Peabody Essex Museum

The Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) in Salem, Massachusetts, offers a variety of unique and customizable spaces for meetings, conferences, and events. Located in the heart of vibrant downtown Salem, this historic venue is one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the United States.

Meeting and Event Facilities

• Main Atrium

• Capacity: 275 seated, 250 with dancing, 300 standing
• Description: This light-filled space features an arched glass roof that soars dramatically overhead, providing a stunning backdrop for events. It is ideal for large parties and banquets, including wedding receptions.

• East India Marine Hall

• Capacity: 350 seated, 200 standing
• Description: Built in 1824, this traditional New England-style ballroom is a National Historic Landmark. It features arched floor-to-ceiling Palladian windows, two grand chandeliers, polished hardwood floors, and maritime art.

• Forbes and Copeland Galleries

• Capacity:
• H.A. Crosby Forbes Gallery: 50 seated, 100 standing
• Pamela Cunningham Copeland Gallery: 50 seated, 100 standing
• Description: These galleries offer an intimate setting for smaller gatherings. The larger Forbes Gallery features a commissioned installation by artist Vanessa Platacis, while the Copeland Gallery is perfect for mingling over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Both galleries have an adjacent outdoor patio and garden.

• Morse Auditorium

• Capacity: Stadium seating for up to 185 people
• Description: This state-of-the-art theater is equipped with full audio and visual support for lectures, presentations, and screenings.

• Garden Atrium

• Capacity: Varies depending on the layout
• Description: This space is ideal for more relaxed events like cocktail hours. It offers a serene and beautiful setting surrounded by natural elements.

• Historic Ropes Mansion Garden

• Capacity: Varies depending on the layout
• Description: This historic garden provides a charming backdrop for intimate gatherings and corporate events.

• Cotting-Smith Assembly House

• Capacity: Varies depending on the layout
• Description: This historic house offers a unique and elegant setting for smaller events and meetings.

Services and Amenities

• Event Staff: Professional staff are available to assist with event planning and execution.

• Set Up: The museum provides setup services for tables, chairs, and other event necessities.

• Wheelchair Accessibility: All event spaces are wheelchair accessible.

• Security and Maintenance: Security staff are present in all areas of the museum, and maintenance staff assist with setting up and breaking down tables and chairs.

• Dining and Cocktail Tables: The museum offers dining, cocktail, and high-top tables, as well as white folding garden chairs. An upgrade to chameleon chairs is available for $8 per chair.

• Museum Facilitator: A museum facilitator remains onsite to support all vendors throughout the event.

• Separate Spaces: Separate spaces are available for ceremonies, receptions, dinner, and dancing, making it convenient to host multi-part events.

The Peabody Essex Museum offers a range of spaces that can accommodate various event sizes and types, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for your guests.