Cheap Party Venues for Rent in San Francisco, CA

Your Guide to Renting Cheap Party Venues in San Francisco, CA

It’s not always easy to choose when you have a multitude of amazing venues at your fingertips. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you pick the best space for your next small or big event!

What are some cheap party venue options in San Francisco?

Private gardens

Planning to soak in some sun during your bash? Why not make the most of the mild weather in San Francisco and rent a private garden? Dreamy gardens and countryside fields are excellent for hosting parties. Whether it’s a baby shower, a small launch party, or a cocktail party, these venues are worth every penny. Private woodlands, home gardens, or mansion gardens, you will find many options to choose from for your next event. Renting garden spaces in Napa Valley or Sonoma is ideal for a city break, and sipping some delicious local wine!

Indoor venues with patios 

Everyone loves the convenience of indoor parties with access to the patio. From cozy restaurant patios to palatial penthouse patios, these spaces are perfect for intimate gatherings or corporate events. Why not pick a location in the heart of San Francisco, around Market Street, where you can impress your guests with a magnificent view of the Twin Peaks and the Ferry Building? Renting a private garden directly from the owner can help you save some extra cash as you can be assisted with all the amenities such as music systems, breakout rooms, heating, and air conditioning. 

Dance studios 

Did you know that San Francisco is known as the "City of Dance?" It's no wonder there’s no lack of dance studios in the area. Dance studios are popular for rehearsals or workshops, but if you didn’t know by now, they are also perfect for kid parties, team bonding activities, and dancing the night away. Most studios are bright, open spaces equipped with high-quality music equipment. In addition to that, you may contact the venue manager to ask for access to dressing rooms or a kitchenette if you need to.  

Back rooms 

Back rooms are getting quite some attention when it comes to venues. They are usually part of pubs and restaurants and can be hired for any type of fun event. Guests will generally have access to the pubs and restaurants if they need a refill or if they need to shake a leg. These venues are among the cheapest and start at around $20 per hour. (All data from Tagvenue) To amp up these spaces, do not hesitate to contact venue managers as they can help you with catering, lighting, sound systems, and even more! 

Art galleries

Feeling a little artsy? Pick a gallery. San Francisco is home to some famous art galleries, like the Asian Art Museum, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and the Cartoon Art Museum. Renting an alternative art gallery is a classy and creative way to celebrate an occasion. With the perfect lighting and background already in place, your crew is likely to thank you for this Instagram-worthy location. Galleries are not only great for small gatherings, but also for big events such as product launches that require elegance. You surely can’t go wrong with such esthetic!

How can I find a cheap party space? 

San Francisco has many options when it comes to budget-friendly venues with exceptional atmospheres. Whether you’re looking for an open or cozy space, here are some guidelines to help you find a cheap party space. 

Stick to your budget. As obvious as it may seem, sticking to a budget is sometimes hard when planning an event. If you blow through your venue budget, chances are that you will not be able to afford anything else for your event. When looking for a venue, it’s essential to have a separate budget for the venue itself and other expenses such as catering or hiring a DJ. 

Calculate your additional expenses. The key to affordability is to calculate your extra expenses such as decorations, party favors, and catering before booking your venue.

Go for less popular locations. Lookup for venues in less popular and cheaper areas in San Francisco, such as Vallejo, Tenderloin, or Richmond. You can also consider unconventional venues such as backrooms or dance studios to save up.

Book your venue at the earliest. Secure your space by booking early. Remember that cheap venues are always in high demand, particularly during the party season. It's best to hire your favorite venue once you’ve made your choice, put down your deposit and relax.

Use the help of online marketplaces. Make your search a lot easier by using online venue booking services. Tagvenue allows you to browse through hundreds of venues and caters to all your venue requirements. Whether you’re looking for a patio with a splendid city view or a homey garden, you can find the perfect venue by filtering the venues as per your budget, location, event, and number of guests.

FAQs about Cheap Party Venues in San Francisco, CA

Do all venues allow outdoor catering?

As you might already know, many restaurants do not allow catering as they offer in-house catering. However, some restaurants allow it, so it’s best to contact the venue manager to discuss the rules before booking. Other venues, such as dance studios and patios, might have specific rules regarding food. In any case, you can check the description of the venue to see whether it fits your requirements.

What services does the rental include?

Rental services include different types of amenities depending on the venue. While some venues might provide in-house catering or staffing services, some will require that you organize any additional services on your own. If you’re unsure about the services included, contacting the venue manager is your best bet!

Do venues have some restrictions?

Most venues have a set of rules in place. This might be regarding several things, such as serving drinks till a certain hour or closing before midnight. While the venue's description typically highlights such restrictions, it’s always best to ask right away and be informed before the big day!

What is the price range for renting a venue in San Francisco?

Rental prices depend on the location, the number of guests, and the venue itself. For instance, backrooms and dance rooms tend to be cheaper than restaurant patios or private apartments. Prices start at around $20 per hour for a backroom and around $45 per person for a café. 

What are some affordable venue spaces in San Francisco?

Cafe Boho is a perfect spot for intimate gatherings and corporate events, alike. Cozy and bright, this venue offers numerous possibilities for your next event.