Wedding Festivities

A unique waterfront venue rich in history!

Say yes to a setting as special as the moment. Set in a historic landmark on the waterfront, our museum is a boutique venue that brings maritime charm, captivating exhibits, and elegance to every wedding event — from engagement parties and bridal showers to rehearsal dinners and beyond. History, salty breezes, and memories in the making, right in the heart of Newport.

Table setting for wedding event, with the harbor visible in the background

We couldn’t have chosen a better venue than The Sailing Museum in Newport for our rehearsal dinner. Hosting over 70 guests, we wanted a space that felt elegant yet welcoming—and this venue delivered perfectly. The museum is stunning, spacious, and unlike anywhere else in Newport.

The interactive exhibits were such a highlight. They created a relaxed, engaging atmosphere and helped spark conversation between guests who were meeting for the first time. It brought an energy of fun and connection that carried into the rest of our wedding weekend.

Elizabeth & Michael

Venue Overview

We offer three flexible space options, staged across two levels, to create your special event. Schoonmaker Hall features expansive doors, large windows, and a deck overlooking Newport Harbor—offering stunning sunset views year-round and ample space for larger gatherings.

For more intimate events (up to 40 guests), the Dorade Deck and Mosbacher Room provide a private, second-floor setting with a bird’s-eye view of the museum floor—ideal for cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and social celebrations to suit a range of budgets.

Entire Museum

Seated Capacity – up to 120
Cocktail Capacity – up to 320

Schoonmaker Hall

Seated Capacity – up to 100
Cocktail Capacity – up to 300

Mosbacher Room with Dorade Deck

Seated Capacity – up to 16 (20 with an added table)
Cocktail Capacity – up to 45

Interactive displays in the Mosbacher Room

Vendors

The best vendors don’t just want bookings — they want work they’re proud of. The Sailing Museum earns its place in both your portfolio and on your referral list.

For photographers, it offers ever-changing harbor light, rich exhibit backdrops, and an intimate scale where candid moments are impossible to miss. For caterers, a boutique guest count means room to focus on quality and creativity rather than volume. Clients who choose a venue for its character tend to bring that same intentionality to every detail — from the food and drink to the flowers and the music.

This is the kind of venue that brings out your best work. Let’s create together!