20 Pittsburgh Event Venues That Your Attendees Will Love
Discover the top 20 event venues in Pittsburgh! No matter what kind of event you plan to host, one of the venues below will fit the bill.
Pittsburgh is located at the confluence of three rivers: the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio. The city offers stunning views of each from its downtown neighborhoods. But residents of the “Steel City” enjoy more than just natural wonders. Pittsburgh is also a hub for business, entertainment, and amazing events.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 20 event venues that Pittsburgh has to offer. We’ve done our best to include a wide range of locations including museums, hotels, restaurants and more. Let’s dive in!
1. Nova Place
Source: Nova Place
Location: Pittsburgh
Capacity: 2,000
When choosing the right event venue, it pays to select a location that offers flexibility. Nova Space is about as diverse and flexible as it gets in Pittsburgh. The 1.5 million square foot complex features numerous office spaces, first-class restaurants, a state-of-the-art fitness center, comfortable common areas, the city’s largest co-working space, and parking for 3,000 vehicles. What does all this information mean for you? It means you have options when it comes to your next corporate conference, business meeting, private cocktail party, or any other get-together that you have planned. Book Nova Place and also enjoy complimentary WiFi for you and each of your guests as well as your choice of catering companies and an on-site event manager.
2. The Benedum Theater
Source: Cinema Treasures
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 2,800
The Benedum Theater opened in 1928 and was billed as “Pittsburgh’s Palace of Amusement.” We’re happy to report that the venue still lives up to that title! It features over 90 original crystal chandeliers, torchiers, and sconces; original mirrors, marble, and woodwork in the Grand Lobby, and over 1,500 feet of brass railing — almost all of which is original. It really is a sight to behold. If you’re looking to host Pittsburgh’s next great music or theatrical performance, a memorable wedding ceremony, a business-oriented meeting, or a fundraiser gala, you won’t find a more suitable location than this theater. But this event space is more than just a pretty facade; it’s entirely practical as well. Event planners get access to state of the art sound and lighting equipment as well as wireless internet access.
3. The Rivers Club
Source: The Rivers Club
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 300
The Rivers Club is a private business and sports club that expertly combines athletic facilities with first-class dining options and seven different meeting rooms. Each of the meeting rooms is technologically advanced and feature video conferencing and teleconferencing capabilities as well as free WiFi access. Whether you plan to host a corporate or personal get-together, the Rivers Club’s private event directors will help ensure it goes smoothly. Great facilities located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, all the tech requirements any host could ask for, and access to an experienced events team… What more do you need?
4. Gateway Clipper Fleet
Source: Groupon
Location: South Shore
Capacity: N/A
Looking for one of the more unique event venues in Pennsylvania? Look no further! The Gateway Clipper Fleet will allow you to take your business or personal gathering to the next level by hosting it on the water rather than on dry land. The best part? Your river cruise is completely customizable. Throw a Monte Carlo game night to celebrate your employees. Host a wine and cheese tasting for the members of your charity’s board. Or tie the knot on the bow of one of Gateway Clipper Fleet’s award-winning ships. The choice is yours.
5. The Church Brew Works
Source: Visit Pittsburgh
Location: Lower Lawrenceville
Capacity: 25+
In 1902, St. John the Baptist Church was built in the Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh. Religious services were held within its walls for more than 90 years but, eventually, the church closed its doors. Three years and many renovations later, the church reopened, this time as a brewery and restaurant named The Church Brew Works. Now, patrons frequent The Church for its tasty food, award-winning beers, and killer ambiance. If you host your next business or personal shindig in this venue, your guests will remember it, guaranteed. You’ll also have access to professional wait staff, fancy china and flatware, and customizable menus.
6. Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
Source: Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
Location: Pittsburgh
Capacity: 1928
Andrew Carnegie, the man for whom the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh is named, is considered to be one of the most successful entrepreneurs to ever live. He was also an incredibly generous philanthropist. It’s due to his vision and generosity that these museums exist today and that you have the ability to book them for your next event. Choose to host your next gathering in one of 20 unique spaces spread out between four museums: the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, The Carnegie Science Center, or the Andy Warhol Museum. No matter which space you choose, you’ll be able to treat your guests to exquisite architecture, amazing exhibits, and one-of-a-kind experiences.
7. The Frick Pittsburgh
Source: The Frick Pittsburgh
Location: Point Breeze
Capacity: 250
Henry Clay Frick was a successful businessman who worked closely with Andrew Carnegie and helped him turn U.S Steel into one of the most successful American enterprises in history. Frick was rewarded well for his efforts and was able to purchase, then subsequently renovate and expand, the mansion that now acts as the centerpiece for The Frick Pittsburgh. Event planners can choose between four spaces at this venue: the Great Lawn, which is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and towering trees; The Community Room, a customizable indoor space with access to the Community Courtyard; and the Community Terrace, which is a perfect location for cocktail parties, intimate musical performances, and more. Each space is lovely in its own right and can accommodate a wide variety of event types.
8. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Source: YouTube
Location: Central Oakland
Capacity: 1,000
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is one of America’s oldest and largest greenhouses and offers a stunning backdrop to any business or personal event. It’s composed of five distinct locations, each with its own charms and advantages. For example, you could book the Outdoor Garden and host a wedding or cocktail party among the Conservatory’s lush natural surroundings. Or you could choose the Phipps Garden Center in Mellon Park and gain access to quality A/V equipment for no extra charge. Whatever space you choose, the Phipps event team will help ensure your event is a smashing success.
9. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh
Source: IHG
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 250
There are plenty of event venues in Pittsburgh. But most of them won’t offer you the same level of class and sophistication as the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh. All events — sales powwows, fundraiser galas, birthday bashes, and more — receive Kimpton’s utmost attention. Book this hotel venue and wow your guests with delicious food made in-house by the Kimpton’s culinary team, access to the rooftop terrace with great views of the city, and complimentary WiFi. Other venue perks include comprehensive multimedia and A/V equipment and the ability to work with an experienced events team.
10. Sienna Mercato
Source: Libart USA
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 300
Sienna Mercato offers three unique dining experiences under one roof. There’s the Emporio, a meatball joint that serves gourmet meatballs; the Mezzo, a farm-inspired space that serves traditional Italian food like brick oven pizzas and creative pasta. And there’s the Il Tetto, a rooftop bar that serves delicious drinks and features a retractable glass roof. When booking, first choose the culinary experience you want for your corporate or private gathering. Then decide whether you want to simply reserve a table or buyout the entire dining area. After that, get in touch with Sienna Mercato’s events team and they’ll help ensure every other detail is locked down.
11. PNC Park
Source: TripSavvy
Location: Pittsburgh
Capacity: 450
PNC Park, the home of Major League Baseball’s Pittsburgh Pirates, “combines the best of yesterday’s ballparks with the latest amenities and comforts.” This venue is really 11 different spaces in 1 and includes dining and lounge areas, box suites, a rooftop terrace, and a business center. If you really want to give your guests a unique experience, you can also book one of the park’s clubhouses and host your event where professional athletes prepare for games! There are plenty of options at PNC Park, which means you’re sure to find the right space for your next corporate meeting, fundraising event, or private celebration.
12. Ascender
Source: Perkins Eastman
Location: Bakery Square
Capacity: 90
Ascender is where “Pittsburgh entrepreneurs come to learn, innovate, grow, and connect.” It’s a co-working and business incubation space that also doubles as a fantastic event venue for intimate events. If you book Ascender, you’ll enjoy free parking, access to quality A/V equipment, whiteboards and easels, internet access, comfortable furniture, and more. Ascender also has a professional events team that can help you plan and coordinate your gathering, book the perfect caterer, and assist with setup and tear-down. For events such as board meetings or small business conferences, Ascender is a great venue.
13. HIP at the Flashlight Factory
#omg Have you seen #industrialchic done better than they do it at @hipattheflashlightfactory ? #dontthinkso ! #dj Joe had his eyes sparkling at this #wedding ! #pittsburghwedding #industrialwedding #warehousewedding #pittsburghdj #pghdjcoevents #toastthetrettels pic.twitter.com/ak8vnWUUYe
— Pittsburgh DJCompany (@PittsburghDJCo) October 7, 2018
Source: Twitter
Location: Allegheny West
Capacity: N/A
If we were to choose one word to describe a HIP event, it would be easy. You see, the owners of the venue have a daughter who decided to get married. The wedding planning process, as they soon found out, is complicated and full of unnecessary headaches. So the family took what they learned and decided to create the opposite experience for people who host events at HIP. They strive to make every aspect of the event planning process seamless. Whether you host a business meeting, a wedding ceremony, or a fundraiser gala, your time at HIP will be stress-free. Oh, and if you were wondering why the venue is called HIP at the Flashlight Factory, it just so happens that the building was originally used to house an actual flashlight factory in the 1920s. The structure’s tall ceilings, exposed brick walls, and gorgeous wood floors are still intact and give the venue a wonderfully vintage feel.
14. Olive or Twist
Source: Olive or Twist
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 200
Olive or Twist is Pittsburgh’s finest martini bar and a fantastic place to host your next company board meeting or personal celebration event. The upstairs lounge area can hold a maximum of 200 guests and provides an elegant atmosphere. Olive or Twist’s location in downtown is also unbeatable. For great drinks in the heart of Pittsburgh and a wonderful event hosting experience, book Olive or Twist.
15. Avonworth Community Park
Source: Avonworth Community Park
Location: Emsworth, PA
Capacity: 200
Avonworth Community Park sits just outside of Pittsburgh in the town of Emsworth. If you don’t mind a quick drive, you’ll love what this venue has to offer you and your guests. Not only are the grounds pristine and beautiful, but the Meyernik Center (pictured above) is available for rent all year long and features a full wrap-around porch, 18-foot cathedral ceilings, a stone fireplace in the main hall, a bar area, and more. Avonworth Community Park is equally suited for important business meetings, once in a lifetime wedding celebrations, and everything in between.
16. The Energy Innovation Center
Source: The Energy Innovation Center
Location: Crawford-Roberts
Capacity: 300
The Energy Innovation Center is a “Pittsburgh based, not-for-profit organization with a mission to engage corporate and community leaders, align workforce development and education, develop and demonstrate the technology, and incubate businesses, to support emerging clean and sustainable energy markets.” You can help support this amazing mission by hosting your next event at this venue! Choose from six different unique spaces including a rooftop terrace area (with stellar views of downtown Pittsburgh) and the Glass Elevator (with surrounding floor to ceiling windows) for your next business or personal gathering. No matter which space you choose, your event is sure to be a hit if it’s hosted at The Energy Innovation Center.
17. PointBreezeway
Source: Burgh Brides
Location: Point Breeze
Capacity: N/A
The PointBreezeway has housed many different people and businesses since it was first built more than a century ago. Multiple families have called it home; a tavern, speakeasy, and grocery store all operated out of the building at one time or another; it’s even been used as a “painting palace and studio.” But these days, The PointBreezeway mostly just hosts awesome events such as musical performances, intimate conferences and training seminars, wedding receptions, and private board meetings. Choose this venue for your next gathering and get access to gorgeously decorated spaces, a dedicated event host, and free WiFi.
18. Pittsburgh Zoo
Source: Pittsburgh Zoo
Location: Highland Park
Capacity: 10,000
The Pittsburgh Zoo invites you to leave your stress behind and get wild at the zoo. Planning a wedding ceremony? How about a company-wide picnic? Maybe an intimate board meeting or a simple night out with friends is what you have in mind. Either way, the Pittsburgh Zoo can accommodate your desires. Treat your guests to awesome animal exhibits and tasty catering menus in one of the zoo’s nine locations. It’s truly one of the more unique Pittsburgh event spaces and perfect for any event strategy.
19. Pittsburgh Marriott City Center
Source: Pittsburgh Marriott City Center
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 940
Marriott has hotels in 130 different countries around the world and many of them host amazing events on a regular basis. The Pittsburgh location is no exception and is well-equipped to handle your next corporate function or private party. Choose between 19 different event rooms, each equipped with modern A/V gear and WiFi access. If you plan to serve food at your event, you’re in luck: the in-house catering team will dish up tasty treats for you and your guests. For no-fuss gatherings, Marriott is one of the most appealing Pittsburgh event venues.
20. David L. Lawrence Convention Center
Source: Pittsburgh Convention Center
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 109,445
If you’re planning a really big event — think international conference, world-famous expo, or mega rock concert — you should definitely consider booking the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. It’s HUGE and fully equipped to handle any event need you may have. But you don’t need to rent all 1.5 million square feet of usable space to make your time at the Center worthwhile. Just book one of the 53 separate meeting rooms (one of which is the largest column-free exhibit hall in the United States!) or settle on an outdoor location like the rooftop terrace or the riverfront plaza. Whatever you decide, your time at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center will definitely be memorable.
Wrapping Up: The Perfect Pittsburgh Event Venue
Pittsburgh is a unique town with a wealth of amazing event venues. Choose one of the locations listed above and your next business or personal gathering will be a hit with guests. Just remember to also invest in event management software and you’ll be good to go. Good luck!
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