Groom embracing and kissing his bride in front of the Norfolk Canyon Aquarium.

Located just minutes from the beautiful Virginia Beach Oceanfront, the Aquarium is the perfect setting ​​for a unique and memorable private event. From weddings to corporate events and more, we are ready to accommodate your special occasion.

Photo courtesy of Dragon Photo Studio.

Private Event Options

Evening Private Event Locations - North Building

Thank you for your interest in hosting your private event at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. We look forward to assisting you in finding the perfect space for your event – whether it is set with sharks and sea turtles or overlooking a scenic waterway. Event rentals include tables and chairs, projectors, and uplighting for your convenience.

North Building

Capacity: 1,800 | Make the most of the night with full access to our North Building exhibits. Guests will be enthralled by our range of aquatic animals and dazzled with photo opportunities.

Sharks & Sea Turtles Package

Capacity: 55 (Seated) | Submerge your event with an underwater sparkle to celebrate any occasion. Leave your guests speechless as they experience the natural behaviors of these magnificent creatures.

Ray Pool Package

Capacity: 70 (Seated Ceremony) | Bring your event to the interactive waters of our Ray Touch Pool, where guests can interact with the rays on exhibit. Watch rays glide through the water and create memorable moments for everyone.

Promenade Room Add-On

Capacity: 100 (Seated) | Add on the Promenade to double your seating capacity. Personalize the floor plan design and enjoy the scenic deck overlooking the beautiful Owls Creek.

Auditorium

Capacity: 250 | Draw in a crowd and host your event in our impressive auditorium with plenty of seating, perfect for speeches and talks. With comfortable, tiered seating, everyone will have a good view.

Evening Private Events Location - South Building

Event rentals include tables and chairs, projectors, and uplighting for your convenience.

South Building

Capacity: 250 (Not Seated) | Explore captivating exhibits with full access to our South Building. Guests will be mystified by our jellies gallery and touch pools.

Amphitheater

Capacity: 200 (Bench Seating) | Enjoy the fresh air and gorgeous scenery at our outdoor amphitheater. With elevated seating and proximity to the nature trail, experience nature firsthand in a crowd-pleasing space.

Watershed

Make a splash with the outdoor watershed boasting a playhouse, rain garden, play research vessel, and water play areas.

Education Hall

Capacity: 80 | Bring your presentation or event into this large auditorium with comfortable seating and a screen display option. Perfect for meetings, presentations, and more.

Add-Ons

Catering for your event can be booked through our exclusive catering partners at Gourmet Gang . Outside food is prohibited for most private events. Wider menu options are available for evening events - call or email (below) for more information.

Send your event invitation to Sandy the sea turtle or Speckles the spotted eagle ray who will liven up any occasion. Perfect for a fun surprise, kids entertainment or a photo opportunity to remember the event.

Wow your guests with underwater divers to add an impressive decoration to the scene. Watch certified SCUBA divers take a dip in the Red Sea exhibit or Chesapeake Bay exhibit and make for an awesome photo opportunity or captivating views.

Add an element of entertainment with an enriching education station where educators will bring artifacts to teach about the animals we care for. Choose this immersive option for an engaging addition to your party.

Additional Information

  • Member discounts are available.
  • Prices are subject to change.
  • Events booked Sunday through Thursday receive a 10% discount.
  • Liability insurance is required.
  • A security guard will be present and is included in the cost of the rental fee.
  • A professional wedding planner or day-of planner is required.

Catering for your event can be booked through our exclusive catering partners at Gourmet Gang . Outside food is prohibited for most private events. Wider menu options are available for evening events - call or email (below) for more information.

Want to Plan a Birthday Party?

Birthday celebrations can be arranged with our School & Youth Programs team!

Ready to Book An Event?

We look forward to helping you plan your special occasion. In addition to the above, we can also accommodate other events such as baby showers, vow renewals, and more, as well as daytime events. Contact Private Events via email.

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