Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky has had an explosion of sky-high wedding venues open over the past five years. Back in 2014, there wasn’t a place open to the public that allowed rooftop events, but by today at the dawn of 2020, we’ve found at least 6 venues that welcome wedding receptions and other private events high above it all.
The Rooftops of Cincinnati and Northern KY
The Penthaus Event Space, 231 West 12th Street, Cincinnati, OH
The Penthaus has views of Downtown, OTR, and the surrounding hillsides. Located on the top floor and roof of one of the taller buildings in OTR, this modern, industrial space can seat over 200 people, include 80 on the rooftop terrace.
AC Upper Deck, 135 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Situated on the top of the AC Hotel at the Banks, the Upper Deck lets you and up to 150 guests take in views of the Ohio River, Downtown, and Northern Kentucky.
Top of the Park, 506 E 4th St, Cincinnati OH 45202
Up to 100 guests can take in the views on the highest rooftop venue in the city. Split across two levels of the Residence Inn, enjoy views of downtown, Mt. Adams, and the Ohio River.
The Summit, A Dolce Hotel, 5345 Medpace Way, Cincinnati, OH
This Madisonville rooftop venue is the northernmost option in the area. Sweeping views of Cincinnati’s east side and hills. The largest reception option in the area with a capacity of 350 inside and out.
New Riff Distillery, 24 Distillery Way, Newport KY 41073
Northern Kentucky’s lone entry on this list, New Riff has a large terrace attached to a chic, modern interior space that holds 120 guests. Views of Mt. Adams, the Ohio River, and the distillery column.
21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, 609 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
The original rooftop option in Cincinnati is also one of the smallest, with a capacity of 75 people. Located in the heart of downtown, you get views of the surround cityscape as well as hillsides.
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN THINKING ABOUT A ROOF WEDDING RECEPTION?
Weather is of course one of the biggest things to keep in mind. First off, many of these venues are only open seasonally, so they are not a great choice if you’re thinking of a New Year’s Eve wedding. Rain is of course a potential issue, and is more likely to be a problem in the spring and early summer. Wind is a less obvious issue – wind speed can pick up considerably the higher you are, and especially with the downtown options, surrounding high rises can create wind tunnel effects.
Other Things to Keep in Mind with Rooftop Weddings
Let you vendors know about it ahead of time. Long elevator trips can greatly increase the setup time for your DJ and photo booth company. Also make sure your guests know they might be spending a lot of time outside! A few of these options, like the AC Upper Deck and 21C have very limited space that is climate controlled.
With all that said, having your wedding up above the city can make your big day all the more perfect. A little bit of planning and preparation, along with consulting with the venue’s wedding coordinators, will help make sure you have an awesome event.