Julia Morgan Ballroom

The Julia Morgan Ballroom at the Merchants Exchange is not just one of San Francisco's most iconic event venues; it's also a link to the city's unique and compelling history. Located in the heart of the bustling Financial District, the building radiates elegance from the street to the lobby and beyond. With a design pedigree from three of America's most renowned architects, a legacy of hosting many of the city's most important events, and state-of-the-art technological amenities, the Julia Morgan Ballroom succeeds at being both quintessentially San Francisco and an ideal choice for your celebration. Your experience begins on California Street, with cable cars whirring up Nob Hill. As you step through the Merchant Exchange building's street-level doors and into the barrel-vaulted lobby, you're transported to an era of lavish detail and impeccable taste: The space shines with marble, gold leaf and bronze, while abundant natural light streams in through the curved glass ceiling. Gleaming new elevators whisk you quickly up to the 15th floor and the landmark Julia Morgan Ballroom, the masterwork of American architectural titans Willis Polk, Daniel Burnham, and Julia Morgan.

Here, your privacy and exclusivity are ensured—there are no busy hotel corridors to contend with, no intrusions from the outside world. Guests first enter through a classic foyer and proceed naturally to the opulent bar and lounge, featuring gilded ceilings and fireplaces of carved stone at each end. The 27-foot curved marble bar sweeps you toward the ballroom and a breathtaking reveal …  Light flows into the stunning 4,370-square-foot ballroom through a wall of soaring floor-to-ceiling arched windows that afford a view of the glittering cityscape, while mirrors on the opposite wall reflect the light. The view overhead is equally impressive—the ceiling is an intricate honeycomb of painstakingly crafted mahogany octagonals. Rich, paneled walls continue the refined aesthetic with classic columns worked directly into the wood. At the far end, a 20-foot stone fireplace provides a striking backdrop and a final touch of grandeur.

Weddings at the Julia Morgan Ballroom are not simply planned; they're designed. The experienced staff, who have choreographed events for U.S. presidents, foreign dignitaries, business legends, and stars of film, music, and sports, are experts at creating custom events. Dedicated to excellence and discretion, they'll ensure that your wedding or special occasion includes your personal touches and reflects your vision. With its prime location amid fine hotels, notable restaurants, and cultural attractions, the ballroom gives event-goers easy access to the best of everything San Francisco has to offer, as well as numerous public transportation options and plenty of evening parking.