The Top 20 Show-Stopping Brooklyn Wedding + Event Venues
Image via GreenpointLoft.com
A storied setting chock-full of culture, Brooklyn is our all-time favorite borough in New York for Venuelusting. Nestled in an area rich in history (and even richer in aesthetics), event venues in the ever-cultured borough range from industrial-chic warehouses to charming neighborhood bars to historic lofts. Today, then, we can’t wait to share with you our top 20 Brooklyn venues. Get ready to stroll through Prospect Park and tour pre-WWII warehouses—we’ve got a serious roundup for you today.
1. Greenpoint Loft
Image via GreenpointLoft.com
We’re starting out our list today with one of the best blank-slate spaces we’ve ever laid eyes on. Brooklyn’s Greenpoint Loft was once a pre-World War II rope factory—and it looks about as storied as it is. Exposed brick, beautiful high-beam ceilings, and an all-original hardwood floor make for a setting as showstopping (and versatile) as they come.
Thanks to the sheer beauty of the space, the Greenpoint Loft really doesn’t require much dressing up. We love the idea of going minimalistic with an event here—market lights and a few finishing touches are all you need.
Image via GreenpointLoft.com
The once-warehouse, now party-place houses three main event spaces. The main loft space is 5,000 square feet and absolutely wide-open—allowing for maximum creativity and control. The mezzanine level offers 1,000 square-feet of space—making it perfect for cocktail-hour overflow or a separate dessert space, bar space, etc. The rooftop overlooks the East River and offers guests an unbelievable view of the Manhattan skyline.
Image via GreenpointLoft.com
The overall space can hold 185 guests for your swanky Brooklyn-style soirée. It offers two suites for dressing, a 500-square-foot kitchen prep space, and on-site restroom stalls. Hosts can opt to secure Greenpoint Loft’s valet vendor for an additional charge, or can direct guests to park in a nearby parking garage (though it is not on-site). We especially love that the Greenpoint Loft is flexible when it comes to vendors—hosts can use their own vendors for everything except for valet and WiFi service. You can find more Greenpoint Loft Venue Specs here, a list of its preferred vendors here, and venue floorplans here.
2. Brooklyn Winery
Image via BKWinery.com
Next, we head to the Brooklyn Winery—a space chock-full of reclaimed wood, vintage adornments, and classic BK-style charm. The best part, though? A fully functioning winery makes for an unbelievable backdrop for your event.
Image via BKWinery.com
During its regular season (mid-January-mid-September), the space requires a minimum guest count of 100 for Friday weddings, 120 for Saturday weddings, and 100 for Sunday weddings. Because it is a functioning winery, it can not accommodate private events during harvest season (mid-September through October). It starts accepting weddings and private event bookings again November through mid-January—with a maximum guest count of 90 (75 guest minimum required) for these two busy harvest season months.
Image via BKWinery.com
Cuisine and alcohol are exclusively provided by the venue—and the Brooklyn Winery is an absolute expert in that arena, providing spreads as colorful (and tasty) as any we've ever tried. (You can learn more about wedding cuisine at Brooklyn Winery here.)
Image via BKWinery.com
Other than that, guests are allowed to bring in their own vendors for everything except for lighting and sound. The venue provides tableside wine service, with each table having its own dedicated server. Outside cakes and desserts may be brought in as well. Parking is available on the street or in two nearby parking garages.
Image via BKWinery.com
Booking the venue means the space will be exclusively yours, so the daily wine bar will be transformed into a dance floor—ensuring there’s plenty of room for you and your guests to dance the night away. Brooklyn Winery also hosts engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and any other wedding-related functions. You can learn more about weddings at Brooklyn Winery here, or can view its corporate event options here and its holiday party options here.
3. The 1896
Image via Estate Weddings and Events
Our roundup of our favorite Brooklyn venues wouldn’t be complete without this former factory turned industrial-chic event space. Named for the year it was built, The 1896 is the perfect setting for everything from high-fashion photoshoots to rehearsal dinners to weddings.
From super storied brick walls to a scene-setting smokestack, there’s just something about the 1896 that we can’t quite shake. It’s one of those spaces that has such a strong innate aesthetic, yet it can still be personalized to suit your own unique event needs and style. Overall, it’s a breathtaking space with plenty of natural light and wide-open space for nearly any event, performance, or shoot you can dream up.
Image via Estate Weddings and Events
We especially love how versatile and customizable the space is. Guests can choose from: “Area 3” (a 4,000-square-foot open warehouse room); “Area 2” (a 2,600-square-foot warehouse room); and the 1,500-square-foot all-brick courtyard area. Other areas perfect for photo shoots include the wide-open 8,000-square-foot roof; an eye-catching elevator shaft; and open stairwells that boast some of the most breathtaking natural light we’ve ever seen (wedding photographers will flock to this area).
The 1896 also offers a 150-square-foot hair & makeup space (above), which can be used for pre-photo touchups or as dressing quarters. You can learn more about the 1896 here and view its floorplan here.
4. Greenwood Park
Image via GreenwoodParkBK.com
Voted the best beer garden in New York City, Number 4 on our list of unbelievable Brooklyn venues takes us to Greenwood Park. Crafted from the remains of an old gas station and mechanic shop, this one is chock-full of BK charm. Offering an impressive 13,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor space, Greenwood Park is a bar, restaurant, and beer garden that boasts everything from 60 beer taps to an outdoor cargo bar to three bocce ball courts and an ever-changing seasonal menu.
Private events at Greenwood Park can hold up to 600 guests—making it the perfect space for weddings, corporate dinners, receptions, and reunions (or any other event vision a Venueluster can dream up).
Overall, we love the space for a host who’s looking for something a little storied, a little gritty, and a whole lot Brooklyn. Wood pallets, charming neon signs, an indoor fireplace, and a mouth-watering menu make it the perfect Brooklyn venue option for anyone who loves great food, good beer, and big-city charm.
5. The Dumbo Loft
Image via TheDumboLoft.com
Next, we head to Brooklyn’s historic Dumbo Loft. What began as a residential block in the 1800s, soon turned into a factory area, and eventually became one of the most industrial settings in the city. A number of buildings in the Dumbo Lofts area were eventually demolished to make way for the construction of the famed Manhattan Bridge. Lucky for Venuelusters everywhere, though, what is now known as the Dumbo Loft remained standing through the demolition.
Image via TheDumboLoft.com
Used as a factory for everything from steam fittings to smoking pipes, the Dumbo Loft is now one of the most iconic buildings in all of Brooklyn. Beautiful exposed brick, hardwood floors that tell of a rich history, and exposed beam ceilings make for an unbelievable foundation for nearly any event you can imagine, but we especially love the dreamy space for afternoon weddings or after dark holiday affairs.
Image via TheDumboLoft.com
The space can hold 140 guests for a seated soirée, or 200 for a standing/mingling function. The Dumbo Loft is flexible when it comes to vendors, allowing guests to choose their own vendors for everything except for WiFi service and valet. The loft also includes a 100-square-foot kitchen prep space. You can learn more about private events at the Dumbo Loft here, and can find its list of Frequently Asked Questions here.
6. The Green Building
Image via TheGreenBuildingNYC.com
Number 6 on our list of show-stopping Brooklyn venues brings us to The Green Building. Originally constructed as a brass factory in 1889, the renovated space now makes for an event venue your guests won’t soon forget.
Image via TheGreenBuildingNYC.com
With over 6,000 square-feet of indoor and outdoor space, an open-beamed ceiling, exposed brick walls and tons of natural light, The Green Building offers an aesthetic as industrial-chic as they come for that next big soirée you’re planning.
Image via TheGreenBuildingNYC.com
We especially love the venue’s laid-back vibe and top-notch service. Whether you’re hosting a wedding at The Green Building, or a corporate affair, you won’t find any last-minute charges or unexpected add-ons on your final bill. Packages are simple, straightforward, and thoughtful. Plus, the Green Building prides itself on being "rules-free" (except for three minor ones: no open flames, no sparklers, and no confetti).
7. Gran Electrica
Centrally located on the iconic Front Street in Brooklyn, next up we head to the fan-favorite Gran Electrica. One of the area’s most lively restaurants, we love this option for a host who wants unforgettable cuisine amongst a dreamy city-chic aesthetic.
The Gran Electrica's menu changes regularly, based on the offerings of local farmer’s markets—so you can rest easy know your guests are getting only the freshest, most seasonable plates. Menu highlights include antojitos (Mexican street-food snacks) and creative takes on common Mexican staples, including tacos, quesadillas, and mariscos.
We’re especially in love with the Gran Electrica’s dreamy courtyard area, which boasts reclaimed wood tables, exposed brick, and miles and miles of creeping, crawling ivy. You can learn more about hosting private events at Gran Electrica here.
8. Duggal Greenhouse
Image via DuggalGreenhouse.com
Nestled in the iconic Brooklyn Navy Yard, Number 8 on our list of show-stopping Brooklyn venues takes us to the Duggal Greenhouse. Ran by Duggal, a renowned global event production company, which has had its hands in everything from presidential debates to high-end storefronts, it’s no surprise that the Duggal Greenhouse is a leader on our list in everything from event aesthetics to all-around service. With clients that range from Bloomberg to Beyoncé, you can be sure you’re in top-notch hands when hosting your next soirée at Duggal’s famed Greenhouse.
Image via DuggalGreenhouse.com
We especially love that the Duggal Greenhouse uses solar energy, organic air purification, and all-around eco-friendly design practices—making it the perfect venue for green-loving hosts and Venuelusters everywhere.
Image via DuggalGreenhouse.com
Whether you’re looking for a space for your next big product launch, art exhibition, corporate dinner, or show rehearsal, Duggal Greenhouse offers a space that’s both inspiring and absolutely breathtaking.
9. 501 Union
Image via 501union.com
Constructed in 1916 and originally used as a warehouse to restore classic cars, 501 Union is one of our all-time favorite venues when it comes to utter urban charm. We especially love that, while 501 Union offers an old-school industrial aesthetic, it also offers modern amenities and streamlined design elements—making for an oh-so perfect balance for that next party of yours.
Image via 501Union.com
Renovated in 2013, the venue holds true to its original form, yet boasts a number of modern updates that keep the space feeling fresh and chic to boot. A 1,400-square-foot lounge boasts brass adornments and an all-marble bar, while a 3,500 square-foot gallery offers vaulted ceilings, a 50-foot-wide skylight, exposed brick, and original hardwood. The space also boasts a private suite, which can be used as a green room or bridal dressing quarters.
Image via 501Union.com
501 Union can host 299 people for a stand-up/mingling event, and can hold 200 for a seated affair. For a formal seated event (like a wedding or reception), the main gallery space can hold up to 160 guests, while the outdoor garden (below) can seat 140. The space also offers up-to-date kitchen facilities, a state-of-the-art sound system, and a spacious stage. You can inquire about hosting a private party at 501 Union here.
Image via Story Photographers for 501Union.com
10. 26 Bridge
Image via 26Bridge.com
If there’s a space that boasts more beautiful flooring than Brooklyn’s 26 Bridge, we have yet to find it. This once-metal-factory, now-super-chic-event-venue is as storied and stunning as they come—and we absolutely love the idea of using it for a city-chic wedding reception.
Image via 26Bridge.com
With towering wooden doors, vaulted exposed-beam ceilings, and all-original brick walls, this space packs a serious punch when it comes to utter character and absolute charm. For a seated event, 26 Bridge can hold up to 250 guests, and, for a standing affair, can hold up to 375.
Image via 26Bridge.com
Hosts may use their own vendors for everything other than valet and WiFi service. Guests may park off-site at a nearby parking garage. The space includes an 800-square-foot kitchen prep space and two on-site dressing suites located in the lower level basement. You can learn more about hosting a private event at 26 Bridge here, and may browse its list of Frequently Asked Questions here.
Image via 26Bridge.com
11. Berg’n
Image via Bergn.com
Perfect for large birthday parties and laid-back affairs, Berg’n earns the Number 11 spot on our list of our all-time favorite Brooklyn venues. We especially love that hosts can custom-craft their perfect event at this iconic beer hall. Rent out the private dining room for smaller soirées of up to 60 guests. Or, opt for a complete buyout of the space for large-scale events of up to 375 guests.
Image via Bergn.com
When booking the private dining space, guests can also extend the area to include the outdoor courtyard via industrial-chic all-glass garage doors (yes, please). Access to the state-of-the-art sound system, projector, and stage area are all available upon request—making it the perfect place to host everything from lively corporate functions, to fun-filled rehearsal dinners.
Image via Bergn.com
You can browse Berg’n’s famed drink menu here or learn more about hosting your private event at Berg’n here.
12. Knitting Factory Brooklyn
Image via Hechoinc.com
The perfect venue for all of our music-loving Venuelusters out there, The Knitting Factory is among Brooklyn’s most notable concert halls. With exposed brick, a hardwood floor that begs to be danced on, and acoustics meant for the most iconic of bands, The Knitting Factory earns 10 stars when it comes to pure, unfiltered fun.
Image via BK.KnittingFactory.com
While the space functions mainly as a concert venue that pulls in big-name acts and local favorites alike, it can also be rented out for that next swanky soirée of yours. The front bar area at Knitting Factory (above) may be booked for smaller affairs of up to 100 standing guests (or 75 seated). The front bar boasts a small 30-square-foot stage (which is often home to Saturday night stand-up routines), two flat-screen TVs, three 7-foot projects, unbelievable acoustics, and an aesthetic both rustic and city-chic.
Image via BK.KnittingFactory.com
For hosts looking for something a little larger, we recommend opting for the main venue space (above), which can hold up to 150 seated guests (or 325 standing). The space boasts a 24' x 17’ stage, two fully-stocked bars, and a 13-foot projector screen. Keep in mind the main venue space has been home to thousands of big-name musicians, bands, and theatrical gurus alike since its open in 1987—making it a storied setting that your guests won’t soon forget. You can learn more about hosting your next event at Knitting Factory Brooklyn here.
13. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Image via Chellise Michael Photography for BBG.org
Our list of top Brooklyn venues wouldn’t be complete without at least one show-stopping garden. So, for Number 13 we head to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, where bright blooms and pastoral lawns make for an unforgettable backdrop for any Brooklyn-based wedding.
Image via Dante Williams Photography for BBG.org
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers two main event spaces for that next springtime soirée of yours. The Palm House (above) is an arched all-glass, greenhouse-like structure that boasts an aesthetic than only be described as unbelievably dreamy.
Image via Ava Weddings for BBG.org
With space for up to 275 seated guests, an outdoor terrace (perfect for cocktail hour), and unobstructed views of the picturesque urban botanic garden that surrounds you, we love the idea of booking the Palm House for a whimsical wedding with an oh-so-ethereal aesthetic.
Image via Silk Studio for BBG.org
The gardens also offers the Lillian and Amy Goldman Atrium (above), an eco-friendly event space that boasts a living roof of native grasses and untamed wildflowers. With space for 130 guests, an outdoor terrace, and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Garden’s Cherry Esplanade, the atrium makes for a venue both romantic and absolutely intimate.
Image via Eilon Paz for BBG.org
14. Bat Haus
Image via Bat Haus on Flickr
Just a half-block away from the L Train, Bat Haus is a centrally-located communal work space and boutique event venue that packs some serious BK charm. With an aesthetic as industrial and urban as they come, we love this space for everything from intimate engagement parties to milestone birthday celebrations. And, if you ask us, it's particularly perfect for a quirky couple looking to say I Do amongst a setting that boasts its own unique brand of NY-borough charm.
Image via Bat Haus on Flickr
We especially love that the space has market lights pre-installed for you, making for a charming touch that softens up the industrial-chic space. And, with its narrow structure, the venue lends itself beautifully to family-style seating at long, wooden farm tables.
Image via Bat Haus on Flickr
With all-white walls, a high-vaulted ceiling, and concrete flooring, Bat Haus manages to feel both mega-metropolitan and insanely intimate at once. With 2,000 square-feet of space, room for up to 120 guests, a 500 square-foot backyard with a quaint canopy, and a floor-to-ceiling glass storefront that provides ample natural lighting, be sure to bring a professional photographer along when hosting your event at Bat Haus—as its space makes for an aesthetic you’ll want to capture for years to come.
Image via Bat Haus on Flickr
15. Brooklyn Bowl
Image via Karen Hill Photography
Number 15 on our list takes us to one of the most unique Brooklyn-based concert venues we’ve ever visited. Dubbed “one of the most incredible places on Earth” by Rolling Stone, Brooklyn Bowl is a concert hall that boasts everything from renowned Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken to 16 super-chic Bowling Lanes. Located in the former Helca Iron Works building, which was built in 1882, the space itself manages to feel both storied, modern, and undeniably lively.
Image via BrooklynBowl.com
Hosts can choose to simply rent a single bowling lane (they have 16 to choose from) for a small affair. Or, for large-scale affairs, Venuelusters can opt for an entire space buyout—allowing for room for up to 600 of your closest friends and family. (Worth noting, though, the venue does not allow for Saturday-night buyouts due to its heavy concert schedule).
Image via BrooklynBowl.com
We love the idea of hosting a one-of-a-kind wedding at this famed music hall and treating your guests to everything from private VIP bowling to the venue’s iconic Bourbon milkshakes (you read that right). Whatever your affair, though, one thing is guaranteed—the Brooklyn Bowl makes for a striking setting your guests won’t soon forget (or want to leave). You can inquire about booking a private party at the Brooklyn Bowl here.
16. Bldg 92
Image via BeyerBlinderBelle.com
Next up on our list of unforgettable Brooklyn Venues is Bldg 92 at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. With 18,000 square-feet of space that’s begging to be personalized, we love that this venue acts as a beautiful blank slate for your unique event needs.
Image via GreatPlacesDirectory.com
Hosts can choose from three main spaces when booking the über-contemporary (but still super storied) Bldg 92. The cafe/terrace level boasts 1,730 square-feet of space and can hold 174 guests for cocktail hour, 131 lecture-style, and 90 for a formal seated affair. The forecourt (above) offers 2,677 square-feet of customizable space and can accommodate up to 350 guests (and also allows for staging and tenting upon request). The multi-purpose room provides hosts with 800 square-feet of space and can hold 70 guests for cocktails, 74 lecture-style, and 35 seated. We especially love that Bldg 92’s outdoor rooftop terrace overlooks the iconic Brooklyn skyline—making for a picturesque spot for everything from engagement photos to styled shoots.
17. Diety
Image via Diety.com
Located in downtown Brooklyn, Diety is, by far, one of the most romantic venues we’ve ever laid eyes on. We especially love its super-dreamy history: the first-ever wedding held at Diety was the wedding of its two founders, who crafted the space from a former synagogue.
Image via Diety.com
The candle-lit 5,000-square-foot space offers full-service, all-inclusive weddings—making it a one stop shop for the no-fuss couple who wants all of the bells and whistles of an unforgettable wedding, without any of the stress of micromanagement. With everything from custom-stained glass work to velvet lounge seating to an iron-gate entrance, the space offers an aesthetic that manages to feel both grand and intimate at once.
Image via Diety.com
Guests have access to three main areas at Diety. An upstairs room (above) boasts a chiffon curtain that makes for a super dreamy ceremony backdrop, while an open and spacious entertainment floor makes for the perfect spot for dancing the night away with your closest friends and family. We are also absolutely enamored with Diety’s ethereal courtyard that sits pretty under the shade of an age-old tree. You can learn more about hosting your wedding at Diety here, or request a custom quote here.
18. The Liberty Warehouse
Image via TheLibertyWarehouse.com
Number 18 on our list takes us to the Liberty Warehouse—located right on the water’s edge at Pier 41 in Brooklyn’s historic shipping yards. With 15,000 square-feet of space and panoramic views of the NY harbor, the Liberty Warehouse boasts the only event location in Brooklyn that directly faces the iconic Statue of Liberty. We're particularly in love, though, with the classic red-brick aesthetic of the wide-open warehouse.
Image via TheLibertyWarehouse.com
With space for up to 450 guests for a seated affair (and up to 1,000 for cocktails), the event options at Liberty Warehouse are seemingly endless. Guests can choose from two spacious event areas, both boasting oversized west-facing windows that allow for unparalleled sunset views. Also available are two smaller event spaces, perfect for intimate affairs—like ceremonies and cocktail hours. Covered valet parking is available for your use, as is a fully-equipped on site bridal suite.
Image via TheLibertyWarehouse.com
You can view Liberty Warehouse menu options here, learn more about private events here, or inquire about hosting your event at Liberty here.
19. Jill Lindsey
Image via ny.racked.com
A colorful boutique shop in Brooklyn’s Fort Greene, Jill Lindsey is as much of a neighborhood-gathering place as it is an artisanal-goods store—boasting everything from a quaint coffee and wine shop to on-site wellness events (like yoga classes) to interactive community courses. But, lucky for Venuelusters everywhere, Jill Lindsey also opens its doors for private parties.
Image via JillLindsey.com
With space for approximately 40-50 guests, Jill Lindsey is the perfect setting for smaller soriées. We love the idea of using the space for a super-chic bridal shower, a quaint holiday party, or an engagement get-together. Wine and beer packages are available at $30pp, with specialty drinks available upon request and for an additional charge. Food includes cheese platters, charcuterie boards, and crudité. You can learn more about hosting a private event at Jill Lindsey here.
20. The Picnic House at Prospect Park
Image via WeddingWire.com
A list of Brooklyn venues wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through Prospect Park. Today, then, we’re rounding out our list with a trip to the picturesque Picnic House at Prospect Park. With floor-to-ceiling windows, all hardwood floors, and a charming wood fireplace, The Picnic House packs a serious punch when it comes to quintessential BK-style charm.
Image via BoredinBrooklynBlog.com
Nestled amidst 585 acres of wild, Brooklyn greenery, we think the Picnic House at Prospect Park is the perfect ceremony setting for the true East-Coast couple. The area can accommodate up to 175 guests for a seated dinner and dancing, and up to 240 for cocktail parties and standing affairs. Its high-beam ceilings, exposed brick and natural lighting all make for a backdrop that’s both stunning on its own and completely customizable for those who want to use decor and design details to create their own unique aesthetic. You can view the Picnic House Wedding Brochure here to learn more about hosting your nuptials at this iconic Brooklyn venue.
Your Turn...
Have any once-in-a-lifetime Brooklyn venues we forget? Share them with us in the comments section below. We'd love to hear from you!