Museum Rentals

Ever wonder how to turn science into an affair?

Create Your One-of-a-Kind Event in Charlotte’s Most Unique Venue

Winner of the 2018 “Venue of the Year” award from the National Association of Catering and Events, Discovery Place Science offers creative, intelligent and fun spaces for your event rental. From bar mitzvahs to banquets and wedding receptions to corporate retreats, our Museum’s unique setting ensures a successful event every time.

Whether you need one meeting room with smart technology or a party space on all three Museum levels, our experienced staff will take care of all the details to create a customized experience.

Rental fees include:
• Standard AV equipment
• Seated tables, high-top cocktail tables, chairs
• Set-up and breakdown of Museum equipment
• Museum Admission and Parking (evening rentals)

Add-On Options

Unique options that incorporate the latest technology and hands-on, minds-in fun to make your event memorable. Below is a sample of what we offer. 

Technology Options

State-of-the-art smart boards provide internet access and high-quality video delivery. Or rent our photo booth so that everyone leaves with a photo memento of your event.

Animal Encounter

Meet one of the Museum’s animal residents during an up-close encounter. Learn about their natural habitats, behaviors, care and more from our expert staff.

Catapult Pong

A new twist on an old game using the principles of catapults to launch balls into buckets! Perfect for players of all ages and abilities and always a crowd favorite!

Live Science Show

Will things get heated from a hydrogen balloon explosion? Or be super-cool from immersion in liquid nitrogen? You’ll just have to see for yourself at Science at the Stage.

Liquid Nitrogen Wine Slushies

Wildly popular, the liquid nitrogen demonstration produces dramatic smoke and delicious slushie wine samples. Come check it out and experience the ultimate “chilled” wine.

Fear Factor Lab

Dare to eat a bug. Light your hand on fire. Stick your hand in a bucket of night crawlers. Do you have what it takes to overcome your fears?

Full Museum

Rental includes all three levels of the Museum plus exhibition access (please inquire about our upcoming exhibition schedule). A full Museum rental is the top choice in Charlotte for conferences and large company parties. *Please note the IMAX Dome Theatre is not included in the rental.

Capacity: 1800+

Level 1

The Museum’s award-winning World Alive exhibition featuring the Aquarium and three-story Rainforest makes Level 1 ideal for cocktail receptions, smaller seated dinners, or team-building activities. Please note that Discovery Theatre access is not included with a standard rental but may be added.

Capacity: 300+

Level 2

One of the most vibrant and interactive locations in the Museum, Level 2 is packed with ever-changing exhibitions and experiences. The options are endless for ways to program an unforgettable event. We suggest adding on an animal program or live science demonstration for a fun and dynamic experience.

Capacity: 1500+

Level 3

The new Level 3 exhibition space includes hands-on experiences and the Thinker Space lab (pictured above). It’s a perfect space for lively cocktails or a festive celebration.

Capacity: 360+

Windows on Tryon

Arguably one of the best meeting locations in Charlotte, Windows on Tryon offers the latest in technology in a bright, open space sure to inspire innovation and collaboration. Plus, your guests have direct access to the beautiful outdoor patio space nestled on Tryon St.

Capacity: 55+

Discovery Theater

Perfect space for presentations, speakers and discussion panels. Discovery Theatre offers exceptional audio/visual capabilities in a comfortable state-of-the-art environment. Options also include screening your own pre-approved film.

Capacity: 200 seated

Accenture IMAX Dome Theatre

The Accenture Dome Theatre offers an unparalleled immersive experience with its unique and giant dome screen. Note: the rental includes the space with seating for up to 260 people; additional fees may apply depending on the film selected.

Capacity: 260

Discovery Place Education Studio

A brand new facility on Discovery Place’s uptown campus, Discovery Place Education Studio has state-of-the-art meeting spaces perfect for brainstorms, breakout sessions or group discussions.

Capacity: 75+

Essential Info