Maya RichardsonPlanning an event is not as easy as many people think. So, to make things easier for the host (that would be me), the first thing I do is to look for event spaces in Columbus that provide more than just the venue.
It’s such a relief when you don’t have to think about food, entertainment, vendors, and other small details individually. That’s why I’ve grown to appreciate venues that provide strong coordination support.
And this is what this writing is all about. If you’re looking for a place that goes beyond simply renting out a room, here are some of the names I can recommend.
How much do event space rentals cost in Columbus?
Standard event space rentals in Columbus cost at $1,300 and go up to $3,500. Meanwhile, all-inclusive prices range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on package inclusions and duration.
1. Strongwater Events
Address: 401 W Town St.
Phone: +16149283170
Business Hours: By appointment only
Housed in a century-old warehouse with brick walls and large windows, Strongwater Events is a premier event space and considered one of the city’s best venues, especially for weddings.
In fact, the place has won “Best Reception” in the Industrial/Urban category multiple times from Columbus Monthly.
The overall layout spans about 6,000 square feet and features three different rooms that can be used together or individually. Clients can also rent only the specific spaces that best fit their guest count.
The gallery alone (the main hall) can seat up to 200 guests.
Rental rates depend on the season but are surprisingly competitive. For instance, peak season (April to December) starts at $4,000, while off-peak rates start at $3,000. This includes six hours of event time, along with setup and tables.
They also offer food and beverages exclusively through their partner, Milo’s Catering. However, many clients opt to work with other vendors, citing higher costs and a limited menu selection.
I’m always so excited when I get to shoot at Strongwater
“As a wedding photographer, I’m always SO excited when I get to shoot at Strongwater! It is one of my favorite venues in Columbus. My brides and grooms have always had an amazing experience, and the location couldn’t be more convenient to all of Columbus. The staff is always outstanding, and I can’t recommend this venue enough. – Jessica Miller Photography.”
So great to work with
“We had our wedding here recently, and Karli and Team were so great to work with, and the food was amazing. We had so many people come up to us at the wedding and say how great the food was. Would highly recommend for your next event!”
- Amy Yoder, Google Review
2. The Grand Event Center
Address: 820 Goodale Blvd, Grandview Heights
Phone: +16144534300
Business Hours: By appointment only
The Grand Event Center opened its doors in 2016 and has been a notable venue for weddings, galas, holiday parties, and more.
Rather than rustic or industrial, the place features a more modern look—neutral color palette, abundant natural light, and an atmosphere perfect for elegant and upscale events.
The main ballroom can accommodate up to 300 guests and can be divided into three sections for smaller groups. For intimate gatherings, they can offer the executive boardroom (up to 12 executives), as well as the courtyard.
Rather than flat rental fees, pricing at the center is based on guest count and menu selections. It typically starts at around $78 per person and includes full catering service, setup, and other add-on services.
However, for weekend dates, they usually require a minimum spend of $10,000 to $15,000, which can be quite expensive.
But aside from the venue itself, many people love its location. It’s within walking distance of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife, making it convenient for out-of-town attendees.
This venue is truly worth every penny
“We held our wedding ceremony and reception here on August 23. This venue is truly worth every penny. Not only is the food some of the best we’ve ever had, but the guests have been saying this as well. They truly work with your vision and help bring everything to life. Olivia is a PRO and she will truly do everything she can to help your big day be perfect. The staff is so kind and tentative, and we couldn’t have had a better day. The lighting is beautiful, the food is to die for, and the service is top-notch. We got so many compliments on the venue aesthetics and food. The packages include set up and tear down, along with the coordinator, Olivia. They worked with us when we didn’t want to pay for an open bar for every guest, knowing many wouldn’t drink, and came up with a wristband solution to keep track of non-drinkers. We were able to add so much to our food package after getting the final numbers. I do not regret a dollar spent!”
- Reyana Kohn, Google Review
We could not imagine a better place to host a fun, relaxing wedding
“My husband and I hosted our wedding reception at the Grand Event Center, and we absolutely loved it! The team here, including Olivia and Leighton, is so responsive and does an amazing job planning your day with you. The food, alcohol, and desserts are excellent – I had many guests say it was the best they’ve had at a wedding (especially the steak – cooked perfectly for 70+ people). We had many out-of-town guests, and they enjoyed staying at the attached Courtyard both Friday and Saturday, and we loved the free parking behind the venue! Overall, we could not imagine a better place to host a fun, relaxing wedding!”
- Claire Hickey, Google Review
Address: 154 N Hamilton Rd, Gahanna
Phone: +16145325711
Business Hours: Open 24/7
La Navona is a premier event venue featuring a 5,000-square-foot space that can accommodate 25 to 250 guests.
It has been frequently highlighted by regional publications, including being named one of the “New and Noteworthy Vendors” by Columbus Monthly shortly after its launch in 2016.
What makes it stand out immediately is its all-inclusive packages. Instead of requiring clients to source every detail separately, it bundles many essentials into a more coordinated process.
For example, their wedding packages can include catering, DJ services, day-of coordination, and more. However, this also means that they don’t offer the venue rental on its own.
Nevertheless, their coordination is highly praised by clients. People we spoke with said the team reduces planning stress by handling all the logistics.
Pricing depends on the number of guests, although on weekends, they require a minimum attendance of around 85 to 100 adults, depending on the day.
Very friendly and helpful
“Went to an event here and was pleasantly surprised! Everything looked new or recently renovated, and the staff was very friendly and helpful. The event was a huge success and everyone in attendance had a great time, in no small part due to the event center and its staff. I’m sure we’ll be back again in the future.”
- Ray, Google Review
Everything was exactly how we wanted
“We celebrated our daughter’s Quinceañera at La Navona, and we cannot say enough about how great they were. Kelsey assisted us with every step, made sure everything was exactly how we wanted, and ensured that our daughter had the party of her dreams. The space is separated perfectly for any event, with space for people who may not want to be near loud music/DJ to still enjoy and be near the festivities. Also, the food was delicious and our guests truly enjoyed it. We highly recommend La Navona to anyone looking for a space for a party or wedding!”
- Shannon Van Schaik, Google Review
4. The Ellis
Address: 777 N 4th St.
Phone: +16147760017
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM–5 PM
The Ellis is pretty well known for its modern industrial theme. It’s a restored 1900s warehouse, so the exposed bricks, high ceilings, and arched windows are part of its charm.
It’s a popular venue for weddings, but the overall layout is flexible enough for a wide range of events. This is made possible by its open floor plan, which allows planners to freely design the space according to the occasion’s theme.
The venue can accommodate up to 175 guests, with additional options such as a mezzanine for smaller gatherings and a courtyard for those who prefer an al fresco setting.
When it comes to the cost, The Ellis is one of the most expensive options in this list. It’s quote-based, but expect to pay between $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the day of the week and season.
But the good news is, it’s an all-inclusive package that covers food and beverages, entertainment, coordination, and more.
Not to mention the location itself is already appealing—the Italian Village is one of the most vibrant and trendy spots in Columbus.
No detail was missed in the transition
“I had the most wonderful experience hosting a bridal shower at The Ellis. I appreciated the communication, responsiveness, thoroughness and flexibility of my event coordinator. She was not there the day of, but no detail was missed in the transition. The Ellis makes it easy to plan. I used all their preferred vendors and they were exceptional. The food was phenomenal. Absolutely recommend hosting your event there!”
- Camille Nester, Google Review
They absolutely took so much of the stress of the family
“I could not be happier with the experience of planning a wedding with the help of The Ellis and the wonderful staff there. They ensured every step ran smoothly, accommodated all guests, and they absolutely took so much of the stress of the family and the couple.”
- Chris Kimberly, Google Review
5. Vue Columbus
Address: 95 Liberty St.
Phone: +16144541877
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM–5 PM
Vue Columbus is an award-winning event space that’s pretty famous in Ohio. It can hold weddings, corporate meetings, and upscale social events.
Due to its large capacity, many local institutions choose Vue to host major regional ceremonies, including the Columbus BizTech Awards, AMA Columbus AIM Awards, and more.
Inside, you’ll find an industrial design with high ceilings and large windows, where you can see the beautiful skyline views. The space is divided into three different sections, which you can use individually or combined.
It’s also an open floor plan, so they can work with any layout you want. Aside from the main event space, there are also loft areas, a lounge, and a patio.
Pricing-wise, they operate a minimum spend structure that includes the venue, food, and beverages. For example, a Saturday event will require at least $14,000, while Fridays and Sundays are cheaper.
It’s quite expensive, but many previous clients are satisfied with the organization and overall event experience.
We had a vision, and they made it come true
“The Vue was everything and more! From our first tour of the venue to our wedding day, they were very welcoming and professional. We had a vision and they made it come true! The food was fantastic, the flowers were gorgeous, the music was amazing, and the day was truly unforgettable. We would highly recommend The Vue to anyone looking for the perfect venue!”
- Tiffany Fravel, Google Review
Perfect venue for our wedding
“Vue Columbus was the perfect venue for our wedding! One of the best parts is how much they provide—tables, chairs, setup, and more—so you really don’t have to worry about all the little details. It made the planning process so much easier and less stressful. The location is absolutely incredible, with such a cool and unique vibe. But what really sets Vue apart is the team. They were so helpful, kind, and organized every step of the way—from the initial planning meetings to the day before and the big day itself. We felt so supported the entire time. Couldn’t recommend them more!”
- Taylor Staus, Google Review
