From lush courtyards to colonial clambakes, there’s an option for every occasion and you can rest assured that these historic sites offer modern amenities to make sure your guests are comfortable enough to luxuriate in special celebrations while focusing on critical moments. Whether you are searching for an indoor conference space or the site for an enormous outdoor wedding, there’s a historic New England venue waiting for you.

We believe that New England’s history is something grand and your venue should be too. Our list includes a pre-Civil War performance space with flawless acoustics, an elite athletic hall of fame, a world class car collection, a secret staircase hidden in New England’s oldest mansion, and a cliff walk terrace fit for the Gilded Age.

1. CENTRAL MASS

Bring Down the House at Mechanics Hall
321 Main St.
Worcester, MA
Mechanics Hall offers legendary acoustic character, rendering it the optimum choice for performance events. Masterful architecture accounts for Mechanics Hall’s home on the National Register of Historic Places. Mechanics Hall is considered the premier pre-Civil War performance hall in America. The Great Hall can accommodate up to 1,500 guests for a reception.

2. NEWPORT

Meet Your Match at the International Tennis Hall of Fame
194 Bellevue Avenue
Newport, RI
The International Tennis Hall of Fame includes seven-acres of vast verandas with broad views of a seemingly endless array of manicured grass courts. Begin your visit at the heart of the hall in the Horseshoe Piazza & Court. This horseshoe-shaped covered porch begs for a cocktail party. Inside, guests will enjoy historic architecture throughout the museum, which extends through a wall of glass French doors to the USTA Wing’s magnificent high ceilings.

3. BOSTON

Surround Your Guests with Vintage Vehicles at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum
15 Newton Street
Brookline, MA
The Larz Anderson Auto Museum holds “America’s Oldest Car Collection” in their 1888 Carriage House, which was designed by the city architect of Boston, Edmund M. Wheelwright. The Larz Anderson Auto Museum is certainly unique as far as event venues go, accommodating up to 150 guests indoors. Attendees will congregate beneath the vaulted ceilings, surrounded by vintage automobiles and exposed brick. The Great Lawn is attractive to larger parties of up to 500. The Larz Anderson Auto Museum is located just ten minutes from downtown Boston.

4. CONNECTICUT

Rock Out at the Mark Twain Museum Center
351 Farmington Ave
Hartford, CT
The Mark Twain Museum Center takes guests on a tour of the towering Great Hall, the Lincoln Financial Auditorium, and the intimate confines of Hartford Financial Services Theatre.
The museum’s cafe includes a breezy patio with a fleet of rockers and umbrellas for sunny occasions. Groups can take advantage of private tours of the National Landmark Mark Twain House as part of their special event.

5. NORTH OF BOSTON

Take the Secret Stairs at the House of the Seven Gables
115 Derby Street
Salem, MA
The House of the Seven Gables, built in 1668, gives new meaning to the classification: historic venue. Guests will marvel at seaside gardens and gape at the secret staircase hidden within Turner-Ingersoll Mansion. As the oldest surviving 17th century wooden mansion in New England, it’s no surprise that The House of the Seven Gables inspired author Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ingenius work. The capable events team boasts experience with everything from business meetings to clambakes. Salem is located just a 45 minutes north of Boston.

6. COASTAL MAINE

Arrive by Boat at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
132 Botanical Gardens Way
Boothbay, ME
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens welcome a limited number of guests by boat, offering small boat moorings on a first-come-first serve basis. This venue is suited to all seasons. The Lerner Garden of the Five Senses pavilion or the Kitchen Garden Terrace will offer a sunny location for your gathering. Area nonprofit organizations can apply for free meeting rentals, honored as part of the gardens’ civic commitment.

7. MERRIMACK VALLEY

Go Back to School at the Andover Inn
4 Chapel Avenue
Andover, MA
Feeling scholarly? Visit the campus of Phillips Academy, one of the oldest private boarding schools in America, dating back to 1930. You can book the Phillips Room for up to 50 guests and enjoy sprawling views of the Phillips Academy grounds along with the warmth of a private fireplace. The Andover Inn is just a short walk from the charming center of town and just a half hour drive from Boston.

8. BANGOR

Find Peace on Crooked Steeple Hall
176 Main Street
Winterport, Maine
Crooked Steeple Hall has been providing visitors with a quiet escape since 1850. Feel free to duck away after large events at the Union Meeting House, which overlooks the sleepy village of Winterport and offers views of the Penobscot River. The Union Meeting House’s original granite steps date back to 1820. And, if you really want to step back in time, walk a half mile to the Pierce House, built in 1812, for a Sunday morning brunch gathering.

9. NEW HAMPSHIRE

Set Your Heart Aflutter at the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire
27 Navigator Road
Londonberry, NH
Thrill as many as 150 guests at your next reception style function in the Aviation Historical Society’s unique museum. Exhibits are mobile, making for an exceptionally flexible space. In addition, rates for large functions are extremely competitive. Did we mention that parking is free?

10. CAPE COD

Never Stop Exploring at Heritage Museums and Gardens
67 Grove Street
Sandwich, MA
Inspiration is sure to strike amidst the three galleries and immaculate grounds of Heritage Museums and Gardens in Sandwich. Hike wooded trails, admire the vibrant gardens, and ponder unique sculptures with your group. An aerial adventure park calls to bold visitors, propelling them through the trees on zip lines and bridges. Even in winter, the gardens are aglow with ten miles of twinkling lights. Current exhibits include Cars and Stars of the Indy 500 and Wendell Minor’s America. At the end of the day, make the quick trek to Sandwich Boardwalk for a colorful sunset. (And dare to take the leap if it’s high tide!)

11. VERMONT

Stay Afloat at Basin Harbor Resort and Boat Club
4800 Basin Harbor Road
Vergennes, VT
Basin Harbor has showcased the elegance and adventure of Lake Champlain for over a century. Flexible accommodations and event spaces make Basin Harbor an ideal venue for groups who like to hike, bike, sail, kayak, cruise, and be still with nature. Dine lakeside for a perfect showcase of Vermont’s collective commitment to local and fresh food. Basin Harbor is located less than one hour from Burlington.

12. NEWPORT

Breathe the Ocean Air at the Chanler at Cliff Walk
117 Memorial Boulevard
Newport, RI
The Chanler at Cliff Walk allows guests to stay overnight or simply enjoy an afternoon on the
Cliff Walk Terrace while they take in panoramic sights of the shimmering Atlantic. The Chanler is in itself a bold Gilded Age mansion featuring balconies, spectacular seascapes, ornate fireplaces, and a brilliant sunroom.

The perfect venue can give your ideas wings. Plan fearlessly for innovation and explore one another’s dreams at New England’s most unique meeting venues. Great things rarely happen in one’s comfort zone. New England is a region that allows us to ask: “What if…?”
What if your next corporate outing led you to a lush and legendary court?
What if your board members felt what it was like to compete in the Indy 500?
What if your colleagues took a moment to ponder together in the garden?

We know that an unconventional venue can sometimes feel like a risk when planning an intricate event, but without risk you’ll reap no rewards. For a memorable affair, you must dare to travel inside a wooded mansion, atop a roccous cliffside, or beneath a botanical canopy. Plan an event that your guests will never forget. There is no substitute for experience.

The post A Dozen Unique and Historic New England Venues Where You Should Host Your Next Event appeared first on NEW ENGLAND MEETING SITES.

As much as the bride and groom should be the focal point of any wedding day, a certain amount of courtesy is owed to friends and family who have made the journey to bear witness to your union. Your guests have traveled from near and far to celebrate you and the one you love. More than almost anything else, the venue will create a relaxing atmosphere for your event. Keep attendees comfortable and engaged while providing them with a striking backdrop to capture memories of your special day.

New England’s natural scenery makes it the ideal region for a captivating wedding celebration. Our list of New England venues includes a countryside estate, a lakeside ceremony, an Italian piazza, and a garden gazebo. Take your pick!

Vermont Let the Adirondack Mountains Frame Your Fantasy Wedding at Basin Harbor 4800 Basin Harbor Road
Vergennes, VT 05491

Basin Harbor boasts lakeside views, orchard gardens, and wedding arches. The Adirondack mountains will act as the perfect background for your big day. Basin Harbor’s staff has been planning Vermont weddings for a century. Your nuptial bash will be in capable hands. From the north dock, your guests will relish the breeze off Lake Champlain and brilliant sunset views. If you choose, you and 47 guests can even cruise the Palisades Cliffs on Basin Harbor’s private boat.

Massachusetts Party in the Piazza at the Harvard Art Museums 32 Quincy Street
Cambridge, MA 02138

Gather beneath an immaculate glass rooftop after traversing through time at the Harvard Art Museums. Excellence cannot begin to describe the art collections contained by this newly renovated building. Its Calderwood Courtyard resembles an Italian piazza, featuring an atrium-style interior at the epicenter of Harvard Art Museums. The courtyard accommodates up to 200 guests for seated events and up to 300 for standing receptions. Take your portraits in the Harvard Yard, walk down the aisle at Adolphus Busch Hall, and greet your guests under the night’s sky when you hit the courtyard dance floor for an evening of decadent celebration.

Connecticut Gather Under the Stars at the Avon Old Farms Hotel 279 Avon Mountain Road
Avon, CT 06001

The Avon Old Farms Hotel is not your average country inn. Your guests will revel in the dignified Georgian-style decor complete with chandeliers and a grand staircase. We recommend kicking things off poolside before one of the most important days of your life. There’s a Pergola waiting where you and your special someone can tie the knot. Let the starry sky bewitch your guests on the terrace before taking it to the dance floor in the Towpath Ballroom, which can accomodate 160 guests for a seated affair.

Rhode Island Stimulate the Senses at Gallery Z 259 Atwells Ave
Providence, RI 02903

Gallery Z is as funky as it is chic. With 1,300 square feet available for events, Gallery Z is the perfect venue for an intimate reception of up to 50 guests for a seated dinner. This space emanates creative energy against a striking backdrop of original artwork. Located on Historic Federal Hill, Gallery Z is at the heart of the action in the city of Providence. Pricing is incredibly reasonable and ranges to accommodate couples who don’t want to lift a finger as well as those who wish to do everything themselves.

New Hampshire Say I Do on the Coast at Wentworth by the Sea 588 Wentworth Road
New Castle, NH 03854

The Wentworth by the Sea Marriott Hotel & Spa wants to make sure your guests have access to exclusive overnight accommodations, spa packages, and golf outings. The events team will make sure your entire wedding weekend is hassle free. The Wentworth’s grandeur speaks to the natural beauty of Portsmouth’s coast, which your friends and family are sure to enjoy. Wedding celebrations for up to 250 guests are comfortably arranged by a team of experienced event coordinators. Oceanfront views and historic gardens will ensure that romance is front and center for your big day.

Maine

Frolic Through the Fields of Mowfield Farm 111 Bruce Hill Rd
Cumberland, Maine, 04021

Think dahlias. The gardens at Mowfield Farms overflow with Café au Lait’s as well as roses, peonies, Japanese irises, and lilies. The floral aroma is simply intoxicating – a signature scent for your special day. Mowfield Farm is a hard-cider apple farm specializing in heirloom varieties used by the Nurembega Cidery in New Gloucester. This historic property offers the privacy of woodland paths and lush fields. Stone patios will provide a sophisticated place for guests to gather among nature to enjoy your event at the country estate.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious, intimate, extravagant, or retro feel – New England has a venue for you. Above all else, remember to bow to the comfort of your guests who have made your wedding a priority in their busy lives. Ask about plans for inclement weather and iron out the details with the caterer – but don’t forget that you are marrying the love of your life. With the right locale and the perfect partner, everything else is free to fall into place.

The post A Scenic Wedding Venue from Every New England State appeared first on NEW ENGLAND MEETING SITES.

As humans, we are biologically drawn to the water. Our bodies are made up of 60% of water.
We need water to survive. The sight of water conjures visions of exploration and adventure.
Simply put, a waterfront venue is a surefire success. It’s purely scientific.

For your next event, consider the incredible scenery afforded by New England’s natural
surroundings. The region is rich with lakes, rivers, and oceans that will make for a stunning
backdrop to wow your guests and sweep them off their feet. (Not literally, we hope. Better not get too close.) Our list includes a waterfall by an old mill, a lively aquarium, sky high ships, and
island views. Take your pick:

New Hampshire
Mill Falls at the Lake
312 Daniel Webster Hwy.
Meredith, NH 03253
(844) 745-2931
Mill Falls at the Lake can accommodate groups of 5 to 250 guests. A team of professional
coordinators will make sure that your event runs smoothly. This historic linen mill maintains its
small town charm among its beautifully landscaped grounds and a captivating waterfall. Mill
Falls at the Lake was voted Best of Wedding Venues by The Knot and landed in the top 25
resorts for Spa and relaxation on TripAdvisor.

Vermont
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
1 College Street
Burlington, VT, 05401
(802) 861-2951
ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain offers pristine waterfront scenery in plain view of the
Adirondacks. The Center’s aquariums and open-air spaces can accommodate a wide range of
groups. Smaller flexible spaces are also available for more intimate gatherings including
weddings, workshops, and retreats. ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain prides itself on its
intuitive technological infrastructure, designed to guarantee that your AV needs are attended to.

Connecticut
Mystic Seaport Museum
75 Greenmanville Ave.?
Mystic, CT 06355
(860) 572-0711
Mystic Seaport Museum promises tall ships, fresh air, and unforgettable memories. Breathtaking
views and historic New England charm will carry your event into the sunset. The Boat Shed at
Lighthouse Point will cast perfect light on the Mystic Seaport Museum as well as the Mystic
River from the comfort of an open-air pavilion and can host up to 200 guests.

Rhode Island
Skyline At Waterplace
1 Finance Way
Providence, RI, 02903
(401)437-6480
Skyline at Waterplace makes excellent use of Narragansett Bay. The space evokes 18th
century splendor in a contemporary shell as patios and dramatic windows encapsulate
Providence’s metropolitan grace and natural wonder. A professional planning staff will help
guests navigate the two unique event spaces, three outdoor terraces, and a world class menu.
Plus, valet parking will have them traveling in and out with ease.

Massachusetts
Chatham Bars Inn
297 Shore Road
Chatham, MA, 02633
(800)527-4884
Chatham Bars Inn was a private hunting lodge nearly a century ago. A hundred million dollars
hence, Chatham Bars Inn is more elegant than ever with seven distinctive meeting venues
available for groups ranging from 12 to 300 people. The compound amounts to 40 rooms in the
inn and 34 private cottages along the bluff. Whether you hope for a New England clambake or a
daring seascape, Chatham Bars Inn will leave you breathless.

Maine

389 Congress Street
Portland, ME, 04101

(207)808-5400
Ocean Gateway offers 5,600 square feet of enclosed glass on the shores of Casco Bay in
Portland Maine with views of the islands. The venue can accommodate 250 seated guests or
799 standing. Be warned, the Port of Portland cruise schedule impacts availability. The space
works in perfect synergy with receptions held on Moontide Garden just steps away. Nothing sets
guests at ease like a calming ocean breeze.

Hosting your event by the water will bring an added element of escape and wonder. Not to
mention, mesmerizing views of the surf will negate your need for decorations. Let mother nature
lead the charge for your next special occasion; no one knows timeless style better than her.

The post Where to Gather On the Water in New England appeared first on NEW ENGLAND MEETING SITES.

Tim Walsh, Discover Newport’s VP of Sales, served as the affable host while Katie Potter of Newport Chowder Company provided the interactive chowder cooking lesson and riveting story.

Although it was a virtual event, Tim and Katie, who have been friends since they were teenagers, made the experience feel like a family dinner. Katie’s mother Muriel Barclay de Tolly was in attendance celebrating her 91st birthday and providing her award-winning chowder expertise. 

Tim Walsh and Katie Potter Lead

Katie’s mother Muriel owned the famous Muriel’s restaurant in Newport, Rhode from around 1985 to 1999. On a whim, Muriel entered her seafood chowder in the Newport Chowder Festival and went on to win the contest for three consecutive years. That achievement placed her in the Newport, Rhode Island Chowder Hall of Fame and her recipe now lives on with her daughter’s new company, Newport Chowder Company.

When Katie learned to cook chowder from her mother, Muriel astutely observed, “It’s all about the seasoning.” Thankfully, now we can all get a taste of authentic chowder because Newport Chowder Company sells customized seafood chowder seasoning packets and recently launched a Mobile Chowder Cart called “Muriel” which can be reserved for events.  All Chowder and Chat participants were mailed Newport Chowder Company’s special seasoning packet so they could cook along using the best of the best!

Tim Walsh kicked off the hour by introducing everyone present before he and Katie led the group of over 30 people to whip up a batch of seafood chowder. Friends since before the internet, their chemistry was excellent while they effortlessly cooked together, stealing sips of espresso martinis and doling out seven prizes to attendees. 

As the group debated a cream or dairy-free chowder base, Patti Lloyd of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce shared, “Do you know you can get good chowder at every NewEnglandMeetingSite’s location?” Patti soon had the whole group dreaming of visiting every New England State for a cup of chowder as soon as possible. Sign me up, please! 

As Muriel, the birthday girl, remarked, “I can’t believe I’m in my 90s,” the group learned even more about Muriel and her accomplished life. A celebrated artist working with watercolors, Muriel has written five children’s books and the “Behind Newport Doors” cookbook. Her proud daughter beamed, “She did it all, even when women didn’t always have the chance to do it all.”

Visit NewEnglandMeetingSites before your next visit or corporate event.

With the chowder sitting, Tim wrapped up the successful meeting with a warm thank you and a reminder to everyone to use NewEnglandMeetingSites as a resource for your next visit or corporate event in New England. “Business is coming back and will come back with a vengeance. Business will soon take on a semblance of what it used to be and everyone in New England wants to see you. Let us help,” Tim added.

David Rosenberg of Newport Events perfectly summed up what the group was thinking with, “Thank you for this. The fragrance coming out of our kitchen is terrific.” And Dana Toland of IT Exchange Group shared, “I didn’t know if I would mess with this, but it’s perfect.”

Discover New England and the diversity the region has to offer. Our historic cities, pristine coastline and charming country settings offer a multitude of meeting options. Start dreaming of your next trip by contacting our NewEnglandMeetingSites’ experts.

Contacts:

• Patti Lloyd, Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce patti@capecodchamber.org
• Beth Grassa, Greater Boston CVB  bgrass@bostonusa.com
• Tim Walsh, Discover Newport  twalsh@discovernewprt.com
• Kerrie Tripp, Visit Bangor kerrie@visitbangormaine.com
• Patrick Coit, Discover Central Mass, pcoit@discovercentralma.org
• Susan Koczka, Connecticut Convention & Sports Bureau, susank@ctcsb.org
• Rebecca Shackford, North of Boston CVB, rebecca@northofboston.org
• Tom Carton, Hello Burlington VT, tcarton@helloburlingtonvt.org
• Jeff Lawson, Vermont CVB, jeff@vermont.org
• Kate McDonough, Visit Portland, kate@visitportland.com
• Maureen Buckley, Greater Boston CVB, mbuckley@bostonusa.com
• Robert Murdock, Connecticut Convention & Sports Bureau, Robertm@ctcsb.org
• Monique Messier, Discover Central Mass, mmessier@discovercentralma.org
• Karen@merrimackvalley.org
• Kerri Furtado, Providence Warwick CVB, kfurtado@goprovidence.com

To learn more about NewEnglandMeetingSites.com, visit newenglandmeetingsites.com/

To learn more about Newport Chowder Company, visit www.newportchowdercompany.com/

The post New England Meeting Sites + Newport Chowder Company Create Comfort and Fun appeared first on NEW ENGLAND MEETING SITES.

Like buying a brand new car, selecting a brand new venue has its perks. You’re guaranteed to get a maintenance-free head turner with the ease of cutting edge technology. Is there anything more invigorating than being the first? We know New England is most often lauded for its historic venues, but there are plenty of shiny new places to work and play if you open your eyes.

Make time to sit down with the management team beforehand if you are planning a meeting, event, or celebration at a new locale. Most new hotels and venues keep a full time coordinator on staff whose sage experience can keep your event on track. If you state your expectations clearly, the new kid on the block will be more eager to please than anyone else in town.

Check out a few of the latest and greatest hotels and venues that are new (or newly renovated) in New England:

Live Luxuriously in Connecticut Aspire at Mohegan Sun
1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard
Uncasville, Connecticut
06382
(888) 777-7922

Aspire is Mohegan Sun’s opulent addition to the Sky Tower, and it’s slated to open later this year. Guests rooms will offer first rate views, a private entrance, butler service, and a personal shopping experience. Panoramic windows at Thirty Three will guarantee an unmatched luxury dining experience for Connecticut casino goers.

Sleep By the Bay in Maine AC Hotel by Marriott Portland Downtown/Waterfront
158 Fore Street
Portland, Maine
04101
(207) 747-1640

Located just two blocks from the Old Port, Portland’s new AC Marriott is the only hotel with an unobstructed view of Casco Bay. Aside from its proximity to some of the nation’s most highly regarded restaurants and bars, the AC Marriott is within walking distance of the stunning network of Portland Trails. Modern and stylish decor provides subsequent comfort.

Tend the Fire in Massachusetts Briar Barn Inn
101 Main Street
Rowley, Massachusetts
01969
(978) 653-5323

Briar Barn Inn opens later this fall, right across from the Rowley town common and just a short drive from the coast. The Inn features a pool and a spa along with 30 guest rooms, each one with its own gas fireplace. Across the stunning courtyard guests can enjoy dinner at a post and beam barn; the perfect spot for hosting parties of up to 100. Reservations are available beginning in December 2018.

Dance on a Rooftop in New Hampshire AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth
Vaughan Street
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
03801

Construction has begun on Portsmouth’s five-story AC Hotel, which is set to include 143 guest rooms and a rooftop lounge within walking distance of downtown. AC Hotels are designed to elevate your stay with experiential hospitality and European style dining.

Splash Around in Rhode Island Aloft Hotel
Former I-195 Interchange
Providence, Rhode Island
02912

A new waterfront district is in the works for Providence, and Aloft is at the forefront. The Starwood brand hotel is slated to hold 170 guest rooms and a swimming pool adjacent to a sprawling innovation center. The hotel will occupy the plot at Dyer, Clifford, and Dorrance Streets.

Swing from the Chandelier in Vermont The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa
3567 Main Street
Manchester Village, Vermont
05254
(802) 362-4700

Inspired by the 3,800-foot mountain that serves as its backdrop, The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa has recently undergone a renovation that includes a new wine bar and a restored gas chandelier formerly housed in the 19th-century Opera House across the street. All five of The Equinox’s dining and drinking establishments are fresh faced including The Chop

House’s added banquette seating and The Falcon Bar’s more intimate atmosphere.

They don’t call us ‘New’ England for nothing. We love to acknowledge our historical significance as a region, but we also like to keep it fresh. Just remember: it’s important to let a new venue know exactly what you have in mind. As the organizers of an inaugural event, most teams will be less stuck in their ways and extra accommodating because they don’t have a set picture in their minds of how an event is “supposed to” operate.

It can be daunting to take the leap and try something new; however, when done with proper planning, the rewards are endless. Breathe in that new venue smell – it’s your chance to set the tone.

The post There’s Always an Upside to Buying New appeared first on NEW ENGLAND MEETING SITES.