Whether you’re planning for a corporate conference, a wedding, or a cultural performance, you will find the perfect location in Philadelphia. Here’s a comprehensive look at 34 of the city’s top event venues:
1. Pennsylvania Convention Center:
Location: 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Website: Pennsylvania Convention Center
Details:
This expansive facility offers a total space of 1,000,000 square feet (93,000 m²), including an exhibit hall floor of 679,000 square feet (63,100 m²) and 80 breakout rooms. The center also features a grand ballroom spanning 87,408 square feet (8,120.5 m²). The grand ballroom is perfect for large banquets, accommodating up to 2,000 guests, while theatre seating can host up to 10,000 attendees. Ideal for large conventions and exhibitions, it can accommodate up to 25,000 attendees. With its central location, it’s accessible and versatile, though larger events may find it costly.
2. Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts:
Location: Kimmel Cultural Campus, 300 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, United States
Website: Kimmel Cultural Campus
Details:
It stands as a cultural beacon, with spaces like Verizon Hall, which has a seating capacity of 2,500 seats, and Perelman Theater, which has a seating capacity of 650 seats. The venue’s capacity and configuration can vary based on the type of event and space utilized for the event. This makes it a versatile choice for diverse performances and events. Its elegant spaces make it ideal for high-profile concerts and theater productions. The venue offers flexibility, although it can be on the pricier side for smaller events.
3. The Fillmore Philadelphia:
Location: 29 E Allen St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Website: The Fillmore Philadelphia
Details:
Known for its vibrant music scene, The Fillmore can host up to 2,000 guests for receptions and 500 for banquets. It’s a great choice for concerts and lively gatherings. The industrial-chic venue provides a unique atmosphere, though it’s primarily suited for music events and large parties.
4. Franklin Institute:
Location: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: Franklin Institute
Details:
For those seeking a blend of science and event hosting, the Franklin Institute offers 4.4 acres (1.8 ha) of space. It can host up to 1,500 guests for receptions. With various spaces offering different capacities, it’s suitable for corporate events, weddings, and educational gatherings. Its interactive exhibits add a unique touch, making it both fun and educational.
5. Academy of Music:
Location: 240 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Website: Academy of Music
Details:
This historic venue, with a capacity of 2,509, is perfect for performances and large-scale events. Its opulent interior makes it a prestigious choice for concerts, galas, and operas. While it offers a luxurious setting, rental costs can be high.
6. National Constitution Center:
Location: 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: National Constitution Center
Details:
Offering diverse spaces like the Grand Hall and a rooftop terrace, this venue can accommodate various event styles and sizes. For formal sit-down dinners, it can host up to 600 guests, ensuring ample room for large gatherings. When combined with a reception and sit-down dinner, the capacity adjusts to 300 without dancing and 250 with dancing, allowing for an elegant yet lively atmosphere. For more casual, reception-style events, it can accommodate 700 guests without dancing and 600 with dancing, providing flexibility for dynamic social gatherings. Additionally, for presentations or performances, the theater-style setup can seat up to 800 attendees, making it ideal for large conferences and shows.
7. Independence Seaport Museum:
Location: 211 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: Independence Seaport Museum
Details:
With a capacity of 1,400, this venue offers a nautical theme perfect for unique corporate events and social gatherings. The waterfront location provides stunning views, making it a memorable setting, although it can be limited by weather conditions for outdoor events.
8. Philadelphia Museum of Art:
Location: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Website: Philadelphia Museum of Art
Details:
Offering multiple spaces with different capacities, this iconic venue is suitable for elegant receptions, art-related events, and weddings. The grand steps and historic architecture provide a picturesque backdrop, though it may be more suited for upscale events.
9. Barnes Foundation:
Location: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Website: Barnes Foundation
Details:
Hosting up to 275 guests, this venue is ideal for intimate gatherings, art events, and corporate functions. Its stunning art collection offers a unique ambiance, although the capacity limits it to smaller events.
10. The College of Physicians of Philadelphia:
Location: 19 S 22nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
Details:
The College of Physicians of Philadelphia has the unique distinction of housing the oldest medical society in the United States, founded in 1787, and the renowned Mütter Museum. With various event spaces, including a charming outdoor area, it serves as an ideal venue for weddings and other events.
11. Union Transfer:
Location: 1026 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Website: Union Transfer
Details:
The Union Transfer has a capacity of 1,200 and is primarily suited for concerts and large gatherings. Its historical setting with modern amenities makes it a popular choice for music events. However, this venue may be less suited for formal events, as its ambiance caters more to lively, energetic gatherings.
12. World Cafe Live:
Location: 3025 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Website: World Cafe Live
Details:
The World Cafe Live has a space for up to 300 seated guests and 650 standing guests, which makes it versatile for concerts, corporate events, and social gatherings. The relaxed atmosphere of the venue appeals to hosts seeking a casual setting. However, it may not be ideal for very formal events because its vibe leans towards informal events.
13. Frankford Hall:
Location: 1210 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19125
Website: Frankford Hall
Details:
The Frankford Hall has a seating arrangement for 150 people inside the hall and 250 people in the outdoor courtyard, which makes it perfect for informal parties and social gatherings. It has a beer garden atmosphere, which offers a casual vibe and the vibe creates a relaxed setting for the guests. However, it may not suit more formal or large-scale events because the informal nature it has might not align with the desired tone of such occasions.
14. Penn Museum:
Location: 3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Website: Penn Museum
Details:
The Penn Museum has the capacity to accommodate up to 614 guests, which makes it suitable for a variety of events. The types of events it includes are weddings, corporate functions, and educational gatherings. The historical exhibits it has provide a unique backdrop for events. However, some spaces within the museum may have capacity limitations, and as a result, it might affect larger gatherings.
15. The Mann Center for the Performing Arts:
Location: 5201 Parkside Avenue, Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Website: The Mann Center for the Performing Arts
Details:
The Mann Center for the Performing Arts is an outdoor amphitheater that can host up to 14,000 guests, which makes it ideal for large concerts and outdoor events. The scenic park setting is a major drawback for guests. However, weather can be a concern for outdoor events because it may affect the overall experience.
16. Franklin Music Hall:
Location: 421 N 7th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Website: Franklin Music Hall
Details:
The Franklin Music Hall has a standing room capacity of approximately 2,500 to 3,000 people, which is perfect for concerts and large events. The industrial vibe it has adds character to the venue, which creates a unique atmosphere for guests. Suited for corporate, social, and private events, it provides end-to-end services to ensure the success of your event.
17. Drexelbrook Special Event Center:
Location: The Drexelbrook Event Center, 4700 Drexelbrook Drive, Drexel Hill
Website: Drexelbrook Special Event Center
Details:
The Drexelbrook Special Event Center has various spaces, which include the Belmont Room, Brandywine Ballroom, Chesapeake Room, and Grand Ballroom. All the rooms have a capacity of 150, 350, 150, and 1800, respectively. This venue is versatile for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. The suburban location of the venue provides ample parking and a quieter setting. However, it may be less convenient for city-based attendees due to its distance from the city center.
18. The Liberty View at Independence Visitor Center:
Location: 599 Market Street, 1 N, Independence Mall West, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: The Liberty View at Independence Visitor Center
Details:
The Liberty View can host 180 guests at round tables, 200 guests in theater-style seating, or up to 500 guests standing. This makes it ideal for corporate events, receptions, and weddings. However, the space may feel limited for very large gatherings, as it is better suited for medium-sized events.
19. The Rittenhouse Hotel:
Location: 210 W Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: The Rittenhouse Hotel
Details:
Recognized as the only Forbes five-star hotel in Philadelphia, The Rittenhouse Hotel is one of the city’s most historic establishments. Offering 8,740 square feet of event space, it can accommodate up to 300 guests for a single function. If you seek a historic vibe with a luxurious space and captivating ambiance, The Rittenhouse is an ideal venue for your meetings, events, and weddings.
20. Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia:
Location: 10 Avenue Of The Arts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, 19102
Website: Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia
Details:
The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia offers various spaces with a maximum capacity of 600 guests. This luxurious venue is ideal for upscale weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. It has a central location and the high-end amenities it has add prestige to it. However, the luxurious setting comes with a higher price tag, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious hosts.
21. The Westin Philadelphia:
Location: 99 South 17th Street At Liberty Place, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, 19103
Website: The Westin Philadelphia
Details:
The Westin Philadelphia can host up to 720 guests, which makes it suitable for conferences, receptions, and social events. It has modern amenities and a convenient location, which offer a versatile choice for various gatherings. However, it may not offer the historical charm of other venues because it focuses more on contemporary elegance.
22. Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing:
Location: 201 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing
Details:
The Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing provides a waterfront setting with various ballrooms and meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 1,000 guests. This makes it ideal for weddings, corporate events, and large gatherings. The scenic views it has add appeal to the venue. However, the location might be less accessible for some guests because it is situated away from the city center.
23. The Logan Philadelphia:
Location: One Logan Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: The Logan Philadelphia
Details:
The Logan Philadelphia offers 13 meeting rooms and 391 guest room/ballroom with a capacity of up to 550 guests. This makes it perfect for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. The stylish, modern decor and central location it has are the most appealing to hosts who are seeking a sophisticated setting. However, the cost may be higher as compared to other venues, which could be a consideration for some.
24. Cescaphe Event Group:
Location: 600 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, US
Website: Cescaphe Event Group
Details:
The Cescaphe Event Group is known for its multiple venues across Philadelphia, each of its venues is suitable for events with up to 300 guests. These venues are ideal for weddings and upscale social gatherings as they offer unique styles and ambiances. However, a very high level of service and elegance is provided by them.
25. VUE ON 50:
Location: Three Logan Square building, 1717 Arch Street, 50th Floor, Philadelphia, 19103
Website: VUE on 50
Details:
Located on the 50th floor of the Three Logan Square building, VUE ON 50 is a grand event space that can host up to 500 people. This makes it perfect for large weddings and celebrations. The luxurious interior and excellent service provided by them are major draws for the venue. However, it is one of the more expensive options because it offers a high-end experience.
26. The Crystal Tea Room:
Location: 9th Floor, The Wanamaker Building, 100 E Penn Square #9B, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Website: The Crystal Tea Room
Details:
The Crystal Tea Room can accommodate between 150 and 1,200 guests, which makes it ideal for large events and weddings. The elegant ballroom it has adds a touch of sophistication to any event it hosts. However, this historic charm may be less suited for casual gatherings because the venue has a more formal atmosphere.
27. The Lucy by Cescaphe:
Location: 1412 Mt Vernon St, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
Website: The Lucy by Cescaphe
Details:
The Lucy by Cescaphe is a modern event space that can accommodate between 150 and 350 guests. This venue is perfect for weddings and corporate events, offering a sleek design and an urban main location. However, it may be more expensive than other options, reflecting its contemporary elegance and high-quality service.
28. The Bellevue Hotel:
Location: 200 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Website: The Bellevue Hotel
Details:
The Bellevue Hotel offers 456 rooms with various event spaces, which makes it ideal for upscale weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. The grand architecture of the venue and its central location are major draws for hosts. However, this venue comes at a higher cost, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious planners.
29. Union League of Philadelphia:
Location: 140 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Website: Union League of Philadelphia
Details:
The Union League of Philadelphia offers multiple historic rooms and ballrooms that are suitable for upscale events of up to 450 people. The exclusive setting it has adds a touch of elegance to any event. However, this venue may be less accessible for more casual events as its ambiance caters to more formal occasions.
30. National Museum of American Jewish History:
Location: 101 South Independence Mall, East Philadelphia, PA 19106-2517
Website: National Museum of American Jewish History
Details:
The National Museum of American Jewish History offers modern museum spaces that are suitable for receptions and corporate events. It accommodates up to 900 people. The historical significance adds prestige to the venue. However, rental costs can vary, which may be a consideration for budget planning.
31. Curtis Institute of Music:
Location: 1726 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Website: Curtis Institute of Music
Details:
The Curtis Institute of Music provides elegant performance spaces for up to 195 people, which makes it ideal for concerts and intimate events. The classical ambiance it has adds charm to any gathering happening over here. However, its smaller capacity may limit larger events, as it is better suited for more intimate settings.
32. Adventure Aquarium:
Location: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103
Website: Adventure Aquarium
Details:
The Adventure Aquarium offers various exhibit spaces and can accommodate up to 3,000 people, which makes it ideal for unique and large events. The aquatic theme it has adds a distinctive touch to any event. However, the location in Camden may be less convenient for some guests because it is outside the main city area.
33. Science History Institute:
Location: 315 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: Science History Institute
Details:
The Science History Institute is a historic building with modern amenities that can accommodate up to 300 guests. This venue is suitable for conferences and receptions. The unique exhibits it has provide an educational backdrop for events. However, it may be less suited for very large gatherings because of its capacity. It is more suited for medium-sized events.
34. Independence Hall:
Location: 143 S. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Website: Independence Hall
Details:
Independence Hall is primarily used for tours and official events. It has very strict guidelines to be followed by tours and official events conducted over there. It has a capacity of 60 visitors per tour. The historical significance adds prestige to the venue. However, its capacity and limitations for using it may restrict its potential for hosting larger events.
Conclusion:
Philadelphia offers a range of event venues, highlighting its reputation as a choice for hosting various gatherings. Whether its conventions, business meetings, intimate social functions, or artistic performances, the city’s venues cater to a range of preferences and needs. With their blend of significance and modern amenities, these venues provide the setting for any event. Whether you prefer the spaciousness of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the cultural sophistication of the Kimmel Center, or unique locations like the Mutter Museum and Magic Gardens, Philadelphia has a venue to suit every occasion. The combination of allure and contemporary conveniences makes Philadelphia an excellent option, for hosting events of any size.
