The nation’s capital is brimming with museums, iconic monuments, political hubs, and not to be overlooked, renowned event venues. Washington DC is home to some of the most historic buildings in the country, while also attracting the world’s innovators and trailblazers. This discrepancy promotes a range of old-world charm and innovative amenities in the city’s event spaces. If you’re searching for Washington DC event venues, take a look at the city’s top 25 locations for 2019.
This post shares the best event venues in Washington DC, in the following categories:
1. The Best Cheap Event Space DC
2. The Best Conference Event Space Rental DC
3. The Best Places to Rent a Mansion in DC
4. The Best Party Room Rentals in DC
5. The Best Party Venues in DC for Birthday Parties
6. The Best Small Event Space DC
THE BEST CHEAP EVENT SPACE DC
Convene
WHY IS IT COOL? Convene offers bright, modern coworking and event space rentals with full service meeting packages. Convene has two very centrally located downtown Washington, D.C. locations: one just steps from the Penn Quarter metro station and the other just blocks from the White House (opening Fall 2019).
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Meetings, conferences, lectures
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Convene offers spaces for groups of all sizes, from boardrooms for 14 up to conference rooms to seat 200
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house projection available
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: Catering can be arranged as part of your meeting package
TRANSPORT: Metro; street and public parking
THE BEST CONFERENCE EVENT SPACE RENTAL DC
The Line Hotel
WHY IS IT COOL? The Line Hotel is a recent addition to the DC hotel scene. This uber hip venue is located in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, home of great shopping, restaurants, and bars. The Line Hotel features residential style rooms, great views, and a rooftop terrace.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR?
Conferences, meetings, client events, cocktail receptions, galas, banquets
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 10,000 square feet of meeting space
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house catering from James Beard Award Winning chef
TRANSPORT: Valet, street and public parking
Credit: James Jackson
Marriot Marquis, Washington, D.C.
WHY IS IT COOL? The Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. is a very large conference-style hotel that offers spaces for groups of all sizes. This modern, 4-star property has a great location, convenient to the DC Convention Center, Chinatown/Penn Quarter Neighborhood, and metro. This property is also a Cvent Top Meeting Hotel award winner.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, galas
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 100,474 square feet of event space across 80 meeting rooms; their Marquis Ballroom can seat 2,750 banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: State of the art meeting technology through PSAV
SUSTAINABILITY: The Marriott Marquis, Washington, D.C. is LEED Silver certified
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to Mt. Vernon Square Metro, valet, street and public parking
National Union Building
WHY IS IT COOL? The National Union Building was built in 1890 and offers stylish meeting space for groups of all sizes. The event space has an industrial feel with an open concept floor plan and wood floors. As a bonus, the National Union Building has a speakeasy bar that’s available for events as well.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, retreats, board meetings, cocktail parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 28,000 square feet of event space across 7 meeting rooms, with the largest able to seat 200 banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Bose towers for surround sound, mounted A/V projectors and screens, microphones, and WiFi
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to Chinatown metro station; street and public parking
The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.
WHY IS IT COOL? The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D. C. is a four star, five diamond property, located in DC’s West End neighborhood. The hotel underwent major renovations in 2016, taking influences from neoclassical style and modern designs.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, galas, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 25,000 square feet of meeting space across 11 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: State of the art meeting technology through PSAV
SUSTAINABILITY: Ritz-Carlton has a sustainability initiative focused on reducing energy and water consumption, sourcing environmentally friendly products, and more
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet, street and public parking
The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center
WHY IS IT COOL? The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center is a hotel and conference center with extensive conference facilities and convention services. The property features a multi-story indoor atrium with gardens, shops, and restaurants. It offers easy access to National Harbor attractions, including a ferris wheel, boat cruises, performing art centers, restaurants, bars, shopping, and more.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conventions, conferences, galas, holiday parties, board meetings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 546,889 square feet of event space across 94 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: State of the art meeting and AV technology
SUSTAINABILITY: The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center practices sustainability through its installation green roof and honeybee habitat
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Garage, lot, and valet parking
The National Archives
WHY IS IT COOL? The National Archives is a neoclassical building constructed in 1935 and located just off the National Mall. Home to the Declaration of Independence,the Constitution, and Bill of Rights, the National Archives allows event organizers the unique opportunity to host events within steps of the Charters of Freedom (just don’t try to steal them!). The museum also features event space in its Rotunda Galleries, McGowan Theater, and Presidential Conference Center.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, parties, cocktail receptions, meetings, board meetings, conferences
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 8 event spaces, with the largest able to accommodate 200 banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Immediately adjacent to the Archives metro station; street and public parking
Credit: Christopher Jason Studios
Freer Gallery of Art
WHY IS IT COOL? Located on the National Mall, the Freer Gallery is the home of the Smithsonian’s Asian Art collection. The building features a beautiful courtyard with a fountain, indoor hall and gallery spaces perfect for large banquets and galas.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Seated capacity for 290 and reception capacity for 500
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Smithsonian metro station; street and public parking
The Mandarin Oriental, Washington, D.C.
WHY IS IT COOL? Named by Travel + Leisure as DC’s best hotel for business, this gorgeous waterfront hotel features recently renovated ballrooms, breakout rooms, and outdoor patios and terraces. Mandarin Oriental, Washington, D.C. is convenient to attractions on the National Mall and the Wharf, a popular dining, shopping, and cultural events district.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, galas, board meetings
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 40,000 square feet of event space across 16 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: State of the art meeting and event technology
SUSTAINABILITY: The Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C. practices sustainability in several ways, including through a partnership with Anacostia River clean up.
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to L’Enfant Plaza metro station; valet, street and public parking
THE BEST PLACES TO RENT A MANSION IN DC
Dumbarton House
WHY IS IT COOL? Dumbarton House is a Federal style mansion, originally constructed in 1800, that offers an elegant setting for private events. Event rental includes the Belle Vue ballroom and a slate courtyard that can be tented to accommodate larger groups.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, parties, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 1,040 square foot ballroom, can accommodate 80 banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Street and public parking
The Mansion on O St
WHY IS IT COOL? Named “Coolest Place in DC” by booking.com, the Mansion on O & O Museum is a unique historic venue, with 100 rooms and 70 secret doors. Designed to be explored, the Mansion & O Museum provides guests with a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Parties, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Seated capacity for 185, reception for 650
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Dupont Circle Metro; street and public parking
Credit: J-P- Gross Photography
THE BEST PARTY ROOM RENTALS IN DC
Rose’s Luxury
WHY IS IT COOL? Rose’s Luxury was recently named the best new restaurant by Bon Appetit Magazine, and private dining may be the only way you get to eat at this super popular DC spot. The restaurant’s charming Barracks Room private dining space seats 20.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Parties, client events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Barracks Room seats 20
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Union Market metro station; street and public parking
Credit: Anna Meyer Photo
Blue Duck Tavern
WHY IS IT COOL? Located inside the Park Hyatt Washington, D.C., Blue Duck Tavern is a DC institution. Its décor is an elegant, minimalist take on Federal style furnishings. Guests can enjoy private dining experience from this highly rated restaurant at the Chef’s Table or in the Tea Cellar.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Team celebrations, client events, small parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The Chef’s Table can seat 20, the Tea Cellar room can seat 10
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: The Blue Duck Tavern received the Couteaux Review Award for sustainable practices
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Valet parking through the Park Hyatt; street and public parking
Zaytinya
WHY IS IT COOL? Chef Jose Andres’ Zaytinya is a perennial DC favorite and a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant. It features soaring vaulted ceilings and a blue and whitewashed color scheme. Zaytinya offers several spaces for private rental, in addition to a full restaurant buyout.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Parties, client events, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: A full buyout of the restaurant can accommodate 300 guests
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: Zaytinya recently underwent lighting renovations to increase energy efficiency
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Chinatown metro station; valet, street and public parking
THE BEST PARTY VENUES IN DC FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES
The Rooftop at the Embassy Row Hotel
WHY IS IT COOL? The Embassy Row Hotel is a trendy hotel located in Northwest DC. Its rooftop pool was named one of the “Best Rooftop Pools in America” by USA Today. The rooftop offers sweeping views of the city, as well as a fun, seasonally available party rental space.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Parties
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Can accommodate 120
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Dupont Circle Metro; street and public parking
Mellon Auditorium
WHY IS IT COOL? The Mellon Auditorium was constructed in 1934 and is notable for its ornate, classical interior. This soaring event space is located on Constitution Avenue, just off the National Mall and perfect for larger groups.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, banquets, large client events, lectures, and product launches
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 15,650 square feet of event space across 6 function rooms; the Grand Hall can seat 696
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Federal Triangle metro station; street and public parking
Credit: Event Emissary
The National Zoo
WHY IS IT COOL? Located on 163 acres of hilly green space in Northwest DC, the National Zoo offers 12 separate event spaces for groups of all sizes. An event at the National Zoo allows guests to experience the animals in a unique way. What’s cooler than hosting an event in the LEED certified Elephant Community Center?
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, parties, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Indoor and outdoor event spaces to fit groups of all sizes that accommodate up to 2,000 seated banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: The National Zoo is LEED certified and promotes environmentally friendly practices on its campus and supports conservation and biodiversity across the globe
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Paid lot parking, street parking
The Smithsonian Natural History Museum
WHY IS IT COOL? The Smithsonian Natural History Museum opened its doors in 1910. An event at the Natural History Museum offers guests the chance to have dinner in the Rotunda with Henry, its iconic African bush elephant. Guests can also experience an after-hours tour through the Butterfly Pavilion and the Gem Hall where the Hope Diamond is kept.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR?
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 16,052 square feet of event space across 7 function rooms; the Rotunda Room seats 565 banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: N/A
SUSTAINABILITY: The Smithsonian Natural History Museum promotes sustainable practices onsite
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Smithsonian metro station; street and public parking
Union Market
WHY IS IT COOL? Union Market was originally constructed in 1931 and underwent a massive renovation in 2012. It’s now regarded as one of America’s best food halls. The Dock5 event space at Union Market combines an open-concept floor plan with industrial style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, parties, cocktail receptions, product launches, and brand activations
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: Room for 400 seated banquet style; room to grow with use of outdoor space
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: WiFi included
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to Galludet metro station; complimentary parking
Arena Stage
WHY IS IT COOL? Located in DC’s up and coming Wharf neighborhood, Arena Stage is a non-profit center for American Theater. It underwent a major renovation in 2010 that preserved it’s unique, original architecture within the new structure.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Banquets, large meetings, performances, and receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 15,000 square feet across 9 meeting rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: State of the art lighting and sound equipment
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Waterfront metro station; street and public parking
Credit: Nic Lehoux
Artechouse DC
WHY IS IT COOL? Artechouse DC is an immersive art, science, and technology gallery located in Southwest DC. The space was created to showcase experiential, technology-driven works of art and is available for private events.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Parties, cocktail receptions
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 15,000 square feet of event space across 7 function rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Cutting edge AV technology
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to L’Enfant Plaza metro station
Credit: ARTECHOUSE
The Hay Adams Rooftop
WHY IS IT COOL? Built in 1928, The Hay Adams Hotel is a 5-star hotel located just across Lafayette Square from the White House. In addition to traditional meeting rooms, its top floor – the Top of the Hay – offers incredible views of the White House and five contiguous spaces that can be joined to create seating for 340.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Galas, celebrations
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 8,000 square feet of event space across 6 meeting rooms; Top of the Hay can seat 340 banquet style
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house
SUSTAINABILITY: The Hay Adams practices sustainability by sourcing 25% of its power from renewables, eliminating styrofoam, and cleaning with eco-friendly cleaning products
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Farragut North metro station; valet and public parking
Nationals Park
WHY IS IT COOL? On non-game days, the home of the World Champion Washington Nationals hosts events of all sizes on the field as well as in a wide variety of indoor locations. Event enhancements can include fireworks, visits from the racing presidents, on-field batting practice and more.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, celebrations, retreats, parties, client events
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: 100,000 square feet of event space across 15 meeting rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: In-house AV
SUSTAINABILITY: Nationals Park is LEED Silver certified and is one of the most sustainable professional sports arenas
CATERING: In-house
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Navy Yard metro station; garage, valet, street and public parking
THE BEST SMALL EVENT SPACE DC
The Loft at 600 F
WHY IS IT COOL? The Loft at 600 F is an industrial style event venue located in the Penn Quarter just around the corner from the Capital One Arena. The Loft at 600 F offers several stylish, well-appointed meeting spaces. The Lounge, the Loft, and the Retreat spaces are each situated on separate floors and can be used separately for small meetings or combined for larger events.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, meetings, board meetings, cocktail parties, product launches, brand activations
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: A total of 6,000 square feet of meeting space is spread across 3 separate open-concept meeting rooms
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: WiFi, HD Projector, HDMI, 10ft Widescreen Projection Screen, Sound System and Wireless Handheld Mics, Apple TV, 60″ HD Television
SUSTAINABILITY: N/A
CATERING: N/A
TRANSPORT: Convenient to the Chinatown metro station; street and public parking