Top San Jose Experiential Activation Venues

• Spaces for 120 Guests

The Martine Inn is an oceanfront boutique hotel and bed and breakfast set along Ocean View Boulevard in Pacific Grove, California, overlooking Monterey Bay. The property began as a private mansion built in the early 1900s for heirs of the Parke Family Pharmaceuticals, and was purchased by Don Martine in 1972 — at the time scheduled for demolition — and meticulously restored. Today it operates as a living museum, furnished with authentic period antiques ranging from 1800 to 1920 across its 25 individually appointed guest rooms. The inn is well suited for intimate gatherings and romantic celebrations, including weddings, drawing guests with its panoramic Pacific Ocean views, Victorian architecture, and personalized hospitality. Each room carries its own character, and the property's collection of vintage MG automobiles and automotive memorabilia adds a distinctive character found nowhere else on the Monterey Peninsula.

• Spaces for 150 Guests
• 1 Landmark
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 space at this venue

Lyford House is a registered National Historic Landmark situated on the shores of Richardson Bay at the Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Sanctuary in Tiburon, California. Built in 1876 as part of the Eagle Dairy Ranch owned by Dr. Benjamin Lyford and Hilarita Reed, the ornate Victorian home now serves as an outdoor waterfront event venue set within 10.5 acres of trails, gardens, and protected wildlife habitat. The venue's terrace and meadow host weddings, corporate retreats, meetings, and private celebrations for up to 150 seated guests, with sweeping panoramic views stretching from Belvedere across the San Francisco skyline to Sausalito and Mount Tamalpais. Because the property operates as an active bird sanctuary — home to more than 200 bird and wildlife species — amplified music is not permitted, though a microphone for speeches and toasts and acoustic music are welcome. Additional rentable spaces on the property include Rosie's Cottage and The Blue Classroom, making Lyford House a distinctive setting for gatherings that value natural beauty and historic character over conventional ballroom elegance.

The place where special events are truly special! Look no further if you are seeking for a truly unique rental space environment! We can make your special occasion a memorable one by providing both inside and outdoor locations. For weddings, outdoor employee retreats, meetings, and other special events, Lyford House in the Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary offers a beautifully unique setting on the water's edge. It is a universe away, yet being only one mile from a major freeway and ten miles from one of the world's great cities. Small Blue Planet Events + Consulting is collaborating with Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary to make your wedding day at the Lyford House one to remember. Please see our wedding rental page for more information on the services we offer and any additional costs. Please notice that we do not accept amplified music at the bird sanctuary. A microphone, as well as acoustic music, is permitted for speeches, toasts, and other events. For further details, please see our standard contract. Weddings Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary is collaborating with Small Blue Planet Events + Consulting to make your wedding day at the Lyford House one to remember. Small Blue Planet can assist with a few minor details or accompany you throughout the process. Molli and Annie have lived and worked in Marin and West Marin for many years and are extremely familiar with the area. They are familiar with local secrets, vendors, and all of the tiny details that go into making your Marin event a success.

• Spaces for 200-600 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 2 Event Spaces
• 2 Total Spaces

Monterey Beach Station is an oceanfront event venue set directly on the sand at Monterey Bay in downtown Monterey, California. The historic beach bungalow is the only venue on the Central Coast offering direct beachfront access, and it sits within walking distance of major hotel properties including the Portola Hotel & Spa, Monterey Marriott, and Monterey Hyatt. The property hosts weddings, corporate gatherings, and social events across indoor and outdoor spaces. The indoor venue accommodates up to 200 guests for seated dinners or 500 for standing receptions, while the outdoor beachfront area seats up to 400 guests — with the full beach area capable of accommodating events of up to 1,500. Panoramic views of the Monterey Peninsula, beachside fire pits with complimentary s'mores, and direct beach access provide a distinctive backdrop across all event formats. Operated by The Events by Classic Group, the venue offers all-inclusive packages that include in-house catering, bar service, tables, chairs, linens, dinnerware, glassware, and a dedicated event coordination team.

• Spaces for 18-240 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 3 Historic Spaces
• 1 Meeting Space

Montrio Bistro occupies a restored 1910 firehouse at 414 Calle Principal in downtown Monterey, California — a building recognized as the first firehouse in California. Since opening in 1995, the restaurant has built a reputation as one of Monterey County's premier dining destinations, holding Michelin recognition since 2025 and earning the OpenTable Diners' Choice award. It operates as a Sustainable Seafood Watch Ambassador through the Monterey Bay Aquarium and is one of five Green Restaurant-certified establishments in Monterey County. Three private event spaces accommodate gatherings of 20 to 150 guests. The downstairs Dining Room seats 120 and stands 150 in a setting that includes an open kitchen, wood-burning grill, and brick oven. The Parker Room, named after the city's first fire chief, offers upstairs views of downtown Monterey with a private bar and seats up to 90 guests. The Jazz Room is an intimate boardroom-style space seating 18, suited to small business meetings and private gatherings. The events team supports weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, birthday and holiday parties, and milestone celebrations. Services available to private groups include custom menu creation, A/V equipment, floral arrangements, custom cocktails, and wine pairing options.

• Spaces for 300 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Historic Space
• 1 space at this venue

Memory Garden at Monterey State Historic Park is a historic outdoor event venue located at 20 Custom House Plaza in the heart of Old Monterey, California. Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead Jr. in 1927 and enclosed by an eight-foot adobe wall, the garden centers on a 15-foot diameter fountain surrounded by four venerable Southern Magnolia trees that provide natural shade throughout the year. The garden accommodates up to 300 guests for luncheons and dinner receptions with tables and chairs, and up to 150 guests for wedding ceremonies and receptions that include tables, chairs, heaters, and props. Events are available during daylight and evening hours year-round, with music permitted until 9 p.m. The space features electrical outlets and lighting, an accessible unisex restroom on-site, a historic flower garden, an arbor, and a 5-by-16-foot barbecue available for cooking. Catering is handled through preferred vendors, and alcohol service is permitted with a certified server. The venue is managed by California State Parks and is not available on holidays or holiday weekends.

• Spaces for 70-250 Guests
• 4 Hotels
• 1 Ballroom
• 4 Total Spaces

The Hilton Garden Inn Monterey sits among Monterey Pines and Live Oaks at 1000 Aguajito Road, less than one mile from Fisherman's Wharf and downtown Monterey. The property completed a full renovation in 2023, refreshing all 205 guest rooms — each with balconies or walkout patios — alongside a new lobby bar and eatery named Calla, which serves California coastal cuisine with both indoor and outdoor seating. For events and meetings, the hotel offers 7,000 square feet of flexible space across four venues, ranging from an octagon-shaped second-floor ballroom accommodating up to 250 guests for receptions to an outdoor Poolside Terrace suited for ceremonies and cocktail gatherings. All spaces are supported by in-house catering and a dedicated events team. On-property amenities include an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, fitness center, cabanas, and firepit.

• Spaces for 100-120 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

Acqua Hotel is a 49-room boutique hotel situated along the shores of Richardson Bay in Mill Valley, California, where views of Mt. Tamalpais and the bay create a naturally scenic backdrop for private events. The property blends city convenience with a tranquil waterfront setting, and sits just minutes from Sausalito, the Golden Gate Bridge, and San Francisco. For weddings and special events, the hotel accommodates gatherings from 40 to 120 guests across its indoor and outdoor spaces. A bayside terrace with panoramic water views and a dramatic spiral staircase serves as a distinctive ceremony setting, while the Richardson Room — a light-filled interior space with floor-to-ceiling windows — transitions seamlessly into a dining and dancing venue. The hotel's professional events team coordinates all aspects of the celebration, from welcome receptions and get-ready rooms to day-after brunches, with catering provided by sister restaurant Piazza D'Angelo, which draws on fresh regional and seasonal ingredients to craft Mediterranean-inspired menus. Complimentary amenities for event guests include full breakfast, parking, and access to the hotel's bayside grounds.

• Spaces for 30-120 Guests
• 3 Restaurants
• 1 Outdoor
• 3 Waterfront

Piatti Mill Valley is an Italian restaurant and private event venue situated at 625 Redwood Highway in Mill Valley, California, with waterfront views of Richardson's Bay and Mount Tamalpais. Established in 1987, the restaurant has built its reputation around finely crafted, classic Italian cuisine prepared from tradition, including handmade pasta made fresh daily. Four event spaces accommodate gatherings of varying sizes, from intimate 30-guest cocktail receptions to full restaurant buyouts for up to 160 guests. The Cocktail Area offers a fireside setting with waterfront views, the Waterfront Patio brings al fresco dining overlooking the bay and Mt. Tam, and the Main Dining Room seats up to 70 guests in a warm space anchored by an open kitchen. A full-venue buyout combines all indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, and milestone celebrations. The venue's culinary team handles catering in-house, offering classic Piatti favorites alongside customizable event menus. The events team is led by General Manager An-Gloria Banh, who coordinates private gatherings from initial inquiry through the event day.

• Spaces for 125-300 Guests
• 1 Event Space

WEDDINGS & OTHER SPECIAL OCCASIONS In addition to the private club atmosphere and beautiful facilities, Brookside Country Club provides an exceptional setting in which to celebrate your special event with family, friends and/or business associates. Brookside is well-known in the area for providing the best food, beverages, and service available anywhere. We go above and beyond to make your event a truly memorable occasion, and our extensive menu, wine and liquor selections give you the flexibility to personalize your event in a variety of ways to suit your specific needs. No matter if it is a small private dinner party for 10 people or a large celebration with 250-300 people, your private event will be "the talk of the town" for months to come. What we do is as follows... Weddings and receptions are a common occurrence. Birthdays\sAnniversaries Occasions Exceptional Retreats Meetings Seminars Golf tournaments are a popular sport in the United States. Clubhouse Seating for 70 or more people around a fireside grille With a warm handcrafted Belgian fireplace, a smooth marble English-style bar, and a spacious patio, you can unwind in this lounge setting. Approximately 50 seats in the Sierra Room, 50 seats in the Boardroom, 200 seats in the Mount Diablo Room, and 350+ seats in the entire clubhouse This collection of rooms exudes grandeur, with soaring ceilings, jewel tone accents, breathtaking panoramic golf course views, and exquisite iron and crystal chandeliers, among other features. Capacity of the Event Lawn and Patio Area Patio seating for 150 at the Fireside Grille; patio seating for 100 at the Boardroom. Event Lawn: 300 sq. ft. As you make your way down the aisle, take in the outdoor elegance and charm of manicured greens, shimmering lakes, picturesque natural beauty of the Valley, and magnificent sunsets that the Valley has to offer.

• Spaces for 60-1,000 Guests
• 5 Hotels
• 2 Ballrooms
• 5 Total Spaces

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course occupies 22 secluded acres amid a verdant landscape of Monterey pine and cypress, adjacent to the historic Del Monte Golf Course on California's Monterey Peninsula. Built in 1969 and renovated in 2021, the resort offers 550 guest rooms and suites overlooking the golf course and surrounding pine forest. The property features more than 40,000 square feet of event space across 32 meeting and event rooms. The 11,970-square-foot Regency Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 1,000 guests for banquets and can be divided into smaller configurations. The Monterey Grand Ballroom seats 650 and flows into an outdoor Garden Terrace for receptions. Additional event spaces — including the Big Sur Room, Spyglass Room, and Oaktree Room — serve intimate meetings and breakout sessions. On-site offerings include four dining venues, Spa Adeline, two outdoor pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and a golf course, making the resort a self-contained destination for multi-day corporate retreats, weddings, and large-scale conferences across the Monterey Peninsula.

• Spaces for 100 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

An inn evoking the essence of 16th century England's west country welcomes you on your romantic retreat over the hills to the seaside. The welcoming Pelican Inn is located at Muir Beach, about 20 minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, in the sea-blown fog, among the pines and alders, honeysuckle and jasmine... Between the coast, Muir Woods, and the Northern California National Recreational Area parks, there's a lodging retreat. The Pelican welcomes you to enjoy the company of its Tudor bar, country cooking, overnight accomodation, or a carefree feasting and relaxation vacation. The name Pelican comes from Sir Francis Drake's 70-foot eighteen-gun sailor, afterwards renamed the Golden Hinde, which set sail from Plymouth, England, in November 1577 with the help and encouragement of Queen Elizabeth I to fight the Spanish power under Phillip II. Surely, Drake's epic trip, which made him the first captain to survive a round of the globe, has less to do with the appeal of the "Pelican" as a symbol of haven for wayfarers than England's ancient tradition of coastal inns. The Pelican is more than just a taste of olde England; it's also a fantastic location for weddings, meetings, banquets, Sunday brunch, or simply a place to unwind and chew the fat. Upon request, feasts lasting the entire day or evening are available for your special occasion. The rough-hewn beams glowed with firelight. The sound of a dinner bell heralds the start of a night of feasting and revelry. In the Pelican Inn, remove after remove—ale, music, and good cheer—create a feeling of being transported to another time and place.

• Spaces for 200 Guests
• 1 Historic Space
• 1 Estate
• 1 Mansion

History It was built in 1867 and is a California Historical Landmark because it was the first non native residence to be constructed in Crockett. The Carquinez Women's Club has been caringly preserving the integrity of this beautiful home over the years, and it is currently being maintained and controlled by the organization. It has been in the care of the Carquinez Women's Club since 1974 that the Old Homestead and gardens are maintained. The Crockett Lions Club was the driving force behind the extensive restorations. New window coverings, interior painting, a disability ramp, a bathroom addition, the repair of the former bathroom, and more were all done as part of the remodeling project. Several organizations, including the Crockett Community Foundation, C&H Sugar Company, and the Carquinez Women's Club, all graciously contributed to the success of these initiatives. Northern California Historical Event Venue The Old Homestead and Gardens' natural beauty, along with the rich history of the property, makes this ideal setting a popular destination for a variety of events, from casual barbecues to elegant weddings. The garden's attraction is enhanced by the fact that it is surrounded by a lovely woodland area and a quaint period residence, creating a sense of intimate privacy. The Old Homestead is a proud monument to the past, and those who pass through its gates become a part of its long-held history of hospitality. The Old Homestead and Gardens is a Performance & Event Venue, a Wedding Venue, and a Landmark & Historical Place.

• Spaces for 12-400 Guests
• 4 Event Spaces
• 1 Historic Space
• 3 Meeting Spaces

The Mill Valley Community Center is located in Southern Marin County, just 6.6 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, and 7.2 miles south of San Rafael. The Community Center opened its doors in April 2001. Our award winning facility offers a perfect environment for any occasion, with a main event space that can accommodate banquet-style seating for up to 285 guests and theater seating for 400. Smaller rooms, throughout the Center are ideal for classes, meetings, workshops and seminars. The center is designed as two buildings, the first of which is comprised of a large, reception hall, teen and senior centers, meeting spaces, and activity rooms. The second building is dedicated to swimming and fitness and includes an indoor swimming pool with retractable roof, a 120-foot spiral water slide, Jacuzzi spa, and outdoor patio. There is an adjoining activity room that is a great venue for poolside parties.

• Spaces for 40-500 Guests
• 1 Ballroom
• 3 Outdoor Spaces
• 5 Total Spaces

TPC Monterey at Pasadera is a private country club set on the Monterey Peninsula in California, distinguished by its Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and a Spanish Colonial-style clubhouse nestled in the sun-kissed valleys above Monterey. The 6,673-yard, par-71 course was designed to complement the natural topography of the Peninsula, offering views of the Pacific coastline and the rolling hills of the Santa Lucia Mountains. The clubhouse provides multiple event spaces suited to gatherings of varying sizes, from an outdoor courtyard and event lawn accommodating 300 or more guests to an intimate living room lounge for smaller celebrations. The venue ranks second on the Monterey Peninsula for weddings hosted each year and welcomes both member and non-member events, including corporate functions, private parties, and ceremonies. In addition to its event facilities, the club offers a resort-style pool, a 25-meter lap pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, and the five-bedroom Nicklaus Lodge for executive retreats and family stays.

• Spaces for 50-200 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 1 Outdoor

Live music and private events can be held in our clubhouse and outdoor event tent, as well as a full menu of delectable food at BLACK STAR PIRATE BBQ, which is a destination in and of itself. Come to Black Star Pirate BBQ for lunch or dinner and enjoy the great outdoors. Classic BBQ classics are served on the menu, which is produced with fresh, local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. It is not just for meat eaters! We also have wonderful vegetarian and vegan options, so please come and check us out. We have something for every member of the family. For more information or to see our hours and menu, please visit blackstarpiratebbq.com. There are currently slips accessible for recreational and commercial vessels in the Point San Pablo Harbor for day-to-day operation. Booking Private Functions Private events can be held in our Event Tent on the waterfront meadow, as well as our Clubhouse, which is also available. Outside catering is permitted, although catering from the Black Star Pirate BBQ Restaurant is provided as well. Against the backdrop of the marina, with sweeping views of San Pablo Bay and the wooded upland hills in the distance, and the interactive, enormous art installations, this hidden destination event is unlike any other. For live music, private gatherings, and weddings, we are the ideal setting. If you are interested in hosting your next event with us, please get in touch. Fill up the blanks with as much information as you can. Also, please feel free to come by and see what we have been up to with the place over the previous couple of years. The Black Star Pirate BBQ restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays and Sundays.

• Spaces for 140-150 Guests
• 1 Landmark
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 space at this venue

The Outdoor Art Club, which is located in downtown Mill Valley, is a private, non-profit women's organization that was established in 1902. Its 35 founding members, who were inspired by the "City Beautiful" urban design movement of the 1890s, set out to promote the civic value of public parks and natural outdoor spaces in Mill Valley. Today, our members continue to advocate for conservation and open space preservation, as well as supporting the cultural arts and other civic endeavors that contribute to the vitality of the Mill Valley neighborhood. Participation in the club is only possible through sponsorship by an existing member. The clubhouse of the Outdoor Art Club, designed in 1904 by renowned architect Bernard Maybeck, is a National Historic Landmark and has been designated as such. It is available for public use on a rental basis. Private events can be held at the Outdoor Art Club, which can be rented out. The rental rates for Saturdays in 2022 are $6,000, and the rates for Fridays and Sundays are $5,000. The rental rates for Saturdays in 2023 are $6,500, and the rates for Fridays and Sundays are $5,500. Prices are subject to change without notice. Before renting a room, you must take a tour of the club with a docent. Tours are only available on Saturdays between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., and they must be scheduled in advance. Reservations for tours must be made online by 3:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the tour. You can take a virtual tour of our beautiful club by scrolling down. Please review the Rental FAQs and then contact our Rental Manager at (415) 383-2582 or rentals@outdoorartclub.org for available dates and to sign up for a tour on-line. For more information, please visit our website. Check the rental calendar to see if there are any dates available for your event that are not already booked. Alternatively, you can contact our Rental Manager at rentals@outdoorartclub.org or our Building Manager at buildingmanager@outdoorartclub.org if you have any additional questions.

• Spaces for 60 Guests

L'Auberge Carmel is a historic boutique hotel and Relais & Châteaux property set in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Built in 1929 by Allen Knight and designed by architect Albert Farr in a Bohemian style inspired by the romantic architecture of Prague, the property has been thoughtfully restored to preserve its historic character while introducing modern comforts. Its 20 individually designed guest rooms reflect European-style elegance and a philosophy of highly personalized hospitality. At the center of the property is Aubergine, a two-Michelin-star, five-Forbes-star restaurant that anchors the hotel's reputation for culinary distinction. Special events at Aubergine bring together the restaurant's acclaimed cuisine with an intimate setting that has earned recognition among the finest dining experiences on the Monterey Peninsula. The hotel is located just blocks from Carmel Beach, placing guests within easy reach of the village's galleries, shops, and coastline.

• Spaces for 2,030 Guests
• 1 Landmark
• 1 Theater
• 1 Historic Space

The Bob Hope Theatre is a historic performing arts venue listed on the National Register of Historical Places, located in the heart of downtown Stockton, California. The theatre's lobby features a 1,200-square-foot marble mosaic floor crafted from Italian marble, and the building houses a restored 1928 Robert Morton theater organ — originally installed in Seattle's Fox Theatre and later donated by the Friends of the Fox organization. The main auditorium seats 2,030 guests in fully refurbished red velvet seats, equipped with state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and rigging systems. The venue hosts a broad range of programming, from classical performances and dance productions to comedy, live music, and classic film screenings. The Bob Hope Theatre is available for private parties and corporate events, offering expanded restroom facilities and concessions alongside its technical production capabilities.

• Spaces for 500 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Adventist Health Arena is a multi-purpose entertainment and event venue located in the heart of downtown Stockton, California, at 248 West Fremont Street. Situated in the California Central Valley between Sacramento and Fresno, the arena anchors the city's downtown waterfront redevelopment district and serves as the region's primary destination for large-scale concerts, sporting events, and private gatherings. The arena offers seating for 8,600 to 12,000 guests depending on configuration, and includes 24 luxury suites, 344 club-level seats, and 5,000 square feet of dedicated conference space. On-floor capabilities include an NHL-regulation ice sheet, full stage rigging, and a 360-degree LED display system, making the facility suitable for concerts, conventions, ice shows, and motorsports. For private events, the venue's Club level accommodates groups of up to 500 with access to an outdoor patio and full-service bar overlooking the Delta and the adjacent Stockton Ballpark. Managed by Legends Global, Adventist Health Arena hosts more than 100 events annually and offers catering, audio/visual support, custom room setup, and event theming assistance for private bookings.