Details about Hosting an Event

Availability

The Museum is available year round to host events excluding Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.

Site Visits

We are delighted to schedule an appointment to showcase the San Diego Natural History Museum for your venue consideration. Please contact the Event Sales Department at 619.255.0182 or use the contact form to request a personal tour.

Event Management

Once the Museum is booked for your event, comprehensive planning will begin with your event manager. We provide extensive support to ensure professional execution of your event. We will work closely with you to finalize all your logistics including catering, diagrams, and scheduling a walkthrough.

Catering and Beverages

To ensure the success of your event, the Museum offers a wide array of partnerships with preferred caterers that have a proven track record in events of all sizes. Two catering kitchens are available and easily accessible. Alcoholic beverage service is contracted separately through the Museum’s exclusive beverage company. 

Equipment and Rentals

We can put you in touch with one of our preferred vendors or another company that will meet all your rental needs. Additional lighting and audiovisual equipment may be contracted. A walkthrough with your audiovisual and lighting company must occur with Museum staff for approval of any additional lighting, screens, microphones, projection, etc. The Museum does have a public-address system in the Atrium that can be made available; however, outside sound systems cannot be plugged into this system. 

Parking

Parking is free in Balboa Park. The Museum does not own or operate the parking lots adjacent to the Museum. They are owned and operated by the City of San Diego. You may reserve parking spots by contacting the City of San Diego directly to obtain a permit. If you would like to offer valet services to your guests, please contact a valet company directly.

Smoking

The Museum and Balboa Park are designated as non-smoking areas, including the El Mirador Rooftop.

The Bea Evenson Fountain on the Prado

Please contact Balboa Park management directly to inquire about the Bea Evenson Fountain details including permit, fees, surrounding space, and hours of operation.