Flint Hills Discovery Center Amenities & Pricing

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


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Event Venue Amenities

Whether you're hosting a business meeting or family reunion, the Flint Hills Discovery Center offers several amenities to ensure you, your guests and your vendors enjoy a fantastic event experience. Your rental fee includes:

  • 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 or rental tax
  • 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

Event Venue Pricing

The Flint Hills Discovery Center is available to rent year-round, seven days a week, during most mornings, afternoons and evenings. Certain venue options, such as renting the entire building or the exhibit space, are only available after regular operating hours due to public access needs. 

The chart below provides general pricing and availability information; prices range from $50 per hour to $2,600 all-inclusive rental package. Additional alcohol or after-hours fees may apply. 

Full BuildingIncludes access to rooftop terrace, two private third floor 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 all exhibit space, theater, children’s play area, entry atrium, and second floor balcony.
  • Availability: Any three-hour time slot between 5 p.m. and midnight which may be extended at an hourly rate
  • Capacity: 200 seated, 400 standing
  • Fee: $1,500 three-hour rental, $200 per additional hours
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 wildflowers with views of Manhattan. Ideal for a more casual, outdoor event. Also includes access to the third-floor private rooms. Does not include access to the theater or exhibits.
  • Availability: 4 p.m. to midnight
  • Capacity: 150 seated, 200 standing
  • Fee: $300 per hour
Private RoomsThree private rooms available – Blue Earth Room, Flint Hills Room, Classroom.
  • Availability: 8 a.m. to midnight
  • Capacity: 48 seated, 55 standing
  • Fee: $50 per hour, $300 full-day, $25 per hour after hours fee
Discovery PackageThree private rooms available – Blue Earth Room, Flint Hills Room, Classroom. Includes 20 daily admission passes.
  • Availability: Regular open hours
  • Capacity: 48 seated, 55 standing
  • Fee: 2-hours - $200, All-day - $400
Additional Fees

Additional Information

For questions regarding the venue's amenities, pricing, or availability, contact Jonathan Mertz, Event Supervisor, at 785-587-2726 ext. 5607 or by email.