Rent the Palo Alto Art Center

The façade and main entrance of the Palo Alto Art Center

The Palo Alto Art Center offers a welcoming, beautiful setting for a wide variety of events. We have both indoor and outdoor spaces available for event rentals.

General Information and Frequently Asked Questions

Facility Rental Applications at the Art Center are accepted up to a year in advance on a first-come, first-served basis, with preference given to Art Center, City of Palo Alto, and City-sponsored programs.
For more information about facility rentals and responses to frequently asked questions, please review our Frequently Asked Questions.(PDF, 183KB)

For more information about our facility regulations, please see the Art Center Rental Rules and Regulations(PDF, 242KB).

Facility Rental Rates

Facility Rental Rates(PDF, 514KB)

Meeting Room

Resident Rate: $137/hr | Non-Resident Rate: $213/hr

The meeting room is an ideal space for gatherings of 45-50 people. This comfortable room has an audio-visual system and contemporary furnishings. There is space for up to 50 chairs and 8 tables.

Auditorium

Resident Rate: $217/hr | Non-Resident Rate: $337/hr

The auditorium is a historic space that once housed the Palo Alto City Hall Chambers. It is ideal for large gatherings of up to 180 people. The space includes a stage, hardwood floors, audio-visual system, and rental of up to 2 pianos. It is the perfect venue for a large meeting, concert, wedding, or other gathering. It seats up to 180 people in theater layout or up to 80 dining.

Sculpture Garden

Resident Rate: $173/hr | Non-Resident Rate: $268/hr

The stunning Sculpture Garden features lawn areas, trees, shrubbery, and modern sculptures. The paved space is suitable for outdoor dining. It's an ideal setting for weddings, celebrations, and other gatherings. The garden has a capacity of up to 150 for dining or 300 for a reception.

Historic Courtyard

Resident Rate: $131/hr | Non-Resident Rate: $204/hr

The Historic Courtyard features a brick patio with built-in bench seating. This secluded outdoor area is perfect for parties, receptions, or informal meetings. The courtyard has an approximate capacity of up to 125 people.

Lobby

Resident Rate: $131/hr | Non-Resident Rate: $204/hr

The lobby is a bright, elegant space ideal for social gatherings and receptions. It has floor-to-ceiling windows, polished concrete floors, and contemporary lighting. The lobby has space for up to 60 people.

Kitchen

Resident Rate: $57/hr | Non-Resident Rate: $89/hr

The kitchen is available only as a rental add-on. It includes a sink, refrigerator, stove, and counter-space for food preparation.

Rentals of five or more consecutive hours qualify for a 15% discount.

501(c)(3) non-profit organizations may qualify for reduced rates.