Events at the Science Museum of Virginia
The Science Museum of Virginia has great spaces that are perfect for everything from a small-group brainstorming session to a formal banquet for more than 600 guests. Our on-site event planners work with you to ensure every detail is covered, whether you're looking for dramatic elegance or casual fun.
Host a corporate cocktail reception throughout the museum; stage a holiday dinner in the stunning rotunda or reconnect with family at a reunion beneath the historic train canopies.
Your guests will appreciate our free parking, easy and nearby access to I-95, I-64 and I-195. All areas (except the streetcar) are barrier-free. To arrange a museum tour or to learn more about hosting an unforgettable event at the Science Museum, call (804) 864-1531 or email specialevents@smv.org.
Choose the space that's right for your event
Rotunda
Originally the grand entrance of Broad Street Station, the rotunda features a magnificent five-story dome. Ideal for a cocktail party, wedding reception or seated dinner.
Capacities: Stand-up reception 500; seated dinner 250
RF&P Forum
Originally Broad Street Station's dining room, the RF&P Forum is a terrific place for a business meeting, lecture or lunch meeting.
Capacities: Stand-up reception 150; seated dinner/conference 100; lecture-style seating 175
Discovery Room
Host a lecture, a class, or a staff meeting in this space where guests will be surrounded by a geological overview of Virginia.
Capacities: Stand-up reception 125; seated dinner/conference 80; lecture-style seating 150
Atrium
This contemporary all-glass space is located on the museum’s lower level.
Capacities: Stand-up reception 150; seated dinner/conference 125; lecture-style seating 200
Thalhimer Pavilion
The museum’s largest space, this 13,650-square-foot tented area is a wonderful place for your next gala fundraiser, company party, wedding reception or high school prom.
Capacities: Stand-up reception 800; seated dinner 500; lecture-style seating 900
Garner Pavilion
Our newest facility is a perfect spot for your company picnic or outdoor concert. During your event, hop aboard the Bocock Electric Streetcar for a ride through Richmond's rail history.
Capacity: Outdoor venue, partially covered picnic area 1,500
Ethyl IMAX® DOME Theater
Virginia's largest movie screen creates the ultimate you-are-there experience. Choose a film from our collection to enjoy at a screening just for your group.
Capacity: 250 seated
Eureka! Theater
This traditional presentation facility is available for multimedia programs, screen presentations and speakers.
Capacity: 119 seated.
Specialized Event Services
In addition to outstanding amenities, we offer the following Specialized Event Services for additional fees
- Coat check
- Guided tours of the museum
- Valet parking
- Storytelling performances by the Carpenter Science Theatre Company
- Hands-on science demonstrations
- Exclusive shopping at Shop 4 Science. Our event specialists can also help you select gifts to complement your event's theme or topic.
- Café Portico, the museum's café, is available for private evening events.
Find out more
Fees, room dimensions, and capabilities (PDF 53kB)
Policies and requirements (PDF 68kB)
Proceeds from special events fees help the museum reach its goal of improving science literacy for all Virginians. Just another reason you'll feel good about hosting your event at the Science Museum.