The Crystal Ballroom at the Rice is an elegant 1913 historic ballroom located in the heart of downtown Houston?s Rice Hotel. This gorgeous ballroom venue was originally the capital of the Republic of Texas, and is now a fantastic space ideal for a large event. Facilities and Capacity The Crystal Ballroom at the Rice is a unique space, able to accommodate large gatherings its main ballroom or smaller events in one of the adjoining private rooms, especially the Empire Room. The main ballroom is a luxurious 5,000 square feet ballroom with a 1,500 square foot parlor. This space maintains its 1913 design, complete with a full wrap-around balcony and covered terrace. The ballroom has an elegant lobby entrance with crystal chandeliers and you can prepare for your big day in the ballroom?s private dressing room. The spacious ballroom has 35 inch ceilings, a full stage, and a beautiful dance floor for celebrating. This opulent ballroom can accommodate 400 guests for a seated dinner and up to 800 guests for a reception. If you want all the luxury of this space with a more intimate setting, you can hold your event in the Empire Room. The Empire Room is on the same level as the main ballroom and can accommodate 100 guests for a seated dinner and 120 guests for a reception. The space comes with a 22 inch serving bar, 22 inch ceilings, and a multimedia presentation system for any slideshows or videos you may want to present during your reception. Services OfferedThe Crystal Ballroom at the Rice is a gorgeous venue, with multiple service options. The venue has in-house event planning services and the staff is there to assist you every step of the planning process. The Crystal Ballroom offers the following services:
Event planning
Bridal suite
In-house catering
HistoryThe Crystal Ballroom at the Rice is one of Houston?s most unique and historic landmarks, as historic figures such as Sam Houston used to walk the halls of this building. President Benjamin Harrison spoke from the balcony and President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his wife thought the dining room in the Crystal Ballroom was the best and most beautiful place to eat in all of Houston, Texas. Historic moments, such as Jackie Kennedy?s one and only political speech, took place in the Crystal Ballroom. This 1913 ballroom is truly filled with historic moments.
