About San Francisco
Renowned for its progressive social values and drive for change, San Francisco is the cultural hub of Northern California. It’s home to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and bustling entertainment piers, as well as the island prison of Alcatraz and the photogenically steep Lombard Street.
The city’s creativity extends to its rooftop venues, many of which combine gorgeous indoor and outdoor spaces overlooking San Francisco’s skyline. Combined with an inspiring gastronomy scene, there’s no better place to hold your next event than San Francisco.
Event Options in San Francisco
San Francisco’s renowned as a creative city, and there is no shortage of professionals who will bring your rooftop event to life. From florists to DJs and equipment rentals, you’ll be able to find everything you need.
- DJ
There’s no easier way to create ambiance at your rooftop event than with a live DJ. San Francisco’s wide choice of DJs means you’ll be able to find one who’s experienced in the musical genre you prefer.
- Caterers
Catering is provided in-house at most rooftop venues in San Francisco, with the option to select from regular menus or special event options. But if not, you’ll find plenty of caterers in San Francisco who will deliver the cuisine you are after.
- Florists
If your San Francisco rooftop venue needs livening up, consider investing in a few floral bouquets or botanical features from one of the city’s talented florists.
- Photographer
To ensure your rooftop event lives on in the minds of guests and non-guests alike, you can hire the services of a professional photographer. They’ll capture high-quality images throughout the event, which can be shared on your website and social media channels.
- Equipment Rentals
Most rooftop venues in San Francisco come equipped with furniture, as well as sound and audio gear. But if there’s anything you need, there are equipment rental services in the city that can supply them for you.
Event Planning Companies in San Francisco
If you need help planning or executing your rooftop event in San Francisco, the services of an experienced event planning company can be invaluable.
- Inspire Productions
Specializing in event planning and management, Inspire Productions has been producing events for more than 20 years. They draw on their creative talent and industry contacts to deliver events that leave a big impact on both clients and guests.
- B Line Events
With its experienced team of planners, organizers, socializers, and creators, B Line Events is a full-service event management company based in San Francisco. They pride themselves on their attention to detail and building real relationships with their clients.
- Entire Productions
One of the top corporate event planning companies in San Francisco, Entire Productions comprises a team of experienced professionals. They’ll add their creative flair to your rooftop event, no matter the style or atmosphere you desire.
Pros and Cons of Events in San Francisco
As one of the United States’ most alluring cities, there are lots of advantages to hosting a rooftop event in San Francisco. However, there are several drawbacks to consider, including the weather and the city’s notorious traffic.
Advantages
- San Francisco is a destination in itself
With its abundance of cultural landmarks, an inspiring culinary scene, and two Major League baseball teams, there’s plenty to keep out-of-town guests entertained during their stay.
- Diversity of venues
San Francisco’s diversity of rooftop venues means you’ll have options when finding the one that’s right for your event.
- Experienced vendors
With a thriving creative scene, San Francisco has an abundance of professional vendors who will bring your event to life.
- Sustainable gastronomy
San Francisco’s reputation as a progressive hub means that you can easily find eclectic rooftop venues offering sustainably and ethically sourced produce.
- Good public transportation system
With trolley, light rail, and bus networks, San Francisco’s public transportation system makes it easy for your guests to get to and from your rooftop venue.
Disadvantages
- High costs of living
San Francisco has one of the highest costs of living in the United States, which translates into higher costs when hosting an event.
- High property prices
The city’s soaring property prices mean that rental costs for venues may be high compared to many other places in the United States.
- Unpredictable weather
San Francisco’s unpredictable weather means hosting outdoor events can be a gamble, which is why it’s a good idea to find a rooftop venue with an indoor space.
- Terrible traffic
Traffic in San Francisco is notorious at almost all hours of the day and night, which is why using public transportation is the best way of getting around.
- Crime is an issue
Crime in San Francisco can be a problem, and guests should be cautious when walking to and from events.
Famous Locations in San Francisco
- Financial District
Serving as the city’s business hub, the Financial District is dominated by soaring skyscrapers and the striking Transamerica Pyramid building. It’s home to an abundance of bars and restaurants, as well as several of the best rooftop venues in San Francisco.
- Golden Gate Bridge
As an icon of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge can be seen from several rooftop venues throughout the city. It’s particularly stunning at night when it’s beautifully illuminated as it transports commuters between the city and Marin County.
- Cable Cars
Introduced to the city in 1873, San Francisco’s historic cable cars are one of the most atmospheric ways to navigate the city’s hilly streets. You can ride the scenic Powell-Mason or Powell-Hyde routes while taking in the landmarks en route to your rooftop venue.
