Faqs

Rental Events Inquiries
General Information
Membership
Booking
Policies
Amenities
Parking
Accommodations

General Information

What is the pricing like to rent the Museum?

Our prices vary depending on a few factors. Fill out a Rental Events Inquiry to receive an informal quote.

How can I schedule a tour?

Contact us at museum.rentals@naturalsciences.org or call 919.707.9406.

The Museum is available from 6pm to 10pm for rentals. Note that there is an additional charge of $300 per hour per floor and $100 per hour per security officer for any event that extends beyond the designated rental window. This policy ensures that we can maintain the highest level of service and prepare the Museum for the following day.

In addition to our evening rental window, we also offer daytime events in the William G. Ross Jr., Environmental Conference Center. Any daytime event starting before 9:00am requires an additional charge of $150 per hour. This versatile space provides a unique setting for conferences, meetings and other daytime events. Our Fifth Floor Boardroom and Bicentennial Terrace are also available for smaller daytime groups if you are looking for a professional feel to your event.

Will there be multiple events on the same day?

We only host one evening event per building per day to ensure the best experience.

Membership

Do I require a Membership to rent the Museum?

Membership is required for social events. Renting the Museum for events is an exclusive privilege reserved for our valued Members. This special benefit allows Members to host memorable celebrations and gatherings in our engaging and educational environment. Conveniently become a Member when you enroll through the rental process and enjoy access to all the benefits.

Membership is not required for corporate rentals (meetings, cocktail receptions and business events), though our corporate Members are eligible for a 20% discount on their subsequent rentals with additional perks.

Explore membership options and benefits.

Booking

Do you require a deposit?

Once you receive and accept a quote from us, you will be sent a contract to sign and we require a 50% deposit within 10 business days of receiving the contract

What is your cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy is as follows:

  • Cancellations must be submitted in writing by the client.
  • If an event is canceled within 30 days of the scheduled date, the client will be billed for any remaining balance.
  • If a cancellation is made within 120 days of the scheduled event date, the deposit can be applied to a new event date within 12 months of the original scheduled date.
  • The remaining 50% of the rental fee must be paid no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled event unless alternative arrangements have been made.
  • Failure to make the final payment by the specified deadline may result in the cancellation of the event.
  • We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and we strive to accommodate our clients to the best of our ability. Please contact us directly for any further inquiries or to discuss specific cancellation scenarios.

Policies

Do you require security?

To ensure the safety and security of our guests and the Museum, we require the presence of State Capitol Police at every evening event. For every 150 guests, we require one State Capitol Police Officer. A fee of $45 per hour will be added to cover the cost of this security service. After 10pm, the security fee will be $100 per hour. If you have any further questions or concerns regarding security arrangements, please feel free to reach out to our rentals team.

Are there any restrictions on decor?

To preserve the integrity of our exhibits and ensure the safety of our guests and live animals, the following restrictions apply:

  • Museum exhibits may not be altered in any way.
  • Decorations should not be affixed to walls, floors or ceilings.
  • Live-potted plants are not allowed as decoration. Cut flowers may be used.
  • Balloons, bubbles, popcorn, glitter, sequins, confetti, sparklers, streamers, fog machines and similar items are not permitted.
  • Ice sculptures or fountains with waterproof mats must be set up after the Museum closes at 5pm and must be removed by 10am the following morning.
  • Protective mats must be used to safeguard carpets and floors.
  • Open flames, such as torches and oil lamps, are prohibited. Candles may be used if the candle holder is taller than the flame.
What is your green events policy?

Our goal is for all events hosted to be zero-waste by utilizing only compostable-disposable items and recycling cans, bottles and paper products.

Is smoking allowed?

Smoking is NOT permitted on Museum property.

Amenities

Do you have a list of caterers and preferred vendors?

Our exclusive caterer is Rocky Top Catering. They provide exceptional catering services tailored to meet the needs of our events. Additionally, we have a list of preferred vendors that we highly recommend for various services. You can find the list of preferred vendors here [insert link]. We have carefully selected these vendors based on their professionalism and expertise in their respective fields.

Do you provide tables and chairs?

We have a select number of tables and chairs in each building. Use of the tables and chairs is covered by the facility fee.

When can vendors start to set up?

Vendors can begin setting up at 5pm once the Museum is closed for the evening. Setup for daytime events may vary. Items can only be delivered to the loading dock after 1pm the day of the event. For early morning events, items may be delivered after 1pm the previous day and removed by 9AM on the day of the event.

Can I come back the next day to clean up or collect rental items?

All client and rental items must be removed before 10am the following day when the Museum opens to the public.

Is onsite coordination available?

While we don’t provide onsite coordination and event planning services, a dedicated rentals representative will be available to assist with logistics related to the Museum's space and operations. We can provide a list of preferred vendors for additional event coordination needs.

Do you offer rehearsals?

Rehearsal options are available, subject to venue availability and event hosting interest. To accommodate a rehearsal, the entire building must be booked for the duration of the rehearsal hour, between 5pm and 6pm. There is a cost of $100 for rehearsals, which must be paid in person by check on the day of the rehearsal. For further information and to inquire about scheduling a rehearsal, please contact your Museum Rentals Representative.

Is there a changing area/bridal suite?

We do not have a changing area in the Museum. We recommend arriving at the Museum fully dressed. However, we do have rooms available to store your items that can be secured during the hours of your event.

Does the Museum offer coat check?

We do not offer coat check services. Vendor services are available. Neither the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences nor the Friends of the NCMNS are liable for any lost or misplaced items.

Are the Museum stores open during the event?

The Museum Store and DinoStore & More may be available to stay open late for after-hours events for an additional fee. Requests to have The Museum Store open during your event are due two months prior to your event date to determine scheduling.

Parking

Where is parking located?

Nature Exploration Center (NEC):

Nature Research Center (NRC)

  • Green Square Parking — 120 W Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27603
  • Rates are applied from 7am-6:30pm, Monday - Friday; all other times are free.

Accommodations

What are the nearest hotels?

The Longleaf Hotel and Lounge

The Sheraton Raleigh Hotel

  • Experience a view of downtown Raleigh from this sophisticated hotel or enjoy a quick dinner at their on-site restaurant, Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar.
  • 12-minute walk, 3-minute drive

The Casso Raleigh, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

  • Located across the street from Morgan Street Food Hall and features locally inspired decor in the vibrant Warehouse District.
  • 16-minute walk, 3-minute drive

Raleigh Marriott City Center

  • This modern hotel located in the heart of Raleigh offers spacious rooms and views of Downtown’s award-winning businesses.
  • 13-minute walk, 4-minute drive

AC Hotel by Marriott Raleigh Downtown

  • Featuring a rooftop tapas bar, this hotel is located in the heart of Glenwood South District, a prime dining and entertainment area.
  • 14-minute walk, 2-minute drive

For questions regarding rentals, please submit a Rental Events Inquiries form.