O’Connell Hall – Catholic University of America
TL;DR
- Location: Washington DC
- Venue Type: Historic ballroom & banquet hall
- Guest Capacity: Up to 300 seated guests
- Best For: Weddings, banquets, galas, university events, corporate receptions, social gatherings
- Catering Policy: Flexible in-house and external catering coordination available
- Bar Services: Open bar, house wine, liquor, signature drinks, bartenders
- Top Amenities: Historic interiors, Wi-Fi, elegant furnishings, get-ready rooms, wheelchair accessibility
- Vendor Policy: Outside vendors allowed with coordination
- Standout Feature: Grand historic ballroom with original wood paneling and timeless architectural elegance
Introduction
Located in the heart of Washington DC, O’Connell Hall at Catholic University of America offers a timeless and elegant setting for weddings, formal banquets, corporate gatherings, and social celebrations. Featuring beautifully restored light fixtures, classic architectural details, and original wood paneling, the venue combines historic charm with modern event functionality.
Ideal for planners seeking a sophisticated event venue in Washington DC, O’Connell Hall delivers flexible hospitality services, customizable event experiences, and a refined ballroom atmosphere suitable for both intimate celebrations and large-scale receptions. Hosts exploring additional event planning resources can also browse premium venues and services through greatEvent.
Key Information Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue Name | O’Connell Hall – Catholic University of America |
| Location | Washington DC |
| Venue Type | Historic Ballroom & Banquet Hall |
| Event Spaces | Heritage Hall Ballroom |
| Capacity | Up to 300 seated guests |
| Catering Policy | Flexible catering coordination available |
| Amenities | Wi-Fi, banquet tables, linens, dining chairs, get-ready rooms |
| Internet | Complimentary Wi-Fi |
| Parking | On-site parking available |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
Why Is This a Great Event Venue in Washington DC?
O’Connell Hall stands out among Washington DC event venues because of its combination of historic architecture, formal ballroom ambiance, and event flexibility. The venue’s timeless interiors create a memorable backdrop for weddings, elegant banquets, university functions, and upscale corporate events.
What Makes O’Connell Hall Unique?
- Historic ballroom atmosphere with restored architectural details
- Accommodates up to 300 seated guests
- Flexible catering and dining configurations
- Professional event staff available for coordination
- Outside vendors allowed for customized event experiences
- Convenient Washington DC location for local and destination guests
For couples searching for additional wedding venue inspiration, Wedding Venues in Washington DC offers more venue options across the city.
Event Spaces & Capacity
- Heritage Hall Ballroom – A beautiful ballroom that can seat up to 300 guests, making it perfect for weddings, receptions, and large celebrations. It features classic wood paneling, restored lighting, and an elegant atmosphere.
- Get Ready Rooms – Private rooms where wedding parties and hosts can get ready, relax, and prepare before the event begins.
Venue Flexibility
- Suitable for weddings, galas, receptions, and corporate functions
- Flexible seating and banquet layouts
- Space for plated dinners, buffets, and cocktail receptions
- Historic interiors ideal for upscale celebrations
- External décor customization available
What Amenities Does This Venue Offer?
| Amenity | Availability |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Elegant Dining Chairs | Yes |
| Round & Banquet Tables | Yes |
| High-Quality Linens | Yes |
| Audio Equipment Rentals | Available |
| Additional Furniture Rentals | Available |
| Get Ready Rooms | Yes |
| On-Site Parking | Yes |
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Yes |
| Event Staff Support | Yes |
The venue’s hospitality setup allows planners to create formal receptions while maintaining flexibility for personalized décor, entertainment, and event styling.
Catering & Dining Policy
O’Connell Hall offers flexible catering services designed to support a wide range of event styles and dining preferences.
Catering Highlights
- Buffet dining available
- Plated meal service available
- Family-style dining options
- Hors d’oeuvres and cocktail receptions
- Dessert stations available
- Flexible catering coordination with external vendors
Bar Services
- Bartenders available
- Open bar packages
- House wine and beer service
- Liquor and signature cocktails available
For planners budgeting venue rentals and catering expenses, Event Space Costs & Party Venue Pricing Guide and Average Wedding Cost 2026 Guide provide useful planning insights.
Vendor & Setup Policies
O’Connell Hall supports customized event experiences through flexible vendor coordination and hospitality planning.
Vendor & Logistics Information
- Outside vendors allowed with coordination
- Flexible décor customization permitted
- External entertainment vendors supported
- Setup and breakdown scheduling coordinated with venue staff
- On-site parking available for vendors and guests
- Professional event staff available for planning support
The venue’s flexibility makes it ideal for planners who want to personalize their wedding, gala, or formal event experience.
Hosts working with professional planners can also review How Much Do Event Planners Charge? for budgeting guidance and planning expectations.
Location & Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Catholic University of America Campus | Historic university surroundings |
| Capitol Hill | Government and business district |
| National Mall | Washington DC landmarks and museums |
| Union Station | Transportation and dining hub |
| Brookland Neighborhood | Restaurants, cafés, and local culture |
Its central Washington DC location makes O’Connell Hall especially convenient for destination weddings, university events, and formal corporate gatherings.
Booking Section
O’Connell Hall is ideal for couples, organizations, universities, and corporate planners seeking a historic event venue in Washington DC with elegant ballroom aesthetics and flexible hospitality services. Whether planning a formal wedding reception, fundraising gala, banquet, or executive event, the venue offers timeless architecture and professional event support designed to elevate the guest experience.
Hosts can streamline invitations and RSVP management using GE Invite or connect directly with planning professionals through the greatEvent Contact Page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the guest capacity at O’Connell Hall? ▾
O’Connell Hall can accommodate up to 300 seated guests in the Heritage Hall ballroom.
Does O’Connell Hall allow outside vendors? ▾
Yes, outside vendors are permitted with coordination to ensure smooth event execution.
What types of events can be hosted at O’Connell Hall? ▾
The venue is ideal for weddings, banquets, galas, social events, university functions, and corporate gatherings.
Does O’Connell Hall offer catering and bar services? ▾
Yes, the venue supports multiple catering styles along with comprehensive bar service packages.
Is O’Connell Hall wheelchair accessible? ▾
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate guests comfortably.
Guest rooms
rooms available for individual stays and discounted room blocks.
Meeting & event space
sq ft across 25 configurable rooms. Tap a room for capacities and setups.
Key amenities
Everything available on-site for your event and guests.
Location & transportation
620 Michigan Ave NE, Northeast Washington, District of Columbia, 20064
