WRITER | PAM TOIGO
Summer in Michigan is high season in the party world. If you’re thinking of hosting a gathering this year and are looking for new and interesting ideas, take a look at the following list of six unique party venues and where you can find them in Michigan. Party on!
Art Gallery
If art is your vibe, check out the Ann Arbor Art Center. Located in the historic Walker Building in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, the Ann Arbor Art Center is an interesting venue for intimate gatherings to mid-size celebrations. Surrounded by art, the Center offers two unique spaces: the gallery space features eight art exhibitions annually that showcase both local and national artists, adding to the excitement of your event. Or, for a more laid-back venue, the studio space provides a “New York Loft” vibe of exposed brick walls, wood floors, and high ceilings. Either choice is sure to provide the perfect backdrop for a classy gig.
Music Theatre
You don’t have to be a music lover to appreciate this venue. The Royal Oak Music Theatre in downtown Royal Oak is guaranteed to wow. Built in 1928, the theatre marries true art deco architecture with state-of-the-art sound and lighting to create an atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on guests. Depending on the size of your event, you can rent the full theatre, the lobby only, or the balcony only. The theatre also offers the option of hourly services such as bartenders, servers, or an event coordinator.
Rooftop
To enjoy fresh air, amazing views, and the epitome of high-class summer entertaining, head to Southwest Michigan and check out Kalamazoo’s Loft 310. An entire building dedicated to hosting parties under the tagline, “we are anti-banquet and all clean slate.” Offering several different venue options, Loft 310’s sky deck is a guaranteed wow and most definitely worth checking out.
Vineyard
How lucky are we, as Michiganders, to have wineries right here in our own state? Take advantage of their quaint beauty by checking out Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay. Their 160-acre winery estate on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula offers many unique indoor and outdoor venues for your special event. All are located within close proximity, making for an easy transition in the event of inclement weather – always a Michigan possibility.
Sports Venue
Michigan has no shortage of great sports venues, most of which have areas that are rentable for private events. Grand Rapids is home to the Fifth Third Ballpark, a minor league baseball stadium that is clean, easy to get to, and a whole lot of fun. For smaller crowds, tie your event in with a baseball game and rent a suite; for a larger gathering, check out their Pepsi Stadium Club.
Ranch/Barn
For a more active and outdoorsy feel, take a look at the Double J Ranch and Resort in Rothbury, just 25 minutes north of Muskegon. A good choice for larger gatherings or an event in which overnight accommodations are needed, Double J offers four party rooms, from the white tablecloth formal to the old ranch rustic casual. The venues accommodate anywhere from 60 to 250 guests and book up fast.
Nature Preserve
New to Michigan for the summer of 2018, Nature Michigan Retreat can’t be beat as an outdoor party venue or retreat. Located in the heart of Leelanau County on 78 acres of private woods, Nature Michigan Retreat offers a choice of high-class party tent venues or space in the event building they call “The Great Nest.” Want to spend the night? Try one of their “glamping” tents opening this summer and camp under the stars in a luxury tent with all the amenities. You may never want to return home!
There really is no end to the options available for events; many places will rent space if you just ask.
