Big Business
500-Plus? Six Unique Venues that Can Help
by Lindsey Getz | Published in January 2008 Focus on Event Sites
When it comes to finding a venue for a group of 500 or more, thinking big is often easier said than done — especially if your wish list of features doesn’t include “at hotel,” “ballroom” and “carpet that would camouflage a Pucci print.” And when you do find that venue that can accommodate your group, you may find that leaving the everyday ballroom scene means dealing with facilities that are not set up for large functions.
“The difficulty lies in turning your ideal place into a special events venue,” says Helen Schwake, a certified special events professional and president of the Greater Atlanta Chapter of the International Special Events Society. “The venue might be perfect aesthetically but challenging logistically. For example, there could be narrow doors, no elevator or a lack of loading space.”
If you’re starting to feel like your only option is a standard ballroom, don’t fret. We’ve rounded up six unique spaces that can hold groups of 500 or more — and these venues know a little something about special events.
Just Bring your Toothbrush
The Las Vegas Brooklyn Bridge; Las Vegas www.nynyhotelcasino.com
Located just outside the New York-New York Hotel in Las Vegas, this re-creation of the Brooklyn Bridge is one fifth the size of the original, and is the world’s largest replica of the bridge. Close to the Strip but set back from the hustle and bustle, the 10,000-square-foot structure can hold 1,000 guests reception-style or 600 banquet-style.
“It’s the largest outdoor venue in the city,” says Christopher Bond, executive director of sales for the hotel. Everything you need to make your event unique is already here, he adds. “We like to say, ‘All you have to do is bring your toothbrush and you have your event.’”
Keeping it Pure
The Foundry at Puritan Mill; Atlanta www.novareevents.com/puritan
A historic warehouse, this highly unique space was owned and operated by the Puritan Soap Company from 1921 through 1996. It has since been restored and is now a premier venue in Atlanta for hosting events, says Kristin St. Hilaire, account executive of Novare Events, the group handling special events there. With flexible seating options, the Foundry can hold up to 800 seated guests.
“The Foundry at Puritan Mill has a metropolitan tone with extraordinary window walls on three sides, tall original pine ceilings and exposed brick walls which can be the perfect backdrop for your event,” she says.
The Luxest Yard
Lambeau Field; Green Bay, Wis. www.lambeaufield.com
A football field may seem an unlikely pick for corporate events, but the facilities at Lambeau Field offer everything needed to produce any sized event. Adjacent to the field, the Field Atrium features more than 77,000 square feet of meeting space.
It offers a luxury feel, says Beth Haws, special events corporate sales manager. And the venue is remarkable for more than its size. “There is something special about this venue, including a lot of history,” says Haws. “It’s a way to create a memorable event. I’ve had grown men look out onto the field and cry.”
Raising the Roof
Indiana Roof Ballroom; Indianapolis, Ind. www.indianaroof.com
The Indiana Roof Ballroom, or “The Roof,” is a historic ballroom with architectural features and built-in art lighting and audio infrastructures. “We can accommodate a group as small as 100 to a group as large as 700 and still have a feeling of intimacy,” says Antonia Zunarelli, general manager and director of sales.
Built in 1927, the ballroom was modeled after the courtyard of a Spanish village. Adding to its unique appeal are the original flooring and, overhead, the 40-foot dome suspended on steel cables replete with lights twinkling like stars
You’re the Top
Top of the Tower; Philadelphia www.topofthetower.com
This space makes guests feel on top of the world as they take in panoramic views of Philadelphia from the 50th and 51st floors of the Bell Atlantic tower. Three different states, the steps made famous in the “Rocky” movies, the Liberty Bell and more are visible.
In total, the 50th floor can accommodate 500 people, with 175 on
the 51st.
And it’s a venue conducive to reaching higher. “With visions of clouds and the city skyline beyond, minds become open and productive,” says Louisa Kochman, managing partner.
Bank on It
Bently Reserve; San Francisco www.bentlyreserve.com
Built in 1922 as the San Francisco Federal Reserve Bank, the historic Bently was recently restored to reflect its original ambiance.
“The Bently Reserve offers a level of grandeur and elegance that is not easily found, combined with modern amenities that exceed guests’ expectations,” says Vivian Perez, event and sales manager and a certified meeting professional. “With marble columns and vaults underneath the hall, it catches the imaginations of event guests, but still offers modern conveniences like a hotel next door and parking across the street.”
Located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, the space accommodates up to 700 people.