Welcome! We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about event bookings, and hope this information answers all of your queries. If we’ve missed anything, please don’t hesitate to contact us. The Special Events office is open Monday-Friday, from 8 AM – 4 PM, and closed on holidays. We can be reached at events@sdnhm.org or 619.255.0182.
Yes, the Museum offers some basic event necessities such as tables of various sizes, chairs, and some high top tables, to name a few. Please see our Equipment Package for more details. Please note the Museum does not offer linens with the table rentals.
The_Nat_-_Equipment_Package_-_2022.pdf
There is a $500 nonrefundable retainer once you confirm your date and event.
Absolutely. The building has elevators to accommodate guests on every floor.
We have restrooms accessible on every floor of the Museum.
Just yours.
Yes, you will be introduced to your Museum liaison about a month before your soiree.
The Nat is surrounded by many free parking options, the closest is on the east side of the building just a few steps from the both entrances. Parking is allowed until 2 AM. You can also contract a valet parking company for an additional fee.
Yes, Balboa Park is pet friendly and so are we. We do require that all furry friends have a designated companion to attend to their needs.
The Nat has an approved list of caterers who all provide full-service catering and are highly skilled and experienced at working in our venue. Visit our website to explore a list of vendors.
Absolutely not.
The Nat has a liquor license, and all bartending services must be managed by the Museum. All Museum bartenders are trained and certified with Serve Safe.
We don’t have a preferred hotel list, but for convenience and experience, we recommend booking a hotel downtown.
No, all alcohol must be purchased through your bar package. Contact our events team for more information on packages and bar estimates.
Yes, you can bring your own decor. You will be responsible for setting it up and tearing it down.
Your event must end by 2 AM, but most events take place between the hours of 6 AM and midnight. All music, bar, and food service must end 30 minutes before the end of your event.
Open flames and sparklers are not allowed in the Museum. LED lights are welcomed.
Yes. The recommended max guest count with a band is 250 for the atrium.
Yes, as long as the space is available.
There are numerous spots throughout the Museum to set up your music. The Museum also offers unique equipment packages—including a stage—for your DJ or band.
We give tours by appointment only. Monday-Friday between 8 AM and 1 PM are ideal.
Yes, the Museum and Balboa Park have free Wifi access.
Of course. Anytime. Just let us know when you’ll be coming in and we’ll leave you complimentary admissions passes. Please visit our website for public hours of operations.
We require museum security for all events. Security needs may vary based on guest count and event style. If your event requires additional security, we can provide vendor recommendations.
Contact us at events@sdnhm.org or 619.255.0182.
The Museum has four floors and a rooftop. The capacity of each floor varies based on the event set-up. Total Museum capacity cannot exceed 1,800 guests. If you have a larger event, we would be happy to share other options available in Balboa Park.
Our events team will work with you to create a schedule for set-up and breakdown. Typically, load-in is scheduled for 2.5 hours before the event and included with venue rental fees.
Our team can also help coordinate any items that need to be dropped off earlier or require additional time.
It depends on your event size and scope; our fees are based on spaces used for the event and duration. For instance, our board room hourly rate is $200 vs. our per-floor rate of $1,500.
Yes. We have a large private space available near our rooftop ceremony area to accommodate up to 50 guests.
High tech! It cools quickly in the summer and is nice and toasty in the winter.
You can put a 30-day, no-cost courtesy hold on any one available date you'd like. This must be done in writing via email. The hold starts the day you confirm your request or visit the Museum. Once 30 days have passed, if there's another party interested in the same date, you will have 48 hours to make your decision. We will honor you hold until another party challenges. If you decide to move forward, contact our events team to receive a venue contract.
We have a good selection of equipment. This includes: 30 60” round tables, 15 6' tables, one 4' table, 18 28" highboys, 20 48” round table, and four 28” cabaret tables. Please ask for a rental rate sheet.