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Q. Is the purchase of catering required to rent space at the Maryland Science Center?

A. No, however there is no minimum amount required to have an event catered. Please contact the Event Sales Manager for details on catered items from beverages to a full-scale reception.

Q. Can I bring my own caterer if I host my event at the Maryland Science Center?

A. No. ARAMARK is the exclusive caterer of the Maryland Science Center.

Q. Do rentals and catering require a minimum amount of guests?

A. No, we are happy to plan events both large and small.

Q. Is a deposit required to hold the space?

A. Not necessarily. Clients inquiring about space availability may request space to be held. Bookings are on a first come first serve basis.

Q. When are rental deposits due?

A. Fifty percent of the rental is due two weeks from the booking date. Final payments are due within four weeks of the event date. All rental payments are made payable to the Maryland Science Center and is collected by the Event Sales Manager.

Q. When is payment due for catering?

A. Full payment of catering services is due in advance of the event. For specific terms and guidelines, please refer to our Catering Standardized Guidelines.

Q. When is the final head count due?

A. We ask that all clients submit their final number three business days from the event date.

Q. Are there any restrictions on rentals?

A. Clients should be aware that availability of specific areas of the museum such as the exhibit floors or IMAX Theater is restricted to public programming and hours of operations. The Event Sales Manager can suggest the most appropriate area for your event and timeframe.

Q. Will ARAMARK create a customized menu for my event?

A. Absolutely! Our sales and culinary teams are happy to provide a custom menu for any event.

Q. Is parking available on the premises?

A. Parking is not available on site during normal business hours at the Maryland Science Center. However, for events with attendance of 100 people or less, possible accommodations may be made with the Event Sales Manager. Otherwise, clients may direct guests to the parking lot at the Rusty Scupper located on Key Highway or the Harbor Court Hotel located on Light Street.

Q. Is equipment such as chairs and tables included in rental prices?

A. No, however, equipment rentals can be arranged through the Event Sales Manager.

Q. Is music or live entertainment allowed on the Harbor Terrace?

A. Yes as well as throughout the museum.

Q. Am I allowed to arrange for vendors?

A. Yes, clients may arrange for their own florists, photographers, a/v equipment, entertainment and decorators or the Event Sales Manager would be happy to create a full event package for your convenience.

Q. Are there any food restrictions in terms of locations within the Maryland Science Center?

A. Catering as well as beverages are allowed everywhere except inside each of the exhibit Links, the Davis Planetarium, Crosby Ramsey Memorial Observatory and the IMAX Theater. Concessions from the IMAX Lobby are permitted inside the IMAX Theater.

Q. How early or how late can I hold my event?

A. Events may start as early as 7am and last as long as 2am. Alcohol may only be served until 2am.

Q. Is there a discount for non-profits?

A. No.

Q. Are there any restrictions on decorations?

A. Yes, helium balloons, Styrofoam and candles are not allowed on the premises.