Find Rooftop Reception venues for rent in Philadelphia, PA

About Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city of firsts, with a vibrant history and culture unlike any other in the United States. As the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, Philadelphia has long been known as one of America's most important cities. It's also renowned for its vibrant arts scene, iconic skyline, and bustling nightlife.

The Philadelphia skyline is dominated by modern skyscrapers that tower over the historic buildings of Center City. This juxtaposition of old charm and new architecture is what makes Philadelphia truly unique. The iconic night views from atop these high rises are unparalleled, promising a backdrop for special events like no other city can provide.

The Philadelphia skyline has become a popular destination for wedding receptions and private parties alike. With many rooftop venues to choose from, there are plenty of options for hosting an ideal reception on top of the City of Brotherly Love. And with breathtaking views of Fairmount Park and the Delaware River below, your event won't be soon forgotten.

Rooftop Reception Options in Philadelphia

• Catering
  Hiring professional caterers is a great way to add an extra level of sophistication and quality to the reception. Caterers can provide delicious food and drinks, as well as creative ways to serve them. They can also customize their services according to customers' preferences and needs, making it easy to accommodate a wide variety of dietary restrictions or special requests.
  
  
• Rental Companies
  Rental companies offer a variety of items, such as tables, chairs, linens, place settings, and more — all of which can be used to transform a rooftop space into a picturesque venue for receptions. They also provide additional services like setup and breakdown of the items after the event has ended.
  
  
• Lighting Designers
  Depending on the time of day of the reception, lighting designers can help create a visually stunning ambiance by using hangings lights or even projectors for different effects. This helps extend festivities late into the evening without creating too much disruption from other nearby residential buildings.
  
  
• Live Music
  Live music can create a festive atmosphere at any event, and having it on the roof makes it even more exciting. Guests will be able to enjoy the music while taking in the stunning views of Philadelphia from above. Choosing a local band or DJ might be an excellent way to personalize the experience further.

Rooftop Reception Vendors in Philadelphia

• DiAntonio's Catering
  For over 25 years, DiAntonio’s Catering has been a quality catering service for people hosting occasions in Philadelphia. They are a distinct company that creates all of their menu items from scratch. This unique approach to food allows them to create unique dishes with their own distinct taste to them. Regardless of the occasion, DiAntonio’s provides an exquisite and creative menu highlighting locally sourced ingredients to ensure a memorable culinary experience. They work closely with each client to create customized menus and they put a high level of care and attention to detail with each meal.
  
  
• Anders Hyatt Music
  For over a decade, Anders Hyatt has been captivating audiences with his solo performances as a guitarist and singer. His extensive musical repertoire includes hits from the 60s to today, spanning various genres. He has experience providing a warm ambiance to events of all shapes and sizes. He knows how to evoke emotion with his guitar playing and vocals, ensuring that everyone in the room is engaged and entertained. Whether he's performing solo or in duos with talented vocalists and musicians, Anders always offers a custom set list and even additional musicians or DJ services upon request.
  
  
• Eventions Productions
  Eventions Productions has been offering top-notch event services to Philadelphia and beyond for many years. Their Philadelphia lighting team is experienced and capable of creating a unique lighting setup that suits the event they are arranging for. Whether it is for architectural or decor accentuation, mood enhancement, or simply to ensure guests' comfort, each event is evaluated with a keen eye for creativity and tailored solutions. Eventions’ team of professionals is equipped to handle any event lighting needs, from weddings to corporate conferences and black-tie galas. They have the experience to be able to set up a lighting arrangement for an event of any type.

Pros and Cons of Rooftop Receptions in Philadelphia

Rooftop receptions in Philadelphia are a popular choice for event organizers and couples looking for a unique location to hold their celebration. It is, however, important to review some potential advantages and drawbacks before selecting this option.

Advantages

• Having a reception on the roof gives guests an opportunity to enjoy beautiful views that they may not get anywhere else. These views are gorgeous at any time of day and provide guests with ample photo opportunities to capture memories of the reception.
  
  
• With its outdoor space, often featuring plants and water features, as well as great views of the city, a rooftop reception offers an atmosphere that's hard to find elsewhere. It’s a bright and vibrant atmosphere that encourages guests to be in good humor and socialize with each other.
  
  
• Since most roofs offer plenty of room, it's possible to set up several different seating areas and even have a dance floor or stage area if desired. This allows hosts to create a scene that can acquire all kinds of guests, whether rowdy or relaxed ones, everyone will find a comfortable spot at a rooftop reception.

Disadvantages

• The biggest potential drawback is any inclement weather that could potentially cause the event to be canceled or delayed. Many venues must be equipped with preemptive solutions to defend against inclement weather otherwise you risk causing danger and discomfort.
  
  
• Depending on how close nearby buildings are, there could be noise from traffic or other sources that disrupt the event. This can make the event feel less private due to the atmospheric noises from the city, and make guests uneasy since they don’t feel as isolated in their venue.
  
  
• Anytime people gather together at great heights there is always a risk of someone getting hurt should they fall off the roof or trip over something while navigating around tables. This can cause discomfort among hosts and guests alike and you may need to arrange extra security and safety solutions before hosting.

Tips on How to Organize Rooftop Receptions in Philadelphia

Hosting a reception on the rooftop of a building can be a unique and memorable experience. With the right planning and organizing, it has the potential to be one of the most desirable venues in Philadelphia. Here are five tips to make your rooftop reception successful:

• When selecting a venue for your rooftop reception, it’s important to factor in accessibility and convenience in addition to aesthetics. Consider locations near public transportation hubs and convenient parking areas. This will make it easier for guests to get to the event. Also, remember that rooftops can be subject to strong winds and other weather conditions, so, if possible, opt for sheltered or enclosed spaces with easy access from the street level.

• Decorating a rooftop can be challenging due to limited space and windy conditions, so focus on decor that is simple but elegant. String lights hung around railings or poles add a touch of ambiance without taking up too much space. Additionally, incorporate pieces like bar carts that are both decorative and functional.

• Since most rooftops offer minimal seating options, it is important to provide comfortable seating arrangements that maximize guest comfort while also maximizing space efficiency. Portable chairs and benches are great choices since they provide ample seating while keeping it easy to move around throughout the evening.

• It is essential to plan carefully when hosting a rooftop reception, as your guests may need time to arrive at their destination before the festivities begin (especially if they are coming from out of town). Schedule your event for late afternoon or early evening as this will give you enough time for setup and teardown while still allowing guests plenty of time afterward for socializing and enjoying the view from above.

• Weather can be unpredictable at times. Have umbrellas ready just in case there is rain during your event, as well as blankets available if the nights turn out particularly chilly or windy. Make sure all guests understand safety protocols regarding heights. This includes keeping drinks away from the edges, maintaining respect for guardrails, etc., throughout the evening festivities.

Famous Locations Philadelphia

• The Octavius V. Catto Memorial
  The Octavius V. Catto Memorial is not just a mere statue but a powerful symbol of hope and equality for African Americans in Philadelphia. Octavius V. Catto, a young and promising activist, dedicated his life to challenging the racial norms of his time. He was a leader in the fight to desegregate public trolleys and a champion for the right to vote. Tragically, he was killed at a young age while rallying African American men to vote on election day. The monument serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices Catto made and the continued struggle for equal rights that persists to this day.
  
  
• William Way LGBT Community Center
  The William Way LGBT Community Center is a vibrant hub of activity, providing a welcoming space for members of the LGBTQ+ community to come together and connect. From art exhibits and concerts to support groups and skills classes, there's always something exciting happening at this community center. But what sets William Way apart is their commitment to inclusivity since they strive to make sure everyone feels welcome and represented within their programming. It’s a hub of inclusivity and love and a great place to stop by to experience the community and respect of Philadelphia.
  
  
• Second Bank of the United States Portrait Gallery
  The Second Bank of the United States Portrait Gallery is a stunning architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to America's rich history. Built in 1824, this Greek Revival building exudes elegance with its marble facade and classic features modeled after the Parthenon. Today, visitors can explore the building's interiors and marvel at the collection of outstanding portraits created by none other than Charles Willson Peale, America's most prominent portrait artist during the American Revolution. The building's rich history also adds to its allure, having served as the nation's bank until its charter was dissolved by President Andrew Jackson in 1836.