The Fun Venue
When looking to host an event, many people (and even businesses) often look for a venue located downtown. So when choosing one, why not go with something local and fun? Introducing The Fun Venue. They are a locally owned event venue that has been open for a year. It’s located at 221 N St. Francis right by Cocoa Dolce, Wave, and The Loony Bin Comedy Club.
As a former party planner and retired reverend that has officiated 13 weddings, I know the importance of a nice venue especially one centrally located in town. Location is hugely important for events. And sometimes you want to have something less cookie cutter like a hotel space and a place that has a little more character to it.
The Fun Venue has a capacity of 80 people but can also hold 49 more people in their outdoor courtyard. It’s a great space for smaller intimate weddings (especially in the current landscape), birthday parties, graduations, bridal & baby showers (I know a reverend!), dinners, business meetings and an assortment of other occasions.
The indoor space has a large bar, prep tables, a freezer refrigerator, a stage, two restrooms and one shower. Speaking of the bar, they are an outside food and drink facility meaning you can bring your own food or alcoholic beverages as desired or hire a caterer or licensed bartender. The choice is yours. There’s also a separate multipurpose room that’s been used as a bridal room and a game room for kids.
The outdoor courtyard in my idea would be great for a huge yard games tournament space. Or once my daughter gets older, a place for big inflatables for the kids to jump on. Or why not a kids’ birthday party AND a yard games tournament?
Of course no discussion about downtown Wichita would be complete without the “Where can I park?” debate. That of course is enhanced when you’re holding an event that’s expecting many people. At the Fun Venue, there’s plenty of free public parking right off of Saint Francis Street.
Regarding services and amenities, they have many that are included in the rental or can be requested free of charge. For instance, tables and chairs are included in the rental. Then the projector and a tailgate speaker are also included free of charge by request which is nice because some places’ audio/video charges can get quite costly. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, pool table, chalkboard supply for their wall, backdrop stand, bar usage, and more. There’s also pre-installed lighting that can set the mood for your event.
Rental rates are $80 per hour Monday through Thursday.
Friday before 5 p.m. is $80 an hour and it’s $100 after 5 p.m.
On Saturday, rental cost is $100 per hour before 5 p.m. and $150 per hour after 5 p.m. although there is a current promotion that nets you 15% off for rentals of 5 hours and longer and after 5pm.
On Sunday, the rental is $100 per hour. Holiday rates vary.
All rentals require a minimum of 2 hours but you also get free 30 minutes to set up before the event and 30 minutes after for takedown. There are also whole day rental rates and more options to choose from which you can find by calling them at 316-755-6790 or visiting their website (https://thefunvenue.business.site/).
I’m all for a good time and have been to and/or help host events at nearly every venue in town. Sometimes you want something a little more intimate, relaxed, and not so stuffy aka FUN. That’s exactly where The Fun Venue comes to play. Best of all you’re also supporting local.
For more on The Fun Venue, be sure to check them out on Facebook and Instagram. Everything else can be answered by giving them a ring at 316-755-6790 or checking out their website. After that it’s all fun and good times. To quote Terrell Owens, get your popcorn ready!
For more local business spotlights, check out our Shop Local archive.
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