Gala Affair—10 Elegant Wisconsin Ballrooms, Banquet & Reception Halls

There’s so much to consider when choosing a venue for your upcoming gala — theme, guests, budget, décor, ambiance, service, and more. Add to that the number of venues from which to choose and the process can seem overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of 10 of the most elegant ballrooms, banquet, and reception halls in Wisconsin. Now, planning that gala affair just got a little bit easier.

Badger Farms, Deerfield

What makes it special — With two exquisite spaces, Badger Farms ensures that your event will be more than memorable. The Barn is a newly renovated 1920s barn tucked away in the Wisconsin countryside with hardwood floors, rustic log staircases, and lots of natural light. The Shop is an enclosed pavilion with a tall ceiling, ceiling fans, chandelier, and in-floor radiant heating. Both spaces accommodate up to 200 guests.

What to expect — An abundance of local caterers, bakeries, photographers, and event supply rental companies are located nearby to help you with every detail.

Vennebu Hill Wedding Barn & Event Venue, Baraboo

What makes it special — Located in the lush Wisconsin countryside, the Norwegian-inspired venue is uniquely festive and an ideal gathering place. The Barn is Vennebu Hill’s Gothic barn featuring a large chandelier, AV equipment, and banquet seating for up to 180. The Lean-To is a more casual space with flat-screen TV, WiFi, and fireplace for up to 350 guests.

What to expect — Extraordinary cuisine is served here by a variety of local, preferred caterers. Outdoor patio space is also available for your gathering along with an upper level deck that overlooks the Wisconsin River, Portage, and the Baraboo Bluffs.  

The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa, Lake Geneva

What makes it special — Situated on 90 acres of beautifully manicured grounds on the shores of Lake Geneva, The Abbey Resort boasts a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces. The Harbor Ballroom is enchanting with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the harbor. The West Shore Pavilion offers views of the gorgeous grounds and is adorned with chandeliers, high ceilings, and tall windows. The Harbor Patio features outdoor seating with views of the harbor.  

What to expect — Chefs here offer a mouthwatering menu of options for seated dinners, buffets or unique food stations. The resort welcomes overnight guests to relax in charming lakeside guest rooms, suites, and villas and to indulge themselves at the Avani Spa.

Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee

What makes it special — Quite simply, the Milwaukee Art Museum offers some of the most unique event spaces in the city. Choose from the Quadracci Pavilion, Schroeder & Baumgartner Gallerias, Windhover Hall, Lubar Auditorium, or Baumgartner Terrace. Many of the spaces offer breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.  

What to expect — The architecturally stunning Museum offers many unique gathering places. Distinctive catering is available on-site along with opportunities to tour the museum’s eclectic art collection.  

Milwaukee County War Memorial Center, Milwaukee

What makes it special — With extraordinary views of Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center is one of the area’s most popular venues. Fitch Plaza accommodates up to 300 guests, while Memorial Hall provides as many as 260 guests with sweeping views of downtown Milwaukee through its floor-to ceiling windows.

What to expect — Fantastic local caterers serve culinary favorites for plated dinners, banquet buffets, lunches, hot or cold appetizers, and more. The museum itself is fascinating and features a mosaic mural comprised of over 1 million pieces of mosaic tile.

Troy Burne Golf Club, Hudson

What makes it special — Located in the charming river town of Hudson, the Troy Burne Golf Club provides seating for up to 300 with beautiful, panoramic views of the Tom Lehmen designed golf course. Tall ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an abundance of natural light make this the ideal space for your gala. Stunning outdoor patio surrounded by professionally landscaped grounds.

What to expect — The catering menu is expansive and offers delightful cuisine from hors d’oeuvres to plated entrees, buffets to action stations. The site also features an 18-hole championship golf course and The Grill, two-time winner of Hospitality Awards’ Restaurant of the Year.  

Madison Concourse Hotel, Madison

What makes it special — Welcome 1000 guests to your gala in the Grand Ballroom at the sophisticated Madison Concourse Hotel. For smaller gatherings of 150 to 300, your guests will enjoy the splendor of the Capitol, Wisconsin, or Madison Ballrooms.

What to expect — The hotel welcomes guests to relax in any of its 372 luxury guest rooms, experience the indoor pool and fitness center, or enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant, Circ, The Bar, or at Starbucks.

Glacier Canyon Conference Center at Wilderness Resort, Wisconsin Dells

What makes it special — The Glacier Canyon Conference Center at Wilderness Resort is the ideal destination for your gala. Host up to 1200 guests in the banquet space while partaking in themed buffets, formal dinners, or snacks provided with the professional on-site catering team.

What to expect — The full-service resort offers a variety of guest rooms, 4 outdoor and 4 indoor waterparks, championship golf at Wild Rock Golf Club, world-class spa, plus on-site restaurants in both fine and casual settings.

The Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee

What makes it special — The expansive hotel offers a variety event spaces from the Lake Country Ballroom for 720 guests to the Hearthside Room for 150. With newly remodeled guest rooms including premier rooms, executive, governor, and presidential suites your attendees can relax in comfort.

What to expect — Upscale dining is available here at Didi’s Supper Club featuring fresh Wisconsin ingredients. The 45,000 square foot water park delivers a thrilling aquatic adventure for all guests.

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, Milwaukee

What makes it special — With 60,000 square feet of elegant space, you’ll have room for as many as 1500 guests to attend your gala. State-of-the-art AV equipment and award-winning catering make this venue a real winner.

What to expect — Your guests will love the opportunity to enjoy the guest rooms and suites in this luxury hotel, take a chance at some exciting gaming in the casino, indulge themselves at the Ember Salon & Spa, or choose from nine different dining options, both casual and fine.