The Barry Art Museum will be temporarily closed for expansion construction beginning August 1, 2025. Follow BAM in the Wild, our popup art cart, to attend FREE events until we reopen in 2027.

BAM in the Wild Calendar
submit
Barry Art Museum Close
Study at ODU

Private Event Rentals

Private Event Rentals

The Barry Art Museum will be closed for expansion construction beginning August 1, 2025. We look forward to hosting your event in 2027 in our new dedicated private event space!

The Museum provides a sophisticated venue for private events ranging from corporate parties, university receptions, lectures, workshops, and more. The modern architecture of our Sculpture Court is highlighted by a 40′ glass facade as well as a striking Dale Chihuly chandelier that hangs above our terrazzo grand staircase. This chandelier will be expanded in both width and length by Chihuly Studios during our closure.

A rotating array of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art adorn the Sculpture Court and fill our galleries, creating a visually stunning environment for every event. Located at the gateway to Old Dominion University’s campus on 43rd Street and Hampton Boulevard, it offers urban convenience with cultural prestige.

Choose the Barry Art Museum for your next event and enjoy…

– Competitive pricing
– Easy access to and from highways, downtown, and historic Norfolk
– State-of-the-art facilities and practical amenities
– Private tours of our unique collection unlike any other museum in the region (upon request)
– Convenient parking (some included)
– Support from top local vendors
– Start-to-finish support from our Events Manager

Hosting an event

Start planning your 2027 event by filling out our private event inquiry form!

GET STARTED

Our Spaces

The Sculpture Court is currently our main event space. Located on the first floor, it features modern architecture and a Howard Ben Tré sculpture fountain. The 40′ glass wall illuminates the interior and exterior at night, enhancing the atmosphere. We will reopen in 2027 with a new dedicated private event space on the first floor, accessible from the Sculpture Court.

The second floor offers a mezzanine space that’s perfect for lectures and workshops as well as a quiet nook for smaller gatherings.

Galleries 1 and 2 are located on the first floor and Galleries 3 and 4 are located on the second floor. We will reopen in 2027 with six new galleries in addition to the existing four. Galleries may be closed for the changing of exhibitions.

Capacity is subject to change based on exhibitions and room setup.

Food and beverages are allowed in the Sculpture Court only. They are not allowed on the second floor or in our galleries.

First Floor Sculpture Court (Galleries 1 & 2)

  • 100 guests for a standing reception
  • 80 guests for a seated dinner
  • 80 guests for a seated lecture

COMING JANUARY 2027: First Floor Private Event Space

  • 130 guests for a seated lecture
  • 100 guests for a standing reception
  • 80 guests for a seated dinner

First and Second Floors (Galleries 1, 2, 3, and 4)

  • 150 guests for a standing reception
  • 80 guests for a seated dinner

Second Floor Landing with Wall Monitor and Podium

  • 40 guests for a seated lecture

FAQ's

What are the rental fees?

Our rental fees are based on the requested date and timeframe, seasonality, changing exhibitions, and other factors. Fill out our event inquiry form to get pricing for your event.

We offer discounted pricing for ODU Departments & Affiliates, which will be charged to your Department budget code.

What does my rental fee cover?

Our rental fees cover the agreed upon event timeframe, setup and cleanup timeframes, facility venue rental, housekeeping, security, gallery host staffing, and the dedication of our Events Manager. Some furnishings may be included depending on requests.

Will there be a contact person on-site during my event?

Yes, our Marketing & Events Manager, Sarah Serrano, will be present for your entire event. She can be reached at ssjohnst@odu.edu. Gallery hosts and security will also be present, and a police officer will be present if there is alcohol service at your event.

Can I choose my own caterer?

You may choose from our list of preferred caterers who can assist you with your food and beverage options, bar service, ABC license, linens, plates, silverware, and decorations.

University events must use ODU’s exclusive caterer, Aramark.

Can I bring in flowers?

You may choose from our list of preferred florists. They are knowledgeable of our policies regarding the hazards of introducing insects into the museum through floral arrangements.

Where should my guests park?

The 25 spaces in the 43rd Street Garage that are closest to the museum are reserved for our guests. Additional parking for events may be coordinated through University Parking, or guests can pay individually per garage signage.

What is Liability Insurance?

Liability Insurance is a short-term special events insurance coverage. The client agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the Barry Art Museum, Old Dominion University (ODU) Museum Foundation, ODU, their Board of Directors, officers, employees, and agents from and against all claims, suits, damages, costs and expenses arising from liability or loss for injury or death to persons or damages to property caused by any act or omission unless such an act or omission is due to the sole negligence of the Museum. The insurance must be with an insurance company licensed to do business in the state of Virginia. The insurance is required prior to the event. For more information regarding the liability insurance, please refer to the rental contract.

The Barry Art Museum is a separate Foundation and is considered off-campus. Off-campus locations are not covered by the University’s insurance. Liability insurance must be obtained for private event rentals. Please contact the ODU Office of Risk Management for securing insurance coverage.