30 Columbus, Ohio Event Venues That Your Attendees Will Love
These are the 30 best event venues that the beautiful city of Columbus, Ohio has to offer.
Columbus is the capital of Ohio and the state’s most populous city. It’s also one of the fastest growing large cities in America. We’re not surprised though; Columbus is a wonderful town with plenty to do and quite a few quality event venues.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 30 Columbus event spaces you should consider renting for your next business or private event. We’ve included the best restaurants, ballrooms, theaters, and even a couple of arenas. Whatever you’re looking for, it’s all here!
30 Columbus Event Venues
1. The Ohio Theater
Source: CAPA
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 2,791
The Ohio Theater is a historic, 2,791 seat event space that has traditionally housed the world’s top artists whenever they travel through Columbus, Ohio. From modern dance recitals to theatrical performances to concerts, this theater has hosted it all beneath its stunning 21 foot tall chandelier and luxurious spanish-barouque architecture. It’s ready to host your event as well! Whether you want to throw a corporate or personal gathering, you can do it with class at The Ohio Theater and get access to amazing perks like world-class sound and lighting equipment, stagehand labor, security teams, and backstage furniture.
2. Graystone Wine Cellar
Source: WeddingWire
Location: Brewery District
Capacity: 96
The Graystone Wine Cellar is one of the most unique Columbus event venues on this list. Why? Well first off, it’s located in the hand-hewn limestone vaults of the historic 1875 Schlee Brewery! And second, the facility owners have worked hard to rekindle the spirit of the German immigrants who first established the space, giving it a special atmosphere unlike any other venue in the Columbus area. Book your next business meeting, fundraiser, wedding reception, or birthday party here and get access to delicious food and drink menus; tables, chairs, and house linens; and quality A/V equipment.
3. Longaberger Alumni House
Source: WeddingWire
Location: Ohio State University
Capacity: 200
The Longaberger Alumni House is located on the Ohio State University campus and features multiple rooms for event planners to rent and use. First, there’s the Jimmy Hull Atrium, which features views of the well-manicured lawns surrounding the venue through floor to ceiling windows. The Sander Grand Lounge is also available for rent and it overlooks the Olentangy River, has high ceilings, and a cozy fireplace. And if you still need more space for all your guests, there’s the two-story Klevay Gallery as well. No matter which space you choose for your business or personal gathering, you can expect to receive: experienced help from the Alumni House Events staff, complimentary on-site parking, access to a catering kitchen, and A/V equipment.
4. Eddie George’s Grill 27
Source: Biz Journals
Location: Grandview Yard
Capacity: 380
If you know your football history, you know that Eddie George was a Heisman Trophy winning running back for the Ohio State Buckeyes who later became a successful professional player for the Tennessee Titans and Dallas Cowboys. These days, George is quite the businessman. He now owns Eddie George’s Grill 27, the premier sports restaurant in Columbus. Any corporate or personal event held here is sure to be a success. Event planners can opt to host their guests in one of three spaces. But no matter which they choose, they’ll have access to an amazing food menu, an incredible A/V system, and a professional event staff. For small to medium-size gatherings, book Eddie George’s Grill 27.
5. Kelton House Museum and Garden
Source: Kelton House Museum and Garden
Location: Downtown
Capacity: N/A
The historic Kelton House Museum and Garden is the perfect space for storybook wedding ceremonies and receptions, business meetings, and private cocktail parties. The building was first constructed in the mid 19th century and features Greek revival and Italian-style architecture, a tranquil garden with a show-stopping pergola, and multiple areas for rent (including a Carriage House, 60-foot outdoor terrace, and a lower level that resembles a wine cellar). We should also mention that the Kelton House Museum and Garden offers free parking to guests, and complementary tables and chairs to event planners. No matter what your event strategy is, Kelton House will help make your gathering a success.
6. Center of Science and Industry (COSI)
Source: COSI
Location: Franklinton
Capacity: 6,000
The Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio (affectionately known as COSI to locals), has a simple mission: to “engage, inspire, and transform lives and communities by being the best partner in science, technology, and industry learning.” We’re happy to report that its succeeded in this mission for over 55 years now! If you host your next event at the COSI, your guests will get to enjoy over 300 interactive exhibits, a planetarium, live science shows, a Dino Tour, and so much more. From corporate functions to fundraiser galas to private birthday bashes, the Center of Science and Industry is definitely one of the most entertaining event venues in Ohio.
7. Wolf’s Ridge Brewing
Source: Experience Columbus
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 120
A private event in the Wolf’s Ridge Brewing Hickory Room is sure to be memorable. The space has a comfortably modern feel and features exposed piping, country chic chandeliers, and plenty of natural light. Oh, and we can’t forget to mention the delicious food and craft brews you’ll be able to serve your guests as well! Looking to treat your attendees to a different experience? Wolf’s Ridge Brewing also offers fun classes and tastings — perfect for a night out with friends or a corporate team-building event. Whatever you have in mind for your next intimate shindig, Wolf’s Ridge Brewing is ready to accommodate.
8. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Source: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Location: Powell, OH
Capacity: 10,000
Get wild and host your next company picnic, fundraiser gala, or intimate tie-the-knot ceremony at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium! There are SO MANY event venues to choose from at the zoo that you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. For example, the Lakeside Pavilion has room for 350 guests and features 3 distinct, climate controlled rooms. The Africa Event Center has a maximum capacity of 400 and overlooks the savannah in the Heart of Africa region. And speaking of regions, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium allows event planners to rent entire sections of the zoo after normal viewing hours. Imagine hosting your next soiree in Asia Quest and treating your attendees to private viewings of Siberian tigers, elephants, and other exotic animals. Make your next corporate or personal event truly memorable by hosting it at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
9. High Line Car House
Source: High Line Car House
Location: Brewery District
Capacity: 300
Fun fact: the High Line Car House was originally built in 1873 as part of the Columbus street car system. Today, it has become a first-rate events venue in the Brewery District of Downtown Columbus. The space features exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and industrial beams. And every rental includes comfortable seating arrangements as well as ritzy china, flatware, and glassware options. If your event requires a meal, High Line Car House partners with Together & Company (an esteemed catering service) to deliver quality food and drinks. All in all, High Line is one of our favorite Columbus event spaces and we recommend it for any small to medium-size gathering.
10. Nationwide Arena
Source: Nationwide Arena
Location: Arena District
Capacity: 20,000
When you want to go BIG in Columbus, Ohio and host a mega-conference, rock n roll concert, or professional sporting exhibition, you book Nationwide Area. With room for up to 20,000 people, there aren’t many events that this space isn’t able to accommodate. But what about intimate affairs? Nationwide has multiple meeting spaces with capacities ranging between 12 and 800. Each location features A/V equipment and free WiFi for your convenience. Most of them include projectors and TV screens as well. For major entertainment events or small business meetings (or something else entirely), Nationwide Area is an excellent venue choice.
11. Wine on High Bar And Retail
Source: Taste Hospitality Group
Location: Short North Arts District
Capacity: 50
Wine on High is an intimate event venue with a classy vibe. The space is split into upper and lower hosting areas. The first floor features a full bar and is perfectly situated for larger tastings and gatherings. The second floor, on the other hand, offers a relaxing loft environment for private soirees. Beyond the actual space, Wine on High has an experienced event staff that will help you plan every aspect of your get together, including the wine selection. From business powwows to anniversary celebrations, Wine on High is an excellent event location.
12. Valley Dale Ballroom
Source: Columbus Underground
Location: Brittany Hills
Capacity: 1,000
The Valley Dale Ballroom is a truly historic event venue. In the 1930s and 40s it played host to a lot of big band concerts from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and many other well-known musicians. In more recent years, the Ballroom underwent a one million dollar renovation and is now ready to handle any event you throw at it. Host your corporate or private function at Valley Dale and enjoy full bar service, open catering, programmable LED lighting, and more.
13. Creekside Event Center
Source: WeddingWire
Location: Bridgeport
Capacity: 400
The Creekside Event Center is a renowned Columbus-area wedding venue. It’s 9,000 square feet of sophisticated and metropolitan space is greatly desired by engaged couples due to its beautiful Plaza Ballroom, Executive Boardrooms with large windows, and welcoming lounge with a large and cozy fireplace. But the Creekside Event Center shouldn’t be written off just because you aren’t planning to get married anytime soon. It also excels at hosting corporate events! Book Creekside and you’ll enjoy access to professional events and catering teams, as well as top-notch tech equipment and convenient access to downtown Columbus.
14. The Ivory Room
Source: Style and Story
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 300
Having a hard time choosing the right event venue? Your search has come to an end! The Ivory Room is a chic and modern space with gorgeous panoramic views of downtown Columbus, perfect for a wide variety of events. Need to entertain your company’s board of directors? They’ll love the Ivory’s state of the art private suites which offer complete privacy and a built-in sound system. Planning a large celebration for a few hundred guests? They’ll appreciate the luxurious atmosphere, convenient parking, and different drink options. Event planners love this venue as well because they can partner with an experienced staff to ensure each event runs smoothly. Whatever event type you have in mind, consider hosting it at The Ivory Room.
15. Callahan’s Columbus
Source: Columbus Navigator
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 400
Book your next corporate mixer or private celebratory bash at Callahan’s Columbus, a popular bar and event venue that the Columbus Navigator calls, “the type of place you want to go when you want to exorcise your bro side while still remaining comfortably and decidedly un-broey.” In other words, Callahan’s is a great place to hang out! Choose to host your next event in one of three locations: the back private bar, the rooftop patio, and the downstairs pub where you’ll have access to tasty food and drink menus. Whatever event you have planned, it will likely be even more fun if you host it at Callahan’s Columbus.
16. Kingmakers
Source: Columbus Underground
Location: Short North Arts District
Capacity: N/A
Kingmakers is in a class of its own when it comes to Columbus event venues. It’s not a bar or restaurant. It’s not a banquet hall or old-timey theater either. No, Kingmakers is a board game “social experience.” Folks come and play board games in groups led by professional board game sommeliers, who have an intimate knowledge of over 400 popular board games. Pretty cool, right? So why not host your next event here? Board game nights make for amazing team building exercises. Food and drinks are served as well so you and your guests will never go hungry. For a truly unique and memorable experience, book Kingmakers.
17. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Source: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Location: Franklin Park
Capacity: 500
The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens event venue is really five venues in one. Event planners can book the John F. Wolfe Palm House, which features a grand entrance and double staircase; the Grand Atrium, which has stately, plat-draped pillars; the Worthington Industries Veridian, complete with exposed stone walls and ceramic tile floors; the Wells Barn, which is made from 200 year old, hand-hewn timber; and the Ricochet Group Boardroom, a quiet indoor space with space for up to 14 people. Any event, from business meetings to charity fundraisers, will feel at home at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
18. Vue Columbus
Source: Vue Columbus
Location: Brewery District
Capacity: 250
Vue Columbus is “a modern, urban event space with a creative design and passionate vision.” It specializes in hosting business meetings, outside-the-box conferences, and even modern wedding receptions. Event planners and their attendees enjoy the venue’s outdoor patio with stellar videos of the downtown Columbus skyline, state-of-the-art A/V equipment, and its ideal location in the heart of the Brewery District. No matter what type of gathering you plan to host, Vue Columbus will help you host it in style.
19. Columbus Museum of Art
Source: Columbus Museum of Art
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 450
The Columbus Museum of Art, also known as CMOA, has an impressive collection of American and European art — art that your guests will be able to see and appreciate if you book the museum for your next business conference, cocktail party, or retirement celebration. There are nine distinct spaces for rent. They include the Schottenstein Property Group Pavilion (a large space with beautiful wood floors and plenty of natural light) and the Cardinal Health Auditorium (which features the latest in A/V technology and amazing acoustics). We definitely recommend checking this event venue out in more detail!
20. Huntington Park
Source: Stadium Journey
Location: Arena District
Capacity: 10,100
Huntington Park is the home of the Columbus Clippers, a minor league baseball team. It features multiple spaces where you can host your next business or personal shindig. It also has many amenities such as a 110 foot bar, 6 open patios overlooking the baseball field, and legitimate technology equipment. From trade shows to conferences to wedding receptions, Huntington Park makes for an excellent event venue. Book it today and ensure your next gathering is both fun and memorable.
21. Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel
Source: WeddingWire
Location: Uptown District
Capacity: 1,500
The Renaissance in Downtown Columbus is one of 160 hotels that have been crafting amazing experiences for people for years. Meetings at this hotel are always spectacular. As an event planner, you’ll have access to an experienced events team, locally sourced catering, state of the art equipment, and amazing entertainment options. And your guests will love the Renaissance’s luxurious appointments and attention to detail. If you’re looking to craft an amazing event experience without having to bend over backwards, the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel is a great venue choice.
22. EXPRESS LIVE!
Source: PromoWest Productions
Location: Arena District
Capacity: 5,000
EXPRESS LIVE! is located next to Nationwide Arena and Huntington Park (both mentioned earlier) in the Arena District of Downtown Columbus. The area is teeming with quality restaurants and a feel-good vibe that’s impossible to emulate in other parts of the city. But what about the actual venue? Aces! EXPRESS LIVE! and its rock n roll atmosphere are perfect for any meeting, party, or reception. In the past, the space has hosted fashion shows, conferences, political events, and more. Why not host your next gathering here as well? The layout is flexible, the event staff is experienced, and the venue’s tech is modern. Book now to see for yourself.
23. LaScala
Source: Visit Dublin Ohio
Location: Dublin, OH
Capacity: 400
If you’re looking for a cozy restaurant atmosphere to host your next business or personal get-together in and you don’t mind a quick drive out of Columbus, LaScala is a worthy venue selection. It’s Dublin, Ohio’s largest restaurant and serves amazing Italian food. It also offers free parking, patio seating, and is located near many Dublin hotels — just in case you’re expecting to receive out of town guests to your next meeting.
24. BrewDog Short North
Source: BrewDog Short North
Location: Italian Village
Capacity: 99
The BrewDog Short North brewery, bar, restaurant, event venue, and hotel is ready to host your next event. The space is light and open, features varied seating arrangements, and has a back patio that can be enjoyed during warmer months of the year. Book your next business meeting, seminar, or investors lunch here. Or leave work life behind and rent the space for a celebratory event like a birthday party. Whatever kind of event you choose to host at BrewDog Short North, it’s sure to be a smashing success.
25. RollHouse Entertainment – Columbus
Source: TripAdvisor
Location: Georgian Heights
Capacity: 500
RollHouse Entertainment owns and operates a few different venues across the great state of Ohio. One of them is in Columbus and it makes for a fun event location with plenty of entertainment options. Keep your guests in good spirits with a game of bowling, get their hearts racing with a round of laser tag, or pump up the fun factor with RollHouse’s state of the art game room. The venue also offers delicious food and drinks so that your guests never go hungry. If you’re looking to treat your attendees to a truly fun and entertaining evening, you can’t go wrong by booking RollHouse Entertainment in Columbus, Ohio.
26. ROY G BIV Gallery
Source: ROY G BIV Gallery
Location: Franklinton
Capacity: 250
The manifesto at ROY G BIV Gallery (a 29 year old art gallery that provides an avenue for up and coming artists to display their work) is “To Awe and Awaken.” After hosting your next corporate or personal function at this venue, that’s exactly how your guests will feel. Inspire your attendees and choose the ROY G BIV Gallery to host your next get-together.
27. WatersEdge Event and Conference Center
Source: WatersEdge Event and Conference Center
Location: Hilliard, OH
Capacity: 225
WatersEdge is a beautiful, family owned events venue in the greater Columbus, Ohio area. The space has been hosting weddings, corporate functions, and other gatherings for the past 5 years with a high degree of success and it would love to host your next event too! The venue is located, unsurprisingly, next to a beautiful lake that provides a stunning backdrop to all gatherings. It also features a state of the art A/V system, complimentary parking, secure WiFi, an on-site event coordinator, and an in-house catering team. When you want to host a fabulous event without the traditional stress of hosting fabulous events, book WatersEdge Event and Conference Center. You won’t be disappointed!
28. Columbus Country Club
Source: The Business Journals
Location: Greenbriar Farm
Capacity: 225
The Columbus Country Club is a sanctuary away from the stresses of everyday life. Sounds like a perfect place to host an event, right? We think so too! If you choose this venue for your next business meeting, retirement celebration, or cocktail party, you’ll get to work with an experienced events team to help you make sure it’s a success. Depending on which area of the club that you book, you may also get access to a dance floor, outdoor patio, and fireplace.
29. Aladdin Event Center
Source: Aladdin Event Center
Location: Grove City
Capacity: 300
The Aladdin Event Center combines a variety of meeting rooms, state of the art technology, and a friendly environment to make any business conference, award ceremony, cocktail reception, wedding, or other event a major success. If that sounds like the kind of event location you’re looking for, we suggest booking early as the Aladdin’s calendar fills up quickly.
30. Greater Columbus Convention Center
Source: TripAdvisor
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 4,368
Finally, we have the Greater Columbus Convention Center, an award-winning venue and one of the busiest convention centers in all of North America. In 2017, the space underwent a 140 million dollar expansion and renovation project. Now it’s ready to host just about any event you can think of. Bring your business meetings, your award ceremonies, your personal parties, and your charity fundraisers and enjoy high-end A/V equipment, catering options, and WiFi. There’s a lot to love about the Greater Columbus Convention Center!
Wrapping Up: Choose the Best Columbus, Ohio Event Space
Columbus, Ohio is a great city with many quality event venues. No matter what kind of gathering you intend to host, one of the spaces listed above will suit it perfectly. Now, you just need to choose the right one! And don’t forget to invest in event management software if you haven’t already. It will make every aspect of the event planning process easier and more enjoyable.
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