Natalie Kennedy
President and Owner; Kennedy Creative; Austin, Texas
What are three unique off-site venues that you would recommend for groups meeting in Austin?
- The Mandola Estate Winery: This winery is situated about 20 miles southwest of Austin in Texas Hill Country. It is a beautiful and unique stop on Texas’ wine trail in the Hill Country. [Several] Italian grape varietals—pinot grigio, moscato, vermentino and sangiovese—flourish together with the great grapes of France and California here to produce food-friendly wines. The winery can accommodate groups of up to about 250. Visitors can take guided “grape to glass” tours Saturday and Sunday every hour. Private tours and tastings are also available during non-peak times with a minimum of 15 people. The winery also serves up delicious Italian food.
- Austin City Limits Studio Theater: It’s probably the most exciting thing to happen for groups coming to Austin in a long time. The famous show Austin City Limits will move downtown to Second Street in a new studio. The old studio accommodated 320, and this new theater will house over 2,500. It will keep its intimate feel, as that’s one of the reasons the TV show and the venue itself has been so popular. Groups will be able to have events here when there isn’t a taping, which is very cool. It will add excitement to downtown, an area that’s already got this great energy.
- Barr Mansion & Artisan Ballroom: The food here is amazing and eco-friendly. (The food is certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.) The venue includes many other green elements beyond food. Events for small to midsize groups of up to 75 people can be hosted in the mansion or in various garden settings. The ballroom is ideal for groups of 75 to 250, while bigger groups can be accommodated easily thanks to several patios and lawn locations, with the possibility of tents depending on the needs and size of the group. The menu changes seasonally with the harvests from the local vendors and the venue’s organic garden.