Looking for an event space with some built-in character? How about a former rabbit factory—or a former jail? Yes, those are both on our list of historic venues with fascinating histories, which also includes a theater dating back to the 1700s, one of the first churches built by freed slaves, a century-old bank vault, and even musician Prince’s former home. (If those walls could talk…) Today, these spaces have been transformed into popular spots for events, meetings, and gatherings of all types; scroll down to see some of our favorites.
The Booking House is an industrial modern wedding and event venue located in Manheim, Penn., about 80 miles from Philadelphia. Before its renovation in 2014, the space was known as the old General Cigar Co. Warehouse; it was built in 1884 and produced cigars for more than 50 years. Now, The Booking House has three levels that maintain its historic character with exposed brick, chandeliers, thick wooden beams, and original wide-plank flooring (and even nods to its history with a cigar smoking lounge for guests, complete with leather couches, a game table, and a cigar humidor). The largest space, The Rizzardi Room, can host as many as 250 guests; two smaller rooms can host between 30 and 50 people.