Weddings at the National Archives

Celebrate your love story at the National Archives, where history becomes the backdrop for your happily ever after.

At the National Archives Foundation, we specialize in hosting a variety of private events. Our wedding services include engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, and receptions, although we do not hold religious ceremonies at the National Archives. 

To ensure your celebration is seamless and extraordinary, we collaborate with a curated list of preferred vendors. These professionals are dedicated to delivering exceptional services that complement the iconic beauty of our venue.

It is a requirement that all weddings at the National Archives have a professional wedding planner. Wedding clients may select from our list of approved planners who will help you manage every detail of your special day. Wedding planners that are not from our select list are allowed but are required to meet prior to the event for a walk-through and discussion about the policies and procedures of the space.

Our unique venue offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your special day, providing a guest experience like no other in a setting steeped in history. If you are interested in learning more about hosting your event at the National Archives, please fill out the wedding inquiry form by clicking on the button below. 

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.

If you have more questions about hosting an event at the National Archies in DC, call our office at 202-357-5404.