Make memories in the heart of history
With striking views of downtown Indianapolis, the Rapp Reception Hall’s location in the heart of the museum makes it a beautiful setting for an event. Your guests will enjoy visiting the NiSource Gallery (pending exhibit availability) and peering into the museum’s permanent exhibitions located below.

A space as unique as you
Our professional event planners will provide you with the expertise and customer service you need to ensure that your event runs smoothly. Additionally, culinary experts from Kahn’s Catering, the museum’s exclusive caterer, provide menu planning for all types of events. From the planning to execution, our goal is to make your event as memorable as you’d dreamed it would be.
What sets us apart
- WiFi ready (all spaces).
- Convenient location on downtown canal; walking distance to hotels and conventions.
- Parking in the White River State Park garage with discount pricing.
- Unique experiences available for additional fees, including historical characters and special programs.
- Elegant space no matter colors or decor.
- Many photo opportunities available.

Rapp Reception Hall Details
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Pricing
Evening Event
Sunday – Thursday
Standard Rates: $1,100
Food & Beverage Minimum: $1,650Friday
Standard Rates: $1,750
Food & Beverage Minimum: $2,200Saturday
Standard Rates: $2,000
Food & Beverage Minimum: $2,500*Holiday Rate Sunday – Saturday is $2,200
Rehearsal Dinner
Sunday – Thursday
Standard Rates: $1,200
Food & Beverage Minimum: $1,650Friday
Standard Rates: $1,800
Food & Beverage Minimum: $2,200Saturday
Standard Rates: $2,200
Food & Beverage Minimum: $2,500*Holiday Rate Sunday – Thursday is $2,400
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Capacity
- Evening Event – 80 guests for seated dinner, 250 for a cocktail reception.
- Rehearsal Dinner – 100 guests for seated dinner, 250 for a cocktail reception.
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Details
- To book your event, a 50% facility rental deposit is required along with a signed contract. A check, American Express, MasterCard or Visa are accepted forms of payment.
- Your booking is confirmed upon receiving both signed agreements and deposits for the Indiana State Museum and Kahn’s Catering.
- We offer 5 hour rentals beginning no earlier than 5:30 p.m. To extend the time at the end of your event, the fee is $400 per hour.
- Parking is available in the White River State Park garage. Day of the event parking is a discounted rate if your guests pay on their own with a voucher. If you wish to cover your guests’ parking, you must guarantee a number of passes and purchase ahead of time.
- A/V equipment and special lighting available for additional fee.
- A certificate of insurance is required for all rental events at the Indiana State Museum.
- The museum at times could be considered under structural or cosmetic construction. Structural and/ or cosmetic changes to the facility and its grounds include but are not limited to gallery closures, improvements to landscape, installation of art, etc. In the best efforts of the facility, plans will be communicated as early as possible to the client.
- Housekeeping and security are included.
- In-house tables and chairs included in rental.
- Discounts may be available. Check with your event manager for details.