DC Venues

Best-selling author Dan Brown, who penned novels Angels & Demons and The DaVinci Code, explores the symbology and iconology of Washington, DC in his latest thriller The Lost Symbol. For visitors who want to experience the action in real life, Destination DC has made it easy to visit the landmarks and locations featured in the novel. Visit Experience DC: The Lost Symbol to learn more about exhibitions and events in DC relevant to the book, such as the National Museum of Women in the Arts' exhibit on "Telling Secrets: Codes, Captions and Conundrums in Contemporary Art." You can also view an interactive map of some of the top
attractions for your Dan Brown-inspired visit.

Washington, DC event planners can get in on the fun as well, as a number of these attractions also serve as great event venues. Check out a few of the following DC meeting spaces for a Lost Symbol-inspired event:

International Spy Museum

From George Washington's secret life as a spy to the Enigma code-cracking machine, the International Spy Museum immerses guests in the undercover world of espionage. In addition to taking advantage of this Washington, DC special event facility after-hours for groups of up to 300 people, meeting planners can also enjoy a number of the museum's unique packages. Three different scavenger hunts, for example, challenges attendees armed with a top secret bag of tricks to work through coded messages and tough questions as they navigate the museum. The exclusive Speaker Series offers a variety of former intelligence offers willing to share their expertise and experience with your event guests.

George Washington Masonic National Memorial

Towering over Old Town Alexandria just outside of DC, the memorial showcases both Freemasonry and George Washington himself, who joined the Masonic Lodge in Fredericksburg at the age of 20. Interesting artifacts on display include Washington's family Bible and even a lock of his hair. The memorial also offers over five DC event venues, including the grand hall for up to 250 people and the impressive Memorial Hall, which sets the stage with a 17-foot bronze statue of Washington, eight granite Corinthian columns, two large murals and six stained glass windows.

Library of Congress

Home to many of the nation's secrets, it's not surprising that the Library of Congress is often featured in thrillers such as Brown's The Lost Symbol. It was also featured in the action-thriller film National Treasure: Book of Secrets. Planners can take advantage of the air of mystery around this seemingly low-key but unique Washington, DC venue at one of its five room options, which include the Italian Renaissance-style Great Hall, a great DC banquet space for up to 1,200 guests.

The Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center near Washington DC is the largest hotel and convention center on the Eastern Seaboard. It has over 470,000 square feet of flexible meeting room space including a 180,000 square foot exhibition hall. Located on the National Harbor, this DC luxury hotel has stunning views of the Potomac River and an incredible 18-story glass atrium.

One of the many luxuries that the Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center offers is a “Hotel within a Hotel” program. The program is perfect for all your events in Washington DC because it provides exclusive meeting environments for executive meetings. Guests of executive meetings can stay in the National Bay, which is a collection of 300 upgraded guest rooms with direct elevator access from guestrooms to dedicated meeting space. There is also a dedicated Meeting Manager assigned to each executive meeting to cover all aspects of the planning process. 65,000 square feet of outdoor event space, including a full-service pier and marina.

View more information about the Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center on the Cvent Supplier Network.

Fall is here, and so is the chillier fall weather. In many cities across the country, events will need to be moved indoors, but that doesn't mean you have to completely shut out the light.

Take the Sunset Room at National Harbor. This event venue near Washington, DC features a dramatic backdrop of the Potomac River and Wilson Bridge thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows—perfect for DC wedding receptions or cocktail parties at sunset.

The Sunset Room at National Harbor is an ideal Washington, DC banquet space for up to 400 guests. It can accommodate up to 600 guests in a cocktail arrangement. The space can also be broken down into the 3,173-square-foot Plaza View and 4,925-square-foot Harbor View areas, hosting up to 200 or 450 guests, respectively.

This DC event venue offers on-site DC catering options from CakeLove, Public House, Rosa Mexicano and more. Accommodations at National Harbor are available at five on-site hotels.

Last week in the nation's capital, non-profit group Fresh Farm Markets received approval to open a farmers' market in downtown DC. On Thursdays from September 17 through October 29, Vermont Avenue Northwest between H and I Streets will close to traffic to make room for vendors to sell fresh food from area farmers, an idea that's been backed by President Obama and the First Lady themselves.

Farmers' markets like the new one in DC are making it easier for people to eat close to home. This so-called "locavore" dining is growing in popularity. After all, it means that the food is fresher, having basically been purchased right after picking, and it's more eco-friendly—food doesn't need to be transported long distances nor heavily packaged.

Not only home cooks can take advantage of the locavore dining movement. Restaurants are getting on the bandwagon as well, which means that even when your business guests are on the road, you can treat them to fresh, healthy fare at your events.

Restaurant Nora
 
Committed to sustainable agriculture, Washington, DC restaurant Nora became America's first certified organic restaurant in 1999. From grass-fed beef to handmade goat cheeses to freshly-picked wild mushrooms, Nora uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft cuisine that is anything but bland. Menu options have included crispy Amish duck breast with maple sherry vinegar jus and grass-fed grilled rib eye steak with macaroni and cheese gratin.

Restaurant Nora offers four DC private event facilities. From dinner for 10 people in its cozy Parlor Room to receptions of up to 50 people in its Gallery Room, Nora's versatile spaces welcome events of all sizes. The restaurant is also a great DC banquet room for lunch events, for which the entire venue can be rented exclusively.

North Pond

Located in Lincoln Park, this Arts and Crafts-style Chicago restaurant features great views of the Chicago skyline and expertly-crafted cuisine. Chef Sherman supports local farmers with his purchases, selecting ingredients at the height of their seasons. Menu examples include smoked pork tenderloin with roasted black figs and charred pimentos and grass-fed grilled New York strip steak with warm purple and gold cauliflower.

With its floor-to-ceiling glass doors and attentive staff, North Pond is a great spot for Chicago wedding receptions, corporate dinners, association luncheons and more. This spacious Chicago event banquet facility can accommodate up to 110 guests.

Greens

This San Francisco restaurant has proved that vegetarian cuisine is more than deserving of a place among fine dining establishments. The restaurant sources much of its organic produce from the Green Gulch Farm, located 14 miles away, in order to craft menu selections such as wild mushroom ravioli with chanterelle mushrooms, roasted potato pesto pizza with smoked mozzarella and fontina cheeses, and ricotta corn cakes served with fresh salsa and pumpkin seed cilantro pesto.

An elegant San Francisco banquet facility, Greens has 20 years of experience hosting weddings, ceremonies, non-profit events, business gatherings, etc. The main dining room, whose windows face the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marina, can seat up to 135 guests and accommodate up to 200 guests for standing receptions. The private dining room is a more intimate San Francisco special event facility, offering seating for up to 50 guests.

If you are looking for a unique and eclectic special event facility in our nation’s capitol, then the Mansion on O is your place. Located in historic Dupont Circle, the Mansion on O is a great Washington DC event space that features state-of-the-art meeting facilities with artistic flair.

As a private club, luxury hotel, conference center, and museum, the Mansion on O has a total of over 100 rooms, including seven dining rooms, 12 meeting rooms, 23 guest rooms, and 32 secret doors. Yes, I said secret doors.

All the walls of the mansion are adorned with unique pieces of art, and it is evident that the Mansion on O is a different kind of meeting space, but perfect for a variety of events in DC. The size of the meeting rooms range from the Grand Ballroom that seats over 100 people to the Candlelit Dining Room that seats 30.

By choosing the Mansion on O as your event venue, your event is sure to be unforgettable. That is, of course, if your guests don’t get lost behind the secret doors!

View more information about the Mansion on O on the Cvent Supplier Network. 

 

 

Summer is in full swing, and that means so are many baseball bats across the country. To me, nothing says summer like a day the stands, watching your favorite team and listening to one more round of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame."

You can bring the excitement of this great American pastime to your event attendees by hosting a party or reception at one of the many baseball parks across the country. Here are a few popular parks that will certainly make for a home run event:

Oriole Park at Camden Yards

This beautiful Baltimore baseball facility opened in 1992. Within walking distance of the city's Inner Harbor and just two blocks from the birthplace of Babe Ruth, the 48,876-seat stadium  uses steel, an arched brick facade, asymmetrical playing field, and natural grass turf to channel the great ballparks built in the early 1900s.

Several suites are available for game day events. Planners can also host events on non-game days, taking advantage of venues such as the Camden Club, Pastimes Cafe, and Camden Yards Banquet Room for receptions as large as 2,500 people or outdoor parties of up to 5,000 people.

Busch Stadium

The new retro-style Busch Stadium opened with a bang in 1992 when the St. Louis Cardinals home team beat the visiting Milwaukee Brewers. In addition to Cardinals games, the stadium is also serving as host to the 80th MLB All-Star Game.

Busch Stadium's versatile venues can accommodate events as small as 10 people or as large as 45,000 guests. Unique settings include the Casino Queen Party Porch for up to 400 people; the Busch Stadium Conference Center for up to 100 guests; and Ford Plaza for up to 2,500 guests. The ballpark also offers unique packages to make events even more memorable, including a Fantasy Batting Practice and Dinner at Home Plate.

Nationals Stadium

The Nationals might not have as stellar of a track record as other teams in the MLB, but what they lack in wins they certainly make up for in the stadium they call home. The magnificent Nationals Stadium, located at the Capitol Riverfront in Washington, DC, features a stunning steel, glass, and concrete design intended to reflect the architecture of DC. A cutting edge experience, the ballpark's technological features include a 4,500-square-foot high-def scoreboard and over 600 linear feet of LED ribbon board along the inner bowl.

The Nationals' Conference Center, located on the South Capitol Street side of the park, features one large room and four breakout rooms. The main room of this Washington, DC venue holds 300 people, while each of the side rooms can accommodate 50 people.

Located on Pennsylvania Avenue, the luxurious JW Marriott Hotel in Washington, DC has unveiled a $40 million renovation. Celebrating 25 years, the hotel saw upgrades to all 772 guest rooms, suites, meeting space and atrium lobby.

"We’re very excited about the new look and feel of our guestroom, suites and lobby," said Scott Nadeau, general manager, JW Marriott Hotel Washington, DC, in a statement. "We know our guests want authentically crafted comfort, purposeful luxury and style, but they also want a space they can tailor to their needs, whether it’s working, relaxing, or dining.  We have delivered that and more."

Guest rooms at the JW Marriott now feature a clean, sophisticated look complete with plush bedding, 37-inch high-def LG plasma screen televisions, and a plug-in technology panel that allows guests to multitask their media usage. The atrium lobby, boasting a new look of red, gold, and platinum tones, cherry wood paneling and leather-wrapped columns, welcomes guests with semi-private seating areas and wi-fi access.

The hotel offers more than 37,000 square feet of DC meeting space, including the 14,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom and 22 meeting rooms. Also on-site is are Washington, DC restaurants Avenue Grill and Bar 1331.

View more information about the JW Marriott Washington, DC on the Cvent Supplier Network

The White House is getting a new neighbor today with the opening of the W Washington, DC hotel. Formerly Hotel Washington, this new property opens after an 18-month, $100 million renovation project that has created a distinctly trendy yet classic setting.

Combining the original hotel's Italian Renaissance architecture with modern decor designed by Los Angeles-based Dianna Wong Architecture & Interior Design, the hotel's interior—from its ground-floor lobby to guest rooms—is nothing short of stunning.

The grand Living Room features vast archways, ornate chandeliers and sleek red and black furniture. The 285 guest rooms and 32 suites are spacious and airy, and streamlined in their predominantly black and white color scheme (though the 10th-floor, 900-square-foot E-Wow suite pops with a purple semi-circle couch).

Meant to be much more than just a place to stay and sleep, the W Washington, DC is a destination in and of itself. Featuring cuisine created exclusively by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the hotel features J&G Steakhouse, where premium meats and a global selection of fresh fish are savored in a Beaux Arts dining room. Also on-site is the Wine Bar, a cozy DC restaurant where guests can enjoy gourmet cheeses and old and new bottle selections.

Perhaps one of the W's most exciting dining options is the POV Lounge and Roof Terrace. In addition to all-natural, fresh libations, the lounge features 12-foot-tall windows that afford stunning views of the city and major DC attractions, including the White House and the Washington Monument. Before the weather cools, the velvet red banquettes and high-backed wicker furniture of POV's terrace are the place to get an even better view of the nation's capital lit up at night.

Bar goers are not the only ones who can enjoy the W Washington, DC's prime views. Thanks to the hotel's Altitude rooftop ballroom and outdoor terrace, event attendees at the W can, too.

In addition to the nearly 3,000 square feet of meeting space at Altitude, the hotel also features two studios and the Great Room, a modern 6,205-square-foot DC ballroom that evokes Old Hollywood glamour with crystal chandeliers, 15-foot-tall ceilings and gold columns.

View more information about the W Washington, DC on the Cvent Supplier Network

With over 3.1 million square feet, the Ronald Reagan Building and International Center is the largest event venue in Washington, DC.  Constructed based on feedback from meeting and event planners, the building is a prime destination for special events, trade shows, galas, conferences, weddings and more. 

The property features cutting-edge technology and Wi-Fi capabilities throughout the building’s 21 meeting rooms.  The Ronald Reagan Building also has a beautiful, sophisticated decor, and natural light abounds with a large glass ceiling in the 8,100 square foot atrium. 
 
With all it has to offer, it’s no surprise that the Ronald Reagan Building and International Center was honored by Association Meetings Magazine in 2008 for “being one of the best convention centers in the U.S.,” based on a vote by the magazine’s readership (consisting primarily of meeting planners).  As a result, the center is the proud recipient of the Association Meetings’ Inner Circle Award. Additionally, the Potomac Forum recognized the Ronald Reagan Building for excellence in service with its Outstanding Conference Service Award.

View more information on the Ronald Reagan Building and International Center on the Cvent Supplier Network.

Washington, DC was seeing plenty of stars last night—movie stars, that is. Ben Stiller, Amy Adams, Robin Williams and Owen Wilson were among the Hollywood faces mingling with Supreme Court Justice John Roberts and members of Congress at the premiere for Stiller's latest movie "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian."

The premiere was held at the National Air and Space Museum attraction in DC, a fitting locale given the plot of the movie. For those not familiar with this sequel, the plot revolves around a museum security guard who comes to Washington from New York to find his museum friends, a group of animals and exhibits that come to life after-hours.

After the release of the first film, attendance at New York's American Museum of Natural History rose, and it wouldn't be surprising if the same trend followed for the Smithsonian. Lucky for planners, a number of the Smithsonian's museums serve as Washington, DC special event venues, which means you can take advantage of these hot spots to host your very own night at the museum!

National Air and Space Museum

Located on the National Mall, the Air and Space Museum has four primary event sites as well as a 230-seat planetarium and 485-seat IMAX theater. Among its venue options, the Milestones of Flight Gallery can seat up to 400 guests, while the Space Race Exhibit can accommodate receptions of up to 700 people.

National Museum of Natural History

The popular National Museum of Natural History houses over 126 million natural science specimens and cultural artifacts, including those at the recently-opened, one-of-a-kind Sant Ocean Hall. Host a formal dinner among skeletons of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Triceratops at the Dinosaur Hall, or mingle next to the African elephant during a cocktail reception in the grand Rotunda.

National Museum of American History

Recently renovated and re-opened in November 2008, the National Museum of American History is a stunning tribute to our great nation, featuring attractions such as George Washington's uniform, Thomas Jefferson's writing desk, and First Ladies' inaugural gowns. Host a DC event among these treasured items of U.S. history in spaces such as the museum's fifth-floor roof terrace. At its largest, the museum can accommodate receptions for up to 3,500 guests and seated dinners for up to 500 guests.

The Smithsonian Institution's museums follow a special events policy in which organizations that support the museum with a donation may co-sponsor celebratory events in its facilities. Visit each museum's respective website to learn more about its policy.

St. Patrick's Day is only a week away, and in honor of this celebration of all things Irish, we'll be blogging about some of the best Irish restaurants, pubs and bars across the nation for hosting an event. Check out a few of the most popular venues for DC events:

Ireland's Four Fields

Located one block south of Cleveland Park, Ireland's Four Fields is the six-time winner of Best Irish Pub in Washington, DC. In addition to its American and Irish fare, guests enjoy a number of brews and a selection of Irish whiskeys.

The pub can host corporate events of up to 200 people inside, and its outside patio can accommodate 40 guests. Audio-visual equipment makes presentations a breeze.

McFadden's Restaurant and Saloon

Having opened on St. Patrick's Day in 2003, this popular hangout on Pennsylvania Avenue knows a thing or two about the holiday. Guests enjoy Irish favorites such as Shepard's Pie and Irish stew in addition to live music representing a number of genres, from reggae to Top 40.

With seating for over 100 guests and four party rooms, McFadden's is a popular choice for Washington, DC party venue for business events, reunions, receptions and more.

Fado Irish Pub & Restaurant

Don't let its location in Chinatown mislead you—Fado is a true escape to Ireland in the heart of DC. This eatery is the place to watch Irish sporting events, from rugby to Gaelic football; it even sponsors the local DC Gaels sports league.

Events in DC can enjoy a number of meeting spaces at Fado, including the Library, filled with Irish literature and paintings, and the semi-private Victorian, boasting rich dark wood, red accents and comfortable seating.

With all the excitement surrounding our nation's capital, it's no surprise that Washington, DC is becoming a premier destination for meetings and events. What better way to take advantage of all the city has to offer than by hosting an event at a landmark DC attraction, The Washington Plaza Hotel.

Located in the heart of the city, this Washington, DC hotel is just five blocks from the DC convention center and only minutes away from most talked-about museums, happening nightlife and iconic monuments. It is also just four miles from the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Hosting a meeting or event at the Washington Plaza is just as convenient to planners as its location. With 12,000-square feet of column-free space and 12 distinctive meeting rooms, the Plaza can accommodate events of many sizes. Its stately Federal Hall is a great DC banquet facility for up to 500 guests to mingle and dine, while the 400-square-foot Executive Boardroom is great for professional meetings of 12 guests.

A seamless blend of business and pleasure, the Washington Plaza Hotel offers 240 guest rooms in addition its meeting space. The resort-style hotel also boasts wireless, high-speed Internet access in its rooms, a contemporary lounge and bar, and a full-service restaurant.

View more information about The Washington Plaza Hotel or other Washington, DC venues on the Cvent Supplier Network

Though it was a world-class destination before January 20, 2009, there's no doubt that the much-publicized inauguration of President Barack Obama brought a new level of fame to Washington, DC. Consider a few of the statistics released by Destination DC on the Inauguration Day proceedings:

• 1.8 million people celebrating on the National Mall
• 1.544 trips on the Metro public transportation system
• 98 percent hotel occupancy in the District of Columbia on January 19
• 555 gallons of chili served at Ben's Chili Bowl during Inauguration Week

Another interesting stat from the Association of British Travel Agents finds that 21 percent of British travelers ages 18 to 34 are more likely to visit the United States now that Obama has been elected.

Has your desire to host a meeting or event in Washington, DC increased since all the inauguration coverage? Are you planning on booking a DC venue any time soon as a result? Make sure to check out DC meeting stats and more at the Cvent Destination Guide.

After its most extensive renovation since 1968, the historic Ford's Theatre re-opens this February, bringing a new level of excitement to Washington, DC events. Coinciding with the bicentennial of Lincoln's birth, the re-opening of this DC attraction also launches a number of special events and celebrations that commemorate the former president.

The 144-year-old theatre, where Lincoln was assassinated in 1865, was closed in August 2007. Following an 18-month renovation, the theatre has received a number of upgrades: new seats; upgraded sound and lighting systems; improved heating and air conditioning systems; renovated restrooms; enhanced accessibility with elevators to each level; a new lobby; and updated stage capabilities. Also included was the construction of a new "parlor" room that can serve as a DC special event facility.

Ford's Theatre officially re-opens February 11 with a special performance at which filmmaker George Lucas will receive the Lincoln Medal. A series of public programs scheduled February 12 will commemorate Lincoln's 200th birthday. Ford's Theatre will host an all-day open house February 16, and it opens its doors to public tours February 17.

Also part of the re-opening celebration, the theatre will present the world premiere of The Heavens are Hung in Black, a play about Lincoln in 1862. In spring 2009, visitors to Washington, DC can look forward to even more ways to learn about Lincoln when the theatre re-opens its renovated museum.

Events in DC are being taken to a whole new level thanks to the unprecedented excitement over President-elect Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony. Check out some of the most outrageous offerings by hotels in DC that are meant to give guests a presidential experience.

Omni Shoreham Hotel

As a host to presidents, world leaders and inaugural balls, the 834-room Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington DC is a fitting location for taking advantage of its plush "Live Like the President" packages. The 44th Commander-in-Chief Package features a private jet for arrival and departure, a private in-room dinner for four, a personal concierge and chauffeur 24 hours a day, a $44,000 shopping spree from the Lambros Jewelry Inauguration Collection and more. Guests can even work on their foreign policy experience with a five-night gift certificate to Russia's Kempinski Hotel Moika 22 in St. Petersburg.

The Omni Shoreham's second package, the 58th Inauguration Package, features a four-night stay in the one-bedroom Presidential Suite, two first-class airline tickets for arrival and departure, private breakfast served daily and a private in-room dinner, among other perks.

Mandarin Oriental

The Presidential Privilege package at DC's Mandarin Oriental includes a four-night stay at the 3,500-square-foot presidential suite. In addition to floor-to-ceiling windows and two balconies, the suite boasts three rooms, three bathrooms, a grand piano and a 60-inch flat-screen television.

As if the accommodations weren't enough, the package includes a number of unique and impressive amenities. Guests are treated to a private dinner for eight at the hotel's on-site restaurant CityZen plus daily treatments at its spa. Outfits by designer Ralph Lauren will be on hand to wear to the inaugural balls, to which guests are driven in a chauffeured Maserati Quattroporte, stocked with snacks and Champagne.

Hilton Washington

Like many hotel packages at DC venues, the Hilton Washington's package includes posh accommodations in its Presidential Suite, daily breakfast, etc. What really makes its Inaugural Presidential Package stand out, though, is the exclusive, one-of-a-kind VIP tour of its Presidential Holding Facility.

Here, guests get an up-close view of the private quarters that the President, Vice President and First Lady use for one of the over 50 events they attend at the Hilton each year. The room features a rotunda with a marble and granite floor, a sitting room, a powder room and a private elevator.

With the popularity of this year's presidential inauguration, it came at no surprise that hotel rooms were hard to come in Washingon, DC. But did you know there are a wealth of other first-class guest rooms awaiting in the neighboring suburbs of the city? The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Old Town Alexandria is a great year-round alternative to DC's hustle and bustle.

Just two miles from the Reagan Washington National Airport, this hotel is in the heart of the charming historic district of Alexandria. Recently renovated in 2008, Crowne Plaza boasts 253 guest rooms, an on-site restaurant, a rooftop pool, 350 parking spaces and a complimentary shuttle to the airport and Metro stop at Kings Street.

Planners can take advantage of over 10,000 square feet of meeting space spread among six meeting rooms at the hotel. Accommodating anywhere from 20 to 600 people, Crowne Plaza's event facilities boast equipment such as a digital projector, stage lights and modem lines. The hotel also offers on-site catering and a 24-hour business center.

When not in the boardroom, meeting planners can take advantage of the hotel's proximity to Washington, DC attractions and to Old Alexandria's waterfront, where many cruise companies depart for sightseeing tours of the Potomac River. Just five miles and an average $15 taxi ride from the Washington, DC convention center, the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Old Town Alexandria is a memorable venue for attendees wishing to experience the nation's capital and more.

View more information about Crowne Plaza Hotel Old Town Alexandria

Getting geared up for your inauguration events? To give your guests a true insider's experience of Washington, DC's political scene, consider hosting your meeting or event at one of these power dining spots.

The Caucus Room

Intended to be a place where both Democrats and Republicans could leave partisanship behind, the Caucus Room's stately decor and exquisite food succeed in making congressmen and women leave their debates at the door. Hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood make up the menu, which is well complemented by a collection of over 4,000 wines.

This DC restaurant offers six intimate private dining rooms for groups of all sizes, from the Roosevelt Room for up to 10 guests to the Washington Room for up to 40 guests. Menu options can accommodate events held throughout the day.

Old Ebbitt Grill

You can't get much closer to the president without risking Secret Service intervention than with a table at Old Ebbitt Grill. Located steps from the White House, Old Ebbitt is a DC attraction in and of itself, having been frequented by former U.S. Presidents Grant, Cleveland, Harding and Theodore Roosevelt. Today, its cozy velvet booths and marble, brass and mahogany accents create the perfect setting for political insiders, journalists and other guests to mingle.

For group dining in DC, Old Ebbitt Grill offers its lower level Cabinet Room for up to 75 guests; its main level Oyster Bar for up to 80 guests; and its main level Atrium for up to 500 guests. Private parties at Old Ebbitt enjoy a range of menus, from cocktail reception selections to oyster bar selections.

To find more great restaurants for private dining in nation's capital, visit Cvent's Washington, DC venue directory

As the nation's capital, Washington, DC is a treasure trove of historic landmarks and sights. Now there's even more ways to immerse your DC event attendees in the history of this great city. Consider hosting an event in Washington, DC during a nationwide bicentennial celebration, Living the Legacy: Lincoln in DC.

In honor of former President Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday, the city is organizing over 75 exhibitions, lectures, performances and special events that explore his life and presidency. Running from January 1 to April 30, 2009, the celebration opens up a number Washington, DC entertainment opportunities for planners looking to entice guests to events.

The recently re-opened National Museum of American History plans to host an exhibition in January that features over 60 artifacts associated with Lincoln, including the top hat he wore to Ford's Theater. The Smithsonian Resident Associates will offer a number of Lincoln-centric programs, including the Assassination of Abraham Lincoln Walking Tour. Here, guests re-create the steps of that infamous night in U.S. history.

While unique venues in DC are setting the stage for one-of-a-kind events and group outings, the city's other meeting amenities are gearing up as well. A number of Washington, DC hotels are offering special celebration packages. DC restaurants such as Acadiana, DC Coast and Ceiba are getting creative with their offerings as well. The Lincoln celebration is sure to be a great way to attract guests, create memorable events and take advantage of prime deals.

Political galas. Charity fundraisers. Artist receptions. High-powered luncheons. Numerous types of events are held in the DC area every day, and, lucky for planners, just as much variety exists in the city's meeting venues. Of the hundreds of historic attractions, museums and unique buildings, a few stand out as being synonymous with the DC experience.

Ronald Reagan Building&International Trade Center

Located in the heart of downtown DC, the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center was built with the input of the world’s top event and meeting planners. With breathtaking interiors, unique cuisine and top-notch professional service, RRBITC is one of DC’s most sought-after venues, hosting clients such as Boeing, the Washington International Trade Association and the Heritage Foundation.

Union Station

Union Station is the most visited destination in the nation's Capitol with over 32 million visitors a year. Its classic architecture, featuring a white granite facade and oversized columns, was the inspiration for the Lincoln Memorial and Jefferson Memorial as well as the Supreme Court building. With the ability to host any type of event, from Presidential inaugural balls to city-wide expos, Union Station is one of the most recognizable, grand and easily-accessible (it is a train station, after all) locations in the city.

National Museum of Women in the Arts

The National Museum of Women in the Arts is the only one in the world dedicated exclusively to recognizing the contributions of women artists. With four spaces of varying size to choose from, this venue offers elegance and functionality for everything from the largest galas to the most intimate lectures.

National Building Museum

The National Building Museum celebrates, informs and debates the architectural environment and its impact on society. A fitting location to discuss such topics, the museum itself is one the great American buildings of the 19th century, designed to be a space for Washington's most prestigious functions. Indeed, it has served this purpose, beginning by hosting former U.S. President Grover Cleveland’s Inaugural Ball in 1885.

Washington, DC has no shortage of picturesque sites, from its world-famous monuments to its internationally-acclaimed museums to the one of the largest natural parks within the boundaries of any city in the world. With so much of the scenery to take in, it's no wonder that DC is home to several event venues with a view.

An existing backdrop of majestic architecture and the natural environment is a cost effective move for your event decor budget. From skyline to waterfront, every type of view in DC is sure to be breathtaking. Take advantage of this scenic backdrop by checking out the following venues for your events in Washington, DC:

Top of the Town

Overlooking the Potomac River and affording unparalleled views of monuments and landmarks, Top of the Town is at the top of most event planners' lists. Featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows, this Washington, DC restaurant makes it easy for out-of-town guests and locals to enjoy the gems of the capital region.

Hay-Adams Hotel

Some say even the President doesn’t get a better view of the White House than visitors at the Hay-Adams Hotel do! Located in Lafayette Square, this Italian Renaissance-style, historic Washington, DC hotel also has views of the "Church of the Presidents," or St. John’s Church. Though the Hay-Adams rivals any 21st century hotel as far as amenities are concerned, one can't help but be taken back by this venue’s historic charm and opulence.

Tabaq Bistro

Located in the trendy U Street area, Tabaq Bistro may seem an unlikely place for amazing views. The three-story climb is well worth the effort as you stroll past the aptly-named Red Room and Art Room to the Glass Terrace. With one of the most unique rooftops on the East Coast, Tabaq Bistro features a halfway retractable, completely enclosed Washington, DC meeting room, affording panoramic views of downtown from an uptown perspective.

Sequoia

A riverside bar never looked so upscale. Situated on the Potomac River along Georgetown's harbor walk, Sequoia caters to everyone, from young singles mingling at the outdoor patio and bar to business people enjoying a meal in the two-story dining room. Virtually every wall of Sequoia is made of glass, affording fantastic views of the exquisite yachts of DC’s elite.

Cafe MoZU

Located in the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel, this restaurant is named after an ancient Chinese philosopher who emphasized the idea of universal love. And after seeing the cafe's stunning views of Washington, DC attractions such as the Jefferson Memorial and Potomac Tidal Basin, you, too, will be in love. Full-length windows showcase the beauty of internationally-renowned DC cherry blossoms by day or the romantic lights of the monuments at night.