An outdoor wedding in Minnesota? Well, sure, you probably don't want to have one in January, but for the warmer months, an outdoor wedding in the Twin Cities can be perfect. With all the beautiful lakes, parks, and views of the skyline, why not take advantage of the natural setting?
Here are some suggestions for where to hold an outdoor wedding in Minneapolis or St. Paul..
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis). Located outside of the Walker Art Center on the outskirts of downtown Minneapolis, this beautiful and somewhat eccentric collection of sculpture includes the iconic Spoonbridge with Cherry fountain (otherwise known as "that giant cherry on a white spoon"). A permit to use the facilities costs $200 for a 1 1/2 hour time frame. In case of rain, ceremonies can be moved to the The Palm Room in the Cowles Conservatory, a sun-filed glass structure located on the Sculpture Gardens. Receptions can only be held in the conservatory, which can only accommodate 150 people standing or 75 people sitting, but receptions can be booked separated at one of several spaces in the nearby Walker, which can accommodate up to 450 people. For more information, call 612-370-4929.
Lyndale Park Rose Garden and Peace Garden. (4125 East Lake Harriet Parkway, Minneapolis) Located next to Lake Harriet, the two adjoining parks are the most popular wedding sites in Minneapolis. The Rose Garden, which can accomodate about 80 guests, is the second largest rose garden in the United States, and the roses usually start to bloom around mid-June. The secluded Peace Garden is for smaller, intimate weddings with no more than 20 guests. Ceremonies here often take place by a waterfall that cascades from the elaborate rock garden. Permits to use either facility (for ceremonies only) cost $200 for a 1 1/2 hour time frame. For more information, call 612-230-6400.
Minnehaha Falls. (4801 Minnehaha Avenue, Minneapolis.) Located in southwest Minneapolis, the spectacular falls are one of the most memorable sites in the Twin Cities. Couples can get married at a number of different locations throughout the adjoining park, or at the Minnehaha Falls Pergola Garden, and some couples choose to have picnic receptions in the park as well. Outdoor weddings in Minnesota aren't common, but if you want one, this is the place to go because the frozen falls are an amazing backdrop. There's a $200 rental fee for a 1 1/2 time frame. Call 612-230-6400.
Lake Como-- Black Bear Crossings. (1360 Lexington Parkway North, St. Paul). This large hall overlooks beautiful Lake Como and can accommodate about 200 people. A big advantage to oudoor weddings here is that they take place on an outdoor pavillion that's covered, but still has a spectacular view. Receptions can be held in several rooms in the hall. Between the lake, the park, and the nearby zoo, Como gives couples a wide range of photography options. The rental fee is $900. For more information, call 651-488-4920.
Irvine Park. (281 Walnut Street, St. Paul). Irvine Park---the most popular location for outdoor weddings in St. Paul--is located just west of downtown, which puts it in close proximity to reception sites throughout the downtown area. Weddings here have a quaint feel. The park is surrounded by Victorian homes, and its centerpiece is a historic fountain. About 200 guests can be accommodated in the park. Rental fees are $100 per hour with a 1 1/2 hour minimum. For more information, call 651-632-5111.
See also: Twin City Indoor Wedding Venues
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