Host an Event
Host an event at the National Archives! During your private event, your group may view exhibitions at the National Archives Museum, enjoy customized tours of the “Records of Rights” exhibits, or special exhibitions in the Lawrence F. O’Brien Gallery. You also may explore the magnificent Rotunda – the permanent home of the original Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
Available Spaces at the Archives
Rotunda Galleries
The Rotunda Galleries are just steps away from the centerpiece of the National Archives Museum, the Rotunda – the permanent home of the original Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights. With 75-foot vaulted ceilings, marble floors, and bronze accents, the Galleries can accommodate 100 to 150 people for a seated dinner or up to 225 people at a standing cocktail reception.
Archivist Reception Room
This elegant and stately reception room features a large marble foyer entry and is suitable for standing receptions for up to 100 or seated dinners for up to 50 guests. The Archivist’s Reception Room is furnished with elegant settees, antiques, and two grand chandeliers. Three large windows provide a picturesque view of the historic Pennsylvania Avenue, the United States Navy Memorial, and the National Portrait Gallery.
Visitor Orientation Plaza
Welcoming guests into the National Archives Museum, the Visitor Orientation Plaza is located directly outside the brand-new David M. Rubenstein Gallery, home to the permanent “Records of Rights” exhibit. A modern space that incorporates the grandeur of the historic building, the Orientation Plaza is ideally suited for cocktail receptions for up to 150 guests. The Visitor Orientation Plaza also provides guests with convenient access to the Archives Store, which offers an array of quality gifts and publications.
William G. McGowan Theatre
The 286-seat, state-of-the-art William G. McGowan Theater is outfitted with pan, tilt, and zoom cameras, studio recording capability, dressing and rehearsal rooms, and set storage. This impressive space is capable of hosting a wide range of programs, including panel discussions, film screenings, and theatrical performances. The McGowan Theater is fully accessible, with an assistive listening system for the hearing-impaired as well as wheelchair-accessible seating. The theater lobby is perfect for pre-and post-program receptions.
Presidential Conference Rooms
Named after four of our Founding Fathers, the rooms of the Presidential Conference Center are elegantly adorned with facsimiles of records from the National Archives relating to each of their presidencies. Each space is equipped with built-in projectors and screens. They are also internet accessible and can be set up for teleconferencing. These rooms may be used during public hours or for evening events.
Jefferson Conference Room
As the largest Presidential Conference Room, the Jefferson Room is ideal for hosting lectures, meetings, or conferences. It can accommodate up to 65 people in a theater-style set-up or 45 people in a boardroom set-up.
Washington Conference Room
The Washington Room is suitable for lectures, meetings, or conferences and is capable of accommodating up to 60 people for a theater-style set-up or 40 people for a board room set-up.
Adams Conference Room
The Adams Room can accommodate up to 20 people for a board room set-up or 30 people for a lecture or presentation.
Madison Conference Room
Suitable for more intimate engagements, the Madison Room can accommodate up to 20 people for a lecture or 15 people for a board room set-up.
If you have more questions about hosting an event at the National Archives in DC, call our office at 202-357-5404.
If you are interested in hosting a wedding at the National Archives, click here.
