After Dark Thursday Rental Options
The museum is open to the public for adults only (18+) on Thursday nights from 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM. We're happy to offer private and semi-private rentals on Thursday nights that include admission to After Dark for your guests.
With 600+ interactive exhibits, your guests get to play with magnetic black sand, watch plankton float in rainbow lights, and capture a moment in time in the shadow box. Our Rentals Department is happy to offer private and semi-private rentals on Thursday nights that include admission to After Dark—all spaces are based on internal approval from our After Dark team.
Private Gallery Options
Both of the options below are available on Thursdays with approval. They each provide a private event space for up to 200 guests, and both venues require catering service from one of our approved catering Teams. We do not offer in-house food, beverage, or rentals and these items will need to be brought in.
After Dark Lounges (Semi-Private)
Four Space Options:
- East Gallery Mezzanine: maximum 45 guests
- Central Gallery Wattis Studio: maximum 60 guests
- West Gallery Black Box: maximum 40 guests
- Learning Commons Private Classroom (AV in room): maximum 28 guests
Included in Package:
- Admission to After Dark for your guests
- Space from 6:00–10:00 PM Thursday
- Event signage
- Exploratorium explainer staff + exclusive exhibits in reserved space
- Special access line at After Dark bars
Food & Beverage Options:
Drink Tickets are available for purchase in advance of the event for $14.00 + tax (Beer, Wine, & Liquor) and can be used at any existing After Dark Bar run by Seaglass Restaurant.
Drop-Off Catering is your only catering option for an After Dark Lounge. You would be responsible for set up and clean up. Another option would be to have the guests dine at Seaglass Restaurant located within the Exploratorium.
