Frequently Asked Questions

	For futher infomation review policies and procedures.
	1. When can I have an event at the California Science Center?
	Operating hours for the California Science Center are from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. While the Loker Conference Center is available for rent 24 hours a day, all other areas of the Science Center are only available during non-business hours.
	2. How are event date "holds" handled?
	Requests to reserve space for a special event at the California Science Center may be accepted up to two years in advance of the event date. A requested date will be held for 10 business days, by the end of which time the Science Center requires a signed contract and deposit. If a signed contract and deposit have not been received in 10 days, the date will be released to others by the Science Center.
	3. How can I be guaranteed that my date is being held?
	You can guarantee your date by returning a 50% deposit and a signed contract for the date, location, and time period of your event. The remaining 50% is due 10 days before your event to prevent cancellation.
	4. What are the deposit terms at the California Science Center?
	A deposit is 100% refundable if the event is cancelled over 180 days before the event date, 50% refundable if cancelled between 180-90 days before the event date, and is not refundable if cancelled less than 90 days before the event date. Deposits will not be forfeited if the event is moved to a different available event date within one year (48 hour advanced notice required.)
	5. What staffing is included in my event?
	All California Science Center staff needed to efficiently service your event is included in the rental price (determined by the Science Center's Event Manager.) Based on your event needs, staffing may include public safety officers, an event manager, floor staff, an A/V technician, a house engineer, janitorial services, an exhibit technician, or coat check. All prices for private screenings in the IMAX Theater include theater staffing.
	6. What equipment is available for use during my event?
	An inventory list of A/V equipment and furniture included in the rental price is available. Please be advised that all equipment on the list may not be available and can be reserved on a first come, first served basis. Equipment use is arranged strictly through the California Science Center's Event Manager. Any furniture or equipment not owned by the Science Center must be rented at an additional cost. Tablecloths are not included in the rental price. Our Event Manager would be happy to arrange rentals for your event, if desired.
	7. Does the Science Center offer full service event planning?
	Yes, our professional Event Managers can take care of the "extra" details for your event. From flowers, music, lighting or props - we offer full service event planning upon request.
	8. When can I set up for my event?
	Setup for evening events in open public areas can normally begin at 5:00 p.m. Earlier times may be available to set up or stage events in the Loker Conference Center. Extensive setup packages may also be available. The California Science Center's Event Manager will work with you to arrange details.
	9. What are my catering options?
	We encourage you to use the California Science Center's in-house caterer, Kensington. Please call (323) 935-4300 to make catering arrangements directly with them. If you would like to bring in an outside caterer, there will be a $1,000 surcharge included in your Science Center contract. Outside caterers are not permitted to use our in-house kitchen facilities for any reason and must build an off-premise kitchen in a designated area. Proof of insurance is also required. No other food or beverage can be brought into the Science Center.
	10. Are there any restrictions on decorations?
	Banners can only be hung by the Science Center's Exhibits Department. The Exhibits Department will hang (2) banners for free additional banners will be hung for $50 per banner. No helium balloons (air-filled OK) are permissible inside the Science Center. Please contact the Event Services Office regarding the list of other decor restrictions.
	11. Is smoking or drinking allowed at the Science Center?
	Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the California Science Center and near its entrances. Smoking is allowed outdoors at least 20 feet from any entrance. Alcohol can be served only by Kensington or by having your caterer obtain a one-day serving permit from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board at (213) 897-539.
	12. Can I have music at my event?
	Live music is allowed after the California Science Center has closed to the public for the duration of your event. Recorded music is permitted in the Loker Conference Center during all hours.
	13. Can I have an event in the Science Center without renting the IMAX theater?
	The Science Center and the IMAX Theater are rented separately for events. Be advised that even if you rent the entire California Science Center, the IMAX Theater is not included and will still be open to the public during regular IMAX hours (currently 10:00 A.M.-9:00 P.M.).
	14. How do I arrange a private screening in the Science Center's IMAX theater?
	The California Science Center's IMAX Theater's seven-story-tall screen and 44-speaker, digital surround sound will completely immerse you in the action! Exciting films that entertain and educate are presented in IMAX 2D or the latest film technology, IMAX 3D. Either way, your experience will be an unforgettable one.
	15. Can I add science demonstrations to my event?
	The Science Center's Education Department can provide engaging hands-on science demonstrations for an additional fee. Contact the Event Services Office regarding availability and price.
	16. What parking options are available?
	Parking within Exposition Park can be arranged with or without a shuttle service. Self-parking is $6 per car and $10 per commercial van, bus, or limousine. You are welcome to pre-pay this for your guests or let them pay on their own. When pre-paying your guests' self-parking, please provide a sample of the approved parking pass your guests will have the day before your event to ensure that they are not charged. Valet parking is available at $15 per car and is strictly a hosted option.