Host an Event
Explore Our Rentable Spaces
Find the Perfect Fit for Your Event
All Thinkery Rentals Include:
- Up to 6 hours (including set-up and clean-up; start time no earlier than 6 PM).
- Thinkery staff support throughout your event.
- Hosted parking available.
First Floor
Capacity – Cocktail: 200 people | Seated Dining: 80 people
The first floor offers a dynamic, high-energy setting with a mix of gallery and open space. With direct access to both indoor galleries and the outdoor backyard space, this level creates a seamless flow and an experience that feels active, social, and uniquely engaging.
Includes:
- Private access to all first-floor and outdoor spaces: Innovator’s Workshop, Spark Shop, Fortastic Adventures, Light Lab, and Our Backyard.
- Access to a projector, a screen, a wired mic, and overhead audio is available. Please note that overhead audio must be connected to a device with Bluetooth capabilities. The projector can be connected via HDMI or ClickShare.
- Option to have the Toy Joy @ Thinkery store open.
Second Floor
Capacity – 100 people
This level features interactive water experiences, imaginative play areas, and scenic views. Guests can explore, imagine, and create together in a setting that feels both engaging and relaxed, making it a great option for early childhood celebrations or adult gatherings with a playful twist.
Includes:
- Private access to all second-floor galleries: Currents, Let’s Grow, Bloom, Play Lab, and Story Nook.
- Access to overhead audio is available. Please note that overhead audio must be connected to a device with Bluetooth capabilities.
Spark Shop
Capacity – Cocktail: 50 | Auditorium: 40 | Seated Dining: 30
Host your event in Spark Shop, Thinkery’s open-concept maker space designed for creativity and connection. This gallery invites guests to tinker, build, and create together, making it a memorable setting for meetings and team gatherings.
Includes:
- Private access to Spark Shop gallery.
- Access to a projector, a screen, a wired mic, and overhead audio is available. Please note that overhead audio must be connected to a device with Bluetooth capabilities. The projector can be connected via HDMI or ClickShare.
Full Museum
Capacity – Cocktail: 300 people | Seated Dining: 80 people
Go all out with a full museum rental and give your guests exclusive access to every gallery and exhibit inside and out. With 40,000 square feet of hands-on experiences, Thinkery offers a one-of-a-kind setting that transforms any event into something unforgettable.
From casual celebrations to elevated evenings, the museum provides a flexible backdrop with room to explore, connect, and play. Customize your layout to fit your vision and create an experience your guests won’t find anywhere else in Austin.
Includes:
- Private access to all first floor and outdoor spaces: Innovator’s Workshop, Spark Shop, Fortastic Adventures, Light Lab, and Our Backyard.
- Private access to all second-floor galleries: Currents, Let’s Grow, Bloom, Play Lab, and Story Nook.
- Option to have the Toy Joy @ Thinkery store open.
- Additional 8 round tables and 32 chairs are included in our Snack Zone.
- Access to a projector, a screen, a wired mic, and overhead audio is available. Please note that overhead audio must be connected to a device with Bluetooth capabilities. The projector can be connected via HDMI or ClickShare.
Start Planning Your Event
Contact the Events team for more information
events@thinkeryaustin.org
FAQ
Cancellation & Postponement Policies
What is required to reserve a date?
Submit an Event Inquiry on our website to request an event date. For events that are 2-3 hours, payment in full is due upon reservation. For events over 3 hours, once date availability has been confirmed, our events team will share a contract and payment page. A non-refundable 10% deposit fee is required.
What happens if I need to cancel or postpone my event?
Thinkery understands that sometimes plans change. We have designed our cancellation/postponement policies to reflect these considerations while being mindful of our museum operations. Venue rentals at Thinkery include nonrefundable 10% registration fees (exact amount dependent on total event cost). Refund requests, minus this fee, will be honored for cancellations made at least 14 days before your event date. No refunds will be extended for cancellations requested within 14 days of your event date. You may also choose to postpone your event with at least 14 days of the notice and apply your credits to a new date once without penalty or incurring additional expense. Second or subsequent postponement requests will incur an administrative fee for each change. The event you book is uniquely yours and is not transferable to other hosts or guests.
Parking Information
Where can we park for our event?
Thinkery recommends your guests park in the McBee Parking Garage. Rates are $2/hour, and your guests can pay easily on their mobile devices as they exit the parking structure at the conclusion of your event. During private events, Thinkery does not offer complimentary parking validation.
What to Bring & Wear to Thinkery Camp
Are food and beverages allowed during my rental??
Food and beverages are currently allowed during private after-hours events.
Thinkery can provide two rectangular banquet tables (6ft) for food service upon request
Is alcohol allowed onsite?
Yes, alcohol is allowed onsite during private events. All alcohol must be served by a TABC licensed bartender, and a security officer must be hired to monitor the front doors throughout the event. Open alcohol containers must not leave the premises.
Is there any equipment included in rental packages?
Yes. Access to a projector, a screen, a wired mic, and overhead audio is available. Please note that overhead audio must be connected to a device with Bluetooth capabilities. The projector can be connected via HDMI or ClickShare.
A limited number of 6ft rectangular tables and folding chairs are available upon request.
What isn’t included in a rental package?
Caterers and food service, TABC-certified bartenders, security officers, lighting, decorations, dining tables, linens, nor any additional equipment rental needs.
What time can my event start?
Private event rentals must begin at least one hour after General Admission hours have ceased for the day. Exceptions will incur a fee and can be made occasionally for special circumstances. Ask us for more information!
Which days are available for event rentals?
Our space is available on most Wednesdays through Sundays (excluding some holidays) after 6PM. All dates are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please note: Final floor plan must be confirmed at least 14 days prior to your event.