Tucked in the heart of historic Victorian Village, just steps from Goodale Park and a short stroll to the Short North Arts District, The Sanctuary on Neil is a venue unlike any other—where timeless beauty, rich history, and heartfelt hospitality come together to create something truly special.

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A Rich History

This building began its life in the 1800s as a church, a place of gathering and celebration. 

 

In 1872, Neil Chapel moved his congregation from Thurber Village to the corner of Neil Avenue and Goodale Street; the future home of the Neil Avenue United Methodist Episcopal Church. The church was built in two parts spanning 25 years. The northern half of the building, including the grand rotunda, was designed by architect J.W. Yost and completed in 1890. A large addition, designed by architects Stribling & Lum, was added to the south side of the church in 1914. This southern addition included living quarters for clergy and nuns. The church remained in operation for many decades and was even partially ravaged by a fire in 1984 which damaged the altar and the 116-year-old pipe organ.

 

In 1996, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church purchased the building to house their congregation. The EOTC also provided social resources including services to refugees. When the building found new ownership in 2020, restoration to its prior grandeur and paying homage to the building's rich history and importance in the neighborhood was paramount, hence its new name, The Sanctuary. For a time, it sat quiet and forgotten—its windows cracked, floors worn, its spirit dimmed. But thankfully, that wasn’t the end of its story. The legacy of stewardship continues.

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A team of dreamers saw past the disrepair and lovingly brought it back to life. Through nearly a year of renovations, they gave it new floors, restored its 1885 woodwork, and revived its breathtaking character. Their vision and dedication turned a fading structure into a warm, welcoming venue—and we’re forever grateful for the foundation they laid.

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Today, Harper Hospitality Group is honored to continue that legacy. With Kennedy A. Harper at the helm, we’ve stepped in with a fresh sense of purpose—to care for this beautiful space, to serve our guests with warmth and intention, and to help create unforgettable moments for every couple and client who walks through our doors.

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Inside The Sanctuary on Neil, you’ll discover:

• A romantic, historic atmosphere that feels like stepping into another era

• Elegant suites for the bride and groom, furnished with handpicked vintage pieces

• A stunning ballroom ready for the best kind of party—complete with club lighting and soaring ceilings

• Antique mirrors and charming original details throughout, including the soft “faint blue” ceiling said to keep bad spirits away​

 

This isn’t your average event venue—and we wouldn’t want it to be. It’s a space filled with love, laughter, and stories waiting to unfold.

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We hope you’ll make yours here.

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The Sanctuary on Neil is ready to welcome you—whether it’s for the start of a forever, a celebration among friends, or a new tradition worth keeping.

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Let’s begin your next chapter together and Remember that The Sanctuary on Neil is more than a venue—it's legacy. Come be part of it.