Graduating in Manhattan means celebrating in style! Whether you want a chic rooftop soirée, an intimate fine-dining experience, or a lively cocktail party, the city offers countless stunning private event spaces to mark the occasion. Here’s a curated list of graduation party venues in Manhattan that offer a mix of elegance, ambiance, and top-tier service.
Waiting on a Friend
📍 206 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
For an energetic and flexible celebration, Waiting on a Friend in the East Village provides 2,000 square feet of space with two full bars and three distinct sections. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner for 50 guests, a cocktail reception for 100, or a blowout party for 200, this venue accommodates any graduation vibe.

The stylish yet casual atmosphere, paired with its versatile layout, allows for a mix of mingling, dancing, and toasting to new beginnings. It’s an excellent choice for grads who want to bring their friends together for a night of great drinks, music, and celebration.
Yara
📍 319 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022
For an elevated dining experience, Yara brings an authentic Lebanese touch to Midtown East, offering a selection of private and semi-private spaces tailored for both intimate and large celebrations.
Semi-Private Dining Room – A cozy option for small groups of up to 20 guests.
Bar & Lounge – Ideal for up to 80 guests, featuring a private sound system.
Dining Room Buyout – Accommodates 200 guests, with DJ setups and AV equipment for a lively event.
Full Venue Buyout – Perfect for grand celebrations with up to 280 guests across both levels.

With delicious Lebanese cuisine and a warm, inviting setting, Yara is great for grads who want to dine, dance, and celebrate in a stylish atmosphere.
The Dean NYC
📍 214 W 39th St Unit #5, New York, NY 10018
If you want a central Manhattan location with a high-energy atmosphere, The Dean NYC is an excellent pick. The venue combines modern decor with classic bar vibes, offering open bar packages and catering options that fit any party size.

Guests can enjoy a buffet-style menu with favorites like Buffalo Mac & Cheese and Penne Alla Vodka, plus a variety of drink options, including a well, standard, and premium open bar. The flexible space makes it easy to transition from dinner to a full-blown celebration.
Sagaponack
📍 4 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10010
For foodie graduates looking for a seafood-inspired menu with a coastal-chic ambiance, Sagaponack in the Flatiron District is a fantastic option.
Upstairs Mezzanine – Seats 40 guests, offering a more private setting.
Front Section – A cozy spot for smaller groups of 12 to 15 guests.
Full Buyout – For 120 guests, allowing full control over the space and menu.

With a blend of Asian and Mediterranean flavors, this venue offers a unique culinary experience in a stylish yet welcoming setting.
Highwater Rooftop
📍 120 Water St, New York, NY 10005
For grads who want to celebrate with a view, Highwater Rooftop in the Financial District offers a stunning skyline backdrop. Located on the 25th and 26th floors of the Indigo Hotel, this venue features a sophisticated bar setting that’s perfect for a chic and memorable party.

With an impressive cocktail menu, including 14 variations of espresso martinis, this rooftop bar is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you want a private event with bottle service or a semi-private section for a more intimate gathering, Highwater Rooftop has customizable options.
J. Bespoke
📍 121 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016
For a hidden-gem experience, J. Bespoke is a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge tucked behind a custom suit shop. With just 50 seats, this venue is ideal for small, sophisticated gatherings where guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and elevated bar bites.

This exclusive setting is perfect for grads looking for a laid-back yet luxurious space to toast their achievements. After the games, the focus shifts to music and socializing, making it a seamless blend of sports and nightlife.
5th & Mad
📍 7 E 36th St, New York, NY 10016
For a spacious and modern celebration, 5th & Mad offers multiple private and semi-private areas, including a rooftop terrace with city views. With its trendy decor and vibrant energy, this venue caters to both sit-down dinners and lively dance parties.

The versatile space, modern American cuisine, and craft cocktails make it an easy choice for grads looking to customize their celebration to fit their style.
The Ivory Peacock
📍 38 W 26th St, New York, NY 10010
For a truly elegant graduation celebration, The Ivory Peacock delivers a blend of vintage charm and modern sophistication. Whether you book a semi-private lounge or a full buyout, this venue offers a refined setting with plush seating and an impressive cocktail menu.

Ideal for intimate groups or large-scale events, The Ivory Peacock provides a classy, stylish atmosphere where grads can celebrate in a refined yet lively setting.
Your graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and choosing the right venue can make it even more memorable. Whether you prefer a rooftop celebration, a cozy dinner, or a high-energy bar scene, these private event spaces in Manhattan offer something for every graduate’s style.
Ready to plan your party? Explore these top Manhattan venues and book your unforgettable graduation celebration today! 🎓🎉
Comments