Top Essex Venues

• Spaces for 110-330 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom
• 5 Total Spaces

1840s Plaza is a historic event venue and boutique hotel set in Baltimore's Jonestown neighborhood, just steps from the Inner Harbor and Harbor East. The property centers on the four-story Fava Building — a Baltimore City landmark whose iconic red cast iron façade was one of twelve to survive the great Baltimore fire of 1904, later restored as home to the Baltimore City Life Museum. Today it hosts weddings, galas, mitzvahs, memorial celebrations, and corporate events across four distinct indoor and outdoor spaces. The fourth-floor Ballroom spans over 5,000 square feet, seating up to 230 guests beneath crystal chandeliers with panoramic views of the Inner Harbor. The second-floor City Lites carries original murals and exhibits from the venue's museum era, dressed in art deco style. The first-floor Cabaret brings Latin-inspired décor suited to a livelier atmosphere. Two private red brick garden courtyards — one adjoining the Fava Building, one surrounding the adjacent 1840s Carrollton Inn — offer outdoor ceremony and cocktail settings framed by boxwood hedges and bistro lighting. The 1840s Carrollton Inn, a 13-room boutique hotel comprised of interconnected row homes dating to the early 19th century, provides on-site accommodations for wedding parties and overnight guests.

• Spaces for 200 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom
• 1 Waterfront

Pier 5 Hotel occupies a historic pier structure on Baltimore's Inner Harbor, built between 1908 and 1910 and recognized as one of the earliest examples of reinforced concrete construction in seawater in the United States. The hotel is steps from the National Aquarium, Pier 6 Pavilion, and the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse, positioning it as a distinctive waterfront address in the heart of downtown Baltimore. For events, Pier 5 offers 4,790 square feet of event space across multiple venues, including the Harbor West Ballroom — a light-filled space with floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic views of the Inner Harbor, and a private terrace that accommodates up to 200 guests for receptions. The Harbor Club, also on the second floor, features a wraparound terrace with sweeping views of the Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, and Pier 6 Pavilion, making it a natural choice for cocktail receptions. An outdoor waterfront garden area rounds out the options for ceremonies and gatherings. On-site catering is provided through ROUGE Fine Catering, with additional dining available at the property's two restaurants: McCormick & Schmick's Seafood and Ruth's Chris Steak House.

• Spaces for 50-450 Guests
• 1 Restaurant
• 3 Museums
• 3 Total Spaces

The American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) is America's official national museum, education center, and repository for self-taught and intuitive artistry, located at 800 Key Highway in Baltimore's Inner Harbor neighborhood. The museum occupies three historic buildings filled with original visionary artwork, and its exhibitions weave together art, science, philosophy, humor, and social justice in ways that make AVAM a singular backdrop for private events. For celebrations, AVAM offers three distinct rental spaces across the museum campus. The Jim Rouse Visionary Center is a three-floor venue accommodating up to 400 guests for seated dinners, with its first-floor Visionary Village ideal for cocktail hours among kinetic sculptures and its third-floor banquet room featuring beamed ceilings, skylights, and a staging area with screen and projector. The Sculpture Barn and Garden is a dramatic indoor/outdoor space available late March through Thanksgiving, seating up to 130 guests or hosting up to 250 for standing receptions, with a checkerboard dance floor, stage lighting, and a Wildflower Garden with a Meditation Chapel. The Museum Café, situated on the top floor of the main building, offers an intimate setting for up to 50 seated guests or 110 standing, with an outdoor terrace overlooking Federal Hill Park. All rentals include tables and chairs, a venue manager, museum security, and access to designated exhibits for guests. Catering is provided through AVAM's approved list of fully licensed Baltimore-area caterers.

The Baltimore Museum of Industry honors the state of Maryland's rich industrial history and demonstrates how innovation is the driving force behind continuous advancement. Visitors are drawn into the narratives of the individuals who founded Baltimore and those who continue to affect the future of the region through our exhibitions, educational activities, and collection displays. Visitors to the Baltimore Museum of Industry's waterfront site have had a beautiful view of the Inner Harbor ever since the museum opened its doors in 1981. The BMI offers an unequaled background for corporate gatherings, cocktail receptions, banquets, fundraisers, reunions, weddings, mitzvahs, proms, and anniversary parties thanks to its indoor and outdoor venues, convenient downtown location, and free on-site parking lot. The BMI will assist in the production of an evening that guests will long remember thanks to its wide places for catering stations, activities, a dance floor with a view of the port, and picture-perfect exterior spots.

• Spaces for 125-150 Guests
• 1 Landmark
• 1 Outdoor
• 2 Total Spaces

Chase Court occupies a 19th-century Gothic Revival parish house at 1112 Saint Paul Street in Baltimore's Mount Vernon neighborhood, constructed in 1879 as a parish house for Christ Episcopal Church. The stone building's leaded-glass windows, soaring ceilings, and intricate historic woodwork set the stage for weddings that range from intimate elopements to receptions of up to 150 guests. The venue's two distinct spaces serve as ceremony and reception settings for the same event. The Great Hall — a church-like interior with original iron chandeliers, hardwood floors, and gothic architectural details — accommodates up to 125 guests for seated dinners or 150 for cocktail-style receptions. The adjacent Ceremony Garden, a private wooded space with a pond, pergola, and permanent twinkle lighting, offers an outdoor option that feels miles from the city while sitting squarely in its heart. Chase Court hosts weddings of all sizes and styles, including LGBTQ+ celebrations, handfastings, and themed events. Owner David Egan brings more than 23 years and over 900 weddings of experience to each event, and every celebration receives exclusive use of the property from start to finish.

• Spaces for 200-450 Guests
• 2 Outdoor Spaces
• 2 Boats
• 2 Waterfront

City Cruises Baltimore brings private events onto the water, operating from Baltimore's Inner Harbor at 561 Light Street. Two vessels in the fleet give planners a range of group sizes: the Spirit of Baltimore, which holds up to 450 guests, and the Majesty, which accommodates up to 200. The Spirit of Baltimore spans two spacious indoor decks and a rooftop deck with panoramic harbor views. The vessel has been renovated with an enhanced dance floor, bar space, and a Harmon-designed A/V system. The Majesty is a three-level private yacht featuring an atrium vaulted ceiling that connects the first and second dining decks. Its Harborview Deck offers a double bar and built-in dance floor, the Esplanade Deck provides elevated harbor views with ample seating, and the Skydeck features plush lounge seating and bistro tables. Both vessels offer climate-controlled interiors alongside open-air outdoor decks. All-inclusive packages can be tailored to the event, with chef-prepared menus, full bar service, and entertainment options. Complimentary event coordinators are available for groups of 20 or more.

• Spaces for 60-250 Guests
• 4 Hotels
• 1 Ballroom
• 4 Total Spaces

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore occupies the landmark 1906 Beaux-Arts building that once served as the headquarters of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad — a structure defined by its marble staircases, stained glass Tiffany windows, and sweeping period architecture. The hotel sits two blocks from the Inner Harbor and within easy reach of Baltimore's most storied neighborhoods, including Mount Vernon, Federal Hill, and Fell's Point. For events, the hotel offers more than 10,000 square feet of flexible space across a collection of named rooms and ballrooms. The Paris Ballroom seats up to 230 guests for banquets and accommodates 190 for receptions, while the adjoining Paris Foyer provides a graceful pre-function or cocktail space. Smaller gatherings find a home in rooms like Athens and Caracas. On-site catering is provided through The Morely restaurant, with custom menus built around the occasion. The hotel has been recognized as a Top Wedding Venue by the Baltimore Sun and earned a Best Boutique Property in the Northeast designation from the 2018 Stella Awards.

• Spaces for 40-900 Guests
• 4 Hotels
• 2 Ballrooms
• 4 Total Spaces

Marriott Baltimore Inner Harbor at Camden Yards offers a dynamic and versatile setting for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings in the heart of downtown Baltimore. Located steps from Camden Yards and the Inner Harbor, the hotel features expansive ballrooms, flexible meeting rooms, and generous prefunction areas designed to support events of varying sizes and styles. Modern interiors, thoughtful layouts, and customizable configurations allow hosts to bring a wide range of visions to life. Onsite catering and audiovisual support streamline planning, while comfortable guest rooms provide a convenient stay for attendees. With its central location, adaptable event spaces, and attentive service, this venue supports seamless gatherings with a strong sense of place.

• Spaces for 300 Guests

The Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center is a landmark performing arts venue in downtown Baltimore, serving as the centerpiece of the Bromo Tower Arts & Entertainment District. Reopened in 2004 following an extensive restoration, the historic theater brings Broadway productions and world-class live entertainment to the city. The center includes two distinct rental spaces: the iconic Hippodrome Theatre and the M&T Bank Exchange, a newly renovated historic venue offering a flexible, state-of-the-art environment. From weddings and corporate gatherings to graduations and private performances, the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center pairs professional event staff with the grandeur of restored historic architecture. In-house catering is available, along with a preferred caterer list, to accommodate a range of event styles and guest preferences. Through the Hippodrome Foundation, the center also provides free outreach and education programs that introduce Maryland students and community members to the performing arts.

The Heron Room is a spacious private event venue in the center of Hampden that is housed inside a historic mill along the Jones Falls stream. In Baltimore, Maryland, there is a historic wedding location called The Heron Room. This remarkable property, which is tucked away on the banks of the Jones Falls stream, is distinguished by its industrial and contemporary design. It is filled with architectural elements that harken back to its manufacturing background, and the sophisticated style gives the location a hint of elegance. This Charm City treasure is capable of meeting all of your requirements, whether you're planning a small-scale celebration or an intimate elopement. The Heron Room's committed events staff will work with you to make sure your wedding is an outstanding success. The highlights of their wedding package include a 60-minute rehearsal, use of the food area, and access to a private getting-ready room. You can also use the provided furniture, which includes a reclaimed wood bar, round and rectangular tables, dark bentwood seats, and so on.

• Spaces for 200-220 Guests
• 1 Event Space

Just north of Baltimore, Eagle’s Nest Country Club sits atop lush Maryland hills with sweeping countryside views. The modern clubhouse and scenic outdoor spaces create an ideal setting for weddings and private events. Guests enjoy elevated dining, thoughtful hospitality, and a peaceful, refined atmosphere surrounded by nature.

• Spaces for 600 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

At the Doubletree by Hilton BWI Airport hotel, weddings come to life! Take advantage of our gorgeous venue, which can help to make your big day one to remember while also being personalized to your specific needs. Your guests will like our new appearance - we recently finished a $4+ million refurbishment of our guest rooms, lobby, restaurant, and conference area, which is a Bride's dream come true.... There is space for a dance floor in our Grand Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 250 people. We also have a unique outdoor space that may be used for your wedding or reception. Are you thinking about having a small wedding? We offer 12 unique rooms that can accommodate receptions, rehearsal dinners, and Sunday brunches for groups of any size. Please contact us for more information. Remember that we have ample accommodations for your out-of-town guests as well! Guestrooms are available in either King or Double configurations. Take advantage of complimentary parking and WiFi. We provide a complimentary shuttle service to carry your guests to and from Baltimore Washington International Airport. As a member of the Hilton family, we respect their standards while also rewarding our guests with Hilton Honors points when they stay with us. Take advantage of the Doubletree and schedule a tour today to plan your special day exactly how you want it.

• Spaces for 700-900 Guests
• 1 Hotel
• 1 Ballroom

The Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport is a full-service hotel and event venue located in Linthicum Heights, Maryland, adjacent to Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport. Beautifully renovated in 2025, the property offers 280 guest rooms and over 16,000 square feet of flexible conference and event space across 14 rooms. The signature Thurgood Marshall Ballroom spans 8,246 square feet and features soaring 20-foot ceilings, a pillar-free layout, and a spacious pre-function area with a private entrance that opens onto a terrace. Equipped with sensor lighting and state-of-the-art A/V technology, the ballroom accommodates up to 900 guests for receptions, galas, and large celebrations. Smaller breakout rooms — including the intimate Narita Board Room and several named meeting suites — offer space for more focused gatherings. On-site, Acqua Restaurant & Bar serves Chesapeake Bay cuisine with a contemporary approach, and the hotel provides complimentary airport shuttle service within a three-mile radius. The venue is certified by Maharani Weddings for South Asian wedding celebrations and holds ISO certifications in energy, environmental, and quality management.

• Spaces for 16-700 Guests
• 5 Hotels
• 1 Ballroom
• 5 Total Spaces

The Westin Baltimore Washington Airport offers a refined and convenient setting for weddings, meetings, and social gatherings just minutes from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). The hotel features expansive and flexible event spaces, including grand ballrooms, adaptable meeting rooms, and thoughtful prefunction areas designed to accommodate events of various sizes and styles. Contemporary interiors, natural light, and thoughtful layouts create an inviting atmosphere, while customizable configurations and onsite catering help bring every detail to life. Comfortable guest rooms and Westin’s wellness-focused amenities enhance the overall guest experience. With its accessible location, elevated service, and versatile spaces, this venue provides a polished backdrop for memorable occasions ranging from corporate conferences to elegant celebrations.

Elegant private rooms are available at the Suburban Club, each with space for up to 400 guests. Both the Ballroom and the Overture Room are excellent options for hosting bigger special events such as weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, charity events, and a variety of other types of gatherings. The seasoned members of Suburban's event crew will collaborate with you to plan and execute an unforgettable gathering. We are able to either give comprehensive services or collaborate with the event planner that you have chosen. BALLROOM SEATING/GUEST CAPACITY 200 - with dance floor 300 - without dance floor 400 - standing OVERTURE ROOM SEATING/GUEST CAPACITY 90 - seated 120 - standing DUMBARTON ROOM SEATING/GUEST CAPACITY 50 - seated 70 – standing

• Spaces for 100-250 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 1 Historic Space
• 1 Estate

The Inn at Mitchell House is an 18th-century manor home set on 12 acres between Chestertown and Rock Hall on Maryland's Eastern Shore, less than half a mile from the Chesapeake Bay. Built in stages beginning in 1808, the property has been operating as a bed-and-breakfast inn since the early 1980s and offers a historic, pastoral setting for small gatherings and outdoor celebrations. The inn's sweeping lawn overlooks Stoneybrook pond, with wooded fields and open grounds well suited to outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The venue accommodates up to 100 guests for weddings and private events, with the option to host additional guests beyond that threshold. Couples booking the venue have full use of the main inn — with its six named guest rooms, parlors, dining room, and screened porch — along with the Stone's Throw Cottage, a private one-bedroom rental with a great room, gas fireplace, and its own deck. The inn has earned coverage in The Washingtonian, The New York Times, and Baltimore Magazine, and received the 2022 WeddingRule Editor's Choice Award.

• Spaces for 120-250 Guests
• 1 Outdoor
• 2 Historic Spaces
• 2 Total Spaces

Belmont Manor and Historic Park is a 68-acre historic estate in Elkridge, Maryland, operated by Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks. Built in 1738 as a private manor for Caleb and Priscilla Dorsey, the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Lawyers Hill Historic District. Over its nearly three centuries of history, the estate has passed through the stewardship of the Smithsonian Institution, the American Chemical Society, and Howard Community College before Howard County acquired it in 2012. The grounds encompass formal gardens, a picturesque aqua garden, rolling terrain, a pond, and a collection of historic structures including the Manor House, Carriage House, Cottage House, and a large barn. The signature outdoor reception tent — a 60x100 white peaked structure on a brick pad — accommodates up to 250 guests and includes gold chandeliers, perimeter lighting, an 18x24 dance floor, and gold chiavari chairs. The first floor of the Manor House offers an indoor option for up to 120 guests. Belmont welcomes weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, family reunions, corporate retreats, and other private events from mid-April through October, with select indoor events available year-round. Renters contract their own caterers, planners, and vendors from the venue's pre-approved list, with event hours available between 11 a.m. and midnight.

• Spaces for 225 Guests