Whether you’re planning a wedding, milestone celebration, or corporate event, one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) steps is touring venues. You want to walk into a space and feel that spark—the moment you realize this is the one.
But to make the most of your venue tours, it helps to come prepared. Here are a few simple, practical tips to help you walk in with confidence, ask the right questions, and spot what truly sets a venue apart.
📋 What to Bring With You
A vision board or inspiration photos
Even if it’s just a few Pinterest screenshots, having a visual idea of your style (modern, romantic, rustic, etc.) helps your venue coordinator show how the space can reflect your vibe.Guest count estimate
Knowing your approximate guest count helps determine if the venue can comfortably accommodate your event—and how the layout might flow.Preferred date(s)
Having a couple of options in mind can make booking easier and potentially give you more flexibility (and better pricing).Your top priorities
Whether it's an indoor backup plan, a waterfront view, or BYO vendors, know what matters most to you before you tour.
💬 Questions to Ask During the Tour
Is the space climate-controlled and weatherproof?
At Riverside Pavilion, we offer both indoor and covered outdoor areas—so you never have to worry about rain, heat, or unexpected weather changes.What’s included in the rental?
Ask if tables, chairs, setup, and breakdown are included. We proudly offer rental inclusions that make your planning process smoother (and save you money).Can I bring my own vendors?
Some venues require you to use their vendors. At Riverside Pavilion, we give you the freedom to choose your dream team—so your event is truly your own.Are there noise restrictions or time limits?
You want to make sure your party can go on as planned. Our team walks you through all city and venue guidelines up front, so there are no surprises later.What kind of support is available on event day?
From walkthroughs to day-of coordination options, ask how the venue helps keep things running smoothly. At Riverside Pavilion, we’re right there with you—every step of the way.
👀 What to Look for While You’re There
Lighting and natural light
Pay attention to how the space looks at the time of day your event would take place—especially if you’re planning photos or an outdoor ceremony.Flow of the space
Is there a natural path for guests to move from ceremony to cocktail hour to reception? Are restrooms easy to access? Is there a dance floor or quiet lounge area?Parking and accessibility
Make sure there’s plenty of parking, and that guests of all ages and abilities can comfortably enjoy the venue. Riverside Pavilion offers on-site parking and easy accessibility for everyone.That feeling you get
Don’t underestimate your gut feeling. If you feel welcomed, inspired, and at ease—it’s a good sign you’ve found your place.
Why So Many Choose Riverside Pavilion
From the very first tour, our goal is to make you feel at home. Whether you’re envisioning a romantic waterfront wedding or planning a celebration for your entire team, we offer flexible space, a welcoming team, and a stunning backdrop for memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to walk the space and start planning?
We’d love to show you around and help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to schedule your private tour—we can’t wait to meet you.