Rent the perfect graduation venue in Upper Manhattan

For graduating English majors, the literary-themed pub, The Dead Poet, is the perfect place to celebrate the end of essay writing and required readings. This friendly neighborhood bar was created by a former high-school English teacher and is covered in posters and quotes of famous writers. The Dead Poet emulates a traditional Irish pub and claims one of the most authentic pints of Guinness in New York City.

The pub includes an extensive drink menu, including cocktails named after works of fiction and renowned authors, and a limited, nostalgic food menu of just popcorn and hot dogs (though customers are allowed to bring in their own food, or order from nearby businesses).

The Dead Poet is available for private events booked directly through the venue.

If you want to start the next chapter after graduation with a glitzy soiree, the Allure Lounge at Hotel Belleclaire is an ideal location. With plush furnishings, glittering chandeliers, and a 17-foot bar, the space is perfect for a luxurious celebration.

Allure includes a VIP lounge for smaller gatherings, or you can book a full buyout for events of up to 150 guests. The hotel provides everything you need to get the party started, from on-site catering from their menu of Asian-fusion small plates to DJ equipment to get your guests moving. They also offer signature cocktails with refreshing flavors and new takes on classic drinks.

Most people throw their graduation parties in their parent's backyards, but in New York City, the Central Park Boathouse is as close as you can get to a backyard barbecue. This iconic restaurant tucked away in Central Park has been in countless TV shows and movies and now your party can be the star of the show.

Ideal for larger parties of up to 250 guests, the private Lake Room is a bright atrium with picturesque views of Central Park. For reservations with 20 guests or less, book a table in the elegant dining room, where you can enjoy the menu of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes.

If graduation has brought up some nostalgic emotions, head to the dockside cafe to pick up ice cream, burgers, or hot dogs to embrace your inner child.

For a graduation party that feels like something out of Gossip Girl, head to the Upper East Side for a glamorous event at The Astor House. This historic home, owned by the infamous Astor family, is now an elegant event venue with four separate party spaces and an outdoor terrace. Whether you’re hosting your sorority sisters and Catillion counterparts or just close friends and family, there’s something here for everyone.

Celebrate in the ornate Harriman Room with pastel colors and beams of natural light, or hold a sophisticated cocktail party in the Roosevelt Room with wood paneling and chandelier fixtures. The Astor House can accommodate 20 to 150 guests.

Le monde is your oyster after graduation, and where better to celebrate than at an elegant French bistro? Moments away from Columbia's campus, Le Monde is a cozy neighborhood spot that feels like it belongs on a Parisian boulevard. Evoke memories of studying abroad and have an excuse to tell all those stories again.

The menu includes decadent French dishes like crepes, moules frites, and souffles. Toast to the grad with a French-inspired cocktail like a Lillet Spritz, a refreshing mocktail, or choose from their selection of French champagne or wine.

Le Monde offers two private dining spaces, accommodating anywhere from 15 to 50 guests.