Main Lobby & Mezzanine
Fast Facts
Seated, theater-style:
250 guests
Seated, banquet-style:
150 guests
Cocktail reception:
800 guests
Square feet:
5,184 sq ft
outdoors
Starting price:
$6,800
About the Main Lobby & Mezzanine
A three-story window facade wraps the Main Lobby and Mezzanine in views of Pemberton Place and the Atlanta skyline, lit up for the evening. This space offers one of the most dramatic settings for an event at the Center.
An acclaimed 30-foot mural celebrating 20th-century protest movements from around the world stands at the heart of the Lobby, and entryways lead directly into our Civil and Human Rights Galleries, turning idle curiosity into conversation before your event even begins.
On the second floor, just off the Mezzanine, a rotunda gives guests a direct line into the galleries. Its oval shape and several points of entry mean each person can choose their own way through the exhibits. A hallway beside the rotunda holds catering and buffet setup. The Rotunda itself works just as well as a bar or a mingling area, giving guests another space to gather before they step into the galleries.
With its prime location at the Center and its dramatic architecture, the Main Lobby and Mezzanine set the tone for the whole evening from the moment guests walk in.
Best for
The Lobby and Mezzanine shine at evening events where a memorable first impression matters most, including:
- Private & Social Events — large receptions, gatherings, and milestone moments
- Corporate Events — client events, product launches, and company-wide celebrations
- Conferences — opening or closing receptions, and a welcome or registration space
- Nonprofit & Fundraising — evening galas and award ceremonies
- Holiday Parties — grand holiday receptions to celebrate the occasion
Helpful Resources
Download our brochure, with photos of the spaces, and our vendor and caterer directory.
frequently asked questions
Are both the Main Lobby and the Mezzanine included in the rental?
Yes. Your rental includes both the first and second floors of the Center, giving guests room to arrive, mingle, and move between floors throughout the event.
Can guests access the Civil and Human Rights Galleries during my event?
Yes. Guests can access the galleries on both floors and flow freely through the exhibitions, giving them the chance to explore the Center’s story throughout your event.
Can the Main Lobby & Mezzanine be booked for daytime events?
Unfortunately, no. Because the museum is open to visitors during the day, guests for private events can only access the Lobby & Mezzanine starting at 5:00 PM, with events beginning at 6:30 PM. If you need an earlier start, you can pay to close the museum early, moving your start time up to as early as 3:00 PM. We also offer an option to close the entire Center to the public with a Full Facility Buyout if you are planning a full day or multi-day event, or if you require special set up.
Which rooms or spaces are included in this rental?
The space includes a large lobby on the first floor, the overhanging mezzanine on the second floor, including the adjacent rotunda and a hallway for catering. Additionally, multiple entryways on both floors allow the guests to enter and roam the galleries as they please.
Can I tour the space before booking?
Yes! Reach out and we’ll set up a time to tour it together.