Private Events & Birthday Parties
Celebrate and meet at the Science Center
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is centrally located in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire, with easy access to nearby lakes and the White Mountains. Our indoor Trailhead Event Space can host private events, group outings, corporate meetings, and unforgettable birthday parties surrounded by nature and native wildlife.
For information or questions:
Events & Function Space:
Email sloane.french@nhnature.org or call 603‑968‑7194 x131.
Birthday Parties:
Email melissa.greenawalt@nhnature.org or call 603‑968‑7194 x112.
or
You can also contact us at info@nhnature.org or 603‑968‑7194 with general questions.
Function Space Rentals
Event and Function Space Rentals
The Trailhead Event Space offers flexible space for meetings, retreats, trainings, and group gatherings.
- Includes use of a sink, tables, folding chairs, and an HDMI‑connected screen.
- Fits up to 100 people seated or 80 people with tables and chairs.
Note: Room rentals include use of the indoor facilities and restrooms only. Trail admission and outdoor access are not included in the room rental price. Group trail admission fees are available, and you may reserve a live animal program for an additional fee (subject to availability). Please reserve any live animal program at least two weeks before your event.
A Science Center staff member will be available to assist you. Setup and cleanup of the room are the responsibility of the rental group.
Rental Rates – Trailhead Event Space
Weekdays (Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm)
- Half Day (up to 4 hours): $200 per room
- Full Day (up to 8 hours): $350 per room
- Evening after 5:00 p.m. (up to 4 hours): $350 per room
- Additional hours: $50 per hour
Weekends (Friday evening; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm)
- Half Day (up to 4 hours): $300 per room
- Full Day (up to 8 hours): $500 per room
- Evening after 5:00 p.m. (up to 4 hours): $500 per room
- Additional hours: $75 per hour
Members receive a 15% discount on room rental rates.
Birthday Parties
Birthday Parties at the Science Center
Celebrate your child’s birthday surrounded by wildlife, forest, and fun. Our birthday party packages take place in the Trailhead Event Space and can be tailored to include live animal encounters and time on the Live Animal Exhibit Trail.
For information or questions:
For information or questions, contact Program Registrar Melissa Greenawalt at melissa.greenawalt@nhnature.org or 603‑968‑7194 x112.
Types of Birthday Parties
All party options include use of the Trailhead Event Space for up to 20 people for up to two hours and use of tables and chairs. Maximum total group size for all packages is 50 people.
Close Up with Critters
(Not available in May or June)
- Private celebration in the Trailhead Event Space.
- 30‑minute live animal program featuring two animals.
- Includes use of tables and chairs.
- Cost: $300 for members, $350 for non‑members
- Max group size: 50 people
A Walk on the Wild Side
- Private celebration in the Trailhead Event and Educational Building.
- Includes group admission to the Live Animal Exhibit Trail.
- Includes use of tables and chairs.
- Cost: $340 for members, $400 for non‑members
- Max group size: 50 people
Wild Birthday Bash
(Not available in May or June)
- Private celebration in the Trailhead Event and Educational Building.
- Meet two live animals up close during a 30‑minute program.
- Includes group admission to the Live Animal Exhibit Trail.
- Includes use of tables and chairs.
- Cost: $425 for members, $500 for non‑members
- Max group size: 50 people
Additional Details and Policies
Member or non‑member pricing is determined by the person making the reservation.
- For groups larger than 20 people, there is an additional charge of $15 per person.
- A refundable $100 security deposit is required for all parties.
- All options are subject to availability.
- Advance payment is required to reserve your date; any additional fees are due on the day of the party.
- Children age 3 and over are included in the headcount.
- For the safety of our animals and local wildlife, please do not bring balloons.
Birthday Party Cancellations
- A $25 administration fee is charged for all cancellations.
- Cancellations made more than 30 days before the reservation date receive a full refund (less the $25 fee).
- Cancellations made 14–30 days before the reservation date receive a 50% refund (less the $25 fee).
- Cancellations made less than 14 days before the reservation date are not refundable.