Weddings at Flint Hills Discovery Center

Wedding & Event Venue

>> GET STARTED | send us an inquiry about dates & pricing << 

A Unique Venue in Downtown Manhattan, Kansas

The Flint Hills Discovery Center offers couples an one-of-a-kind venue that showcases the natural beauty of the Flint Hills. Whether it's an intimate or grand affair, the facility provides both indoor and outdoor locations to create your perfect wedding celebration. Our spaces can be customized to your event needs and number of guests. 

Your wedding guests will also enjoy exclusive, after-hours access to our interactive and state-of-the-art exhibits, providing fun for all ages. And the downtown area is the perfect location, with several hotels within walking distance of our venue. 

Need Assistance? Want to See More Pictures?
Our knowledgeable staff are here to help. Contact Jonathan Mertz, Event Supervisor, at 785-587-2726 ext. 5607 or by email. You can also visit our Rental Venues page or our Pinterest to learn more and see pictures of previous events.

Wedding Amenities 

When you host your wedding with us, your rental includes:
  • On-site event staff to help with your special day
  • Gorgeous facilities that immerse your guests in the beauty of the Flint Hills
  • Free parking and no catering fee 
  • Tables and chairs provided with basic set up
  • Several hotels within walking distance
  • A LEED Certified Green Building 
Guest restrooms are located on the first and second floors. Renters also have access to guest elevator and catering kitchen with microwave and refrigerator (no stove). Free Wi-Fi is located throughout the facility and AV accommodations are available in some spaces. Trash and recycling services are provided.

Wedding Pricing & Packages

Rental includes access to the event spaces listed below. Renter is responsible for linens and decorations. Alcohol may be served. An approved caterer is required for events with more than 55 guests or a cash bar.

Full BuildingIncludes access to rooftop terrace, two private rooms, all exhibit spaces, theater, children’s play area, entry atrium, and balconies.
  • Availability: Seven-hour time slot between 5 p.m. and midnight with earlier access to some areas
  • Capacity: 200 seated, 400 standing
  • Fee: $2,600 Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, $2,100 Monday through Thursday
Evening of Exhibits
Includes access to exhibit space, theater, children’s play area, entry atrium, and balcony.
  • Availability: Any three-hour time slot between 5 p.m. and midnight which may be extended at an hourly rate
  • Capacity: seated 150, 300 standing
  • Fee: $1,500, $200 per additional hour
Atrium and Dome
Experience our beautiful glass atrium and spectacular dome on the first floor. Does not include access to the theater or exhibits.
  • Availability: 5 p.m. to midnight
  • Capacity: 120 seated, 200 standing
  • Fee: $300 per hour
Prairie Garden Terrace and TrailPlanted in prairie grasses and flowers with views of Manhattan. Includes the Flint Hills and Blue Earth Rooms adjacent to the Terrace.
  • Availability: 4 p.m. to midnight
  • Capacity: 150 seated, 200 standing
  • Fee: $300 per hour
Private RoomsThe Flint Hills Room or Blue Earth Room on the third floor is perfect for rehearsal dinners, showers, or intimate ceremonies.
  • Availability: 8 a.m. to midnight
  • Capacity: 40 seated, 55 standing
  • Fee: $50 per hour, $300 full-day, $25 per hour after hours fee


Additional Venue
The Flint Hills Discovery Center also coordinates rentals at nearby Blue Earth Plaza. This outdoor space is available for weddings or to compliment to your Flint Hills Discovery Center wedding package. Contact us to learn more.

Catering

Events of 55 guests or more or events with cash bars must use an approved caterer. There is no catering fee. View a list of our approved caterers. For information on becoming an approved caterer, contact our Events Supervisor, Jonathan Mertz, at 785-587-2726 ext. 5607 or by email.  

Alcohol is permitted at events in accordance with our facility usage guidelines and all city, state, and federal laws. A $100 non-refundable alcohol fee applies.

Get Started Planning Your Special Day

Submit an online interest form to inquire about availability and pricing. Once received, a member of our staff will contact you to confirm details and discuss options. You can also contact our Event Supervisor, Jonathan Mertz, directly at 785-587-2726 ext. 5607 or by email.