Host your next event in one of our two distinctive museum venues nestled in the heart of Balboa Park. The San Diego Museum of Art offers a stunning blend of historic Spanish Colonial architecture and world-class art, creating a sophisticated and unforgettable atmosphere. For a modern, media-rich experience, consider the Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art (MOPA@SDMA)—perfect for contemporary gatherings. Our experienced events team is here to help you craft a seamless, memorable event tailored to your unique vision.
By booking with us, you’re not only creating an extraordinary experience, you’re also supporting the Museum’s mission: To inspire, educate, and cultivate curiosity through great works of art.
To explore rental spaces, catering options, audiovisual capabilities, and event guidelines, browse our Event Rental Guide. When you’re ready, fill out the Inquiry Form to connect with our special events team and we will be in touch promptly.
The San Diego Museum of Art
Host Your Event in an Iconic Cultural Landmark
With an encyclopedic collection of more than 32,000 works of art from around the world, The San Diego Museum of Art stands as a premier cultural destination. Located in the heart of Balboa Park, the Museum offers a one-of-a-kind setting where San Diego’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant art scene come together.
Since opening its doors in 1926, the Museum’s Spanish Colonial-style architecture—originally inspired by the 1915 Panama–California Exposition—has provided a timeless backdrop for unforgettable experiences. From elegant indoor galleries to a serene outdoor sculpture court and garden, the Museum offers versatile spaces ideal for corporate events, private celebrations, and weddings.
Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art
A Picture-Perfect Venue for Visionary Events
Set against the historic charm of Balboa Park, the Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art offers an inspiring venue with exclusive access to world-renowned photography and cutting-edge design. The MOPA@SDMA collection features more than 9,000 images by over 850 artists, along with 22,000 books and materials that explore the history, techniques, and cultural impact of photography.
With sleek contemporary architecture, a state-of-the-art theater, and versatile gallery spaces, MOPA@SDMA is the perfect setting for film screenings, product launches, creative receptions, and educational programs. Whether you’re planning a bold visual presentation or an intimate gathering, this venue delivers both style and substance, celebrating innovation, artistic expression, and the power of the photographic image.
Panama 66
Panama 66, the restaurant and bar in The San Diego Museum of Art’s May S. Marcy Sculpture Court, features lunch and dinner, extended bar service, and weekend brunch. Enjoy all-local craft beers on tap, exhibition-themed cocktails, and locally sourced seasonal sandwiches, salads, and more.
Check panama66.com for up-to-date restaurant hours and more information regarding the restaurant’s robust live music calendar.
For more information about renting the Sculpture Court & Garden for a private event please see page 6 in our Event Rental Guide.
Corporate Giving/Partners in Art
Our annual Partners in Art program offers a range of exclusive benefits for corporate officers, employees, clients, and stakeholders through customized sponsorship packages. In addition to a full suite of annual benefits, higher levels of giving provide access to our venues with waived rental fees, priority booking for preferred dates, and access to special exhibitions that may otherwise be restricted.
To learn more about how your company can receive complimentary event space and additional benefits, visit our Corporate Giving page or contact Sarah Grossman, Associate Director of Special Events and Corporate Relations, at sgrossman@sdmart.org.
Catering Partners
Rental clients choose from one of our trusted catering partners. Click here to see the list in the Event Rental Guide.
Inquiries
Let’s make your event a masterpiece.
Complete the form below to book a walkthrough and learn more about hosting your event at the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art (MOPA@SDMA), or both for a one-of-a-kind celebration.
Event Request Form
FAQs
What is included in the rental fee?
The rental fee includes exclusive access to the event space and Museum security.
Can I reserve space for a private event at Panama 66?
Panama 66, our restaurant located in The San Diego Museum of Art May S. Marcy Sculpture Court, does not take reservations and is a first-come, first-served establishment. Please visit their website for open hours and live music calendar.
Can I bring outside catering?
The Museum provides all clients with an approved caterers list. Please visit the Event Rental Guide for the current list of approved caterers. Certain areas of the facility have food and beverage restrictions due to art on display.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
All bar service, including alcohol purchase, must be done by our exclusive bar partner, Panama 66. Please contact Panama 66 for more information about bar service.
What time can my event start? How late can my event go?
Booking availability:
Rotunda: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday–Sunday: 6:00 p.m.–midnight | Anytime on Wednesday
Sculpture Court & Garden: Monday–Sunday: 5:30 p.m.–midnight | All requests that require Panama 66 to close for business must go through an internal review for approval and only a limited number are available per year.
Auditorium: Monday–Sunday: 7:00 a.m.–midnight (Some restrictions and exceptions apply.)
Atrium: Thursday–Sunday: 6:00–11:00 p.m.; Monday–Wednesday: 7:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.
Theater: Monday–Sunday, 7:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.
Does the Museum offer parking for event guests?
Balboa Park offers several free public parking lots within walking distance, as well as designated drop-off zones for both passenger loading and shuttle services.
Is open flame in the event spaces permitted?
Sterno and candles with open flames are not allowed in the Museum rotunda, auditorium, atrium, theater, or galleries. Sterno and candles with open flames are permitted in the sculpture court and sculpture garden with pre-approval and are subject to the Museum’s discretion in regards to safety.
Are there other fees in addition to the venue fee?
The opportunity to host an event at The San Diego Museum of Art is an exclusive benefit of Museum membership. Those not currently members of the Museum are kindly asked to become a member at any level to obtain this event benefit.
