About
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 serving bar, lofty ceilings, and a multimedia presentation system for any slideshows or videos you may want to present during your reception.
Services Offered
The 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
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Frequently asked questions
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Reviews of Crystal Ballroom at the Rice
Review summary
The Crystal Ballroom is a highly recommended wedding venue with exceptional service and communication. Reviewers praised the professionalism and organization of the staff, particularly mentioning Cassidy as a standout coordinator. The venue itself is described as stunning and full of historical relevance, with beautiful murals and chandeliers. Guests also appreciated the delicious food provided by the venue's catering partner. Overall, customers had a stress-free and flawless experience at the Crystal Ballroom and highly recommend it for weddings.
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Professional Network & Endorsements

We love to visit the Crystal Ballroom. The ballroom itself is beautiful and historic. However, there are so many other lovely parts of this venue. The balcony and the bridal suite are absolutely lovely to photograph!
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Crystal Ballroom at the Rice frequently asked questions
- Bridal Suite
- Chairs
- China
- Clean Up
- Event Planning
- Flatware
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- Linens
- Set Up
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- Indoor
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- Ceremony
- Reception
- Bridal Shower
- Engagement Party
- Event Planner