June 20 marks the first day of summer. This should be music to planners’ ears, as there are many ways to embrace the seasonal spirit at a meeting or event. Whether you’re drinking wine in a garden, enjoying fresh greens in a barn or soaking in some rays on a rooftop bar, it’s sure to be a hit. Booking a meeting at one of these ultra-dreamy venues is a great way to start planning. After all, ‘tis the season to get outdoors!
1. Fearrington Village (Pittsboro, North Carolina)
Formerly a working farm, Fearrington Village is now a AAA Five Diamond hotel, restaurant and spa that fully accommodates meetings, celebrations and incentive trips. But don’t worry—they kept the Oreo-colored cows. The luxe property can accommodate up to 300 and its inn offers 32 guest rooms.
2. Gansevoort Park Hotel (New York City, New York)
Centrally-located in New York City’s hip Meatpacking District, Gansevoort Park Hotel offers a bi-level bar, lounge and rooftop pool. It also boasts a three-story atrium lobby and 249 lavish rooms and suites. The rooftop features three levels of versatile space, accommodating up to 600.
3. Rainbow Island (Sea Island, Georgia)
Rainbow Island is a charming picnic area that spans 10,000 sq. ft. along the Black Banks River. Fire pits, a wooden boardwalk and 500-person capacity make the outdoor venue a summertime delight.
4. Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis (St. Louis, Missouri)
The rooftop lounge at Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis provides panoramic views of the surrounding city. Its cutting-edge meeting spaces support all technology needs. Plus, the onsite design team can arrange anything from table settings to lighting specs. With just over 20,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and 176 guest rooms, this property is equipped to handle events of various sizes.
5. Granite Ridge Estate (Norway, Maine)
An abundance of surrounding trees, wooden fixtures, fresh air and its big barn make Granite Ridge Estate a countryside dream. Attendees can mingle in the 3,500-square-foot barn (which, luckily, has air conditioning) or on a side patio designated for cocktail hours. The barn sits on top of a mountain and is surrounded by 200 acres of private space.
6. Arista Winery (Healdsburg, California)
Arista Winery was designed to reflect the characteristics of the Russian River Valley, where it is located. The stunning vineyard specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The venue can fit up to 200 standing or seated.
7. 1 Hotel (South Beach, Miami, Florida)
Innovative and eco-friendly, 1 Hotel uses reclaimed materials in its natural design. Beachfront views accompany the rooftop pool and lounge—day or night. Plus, you can rent out well-appointed cabanas, which can fit up to 10 people. A sizable property, 1 Hotel holds 25,000 sq. ft. of meeting space with 426 guest rooms.
8. Sodo Park (Seattle, Washington)
This full-service venue is located in the heart of Seattle’s historic SoDo district, just minutes from downtown. Its special structure includes vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and millwork. The event space capacity can accommodate 325 seated and up to 450 standing.
