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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
Download information about renting spaces at MOHAI.
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.
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.
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.
MOHAI enjoys working with the following vendors, and highly recommends them to ensure the success of an event.
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.
MOHAI.org aims to support every possible visitor, but you may experience some technical difficulties.