Finding the right spot to gather all your friends and family for a celebration takes a lot of work. Having enough room, the right lighting and atmosphere, and let’s not forget food and drink — all these things are of the utmost importance when planning a party. Not only that, but you’ll probably want to create a memory with your party that your guests will never forget.
Ready to get your party on? Check out these five fantastic party venues in Washington D.C. Plus a few tips for planning a show-stopping event in our nation’s capital.
Party planning: things to think about
Before you rush off to book your venue, you want to make sure you’ve got some of the details lined up so you don’t have to deal with last-minute changes and extra expenses. Considering all your options and knowing just the type of party you want to host will help save time and avoid complications.
Booking a venue
The first thing to consider when booking a venue is how large it needs to be. How many people will you need to plan for? Making sure the venue is equipped to accommodate your guest list is one of the most important factors in choosing where to book.
For larger parties or events, check with D.C. Health for guidelines on event booking and health and safety concerns. You want everyone to have fun, not worry about their safety.
Always over-plan. If you think you’ll invite 30 people, book for 50. That way, you avoid mishaps when one guest brings a friend or that small party turns into a large gathering.
This also applies to how long you book the venue for as well. Some venues allow you to book for a set period of time, while others require you to book the full venue for the whole day. Carefully consider how long you need the venue and book accordingly.
Food and drink
If you’re planning a dinner party or just want to have food or drinks available to guests, you’ll want to have more than enough. Running out of food or refreshments when more guests arrive is a quick way to have a party turn sour.
Some venues can accommodate food and drink but may charge extra if unscheduled guests arrive or more food has to be prepared. When hiring a caterer, it is always a good idea to have them bring more food than you think you’ll need.
The right spot: 5 stellar party venues in Washington D.C.
Ready to get your party on? Check out our top five party venues in D.C.
#1. Dockmaster Building/District Pier
Whether it’s a dinner party for you and your friends or an all-night dance party for 500, the Dockmaster Building and District Pier is a great space. The pier overlooking the water is a breathtaking sight for all your guests.
The venue offers many options, including event planning partners and catering options from award-winning restaurants and chefs. The venue is close to public transit and just steps away from the National Mall for guests looking to do some sightseeing after the party.
#2. 20 F Street NW Conference Center
What seems like an all-business venue actually houses one of the best rooftop dining venues in the city. Situated just blocks away from the Union metro station, this business meeting space has spectacular accommodations for hosting a rooftop dinner party.
Easily accessible, spacious, and modern, the conference center has stellar skyline views from the rooftop dining space. Suitable for 100 guests, it’s a great and unexpected spot to hold a formal dinner with lots of friends and family.
#3. Wunder Garten
A relatively new venue, Wunder Garten is inspired by the beer gardens found in Germany and combines regular events with a lively and authentic atmosphere. The venue is the perfect place to add that something special to your next party or gathering.
Multiple seating areas both indoors and outdoors, live music, and refreshments make this a great place to have fun and celebrate a special occasion without the need for going overly formal. If you’re in the market for a more festive venue, Wunder Garten is the perfect spot.
#4. Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill
If you’re planning a party for lots of guests, what’s better than booking a venue at a luxurious hotel?
With a large ballroom and plenty of hotel amenities, including spacious guest rooms and pools, Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill is an elegant spot for your next soiree. It’s especially convenient for out-of-town guests who need a place to stay afterward, or for those parties that run extra long.
Situated near many of the major public attractions like the Library of Congress and National Mall, it’s a great spot to hold a party and gives your guests places to explore once the festivities are over.
#5. Punch Bowl Social
When you’re really looking to let loose and have fun, Punch Bowl Social has a little something for everyone. Guests can enjoy vintage games, bowling, karaoke, or grab a custom-made snack or drink from the Punch Bowl’s kitchen.
Whether you want a quiet evening out or a full-on party with family and friends, the Punch Bowl Social can suit all your needs. You can even bring the kids along to have fun as well while the adults enjoy conversation and cocktails.
Stellar party venues in Washington D.C. — wrapping up
Planning a party is serious business when you’re trying to get everything just right. The guest list, the venue, the menu — all of these things matter whether you’re planning to throw a small soiree or a grand gathering.
Hopefully some of the venues we chose will give you the inspiration you need the next time you want to host a gathering that has a little something extra apart from chairs and tables.
References:
https://www.nps.gov/nama/index.htm
https://dchealth.dc.gov/service/special-events-HEPRA
https://giggster.com/find/washington–dc/party