Unique Venues Planner's Choice 2022 Award Winners

AWARDS 2022

This Unique Venues Planner’s Choice Award publication is interactive, which means when you click on the venue’s name, you will be redirected to their Unique Venues profile where you can learn more and submit an RFP.

AWARDS

Another award season is upon us at Unique  Venues and we are thrilled to announce the 2022 venue winners! In years past, we’d promote the unique spaces that embody the Best Of attributes in a variety of winning categories . This year, however, we’ve rebranded our annual venue awards, which we are now proudly calling the Planner’s Choice Awards . The new award names are to honor the people who vote for the winning venues, and that is you, our planners!

Our network of planners relies on us to offer unique and one-of-a-kind options to host a variety of event types . We proudly list over 1,000 unique sites on UniqueVenues .com, with a new website experience launching January 10, 2023. Our venue-finding services are always complimentary, and we make it our mission to connect unique people with unique spaces .

And while all of the venues that we promote at Unique Venues are unique in their own right, there are 15 venues that are so unique and exceptional that thousands of planners across the U .S . and Canada voted to determine that they were the Planner’s Choice winning venues .

AWARDS

So, without further ado, we are excited to announce the 2022 Planner’s Choice Award winners . From historic to modern, charming to innovative, and everything in between, you are guaranteed a unique setting and exceptional experience when you book one of these award-winning venues .

Cheers and congratulations to our Planner’s Choice Award winners, and cheers to you – may you always meet to your own drum .

BOSTON UNIVERSITY

Boston, MA - Boston University is a private research university located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts. Home to over 35,000 students and 10,000 employees, BU is a Princeton Review and Sierra Club recognized institution which values sustainability and is working to address climate change through all levels of the university.

The BU Events & Conferences team is part of the university’s campus-wide commitment to meet the BU Climate Action Plan to achieve Net Zero Direct Emissions by 2040 and reduce energy demand 31% by 2032. The campus is transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric and matches 100% of its electricity demand with renewable energy. BU’s planning team will help to ensure any event is a little more “green” with options such as reducing paper waste and replacing printed materials with QR codes, helping to make meaningful choices about the giveaways offered, and plant-based catering options to

offset the event’s carbon footprint and impress guests.

With a wide variety of spaces to use, Boston University is an incredible campus to host a conference, meeting, or convention. One of the campus’ most recognized and dignified buildings, the Dahod Family Alumni Center at The Castle is available for intimate banquet-style events, parties, and weddings. Looking for a space to accommodate a larger event? Try The George Sherman Union that serves as the student center, as well as BU’s premier events facility for large conferences, banquet dinners, and award ceremonies. With over 12,000 square feet in Metcalf Hall, BU’s event facility will surely offer all the space needed for a large event or gathering.

Learn more about Boston University’s Earth-friendly initiatives and hosting an Earth-friendly event at this beautiful and forward-thinking campus!

EXPOS & TRADE SHOWS

UNIVERSITY OF MAINE

Orono, ME - This year, large and in-person gatherings are highly anticipated, and trade show attendance is a budgeted line item once again. With excitement, we are eager to announce the Planner’s Choice for Expos & Trade Shows winner, University of Maine!

This premier university in Orono, ME offers eight venues to choose from and a multitude of spaces to host a variety of event types during the academic year, and up to 125 spaces available during the summer months. This New England campus is perfectly situated geographically to attract U.S. and Canadian planners, and the ability to host large-scale expos and trade shows is highly beneficial.

The variety of spaces to use is vast, but there are two spaces in particular that are ideal to suit the needs and space needed for expos and trade shows on campus: Wells Conference Center and Alfond Arena.

The Wells Conference Center, a LEED Silver-certified venue, offers a full-service event experience. The 10,000 square foot space can host up to 420 people and offers a one-stop shop planning and event experience to make it easy for planners to run a successful show or expo.

Another great space for expos and trade shows is Alfond Arena and is ideal for the largest events on campus, with indoor arena space for up to 6,000 attendees. The conference services staff can help transform the space from a competitive hockey arena to a large-scale expo hall with flawless execution.

While flexible space is a big factor in a successful expo or trade show, the University of Maine offers a plethora of amenities to enhance any event. Their helpful staff can assist with food selection, registration and transportation services, event signage and more! Planners can rest assured knowing their expo or trade show is in good hands at the University of Maine!

GALENA COUNTRY TOURISM

Galena, IL - Tucked into the northwest corner of Illinois, Galena Country features a unique blend of unmatched natural beauty and historic architecture. Fitting that it won this year’s Planner’s Choice Award for Filming, Galena’s downtown Main Street looks like a scene directly from a movie screen. Home to over 125 independently owned small businesses, Main Street has everything you can think of, and is overflowing with charming details. Find countless delicious restaurants, craft breweries and distilleries, as well as gift shops, art galleries, and boutiques, just to name a few!

The area has maintained much of its charm and history from the days when President Grant walked its streets. In fact, many film crews and producers seek out this area for this very reason. These days, experiences like brewery tours, spoon carving workshops, candle making classes, flower farm tours, hot air balloon rides, and even goat yoga are popular in this quaint region.

There are also plentiful outdoor activities to try, like snowshoeing through the mountain trails, apple picking at various local orchards, or visiting one of the several natural park areas to take in the beautiful scenery. Hit the links at one of the beautiful golf courses, and afterwards, kick back and relax at one of the region’s many serene spas.

Comprised of eleven unique towns and cities, Galena Country provides the perfect mix of history, adventure, and fun for everyone. Stay at one of the numerous hotels or locally-owned bed and breakfasts to continue the adventure. Whether visiting once, or going back again and again, there is always something new to experience! From the welcoming culture to the incredible views, it is no wonder so many people think this destination is (motion) picture-perfect. There is certainly something for everyone to discover after the director yells, “that’s a wrap!” for the day.

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES MUSEUM

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Meetings & Conferences

Washington, D.C. - Designed by architect John Russell Pope, The National Archives Museum is home to the Charters of Freedom and so much more from the United States’ rich history. Located on Pennsylvania Avenue halfway between the White House and the U.S. Capitol, the museum has a powerful team of event planners, local D.C. vendors, and fine architectural elements that elevate every event held in this highly-revered venue. The unique space flaunts sky high columns, one of the largest bronze gates in the world, gold details throughout, timeless marble flooring, impeccable acoustics, and at every turn, intriguing characteristics etched into its historic corridors making it an excellent place to host formal affairs.

The National Archives Museum’s event spaces – the Rotunda Galleries, Archivist’s Reception Room, Visitor Orientation Plaza, William G. McGowan Theater, and Presidential Conference Center are ideal for a wide

variety of events ranging from elegant receptions and gala dinners to board meetings, lectures, film screenings, and corporate gatherings.

Interestingly, the Museum’s annual gala has been known to gather some of the most influential historians, government officials and artists of our generation to celebrate the continued success of their mission to increase public awareness of the National Archives, inspire a deeper appreciation for American heritage, and encourage citizen engagement in U.S. democracy.

Holding an event at The National Archives Museum offers an exclusive look at the genesis of the United States through the lens of truth and enduring historical relevance. An unforgettable experience awaits guests at this memorable, meaningful, and uniquely powerful space. Throw on some fancy attire and suit up for this one-of-a-kind venue perfect for formal affairs!

HIGH-TECH VENUE

THE CONFERENCE CENTER AT MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY

Montclair, NJ - At the center of almost every event is technology. Planners that are booking meetings require the most state-of-the-art technologies available for their clients to present with confidence and ease. This year, our award winner for High-Tech Venue is the highly sought-after Conference Center at Montclair State University in Montclair, NJ.

The Conference Center at Montclair State University has numerous qualities that make it a popular venue amongst planners, like its close proximity to New York City and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. It boasts 6,300 square feet of flexible space on the 7th floor of University Hall, convenient on-site lodging during the summer months, and catering menus sure to appease any appetite. And as if those features aren’t impressive enough, the over one million dollar upgrade in technology will stop you in your tracks.

This recent tech upgrade includes state-of-the-art enhancements that improve the guest experience with ease and innovation. Now, at the touch of a button, projectors and screens drop from the ceiling providing unobstructed views, and audio and lighting technologies can be controlled effortlessly from a remote.

The Conference Center also invested in multiple camera installations throughout the space allowing for mobile, tilt, and zoom features, capturing every angle of the room – from speakers to audience members - and hybrid integration that allows for cyber attendance as well. As a bonus, The Conference Center’s audio/ visual technicians will be on site to handle and run the technology for every event, ensuring a seamless experience every time! With a long list of upgraded features, planners will not want to miss the opportunity to book events at this technologically-advanced conference center.

HILL CENTER AT THE OLD NAVAL HOSPITAL

Washington, D.C. - At Unique Venues, we believe that at the core of being unique is an inherent inclusivity, so having a Planner’s Choice Award category that promotes Inclusive Meetings & Events is important to our mission and company culture.

The Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital embodies the values and importance of providing a safe space to host inclusive meetings and events, and planners agree! In fact, the mission statement at this nonprofit organization that is operated by the Old Naval Hospital Federation reads in part, “Hill Center aims to broaden the horizons of all who enter by providing high-quality arts, education and cultural programs and other opportunities to engage more fully in the life of our city. With partner organizations and also on our own, we offer classes and courses for people of all ages and backgrounds, along with space for meetings, lectures, performances, gallery exhibitions and other events.” At this inclusive space, planners can host a variety

of meetings and events with the knowledge that the community within the venue is hospitable at its core. Some past events hosted at the Hill Center include art exhibits that support local artists, cooking classes that highlight the various cultures around the world, familyoriented outings, art workshops that emphasize the different mediums of art and its impact, concerts that feature music and dances from cultures around the globe, classes dedicated to learning new languages, and guest appearances from scholars, writers, and creatives who are truly making a difference in the community.

The staff at the Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital knows the value of community influence by providing a safe and welcoming environment for all. From celebrations, parties, weddings, conferences, workshops, and more, guests can rest easy knowing they are welcome just as they are when they walk through the doors.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY

Chicago, IL - When planning a gathering with hundreds of attendees like a conference, corporate retreat, trade show, expo, or concert, selecting a venue is equally as important as selecting the destination. For such substantial events, a large market is ideal for guests planning travel and overnight accommodations due to its ease of access from most anywhere. Large-market destinations include major cities with a population of greater than two million people – so the Planner’s Choice for Large-Market Venue is a prestigious award!

Chicago, Illinois is a magnificent large-market destination – it offers something for everyone with world-class shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment, but it’s the museums that really stand out. One museum in particular has planner’s attention and we couldn’t agree more! The Museum of Science and Industry in south Chicago is one of the largest museums in the world, one with a distinguished history, and according

to their website, focuses on the future of science and science education.

A highly sought-after venue just steps away from Lake Michigan, the Museum of Science and Industry will impress, educate, and intrigue any event attendee. Planners choose to book the Museum for a variety of events when selecting Chicago as the destination of choice. MSI offers 35,000 artifacts and close to 14 acres of hands-on experiences, plus the amazing staff at MSI is ready to assist with incorporating exhibits into any event that will educate and amaze guests.

For a truly unique experience, guests have the opportunity to dine under a WWII German submarine, stand inside a 40-foot tornado, and mingle under an aircraft when attending an event at this spectacular museum. Look no further than the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Illinois - its unforgettable!

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY

Nashville, TN - Discover the perfect place to host an amazing event in Music City - the historic and beautiful Vanderbilt University! Located in a national arboretum, this picturesque campus is a great spot to throw a wedding, professional conference, adult or corporate social event, and more!

Nashville offers everything a large-market city would but on a slightly smaller scale. It’s convenient to get to by road or plane, has endless entertainment options, offers scenic places to explore, but most of all, is home to the Mid-Market venue award winner, Vanderbilt University.

Who doesn’t love live music? Guests will be so jazzed to visit this city that has live performances in just about every bar and restaurant! Vanderbilt is steps away from downtown Nashville, so its an easy commute to check out iconic Broadway Street and all its musical, cultural, and culinary offerings.

There are over 100 on-site locations at Vanderbilt to host a social, professional, or youth gathering. From state-of-the-art classroom-style rooms to host corporate events and conferences, to ballrooms for a large gala or wedding reception, this university has it all, and then some!

Up to 800 attendees can stay in Vanderbilt’s overnight accommodations, which range from single and double bed residence halls to suites and apartment-style housing. The university offers shuttle services, easy access to public transport, online registration services, and other easy-access amenities that make this midmarket award-winning venue so appealing.

The Office of Conferences at Vanderbilt can help execute and facilitate any event-planning needs from start to finish - ensuring every event is a success!

PRESIDENT LINCOLN’S COTTAGE

Washington, D.C. - President Lincoln’s Cottage is a world of its own - a peaceful retreat tucked away in the heart of Washington, D.C. The historic venue offers guests the opportunity to go back in time to when Lincoln drafted the Emancipation Proclamation and made other nation-changing decisions from this very place. It was a refuge for him during his presidency and allowed for more tranquil time away from the White House during a pivotal time in American history.

Originally built in 1842 and opened in 2008 as a museum for the public after an eight-year restoration project, the Cottage is home to event and meeting spaces for up to 750 people, in five available indoor spaces and three beautiful outdoor areas that can be tented and utilized for weddings and social gatherings for up to 1,500 guests. The venue sits on top of 250 acres of verdant outdoor space that is ever-changing and ever-blooming with each new season.

The site provides several outdoor options with three scenic lawns including the sprawling South Lawn which is one of the largest outdoor spaces of any venue in D.C. The lawn areas are what guests find most attractive - spacious and green, lush and full of historic views, these backdrops are the perfect place to host an adult social event, wedding, corporate field day, or seasonal gala.

Countless couples have tied the knot on the lawn in front of President Lincoln’s Cottage throughout the years, and the venue’s on site staff will help plan and execute every last detail. Choose from numerous wedding packages that utilize the outdoor areas for cocktail hours, ceremonies, and receptions. House a live band in the bandstand, and let guests peruse the museum inside between ceremony and reception. Join the many visitors who fall in love with this historic venue offering gorgeous outdoor event space.

CARNEGIE HALL

New York City, NY - Elegance, style, memorable…all words used to describe the timeless Carnegie Hall in New York, New York. The Big Apple is home to some of the most well-known and world-class theaters and performance halls in the world, but only few can pull off what it takes to host the most unforgettable events successfully.

A long and impressive list of artists to play their craft at Carnegie Hall include Tchaikovsky, Mahler, Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, and The Beatles, to name a few. With such an impressive list of world-renowned musical talent, it is no wonder Carnegie Hall attracts so many planners and organizations who want to book special events like corporate dinners, private celebrations, conferences, and nonprofit galas here. Carnegie Hall even hosts the most elegant and spectacular weddings, but it’s the Performance Halls that really draw a crowd.

With three exceptional stages, planners and organizations can rent these classic stages for screenings, benefits, galas, and presentations. Rich in texture and design, all three performance halls are suitable for the grandest of performances – timeless in beauty, but modern in acoustics. The largest auditorium holds up to 2,800 guests and a jewel box theater is ideal for intimate performances with a capacity of 268.

The sophistication carries over from performance to presentation of cuisine when Constellation Culinary, the exclusive catering partner of Carnegie Hall, creates artful menus to complement the sounds and sights of the evening.

When searching for a unique space to host performances, planners know that New York City’s Carnegie Hall is the go-to destination for elegance and sophistication.

VIRGINIA TECH EXECUTIVE BRIEFING CENTER

Arlington, VA - When hosting professional events, planners are searching for a venue that not only satisfies their technical needs, but one that also provides a polished aesthetic and welcoming environment to sustain attendees’ engagement. This year’s Planner’s Choice for Professional Meetings & Conferences provides all of that, and more!

Virginia Tech Executive Briefing Center offers stateof-the-art technology and beautifully elegant meeting rooms specifically designed to accommodate executive seminars, training programs, and conferences while ensuring the utmost comfort to those in attendance. A top-notch venue in Arlington, VA for professional gatherings, the EBC offers modern amenities with the most leading-edge and dynamic visualization and collaboration technology, allowing clients the opportunity to present, lead, and meet with full confidence.

The conference center includes two tiered classrooms for trainings ranging from 20-60 attendees that provide comfortable seating in executive chairs and offer easy access to electrical receptacles. Alternatively, a multipurpose room with flexible layouts serves as an ideal location for evening receptions for 15-50 guests and meetings that include catering.

The Continuing and Professional Education team can further enhance training and conferencing needs. From online registration and certification of CEUs, to on site support for registration and catering coordination –the EBC is proud to be a one-stop shop venue. In fact, the Executive Briefing Center’s staff proudly carries out the university motto – Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) – ensuring a professional experience and delivering extraordinary customer service and personalized attention to each and every guest who walks through their doors.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

Springfield, IL - If you are looking for a location just outside a major metro market to host your next meeting or event, look no further than Springfield, Illinois, situated outside of St. Louis, MO and within a short drive to Chicago, IL. Centrally located in the state and easy to access, Springfield is famous for being the home of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. With historic sites dotted throughout the city, Springfield is a major tourist destination. And, as you can imagine, offers a variety of attractions that honor the late president.

One such attraction, that is perfect for hosting meetings and events, is the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the 2022 Planner’s Choice for SmallMarket Venue. The ALPLM combines scholarship and showmanship to tell Lincoln’s great American story. Seven venues are available on site to rent for daytime or evening events and can accommodate 8-200 guests.

The ALPLM offers unique experiences that will enhance any event, like dinners, receptions, awards banquets, or weddings. These unique experiences are shared with guests through immersive museum exhibit areas, two special effects theaters, and a rotating special exhibit gallery.

The professional event planning team at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated, knowledgeable, and determined to make any meeting or event a success. The ALPLM team can recommend the best options and experiences to make events truly shine, and they can provide fun ideas for guests take advantage of for when the event is over, too.

Small markets are great options for planners when researching where to host their next large or small professional or social event and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is at the top of our list!

Photo Credit: DMS Photography

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events

Meetings & Conferences Wedding Receptions

VENUE WITH A SCENIC BACKDROP GETTYSBURG COLLEGE

Gettysburg, PA - In search of a venue that offers a scenic backdrop to complement an upcoming meeting or event? Head to south central Pennsylvania where the hills are rolling and the Appalachian Mountains provide some of the best scenery on the East Coast. In Gettysburg, PA, visitors will find historic sites from the turning point of the Civil War; and while history plays an integral role in the community, Gettysburg College plays into location for its venue offerings.

The college is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains among orchards, beautiful farmland, rolling hills, and gorgeous scenery through all seasons, making this campus an idyllic venue for outdoor gatherings. Location is everything, and Adams County, where Gettysburg is located, is the home to a variety of activities for when the meeting or event is over. Adams County offers award-winning attractions and unique wineries, breweries, eateries, outdoor recreation such

as hiking, biking, and horseback riding, entertainment, and dare we say, paranormal activities? All of these experiences and more can be built into any event booked at Gettysburg College.

The beautiful campus can accommodate groups large and small, and with easy access and close proximity to Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Baltimore, planners and guests can take advantage of the scenic offerings of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Gettysburg College is a picture-perfect venue with a 5-star Conference Services team that is ready to assist in planning any gathering. The team has the dedication and knowledge to give recommendations that can help guests enjoy the scenic surroundings. Come to Gettysburg, with charming and scenic surroundings, guests will feel welcome when they come to Pennsylvania!

THE UNITED STATES NATIONAL ARBORETUM

Washington, D.C. - Planning a wedding can be exhilarating and booking a venue can be simple if couples know where to look. Look no further because the Unique Venues network of planners voted that The United States National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. is the venue to book for weddings.

This 446-acre U.S. Department of Agriculture research facility also offers the largest outdoor event space for private events in the U.S. nation’s capital. It’s home to popular collections like the Bonsai Museum, the National Grove of State Trees, and the National Herb Garden, too. This living museum is a popular pick for couples and wedding planners looking for a unique outdoor space. Because this facility is a federal property, a permit is required to tie the knot here, but not to worry - securing a permit is easy. The wedding planning staff through the Arboretum partner, MTG Hospitality, makes it their mission to help execute wedding details

meticulously and will help every step of the way.

Couples love the options available at this outdoor venue, but one area on the property in particular gets a lot of attention. The National Columns display is a picturesque backdrop for any wedding, and it is a popular choice for couples and wedding photographers alike. The National Columns provide a touch of elegance and drama to any vow exchange. And because there are 446 acres of land, the staff at MTG Hospitality can recommend alternative backdrops to complement any wedding theme. From lush flowering gardens to expansive grounds – any backdrop to say, ‘I do’ in front of is a stunner.

Washington’s Secret Garden awaits to book special occasions or weddings on this impressive and sprawling arboretum. Everyone will be enchanted and delighted from the moment they step foot on this gorgeous property.

Corporate Social Events Weddings & Receptions

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK

College Park, MD - Youth-friendly is one of the many ways to describe the University of Maryland, College Park. With more than 8,000 beds on campus, plus two dining halls and an iron-clad, two-layer security program, planners of youth and sports groups can rest easy bringing their young clients to this sprawling 1,800-acre suburban venue. Featuring 1,200 acres of park-like grounds on a campus just nine short miles from Washington, D.C., this university truly has it all when it comes to hosting youth retreats and camps.

Each summer, athletic camps that are run by Maryland’s Big Ten Conference coaches combine with college immersion, special studies, and STEAM programs to stimulate young minds. The Ropes Challenge Course, Rock Climbing Wall, homemade ice cream, and TerpZone facility are also must-do add-ons for any youth program.

The University of Maryland, College Park can also provide in-house motor coach charters that make ground transportation to nearby Annapolis, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. a breeze for additional educational components. Served by three international airports, the campus is a conveniently located venue that is easy to reach if any air travel is required to get there!

Aside from the youth programs the campus hosts, it is also home to 100 spaces to hold other events including numerous rooms within the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center, Ritchie Coliseum, Reckord Armory, the Student Union, and the William L. Thomas, Jr. Banquet Pavilion. Dedicated members of the Conferences & Visitor Services team at UMCP will ensure any event is an absolute success by assisting with the logistical demands of planning and hosting. They do it all and help to find the perfect space for every gathering!

RUNNER UP VENUES

Congratulations to the venues who were voted as Runners Up in the 2022 Planner’s Choice Awards .

Earth-Friendly Venue

Shift Workspaces (Littleton)

South San Francisco Conference Center

Expos & Trade Shows

MetLife Stadium

The Ranch Events Complex

Filming

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall

Formal Affairs

3 West Club

Maison Principale

High-Tech Venue

Rhythms Event Center

Wojcik Conference Center at Harper College

Inclusive Meetings & Events

Southern New Hampshire University

The Beacon Center

Large-Market Venue

Conferences @ Johns Hopkins University

The New-York Historical Society

Mid-Market Venue

Drive Shack Richmond

The Deacon

Outdoor Event Space

The Mountain Winery

Topgolf Centennial (Denver)

Performances

Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar

Orchestra Hall

Professional Meetings & Conferences

Conference Centre on 11

Yale University

Venue with a Scenic Backdrop

Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina

Small-Market Venue

Rutgers University Inn & Conference Center

The Vines Center

Weddings

Cedar Creek

McNamara Alumni Center, University of Minnesota

Youth Retreats & Camps

The University of Tennessee

University of Maryland, Baltimore County