Frequently Asked Questions
General
Where is The Knowlton located?
The Knowlton is located on the scenic Pequonnock River waterfront in Bridgeport, Connecticut at 305 Knowlton Street. The venue is easily accessible from I-95, Route 25, Route 8, and the Merritt Parkway, making it convenient for guests traveling throughout Fairfield County and the greater New York and Connecticut area.
What types of events does The Knowlton host?
The Knowlton hosts corporate events, bar and bat mitzvahs, fundraisers, galas, weddings, and private celebrations. With multiple distinct spaces, the venue is ideal for both intimate gatherings and large-scale events.
How quickly will I hear back after inquiring?
Most inquiries receive a response within 24 hours.
Spaces & Capacity
What event spaces are available at The Knowlton?
The Knowlton offers three distinct indoor event spaces: The Boathouse, The Wilder Gallery (formerly known as the 285 Gallery), and The Armstrong Gallery. All three spaces can be used individually or combined for larger events or full-venue buyouts.
What is the ideal guest count for each space?
The Boathouse is ideal for approximately 175–300 seated guests or 200–450 cocktail-style events.
The Wilder Gallery is ideal for 75–125 seated guests or up to 175 cocktail-style.
The Armstrong Gallery is best suited for 40–80 seated guests or up to 100 cocktail-style.
Final layouts depend on event flow, entertainment, and production needs.
Is there outdoor event space?
Yes. The waterfront lawn accommodates up to 200 guests for ceremonies overlooking the Pequonnock River. The Boathouse deck (approximately 1,200 square feet) is also available for cocktails or smaller gatherings.
Booking & Pricing
How does pricing work at The Knowlton?
Pricing at The Knowlton is customized based on the event date, selected spaces, guest count, and overall scope of the event. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all pricing online, proposals are tailored to reflect how the venue will be used and what is required operationally.
What is required to reserve a date?
A signed contract and non-refundable deposit are required to secure an event date. Payment schedules and details are outlined clearly during the booking process.
How far in advance should we book?
Popular dates, particularly Saturdays and fall weekends, often book well in advance. Weekday and Sunday events typically offer greater availability.
Catering & Kitchen
Can we bring our own caterer?
Yes. The Knowlton has an open catering policy. Clients may work with any licensed and insured caterer who meets venue requirements.
What kitchen facilities are available for caterers?
The Boathouse includes a professional catering support kitchen with three convection ovens (one double, one single), a double-door glass refrigerator, a small chest freezer, thirteen 20-amp electrical circuits, and table height extensions to convert standard tables to counter or bar height. The kitchen is intended for catering support and preparation.
Can The Knowlton accommodate kosher events?
Yes. Kosher caterers are welcome, and the venue can be configured with mechitza draping for Orthodox celebrations. Event logistics are reviewed in advance to ensure religious requirements are met.
Bar & Alcohol
Can we bring our own alcohol?
No. The Knowlton holds a liquor license and requires that all alcohol and bartending services be provided by Knowlton Events. Outside alcohol is not permitted.
Do you offer bar packages?
Yes. Knowlton Events offers a range of customizable bar packages. Details are provided as part of the event proposal process.
AV & Technology
What AV equipment is available?
Built-in sound is available throughout the venue, along with color-selectable ambient lighting in The Boathouse. For larger-scale lighting, video, staging, monitors, and production needs, The Knowlton works closely with Nicholson Events to ensure safe power management and seamless execution.
Is WiFi available for events?
Yes. Enterprise-grade WiFi supports large-scale connectivity and is well suited for corporate presentations and events with high guest usage.
Vendors & Insurance
Are there vendor requirements?
Licensed and insured vendors are welcome. Bands and DJs are encouraged to use their own sound systems. All vendors must coordinate logistics, load-in, and setup with venue management.
What insurance is required for vendors?
All vendors must provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) with a minimum of $1,000,000 in coverage listing The Knowlton LLC, Nicholson Events Inc., and Knowlton Events LLC. Vendors submit insurance using the venue vendor form.
Sound & Noise
Are there noise restrictions?
There are no formal noise restrictions inside the venue. All outside vendors must comply with venue management requests to adjust volume levels if needed to ensure guest comfort and smooth event flow.
Setup & Operations
How much time is included for setup and breakdown?
Setup and breakdown times vary by space and event scope. Most events include dedicated setup time prior to guest arrival and breakdown immediately following the event. Additional time may be arranged in advance if needed.
Parking & Accessibility
Is parking available on-site?
Yes. The Knowlton offers over 200 parking spaces in a secured private lot.
Are parking attendants required?
Yes. Events with more than 50 guests require parking attendants to ensure safe and efficient guest arrival and traffic flow.
Is The Knowlton wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue offers accessible event spaces and restrooms. Specific accessibility needs can be reviewed in advance with the venue team.
Outdoor Events & Weather
Can The Knowlton host outdoor ceremonies or cocktail hours?
Yes. The Knowlton offers a private outdoor deck and lawn that can accommodate ceremonies, cocktail hours, and select outdoor event moments, paired with a large indoor event space for full-scale celebrations.
What happens if it rains during an outdoor event?
Weather contingency plans are reviewed during the planning process. Indoor backup options may be available depending on space usage and event layout.
Sustainability
Is The Knowlton an eco-friendly venue?
Yes. The Knowlton is powered in part by a solar energy system and operates with sustainability-focused practices.