Meetings & Events

The Smith College Conference Center combines a scenic setting with the professionalism of a modern meeting venue.

Equipped with audio/visual capabilities and an on-site, professional-scale kitchen, the Conference Center offers simple solutions for your event needs, no matter the size.

The Paradise Room

112 banquet, 175 reception, 160 theater-style

With floor-to-ceiling windows all along the western side with a spectacular view of Paradise Pond and the surrounding vista, this room is ideal for any meeting and offers the versatility to accommodate a variety of set-ups. The room can be used for a reception with food stations or a sit-down dinner. The sound system accommodates speakers, performances and presentations. Sound from the Paradise Room can also be made available on the Terrace, in the Directors Room or downstairs.

The Oak Room

64 banquet, 100 reception, 80 theater-style

This room is fully equipped with audio/visual equipment and is ideal for presentations, either with or without a meal. It offers stunning views of the foliage and sunsets.

The Lounge

25 reception with some casual seating

This room is furnished with comfortable living room furniture and is the perfect spot for a casual meeting or gathering.

The Oak Room & Lounge

125 reception with some casual seating

These two rooms are easily combined to create one large space that is perfect for receptions, presentations and meetings.

The Terrace and Atrium

100 reception

Attached to the Paradise Room, the Terrace overlooks Paradise Pond and Smith's athletic fields. A perfect space for lunches or parties, the Terrace has one of the best views in the area.

The Directors Room

20 seated table

This small, beautiful dining room overlooking Paradise Pond is perfect for intimate meals, gatherings or focus groups for up to 20 guests around one large table.
The Director's Room does not contain any av equipment and due to the location of the room must be booked in tandem with the Paradise Room.

Meeting Rooms B

6 seated

This room is classically decorated and is perfect for social hours, break-out sessions, dinners and meetings. It may be rented separately or combined with Meeting Room C. This room offers privacy for any type of event.

Meeting Rooms C

12 seated

This room is classically decorated and is perfect for social hours, break-out sessions, dinners and meetings. It may be rented separately or combined with Meeting Room B. This room offers privacy for any type of event.

Rates as of March 2022. All events are subject to a 20-percent program management fee added to the final bill.

Catering

You may choose to work either with Smith College's catering team or one of the many excellent caterers in the area. (See list of local caterers below.)

Smith offers full catering services, from small coffee breaks to lunches, dinners and receptions. Visit the Smith catering website for menus and available options, as well as policies and guidelines. To inquire about Smith catering services, contact Dining Services or call 413-585-2300 to speak with a catering manager.

When hiring an outside caterer, ask to see their portfolio and check references. Once you determine your menu and level of services, review your contract, which should cover all details, including fees, staff, taxes, gratuities, insurance, extra charges, payment schedule and cancellation policy. We have provided a list of local caterers who have worked both with Smith and external clients on the Smith campus; however, you may select a vendor not on this list.

Using an outside caterer in the Conference Center entails a $100 kitchen use fee, as well as a $100 china rental fee if the caterer is not able to provide dinnerware for your event (plates, flatware, and/or glasses).

All outside caterers must sign the Conference Center's catering agreement and provide proof of both liability and workers compensation insurance, as well as their Northampton, MA catering permit. Inability to provide this paperwork will result in the caterer's not being able to work at the Conference Center.

Local Caterers (PDF)

Local Caterers (PDF)

Bar Policies

The liquor license is held by the Smith College Conference Center. All alcohol served must be purchased through the Conference Center; no outside alcohol may be brought in.

• Service of all alcoholic beverages must be by Smith College or Smith-hired, ServSafe certified bartenders only.
• One bartender is required for every 60 guests.
• A $75 bar setup fee applies to parties of 65 guests or less, and a $150 setup fee for 65 guests or more.
• Smith College reserves the right to refuse service to anyone at any time during alcoholic beverage service.
• Bartenders are not permitted to serve shots, doubles, or martinis.
• Bar service is not to exceed five hours and will close down 30 minutes prior to the end of an event.

The Smith College Conference Center is located at 49 College Lane, Northampton, Massachusetts 01063. We can be found on campus near the intersection of College Lane and Green Street, overlooking Paradise Pond. From downtown Northampton, approaching Smith College from Main Street, bear left just before the college gates onto West Street. Take the first right onto Green Street and follow it down to the roundabout. The Conference Center is the long yellow building just ahead and to the right.

Parking on Campus

There are several parking lots available for guests only a short walk away from the Conference Center.

Maps and Directions