Private Events
MOHAI’S distinctive home in a former Naval Reserve Building offers private event experiences like no other. Art Moderne features, the original Douglas fir end grain wood floor, and other historic elements craft a visually stunning presence throughout the entire museum. MOHAI offers the use of its spaces for galas, ceremonies, presentations, learning opportunities, celebrations, and facility rentals of all kinds.
Set in the midst of beautiful Lake Union Park, downtown Seattle’s sparkling skyline rises to the south, while boats and seaplanes traverse the lake to the north. Inside the fully restored building, unique pieces of Seattle’s heritage offer the perfect setting to make any private event a truly unforgettable experience.
Spaces
Private event and function spaces at MOHAI offer the charm and character of a historic structure while simultaneously providing the necessary amenities for a contemporary function.
Faye G. Allen Grand Atrium
Gala fundraisers, auctions, receptions, holiday parties, media presentations
The Grand Atrium is MOHAI’s largest single event space, as well as the museum’s main central gallery and gathering place.
Capacity: Up to 750 for standing/reception; maximum 350 for seated/banquet
Availability: Evenings, 5 pm–midnight; not available the first Thursday of the month
View Space
Microsoft Lakefront Pavilion
Breakfast or lunch meetings, cocktail receptions, retreats, classes
Have a meeting, lecture, or small event against the backdrop of Lake Union.
Capacity: Up to 145 for standing/reception; maximum 96 for seated/banquet
Availability: Daily, 7 am–midnight; not available the first Thursday of the month
View Space
Norcliffe Foundation Conference Rooms
Meetings of all types; media presentations; lectures
MOHAI offers two conference rooms with views of Lake Union and the Historic Ship Wharf.
Capacity: Up to 25 single; up to 50 combined
Availability: Daily, 7 am–midnight; may be combined
View Space
Boeing Centennial Terrace
Cocktail receptions, VIP parties
Look over Lake Union and the surrounding Park while watching the sun set behind the Space Needle.
Capacity: Up to 300
Availability: Seasonal availability, 3 pm–10 pm; dependent on Lake Union Park activities; not available the first Thursday of the month
View Space
Stack Family Lakeview Terrace
Intimate receptions, cocktail receptions, VIP parties
This open air, rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Lake Union, Queen Anne, Gas Works Park, and Capitol Hill.
Capacity: Up to 75 for standing/reception
Availability: Seasonal availability from May–September; 7 am–midnight
View Space
Museum Buyout
Gala fundraisers, auctions, receptions, holiday parties, media presentations
Reserve the entire museum for your next big event!
Capacity: Maximum 1100 for standing/reception
Availability: Evenings, 5 pm–midnight; not available the first Thursday of the month
View Space
Sizes and Rates
Download information about renting spaces at MOHAI.
Vendors
MOHAI has a list of select caterers and other vendors to choose from when planning a private event. The museum does not allow self-catered, homemade, or potluck meals at functions.
In-House Caterer
MOHAI is pleased to partner with our friends at Gourmondo Catering to provide a variety of food, beverages, and full-service event staffing. They are our premiere onsite caterer, and operate our in-house café. Information and sample menus are available below and at Gourmondo.
Other Exclusive Vendors
These select caterers have knowledge and experience in museum environments. Their working procedures have been assessed and approved by MOHAI, ensuring a more seamless event experience. Please contact them directly for sample menus and proposals.
Preferred Vendors
MOHAI enjoys working with the following vendors, and highly recommends them to ensure the success of an event.
Reserve a Space
MOHAI accepts event bookings on a first-come, first-served basis for dates up to 18 months in advance. To begin the process, please complete the inquiry form to check availability and provide specific event information. MOHAI’s Events Department will then be in touch about next steps to take in the reservation process.