Main Building & Patio
The Observatory has a 24″ telescope and rare antique astronomical instruments. A beautiful domed library and access to spacious front and backyard plazas takes advantage of a secluded hilltop setting. The grounds can accommodate tents for large outdoor gatherings.
- Dinner seating: 80 persons (8) 60″ round tables
- Theater-style seating: 90 persons
- Standing: 120 persons
- The observatory grounds are large enough to host 300 people with tenting and tables.
- Rear Brick Patio (Tent: 60’×50′; 10′ high on the sides; center is 22′ high)
- Standing: 300 persons
- Seated: 250 persons
Muriel's Retreat
The Dyer Observatory residence includes a great room, breakout room, and two handicap accessible restrooms. Amenities include an overlook deck in front and a wonderful brick patio in rear, all surrounded by amazing panoramic views. The telescope featured in the living is from Vanderbilt’s original observatory built on the main campus in the 1870s.
Muriel’s Retreat was built as the residence for the original Observatory Director, Dr. Carl Seyfert, and his family in 1953. It is named in memory of Muriel Mussels Seyfert who was Carl’s wife as well as an accomplished astronomer, painter, and equestrienne.
The Residence is 2,000 sq. ft.
- Standing: 50 persons (great room and deck)
- Conference capacity: 20 persons
- Theatre style capacity: 20 persons
Rental Request
For more information, please email your request to Helen Morisette or contact us at 615-373-4897.
All site visits require an appointment.
Traditionally the observatory is closed December-February due to maintenance and the high probability of cancellations due to inclement weather. Dyer Observatory’s hilltop is a few degrees cooler than below, and even a slight shower that presents no problem in Brentwood, may make our road treacherous.
If you’d like to schedule an event at Dyer knowing that you might need an alternative location if the weather turns inclement, we’d be happy to make arrangements.