Host an Event in New York, NY
The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in New York opened as the George Gustav Heye Center in 1994 at the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House. This vast seven-story building, designed by prominent architect Cass Gilbert in the early 1900s, is considered one of the most splendid Beaux-Arts buildings in New York City. Covering four city blocks, the Custom House is south of Bowling Green, and directly across from the newly restored Battery Park, overlooking the bustling harbor of Lower Manhattan, and at the foot of the Wiechquaekeck Trail, an old Algonquian trade route. Rich in exquisite architectural details, nautical themes, and historic significance, this landmark building is on the National Register of Historic Places. The National Museum of the American Indian in New York is a place where art, history, and culture come together in unique and extraordinary ways.
The museum's event spaces are available for rent to individuals, corporations, and non-profit organizations for private corporate and non-profit events, social events, fundraisers for 501(c)(3) organizations, film screenings, and daytime meetings. The variety and flexibility of the museum's event spaces make it an ideal setting for special events with groups from 10 to 1,500.
For more information and to reserve a space, contact the Office of Special Events at nmainy-specialevents@si.edu or 212-514-3750.
The Rotunda | View Floorplan
Graced by a 48-foot Guastavino ceiling, a spectacular oval skylight, and murals painted by Reginald Marsh depicting the magnificent New York Harbor, the white-marbled Rotunda, with its grand proportions and stunning elegance, is the perfect spot for a majestic or singular event. Several of the museum's exhibition galleries are accessible through the Rotunda, and can be available for your guests to explore during special events.
The Collectors Office | View Floorplan
The Collectors Office, with its warm, white oak-paneled walls designed by Tiffany Studios and its beautiful portraits of famous seaports throughout the world, is an excellent room for an intimate breakfast and all-day meeting or an elegant, exclusive luncheon, reception, or dinner. Its high-coffered ceiling and ornate design also make it the perfect room for a lecture series or an artist's salon and speaking program.
The Auditorium, Lobby & Meeting Rooms | View Floorplan
The Auditorium offers more than 300 permanent seats and a variety of state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, including a 14x24' projection screen, theatrical lighting, and full WiFi and IT capabilities. There is also a 16x38' stage, as well as an expansive lobby and holding area. Across from the Auditorium are four interconnecting meeting and breakout rooms, also equipped with projection screens that are perfect for smaller gatherings during large-scale meetings or seminars.
The Diker Pavilion for Native Arts & Cultures | View Floorplan
Featuring a collection of Native American art and objects on display, the Diker Pavilion is constructed with the modern details of a multifunctional exhibition and performance space and is an ideal venue for all types of special events. The Diker Pavilion functions as a center for education, film, and dance, but also offers a contemporary and flexible setting for special events within a beautiful and distinctive landmark building.
Policies & Guidelines
The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian in New York can host the following types of events:
- Private receptions for corporations, non-profits, and foundations
- Fundraising events for organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
- Personal social events for adults such as wedding receptions, memorials, anniversary celebrations, and birthday parties
- Personal youth events, such as proms, dances, and birthday parties for those over the age of 13
- Business gatherings in non-public spaces
For additional information, please refer to the Policies and Vendor Guidelines for each building.
