A centerpiece to the Entertainment District in Downtown Manhattan, Blue Earth Plaza is located just outside the Flint Hills Discovery Center. This public park offers a large water feature, a covered patio area, a four-sided fireplace, and a large, open green space. It is the perfect spot for casual gatherings including birthday parties, outdoor wedding ceremonies, family reunions, company picnics, and much more!

Venue Amenities, Availability and Pricing

Rental of Blue Earth Plaza includes exclusive access to the covered patio, event and large green space during your rental times. The Plaza's water feature must remain open to the public. Two public restrooms are available for guest use on the east side of the park. Free parking is located in the Flint Hills Discovery Center lot or the public parking garage adjacent to the Manhattan Conference Center. Use of the Plaza's music-playing capabilities is also included in the rental fee. Alcohol may be served in controlled areas.

• Availability: 8 a.m.-11 p.m.
• Capacity: 100 seated on covered patio, 500+ on lawn
• Fee: $75 per hour non-commercial, $150 per hour commercial, $1,500 48-hour Festival or overnight rental. A $100 non-refundable alcohol applies if alcohol is served.

Additional Information

Questions? Want to schedule a tour? Contact Event Supervisor, Jonathan Mertz, at 785-587-2726 ext. 5607 or by email. 

Reserving the Space

To reserve the Blue Earth Plaza, download and complete the appropriate reservation application form.

Non-Commercial use is any use that in nature, including but not limited to social uses, government uses, and non-profit uses. A non-commercial use shall not be considered a commercial use solely because it is soliciting funds or support for a non-commercial purpose as part of the event.

Non-Commercial Hourly Application Form
(Appropriate for birthday parties, reunions, small weddings and other social events)

Commercial use is any use that produces a profit or a potential profit by a public or private entity and/or a use involving the sale or promotion of goods or services or conducting business/training for a for-profit organization.

Commercial Hourly Application Form

Festival Application Form is required for any event, commercial or non-commercial, requiring access to setup or tear down the day before or after the event.

Festival Application Form 

Return in person to the Flint Hills Discovery Center or by email to mertz@cityofmhk.com