We are pleased to offer select spaces within the Museum's new home, the Rio Tinto Center, for private rentals. From the architectural details, the extensive collections, and the spectacular views, the Museum is a unique environment in which to celebrate special occasions and hold memorable events for corporate, professional or community organizations.

The Canyon

The signature space at the Rio Tinto Center, the Canyon can accommodate:

• up to 350 people for a seated dinner
• up to 500 for a reception

The Canyon is available Thursday through Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. for events beginning at 6:30 p.m. or later. All events must be completed by 11:00 p.m.

The Canyon is not available for private events Wednesday evenings or any other time that the Museum is open to the public.

Evening Canyon Rental: $5,000

The Canyon + Gallery Stroll 

Invite your guests to enjoy exclusive access to the seven themed exhibit galleries on three different levels.  They can explore the dinosaurs of Past Worlds, the dramatic ecologies of the Land gallery, stunning views from Great Salt Lake and everything in between. 

Add a feeling of five star-treatment to your event by extending your guests interaction with our galleries in a private setting and at their own pace. The gallery stroll option will guarantee a memorable experience for all in attendance.

When renting the Canyon + Gallery Stroll, the Museum can accommodate:

• up to 350 people for a seated dinner
• up to 600 for a reception

The Gallery Stroll is available only in conjunction with a Canyon rental.

When renting the Full Museum (Canyon + Gallery Stroll and Level 5 Galleries), the Museum can accomodate:

• up to 350 seated at one time for dinner
• up to 1,000 for a reception

Evening Canyon + Gallery Stroll Rental: $10,000

Full Museum -- Evening Canyon + Gallery Stroll + Level 5 Galleries: $11,000

The Swaner Forum

Boasting breathtaking views of the valley and professional amenities, the Swaner Forum is the perfect venue for board meetings for up to 40 guests, classroom sessions of 60, a seated dinner for 100 or a reception for 125 guests. 

The Swaner Forum is availble for private events daily from 8:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.

• Full Day Event 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.:  $1,000
• Morning 8:00 a.m. - Noon:  $550
• Afternoon 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.:  $550
• Evening 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.:  $1,500

Native Voices and the Sky Gallery + Terrace

Invite your guests to share one of the Museum's most special of places located on Level 5 of the Museum. Designed in consultation with Utah's Indian community, Native Voices interprets the deep memory and contemporary presence of Utah's tribal community. The Sky Gallery + Terrace offer a panoramic view of the Salt Lake Valley as well as an indoor-outdoor interpretive space that invites visitors to interact with weather, atmosphere, and the stars above. 

These Level 5 galleries are available Thursday through Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. for events starting at 6:30 p.m. or later.
 

• Evening Native Voices Gallery Rental: $1,500
• Evening Sky Gallery + Terrace Rental: $1,500
• Evening Level 5 Galleries Rental (Native Voices, Sky Gallery + Terrace): $2,400
• Complete Level 5 Rental (Native Voices, Sky Gallery + Terrace, and Swaner Forum): $3,500

​Explore the Possibilities

To explore the possibilities of holding your private event at the Museum, call us at 801-581-7284 or email us now.

Additional Information

Approved Caterers:  The Natural History Museum of Utah requires the use of an approved caterer.

View Approved Caterer List Here

Nonprofit Discount:  We extend a 20% discount on rental pricing for 501(c)3 organizations, public agencies, and to entitites of the University of Utah. All 501(c)3 organizations requesting discounted rates will be required to present proof of non-profit status with a tax-exempt determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service.

Regretfully, the Natural History Museum of Utah does not accept bookings for high school dances.

General Visitor Services Information & Policies