6 Party Venues in Atlanta that Wow with Historic Detail

For a towering space boasting classic design…

It’s no surprise that Southern Exchange is one of Atlanta’s most fashionable event venues. Designed in 1927 by Philip Shutze — Atlanta’s renowned classical architect — this historic building began as an upscale department store. Modeled after Macy’s flagship store in New York, an elegant mezzanine overlooks what was once the atrium level. The Whitehall Ballroom proudly features the original marble floors and 14-foot crystal chandeliers that once greeted Atlanta’s most stylish shoppers. Ornate stained-glass and 30-foot-high ceilings make for an unforgettable backdrop for any celebration. We especially love how the alter at this vibrant Atlanta wedding seamlessly flows into the antique arched windows. For a more modern celebration, guests will love The Cellar with its original concrete columns joined by contemporary, industrial chandelier lighting. The Grant Loft is also an ideal space for a loft aesthetic. Vintage brass dome lighting creates a warm and ethereal atmosphere of interchangeable hues. With several other available event spaces, this premier venue promises to transform your celebration into an evening of personal historical significance.

Grant Loft Capacity: 150 (seated) – 300 (standing)

The Cellar Capacity: 850 (seated) – 1,200 (standing)

White Hall Ballroom Capacity: 850 (seated) – 1,375 (standing)

For a lavish 1920s movie palace…

Originally constructed for Atlanta’s Shriners organization, this opulent theater draws its inspiration from the architecture of the Far East. Due to the elaborate cost of such an ambitious design, the Shriners leased their auditorium to movie mogul William Fox. Soon after, the palatial FOX Theater was born. Today, FOX Theater hosts music concerts, Broadway performances, and upscale private events. Personalize the marquee to greet guests as they enter through the grand Arcade. Once inside, partygoers will immediately marvel at the surrounding mosaics, stained glass and Moroccan tiles. While there are several event spaces available, we especially love the Egyptian Ballroom. Towering columns and beautiful ornamentation invite guests to step back in time and indulge in the lavish surroundings of the Egyptian Pharaohs. 

Egyptian Ballroom Capacity: 480 (seated) – 800 (standing)

FOX Theater Buyout Capacity: 1,100 (standing)

For a rustic, industrial space with lots of light…

Distinctive Catering & Events brings you one of Atlanta’s most historic venues. Originally built in 1869 as the main freight depot for the Georgia Railroad and Banking Company, Georgia Freight Depot now serves as a chic event space.  At over 12,000 square feet, GFD easily accommodates any dynamic celebration. Sliding barn-style doors allow for plenty of natural light, while the expansive brick walls are a favorite backdrop for first looks or wedding portraits. Best of all, the catering team at Distinctive Catering & Events creates custom menus from organic, fresh ingredients for an exceptional dining experience.

Georgia Freight Depot Capacity: 1,300 (standing)

For a fairytale celebration set in a historic mansion…

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is easily one of the most photographed locations in Atlanta. Situated on 12.5 wooded acres, the Gothic-Tudor-style mansion was designed by world-renowned architect Henry Hornbostel. Stained glass, bronze balustrades, and walnut paneling are some of the stunning architectural details that guests will discover in this 27,000-square-foot space. The beautifully landscaped gardens are the perfect place for a wedding ceremony or enchanted cocktail reception. Indoor ceremonies in the Great Hall are equally stunning. Instead of a traditional arch, consider using the historic Aeolian organ console as a ceremonial backdrop. 

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Capacity: 250 (seated) – 350 (standing)

For an evening inspired by arts and culture…

As one of the largest arts centers in the world, Woodruff Art Center attracts almost a million visitors a year. In addition to boasting the Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre and Grammy Award-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, this spacious center offer multiple private-event spaces. The Galleria, at over 15,500 square feet, features marble stairs, art deco fixtures, and soaring ceilings. A second-story balcony allows for more intimate gatherings with dramatic views of the main Galleria below. Robinson Atrium provides another unforgettable setting with its fan-shaped glass ceiling and four-story ramp leading to the Museum’s permanent collection galleries. Evening receptions are particularly stunning on the Sifly Piazza, surrounded by the glow of Midtown Atlanta.

Sifly Piazza Capacity: 150 (ceremony seating) – 350 (standing)

Robinson Atrium Capacity: 220 (seated) – 350 (standing)

Galleria Both Levels Capacity: 650 (seated) – 2,000 (standing)

For an enchanted, outdoor wedding…

Situated on 33 acres, Swan House Gardens is an idyllic setting for an outdoor wedding or reception. The historic mansion on the property, constructed in 1928, is an elegant fusion of Classical and Renaissance Revival styles. Wedding parties will love posing in front of the iconic blue doors. The grand staircase and cascading fountain make for an unforgettable ceremonial backdrop or breathtaking entrance. We especially love how this intimate wedding reception takes place amidst the Center’s verdant, terraced lawns. While celebrations are not permitted inside the house museum, your guests have the opportunity to tour the mansion during your exclusive event.

Swan House Gardens Capacity: up to 750