Flint Hills Discovery Center

Flint Hills Discovery Center, event venue in downtown Manhattan, Kansas

A Unique Venue in Downtown Manhattan, Kansas


Opened in 2012, the Flint Hills Discovery Center is a one-of-a-kind event venue featuring iconic architecture that celebrates the natural elements of the Flint Hills with a modern twist. This building is a tribute to the exquisite beauty of the region featuring native stone, wildflowers and prairie-inspired artwork throughout. The facility is a LEED certified green building.

A flexible venue space with indoor and outdoor options.
 Imagine celebrating your special moments under the dome of the lobby with it's interactive multimedia. Or your guests exploring the exhibits with exclusive, after-hours access. Perhaps, cocktails on the outdoor rooftop terrace with vistas of the Flint Hills and Manhattan community is the perfect backdrop to your event. From business meetings to weddings, and everything in between, our venue is sure to have the perfect space for your event.

COVID-19 Information


Click to view the COVID-19 NOTICE FOR RENTALS/RESERVATIONS
Due to COVID-19 restrictions for rentals, capacity will be temporarily limited to the following:
  • Flint Hills Room- 33
  • Blue Earth Room- 41
  • Full Building/Exhibit Space- 375
  • Union Pacific Depot- 67
These numbers are subject to change based on the most recent Riley County Health Department order restrictions.

Venue Amenities

We want to ensure you, your guests, and your vendors enjoy a fantastic event experience. Rental of the Flint Hills Discovery Center includes several amenities including: 

  • On-site event staff to assist you with facility needs during your event
  • Access to venue and exhibit (if applicable) spaces listed in the pricing chart below
  • Public restrooms on the first and second floors
  • Guest elevator
  • Catering kitchen with microwave and refrigerator (no stove) 
  • No catering fee
  • Free parking 
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • AV accommodations available in some spaces 
  • Trash and recycling services provided 
  • Usage of the facility's tables and chairs with basic set up

Venue Spaces and Pricing

Click through the tabbed information below to learn more about the different venue spaces.
  1. Full Building
  2. Exhibit Space
  3. Private Rooms
  4. Rooftop Terrace

Full Building


Rental includes outdoor rooftop terrace, two private dressing/meeting rooms, all exhibit spaces, immersive experience theater, children’s play area, entry atrium, and balconies.

  • Availability: Rental is a seven hour time slot between 5:00 PM and midnight with earlier access to some areas
  • Capacity: 240 seated, 500 standing
  • Fee*: $2,500 Saturday, $2,000 Sunday through Friday
*Alcohol fee ($100) and/or refundable damage deposit (up to $300) may also apply.

Additional Information 

Questions? Want to schedule a tour? Contact Event Supervisor, Jonathan Mertz, at 785-587-2726 ext. 5607 or by email. You can also visit our Rent the Discovery Center page for more information, including details on catering and how to submit a rental inquiry.

Check out other events. 
Need some inspiration about what kinds of events you can host? Visit our Event Types & Ideas page.