Small Party Venues for Hire in Melbourne

Melbourne has no shortage of stylish, affordable spaces ideal for under 50 guests. From converted warehouses in North Melbourne to rooftop lounges in South Yarra, you’ll find venues with great vibes, solid food and drinks, and just the right amount of personality. But before you book, check out our guide to help you get started. 

Top Neighbourhoods for Small Events:

• Southbank – Riverside views, close to public transport, and a huge mix of bars and restaurants. Great for after-work parties or private dinners that turn into dance nights. Top Pick: Eureka 89 – Enjoy riverside and skyline views from the top of Melbourne’s tallest tower.
• South Yarra – Think boutique bars, cocktail lounges, and upscale hideaways tucked just outside the CBD. Perfect if you’re after a more polished vibe without going full formal. Top Pick: Arcadia Hotel – It’s ideal for cocktail-style gatherings that feel upscale but still relaxed. Great tram access too.
• North Melbourne – With its repurposed warehouses and laneway venues, this area has become a go-to for birthday drinks and casual gatherings. Great for DIY setups and BYO-friendly options. Top Pick: The Purple Emerald Lounge Bar – This venue has that retro-lounge-meets-warehouse feel, perfect for laid-back birthday drinks.
• East Melbourne – Trendy, central, and close to everything. This area is ideal for quick meetups or small parties where location and accessibility are key. Top Pick: Father's Office Downtown – Just a short walk from Parliament Station, this venue offers small private rooms for mid-sized groups.

Cost-Saving Tips for Booking Small Event Spaces in Melbourne

Want to celebrate without overspending? Here’s how locals keep things stylish and affordable:

• Book midweek or off-season – Winter months and weekday evenings often come with lower hire fees and better availability.
• Pick low-decor venues – Spaces with built-in style (think exposed brick, rooftop views, neon signage) save you time and budget on decorating.
• BYO food and drinks – Many small venues allow external catering or BYO alcohol for a corkage fee—just check ahead and confirm the rules.
• Ask about included amenities – Look for venues with built-in AV, furniture, or lighting. Some even come with dance floors or DJ booths, which saves you hiring costs.
• Stick to your guest list – Small venues work best when you keep the numbers tight. Be upfront with the venue manager about your max capacity and budget.

If you’re still struggling to make a choice, check out our checklist for choosing a venue for tips and insights into making sure your event hire goes off without a hitch!

Popular Types of Venues for Small Parties

• Private dining rooms – Ideal for seated birthday dinners or small celebrations with tailored menus. Top Pick: Seamstress Restaurant & Bar
• Boutique bars & lounges – Great for cocktails, canapés, and a more social, roaming format. Top Pick: Caz Reitop's Dirty Secrets
• Converted spaces – Warehouses, studios, and laneway venues offer flexibility and are often BYO-friendly. Top Pick: BigHouse Arts
• Garden venues – In warmer months, small courtyards and rooftop gardens are perfect for day-to-night parties. Top Pick: Secret Garden Bar

Ready to plan your event? Explore Melbourne’s best small party venues and book the one that fits you best—all in a few clicks.