The Perfect Location

HOST HISTORY & CELEBRATE CULTURE AT THE LEWIS. YOUR EVENT BELONGS IN A PLACE THAT TELLS A STORY.

At the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, every meeting, gala, or celebration supports the preservation and celebration of Black history and culture in Maryland. From corporate events and foundation fundraisers to weddings and social gatherings, The Lewis offers an inspiring space where purpose meets joy — and every moment becomes part of a living legacy.

MAKE YOUR OWN MARYLAND HISTORY! CONNECT, GATHER, AND CELEBRATE AT THE LEWIS.

CORPORATE EVENTS

CONNECT & COLLABORATE AT THE LEWIS.
Host your next meeting, retreat, or corporate celebration where culture and purpose meet. At The Lewis, your brand makes an impact that extends beyond the boardroom—supporting the preservation of Black history and culture in Maryland. Whether launching a new initiative, honoring your team, or convening leaders, your event becomes part of a space that inspires innovation, inclusion, and legacy.

 

FOUNDATIONS & NONPROFITS

GATHER & GIVE AT THE LEWIS.
Plan your next gala, fundraiser, or mission-driven meeting in a space built on purpose and meaning. When you host at The Lewis, your event directly supports the stories, art, and heritage that strengthen our community. Every gathering here uplifts our collective story and amplifies the impact of those making a difference.

WEDDINGS

LOVE & LEGACY AT THE LEWIS.
Start your family’s story where history lives. Celebrate your union surrounded by art, culture, and community—a setting where every love story becomes part of our shared legacy. The Lewis offers an unforgettable backdrop filled with pride, beauty, and heritage—perfect for the first chapter of your forever.

 

SOCIAL EVENTS

CELEBRATE & SHINE AT THE LEWIS.
From birthdays and anniversaries to reunions and holiday gatherings, The Lewis is where joy, culture, and connection come together. Your celebration adds new energy to a space built to honor the past and uplift the present—a perfect setting for laughter, love, and lasting memories

MAKE YOUR OWN MARYLAND HISTORY! CONNECT, GATHER & CELEBRATE AT THE LEWIS.

Reginald F. Lewis Museum – Venue Rentals FAQ

VENUE DETAILS

Is there a changing space available?

Yes – our Green Rooms can be used as a private changing space.

Is the venue ADA-compliant?

Yes.

What are the parking options?

Paid garage parking is conveniently located across the street from the museum.

Validated parking is available inside the museum at the Visitor Services Desk for:

• PMI Parking Garage ($12)
• Pier V Parking Garage ($7)

Bring your ticket to the museum’s main entrance for validation.

RENTAL FEES AND INCLUSIONS

How much does it cost to rent the space? 

Prices start at $3000.

What does the rental fee include?

1. • 4-hour rental plus complimentary 2-hour setup and 1-hour breakdown
2. • Round, long, and highboy tables based on group size and setup
3. • Choice of black cushioned folding chairs or black non-cushioned stackable chairs

Are there any additional fees (e.g., for overtime, cleaning, security)?

• Yes. Museum-hired security guards are required for all events.
• Events longer than 4 hours will incur additional rental charges:

 – Daytime Events: $100/hour

 – Evening Events: $200/hour

• Cleaning fees are outlined in the contract.

What are the payment terms and deadlines?

• A non-refundable 25% deposit is required at contract signing.
• Final balance is due 30 days prior to the event.
• A 3% processing fee applies to all credit card transactions.

Is a deposit required, and is it refundable?

• A non-refundable 25% deposit and signed contract are required to secure your event date.
• Events booked less than 30 days in advance require payment in full at signing.

Are there any flexible payment plans available?

Payment plans may be arranged on a case-by-case basis and must be outlined in your signed contract.

What forms of payment are accepted?

• Cash, check, credit card, and ACH.
• Returned checks or declined payments will result in additional fees, and a new form of payment must be provided immediately. Failure to do so may result in termination of the agreement.

Does the rental fee cover the cost of food and beverages?

• No. The rental fee covers hall rental only. All food and beverage costs are determined by and paid directly to your approved caterer.

Is there a food and beverage minimum?

• The museum operates as a venue rental only. Food and beverage minimums are determined by your approved caterer.

Our preferred vendors list can be found above

What is the venue’s policy on alcohol service?

All alcohol must be served by a licensed, approved caterer or bartending company that holds a $1,000,000 certificate of insurance

VENDOR POLICIES

Does the venue have a list of preferred or recommended vendors?

Yes.

Are there any restrictions on using outside vendors?

• Outside vendors may be approved on a case-by-case basis. Vendors not on the museum’s preferred list require written approval from the RFLM Special Events Manager.

Is there a separate fee for using outside caterers?

Yes. If approved by the RFLM Special Events Manager, a 10% fee will apply.

Do I have to use your preferred caterers?

It is strongly encouraged to use our approved caterers, who are familiar with our facility, layout, and policies. These caterers have also completed the required training to operate within the museum. Any outside caterers must complete the approval process no later than 30 days before the contracted event date.

LOGISTICS

What are the rental space and museum hours of operation?

• Rental Hours:

 – Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

 – Friday & Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM

 – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

• Museum Hours:

 – Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

 – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

 – Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays to the public

What is the latest finishing time for events?

All events, including music and entertainment, must end no later than 11:00 PM, depending on the day of the week.

Can the rental time be extended if needed?

Additional hourly rates will apply. Extensions are based on availability and must be approved in advance by the on-site Special Events Manager (not during the event). Additional costs will be billed to the card or account on file.

Are there any restrictions on decorations, such as hanging decorations or open flames?

• No tape, Command strips, nails, or adhesives may be affixed to walls.
• No confetti or glitter is allowed on museum premises.
• No helium balloons.
• No open flames.
• LED candles are permitted.

Are there any restrictions on the type of music or entertainment allowed?

Under no circumstances are events containing explicit or objectionable content permitted. This includes:

• Nudity or sexually suggestive acts
• Content promoting illegal activities
• Hate speech or discriminatory language
• Excessive profanity or language that could create a public nuisance
• Graphic or violent content

What is the venue’s policy on liability and insurance?

All approved vendors must provide a $1,000,000 certificate of liability insurance no later than 30 days prior to the event date.

What is the cancellation policy?

All terms and conditions are outlined in your rental contract.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Is there a dedicated event coordinator?

Every event includes a Special Events Manager to oversee the day of your event and serve as your museum point of contact.

Does the venue offer any coordination services?

No. PDF to recommended vendors below.

A meeting with the Special Events Manager and all booked vendors must take place at least 30 days prior to your event to map out event-day logistics.

Is there a place to store gifts safely?

No. The museum is not responsible for lost or misplaced items. We recommend guests properly secure all valuables.

Is the venue near hotels or public transportation?

Yes. Several hotels are within walking distance, including:

• Hampton Inn & Suites Baltimore Inner Harbor
• Hyatt Place Baltimore Inner Harbor
• Pier 5 Hotel
• Baltimore Marriott Waterfront
• Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore

Are ticket sale events allowed?

• Yes. However, ticket sales must not exceed the maximum capacity of your event space. Final attendance numbers must be provided to the RFLM Special Events Manager one week prior to the event. Tickets may not be sold or distributed at the door. Failure to comply will result in immediate termination of the event.

Site Visits: Can I come view the space?

• Site visits are by confirmed appointment only.
• Pop-up visits cannot be accommodated.
• Scheduled site visits are 30 minutes in duration.
• A 5-minute grace period will be honored; arrivals beyond that time will require rescheduling.
• For group site visits, all parties must be present to begin. The tour will not be restarted for latecomers.

Is there a tour guide for the gallery?

Most museum exploration is self-guided. Based on availability, guided tours can be arranged with a minimum of 30 days’ notice for a $200 fee.

Complete the event rental form below to get started

For more information, please contact our Event Manager at special.events@lewismuseum.org