How many guests does each venue hold?
The Headhouse can hold up to 200 guests, accounting for a seated dinner, or up to 300 guests cocktail-style. The Shed can accommodate up to 3,000 guests, depending on layout.
What are the costs for each venue?
This spreadsheet, MSS Rates, includes pricing for the rental and use of the event space in either the Headhouse or the Train Shed. Weekday prices apply to Sunday through Thursday. Weekend prices apply to Friday and Saturday. These prices do not include parking.
Can we bring vehicles into the facility, i.e. a car dealership sponsor, a NASCAR car, a wagon, motorcycle?
Yes, the station was designed to accommodate vehicles on the first floor. Please contact the event coordinator for additional information.
Where can my guests park?
Public parking surrounds the station. The Main Street Station parking lots are free for the first hour, $1/hour after and $6 daily max.
Do you offer assistance for event planning?
No, we do not offer planning services. A venue coordinator is provided to help book your event and supply venue logistics. For large events, you will be required to employ a proven professional wedding or event planner.
Do I have to choose from your caterers, or can I bring my own?
We do not have required caterers. Any caterer must provide a VA Health Department License and an ABC License, if they are providing any alcohol.
Are there any restrictions for alcohol on premises?
You must have an ABC License to have alcohol at your event. 30 minutes before the end of the event, last call for alcohol must be made. Per your event coordinator, designated areas where alcohol can be consumed can be determined upon booking.
Are there any restrictions on music? Is live music an option?
Live music is always an option! At the end time of your rental, all vendors and music logistics must load out within guidelines of your agreement. Main Street Station does not provide any A/V equipment.
Are there options for lodging nearby?
A number of high quality hotels are within a short ride to Main Street Station. And since this is a transportation hub, it’s easy to connect to these facilities by Uber/Lyft or bus. Visit this page on Richmond Region Tourism for lodging suggestions.
Who takes care of setup and cleanup?
Your hired vendors are required to set up and clean up your event. There will be a meeting before your event to walk through with your vendors and the venue (that’s us!) to confirm your floor plan and load in and load out logistics.
Will the arrival and departure of trains affect my event at all?
If anything, it will be an added attraction for all ages! Passengers take a separate elevator and staircase separate from your event, where a facility security guard will escort them to the exit. We have it down to a science for your event to flow without interruption.
Is there a deadline for reserving spaces?
Reservations must be made a minimum of 14 days in advance of the date of your event.
Will there be a contact person on-site during the event?
Yes, you will have a venue coordinator present for the event.
Are animals allowed at an event?
Yes, as approved by the event coordinator.
Who can I contact to learn more?
For events, contact the events manager at 804-646-1862 or email crystal.lowery@rva.gov. From there, you will be matched with one of our expert event coordinators!
What is included when booking the venue?
Main Street Station will provide security,both in-house and through the *Richmond Police Department (*if alcohol is served). We will provide janitorial staff during the event to clean up any spills and to perform general janitorial duties (all trash, however, will be removed from the building by your caterer and other vendors). We will also have an events manager in the building during your event.
We have a limited number of tables available, upon request. Additional furniture you see in the building may be used for events or removed, per your request.
Weddings will provided with an hour time slot for rehearsal (to be coordinated with your events manager).
How do I secure the date for my event?
We require a non-refundable deposit and a signed contract to secure the venue for your event. The non-refundable deposit is 25% of the venue fee. Final payment is due 60 days prior to your event.
Is there a kitchen available?
Yes, we have a commercial kitchen available for an additional fee.
Do you require special event insurance?
Yes. We require that you provide proof of special event insurance no later than 60 days prior to your event. If your insurance provider will only provide coverage within 1-60 days of the event, you must notify Main Street Station staff of when you will be able to provide the proof of coverage.
Is the venue open to the public?
Yes, from 8AM to 5PM the building is open to the public. After 5PM, the building is only open to Amtrak passengers and special event guests. During your event, non-guests will be kept out of your event space.