The task of finding the best Boston event venue has fallen on your shoulders. Where do you start?
Boston offers a wealth of options, from grand ballrooms to intimate spaces with stunning views of the city — perfect for any event.
But with so many choices available, how do you narrow down your options and find the perfect venue?
Here at Eventbrite, we have a long history of helping our event organizers find the best venue. So to make life a little easier for you, we’ve made this guide to help you navigate the selection process.
We’ll cover everything from location and capacity to amenities and catering, tips on negotiating with vendors, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Let’s get straight to the venues in no particular order.
Table of Contents
- Popular event venues
- Historic event venues
- Unique event venues
- Boston event planning resources
- Tips for choosing the right event venue
Popular event venues in Boston
When it comes to hosting remarkable events in Boston, the city offers an array of outstanding venues to choose from that are sure to impress your guests.
Whether it’s an intimate affair, a mid-sized gathering, or a grand celebration, these venues cater to different capacities while providing exceptional experiences for you and your guests.
After all, you don’t want to book too big a venue as your event could look empty. For each venue, we’ve highlighted the event size they’re best for. FYI, this is how we define the event sizes:
- Small events = 10 to 50 people
- Medium events = 51 to 200 people
- Large events = 200+ people
Now let’s take a look at our favorite Boston event venues:
1. Hynes Convention Center
The Hynes Convention Center is a premier venue that offers state-of-the-art facilities and flexible spaces for conventions, trade shows, and large-scale events.
With its central location in the Back Bay area, it provides easy access to hotels, restaurants, and other attractions.
2. Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center
Located in the vibrant Seaport District, the Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center offers a combination of luxurious accommodations and versatile event spaces for medium to large-sized events.
This waterfront venue provides stunning views of the Boston Harbor and features modern amenities to make your event a memorable one.
3. The Westin Boston Waterfront
Situated in the heart of the thriving Seaport District, The Westin Boston Waterfront boasts contemporary design and exceptional service.
Its spacious event venues are ideal for conferences, weddings, and social gatherings of any size. The hotel’s convenient location and world-class amenities ensure a successful and enjoyable event.
4. The Royal Sonesta Boston
Nestled on the banks of the Charles River, The Royal Sonesta Boston is an elegant and sophisticated venue for small to medium-sized events.
Its stunning waterfront views, impeccable service, and stylish event spaces make it an ideal choice for weddings, galas, and corporate functions.
5. The Revere Hotel Boston Common
Centrally located near Boston Common, The Revere Hotel Boston Common offers chic and contemporary event spaces with a touch of urban sophistication.
From small intimate gatherings to large grand celebrations, this venue provides a unique ambiance and excellent amenities, including green initiatives, being pet-friendly, and the gorgeous Rooftop Bar and Lounge.
6. Artists for Humanity EpiCenter
For a distinctive and creative event experience, the Artists for Humanity EpiCenter stands out.
This unique venue combines a contemporary art gallery with versatile event spaces, making it perfect for small to medium-sized events like art exhibitions, fundraisers, and cultural events.
7. Fenway Park
Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is an iconic and historic venue that offers an unparalleled setting for sporting events, concerts, and special occasions.
Its rich history and distinctive atmosphere create an unforgettable backdrop for any sized event.
All of these popular event venues in Boston provide exceptional spaces, services, and experiences that will make your event truly memorable.
Historic event venues in Boston
These historic event venues in Boston will transport you back in time while providing an enchanting backdrop for your event.
8. The State Room
Located on the 33rd floor of the iconic 60 State Street skyscraper, The State Room offers breathtaking panoramic views of Boston’s skyline and harbor, perfect for small to medium-sized events.
This historic venue combines elegance with a touch of modern sophistication, making it an ideal choice for weddings, galas, and corporate events.
9. The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
Step back into the dramatic events of the American Revolution at The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.
This immersive and interactive venue allows you to experience the historic Boston Tea Party and its significance firsthand. You can even participate in historical reenactments! It provides a unique and educational setting for private events and functions of any size.
10. The Old South Meeting House
The Old South Meeting House, a National Historic Landmark, played a pivotal role in American history as the gathering place for the Boston Tea Party.
This beautifully restored venue offers elegant event spaces with a sense of historic grandeur, perfect for small to medium-sized events like weddings, receptions, and cultural events.
11. The Gibson House
Immerse yourself in the elegance and charm of the Victorian era at The Gibson House, located in the historic Back Bay neighborhood.
This meticulously preserved townhouse provides an intimate and exclusive setting for small-scale events. With its period furnishings and exquisite architecture, it offers a unique glimpse into Boston’s past in an elegant and exclusive setting.
12. The Institute of Contemporary Art
While known for its cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions, The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) also offers stunning event spaces with a modern twist.
Located on the Boston waterfront, this sleek and architecturally impressive venue is perfect for any sized event, including art receptions, corporate events, and social gatherings.
These captivating historic event venues in Boston seamlessly blend the charm of the past with the needs of modern-day events to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
For inspiration, search for events in Boston on Eventbrite and you’ll see examples of events at different venues.
Unique event venues in Boston
If you’re looking to add a touch of novelty and excitement to your event, Boston offers a range of venues that are a little out of the ordinary. If you want something different, you can enchant your guests with aquatic wonders and scenic riverfronts.
13. The New England Aquarium
Host an unforgettable small to medium-sized event surrounded by fascinating marine life at The New England Aquarium.
This extraordinary venue offers a variety of spaces, including the stunning Giant Ocean Tank, where guests can dine while surrounded by a mesmerizing underwater ecosystem.
14. The Lenox Hotel
Steeped in history and elegance, The Lenox Hotel is a unique event venue that exudes timeless charm and is perfect for small to medium-sized events.
With its blend of classic sophistication and modern amenities, this gorgeous boutique hotel offers a range of versatile spaces to accommodate weddings, galas, and social events.
15. The Charles River Bistro
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Charles River, The Charles River Bistro’s unique offering is its serene and scenic setting.
Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering or a romantic wedding reception, the scenic waterfront views and delectable cuisine create an enchanting atmosphere for small-scale events.
16. Cruise Boston Harbor on the Odyssey
Treat your guests to a truly memorable experience by hosting your event aboard the Odyssey, a luxurious cruise ship that sails along Boston Harbor.
With breathtaking views, fine dining, and entertainment, this floating venue is perfect for weddings, corporate outings, and celebrations of any size.
17. Boston Breweries
For beer enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back atmosphere, Boston’s breweries offer unique event venues.
From local craft breweries to larger establishments, these spaces provide a relaxed and vibrant setting for beer tastings, brewery tours, and casual gatherings. Explore the diverse beer scene in Boston and plan your event at one of the city’s amazing breweries.
Need more ideas on how to find unique event venues? Take a look at this post covering finding and securing unique venues.
Boston event planning resources
Of course, regardless of which venue you choose, it’s important to have access to reliable resources and services to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.
Here are some key event planning resources available in the city.
Catering services in Boston
Boston boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a range of catering services to suit your event’s needs. From gourmet cuisine to specialty menus, caterers can create delectable dishes that will delight your guests.
Some popular and highly-rated catering services in Boston include The Catered Affair, MAX Ultimate Food, and Gourmet Caterers.
Boston event planning services
To streamline your event planning process, consider utilizing the expertise of Boston’s event planning services to assist you with venue selection, logistics, audiovisual setups, and more — ensuring a smooth and successful event.
Some reputable event planning services include Longwood Events, Corinthian Events, and AE Events.
Transportation and accommodation in Boston
For out-of-town guests attending your event, transportation and accommodation are crucial considerations. Boston offers a range of transportation options, including taxis, rideshares, and public transposrtation.
Additionally, the city boasts numerous hotels and accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. Popular hotels in Boston include The Westin Boston Waterfront, The Lenox Hotel, and The Liberty Hotel.
Our favorite Boston event photographers
Capturing the special moments at your event is essential, and Boston is home to several talented event photographers who specialize in documenting events. With a creative eye and attention to detail, they’re experts at preserving the memories of your event.
Some highly regarded local event photographers include Zev Fisher Photography, Allegro Photography, and Jill Person Photography.
Tips for choosing the right Boston event venue
Selecting the perfect event venue can greatly impact the success of your gathering. Here are a few of the many Eventbrite professional tips to help you choose the right venue for your event:
Identify the purpose of your event
Before starting your venue search, clearly define the purpose and goals of your event. Determine the type of event you’re hosting, the number of attendees, and any specific requirements or themes.
This will guide you in finding a venue that aligns with your vision and meets your event’s needs.
Use our professional goals and objectives tips to measure your progress along the way. The sooner you start, the sooner you can turn your Boston event plans into a reality.
Consider your venue budget
Establish a budget for your event and allocate a reasonable portion for the venue. Take into account not only the rental fee but also any additional costs such as catering, audiovisual equipment, and decorations.
Finding a venue that fits within your budget will help you make informed decisions without overspending.
Location and accessibility
Consider the location of the venue and its accessibility for your guests.
Choose a location that is convenient and easily accessible, preferably near public transportation and with ample parking options.
Assess the venue’s amenities and services
Evaluate the amenities and services offered by the venue. Does it provide the necessary equipment, such as audiovisual systems, staging, or lighting?
Check if the venue offers on-site catering or allows outside vendors. And don’t forget to think about additional services like event planning assistance, setup, and cleanup — these can greatly ease the planning process.
If you want help in planning and marketing your event from the get-go, check out Eventbrite’s all-in-one platform for event organizers.
Read reviews and visit the venue in person
Research online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge their experiences with the venue.
Additionally, schedule a visit to the venue in person or attend an event by finding one on Eventbrite to assess its ambiance, layout, and overall suitability for your event. This will give you a firsthand perspective and help you envision how your event will unfold.
Which Boston event venue suits you?
Boston is a vibrant city with many venue choices to bring any event to life.
But don’t wait too long before you start exploring your options — these amazing venues may get booked up fast!
By following these suggestions and tips and using tools like Eventbrite to plan your events, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best event venue in Boston and exceed your event expectations.
