programs.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Free shuttles to the airport through Disney’s Magical Express; on-site parking
Orlando Science Center
WHY IS IT COOL? The Orlando Science Center is a stunning 5-floor museum constructed around a circular rotunda. All spaces within the museum are available for private rental, so your guests can have cocktails with the dinosaurs, “hike” through Florida’s ecosystems, and dance the night away on the terrace.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail receptions, galas, banquets, meetings, client events, film screenings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 200,000 square feet of event space across 15 meeting rooms; can accommodate 300 seated banquet style and 4,000 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: The Orlando Science Center is LEED Gold certified.
CATERING: In-house catering; outside catering as well
The Orlando Museum of Art
WHY IS IT COOL? The Orlando Museum of Art is Central Florida’s leading cultural institution. Its permanent collection focuses on African Art, Art of the Ancient Americas, and Contemporary Art. The highlight of the museum building is its rotunda, and its sculpture galleries are available for events.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail receptions, galas, banquets, meetings, client events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 11,877 square feet of event space 7 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
The Best Orlando Party Venues
Whisper Creek Farm Kitchen + Brewery
WHY IS IT COOL? Located inside the JW Marriott, Whisper Creek Farm Kitchen + Brewery is a beautiful open and airy bar space great for parties. They offer dishes that showcase produce grown on-site and feature the farm’s ‘nano brews.’
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Parties, team celebrations
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Bar and lounge space
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: Whisper Creek Farm Kitchen + Brewery practices sustainability by utilizing produce grown locally.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: On-site parking
The Stubborn Mule
WHY IS IT COOL? The Stubborn Mule is a fun, American-style restaurant with farm-to-table food and private dining options for groups up to 50.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail parties, team celebrations, client events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate up to 50
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet and street parking
Highball & Harvest
WHY IS IT COOL? Highball & Harvest is an elegant rustic restaurant with Southern-inspired food. It’s focused on local, sustainable ingredients and offers private dining for groups of all sizes.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail parties, team celebrations, client events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate groups up to 65 seated and up to 80 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: Highball & Harvest practices sustainability in part by serving wine out of casks, rather than individual bottles, and emphasizing local ingredients.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Complimentary valet parking through Ritz-Carlton
A La Cart
WHY IS IT COOL? A La Cart is a food hall that offers street food and craft beer from mobile food vendors. The open air pavilion and courtyard can be rented out for private events.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Team celebrations, cocktail receptions, casual parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate groups of various sizes using outdoor lawn space
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
The Best Orlando Venues Music
Celine Orlando
WHY IS IT COOL? Celine Orlando is a new addition to the Orlando nightclub scene. This two-story warehouse space features indoor landscaping, a 15-foot LED wall, a four-sided bar, and a stage. Celine’s ballroom, mezzanine, speakeasy, and rooftop lounge are available for private rental.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Hip banquets, cocktail parties, team celebrations, exhibitions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Ballroom, mezzanine, speakeasy, and rooftop lounge can accommodate 1,000 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house; state-of-the-art AV, including a 15-foot LED wall
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house beverage; outside catering
TRANSPORT: Garage parking
Bösendorfer Lounge
WHY IS IT COOL? Located in the Grand Bohemian Hotel, Bösendorfer Lounge offers live jazz music in a stylish atmosphere. Highlights of the Bösendorfer Lounge include a circular bar and plush velvet seating.
What types of events is it most suitable for? Cocktail receptions, parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 60 reception style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
The Best Cheap Venues in Orlando
Park Social
WHY IS IT COOL? Park Social is a retro cocktail lounge in Orlando’s Winter Park neighborhood. Park Social is an intimate, colorful bar with personality, perfect for small group parties.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Small cocktail parties, team celebrations
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Intimate cocktail lounge
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Street and public parking
Quantum Leap Winery
WHY IS IT COOL? Located near Orlando’s Lake Formosa, Quantum Leap Winery is Florida’s only sustainable winery. This reasonably priced venue has a rustic yet contemporary atmosphere, and events can be hosted in the barrel room, tasting room, or winery.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Cocktail receptions, client events, banquets, team celebrations
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 35 seated banquet style in the Barrel Room, 175 seated banquet style in the Tasting Room, and 400 seated banquet style for a full winery buyout.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: Sustainability is at the core of Quantum Leap Winery’s business model. They look for environmentally responsible ways to produce, package and bring their wine to market.
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: On-site and street parking, valet can be arranged through the event manager
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