Rentals

Special Event at JMZ

We've updated how you book rentals at the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo! It's now easier than ever, just submit your rental request form online or turn it in at the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo. 

With beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, highly-trained staff, and unique experiences, the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo is the perfect backdrop for your celebration. Whether you're entertaining kids, adults, or both, your party is sure to be fun when held at the Junior Museum & Zoo.

Past events held at the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo include weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, school fundraisers, and more. We offer several options for venues and programs that can be customized to fit your events' needs. 

Please note that from June 1st through August 13th, Science Lab 2 will not be available for rentals or birthday parties. The Science Yard is currently not available for rentals. We apologize for any inconvenience.

How to Book

  • Please make sure to have an active Enjoy! online account. This is where your reservation details and event permits will be stored, as well as where you will process transactions. 

  • Availability of rooms can be seen in links below or provided by phone or email. Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee your reservation. Reservation is not guaranteed until first payment is made. Rentals are subject to staff availability.

  •  Next, please complete the Rental Application form online, or download and submit a Rental Form(PDF, 14MB) in person at the Junior Museum & Zoo front desk. Once received, the Events Lead will contact you shortly to confirm your application.

  • Junior Museum & Zoo may be reserved for events up to a year in advance. Applications can be submitted via email or turned in at the guest services front desk. Once an application is approved, a permit will be emailed with event details, rental fees, and the payment plan. 

  • We can process the payment in full upon approval of your application or break your payments down into two (2) installments. The first installment is one-half (1/2) of your total rental + a $500 deposit and is due immediately upon approval of your application. You have ten (10) days to cancel with no cancellation fees. After the ten (10) days has passed, the paid one-half (1/2) of total rental fee is no longer refundable, but you can get your $500 deposit refunded. The final installment is due no later than one (1) month prior to your event date. Failure to pay by your payment deadlines will result in the immediate cancellation of your event.
  • We require at least 30 days notice for application submissions. Availabilities can be seen in the link below or provided by phone or email. Reservations come on a first-come, first-serve basis. Dates will not be held until an application is submitted or approved. 

  • To tour our facility, please visit CivicRec or email jmzeventrequests@paloalto.gov.

Facility Information

Exhibit Hall

Resident Rate: $378/hr. | Non-Resident Rate: $585/hr.

A flexible, indoor gallery-style space surrounded by engaging science exhibits. 

Zoo 

Resident Rate: $378/hr. | Non-Resident Rate: $585/hr.

A netted aviary, with multiple animal exhibits and nooks to explore. Including a treehouse. 

Dinosaur Garden 

Resident Rate: $320/hr. | Non-Resident Rate: $431/hr.

An immersive experience of California's Cretaceous period, including life-sized dinosaurs and interactive exhibits. 

Science Lab 1 

Resident Rate: $121/hr. | Non-Resident Rate: $138/hr.

A hands-on classroom-style lab that's ideal for smaller group activities or meetings. 

Science Lab 2

Resident Rate: $152/hr. | Non-Resident Rate: $237/hr.

A hands-on classroom-style lab that's ideal for smaller group activities or meetings.  

Exclusive Use Package - All Available Space 

Resident Rate: $965/hr. | Non-Resident Rate: $1492/hr.

Note: A 4-hour minimum is required for rental of all available space  

Cancellation Policy

For rentals that are booked over 30 days out, 50% of your rental payment is due up front, you have 10 days* to reach out to us and cancel for a full refund, after that the 50% is no longer refundable, (any portion that went toward the refundable deposit will be refunded). The final 50% is due no later than 30 days prior to the date of your booking. After final payment has been made, only the refundable deposit is eligible for refund. Rentals approved at or within the 30-day mark are not eligible for a refund, with the exception of the deposit.

*Please note, the 10-day window to cancel for a full refund may be shortened if the final payment due date is less than 10 days out*