It goes without saying that every planner strives to create an event that is memorable. And while an interesting menu or trendy lighting certainly helps, to make a lasting impression we recommend starting with a spot that’s out of the ordinary. Don’t know where to begin? We suggest you consider one of these distinctive Minnesota venues:
DRAMATICALLY DIFFERENT
Chanhassen Dinner Theater
What makes it different: Dinner and a show? You bet! Your guests will applaud the Chanhassen Dinner Theater’s gorgeous banquet rooms. For up to 175 guests, The Club Theatre is a multi-level space that comes with stage, built-in and tiered seating for dinner. For groups of up to 250, The Ballroom and Dance Loft features dramatic up-lighting and hardwood dance floor.
Why we love it: Since opening its doors in 1968, folks have flocked to this 500-seat dinner theater for some of the Twin Cities’ finest entertainment and American fare. For extra special occasions, guests can enjoy themselves in one of the Director’s Suites. The V.I.P. Suite accommodates 4 and the Director’s Suite offers space for 32 guests. Both Suites offer comfortable seating and overlook the main stage.
BON VOYAGE
Paradise Charter Cruises
What makes it different: Sail away to serenity aboard the fabulous fleet of Paradise Charter Cruises. Bring your bunch out of the boardroom and watch them enjoy the fresh air, sparkling water, and glorious scenery of the Mississippi River or Lake Minnetonka. Enjoy an elegant affair that includes amazing cuisine and craft cocktails.
Why we love it: Choose from one of five beautiful SkipperLiner vessels for your private charter cruise. The Paradise Lady for up to 145 passengers is a luxurious charter yacht with an elegant Grand Salon, spacious sun decks, and state-of-the-art entertainment system. The Paradise Destiny II is an extraordinary motor yacht for up to 100 passengers. It features 2 decks of floor-to-ceiling windows, a “Grand” center staircase, large skylight, and spacious open-air aft deck.
Lady of the Lake
What makes it different: The Lady of the Lake is no ordinary boat. Instead, it is the only three deck charter boat on scenic Lake Minnetonka. As many as 100 guests aboard the historic paddle wheeler can sight-see the area’s many glamorous private estates as well as the enchanting shorelines, bays, inlets, and harbors of the beautiful lake.
Why we love it: The open-air top sun deck is the perfect place to enjoy a stunning sunset cruise. A full catering menu serves up everything from delicious appetizers, hot buffets, an array of mouthwatering entrees, and of course, homemade desserts. Lemonade, iced tea, and sodas are complimentary, and a full cash bar is available.
FINE ART
Walker Art Center
What makes it different: From the artfully inspired rooftop mini golf course, to the garden terrace with sweeping views of the Minneapolis skyline, to its many lounges, galleries and theater, the Walker Art Center is one of the Twin Cities most unique venues.
Why we love it: The iconic building features high-tech amenities along with on-site catering that is farm-to-table fresh. A variety of corporate packages are available, including at Mini Golf and BBQ Package that offers private access to the outdoor terraces, private rental of Skyline Mini Golf, a delicious BBQ meal, and the option to add a hot dog cart, a pretzel station, and a bar package.
BACK TO NATURE
Centennial Lakes Park
What makes it different: Move forward from a traditional banquet facility when you get back to nature at Centennial Lakes Park. The Hughes Pavilion accommodates up to 120 guests and features a cozy fireplace, floor-to-ceiling windows, a lakeside patio overlooking a sparkling 10-acre lake, and free parking.
Why we love it: There are a variety of fun activities here for groups to enjoy. Lawn bowling is the ideal team building activity. Paddle boats let your crew cruise the waterways of the lake, while an 18-hole putting green mixes challenge with fun. Open catering is available at both facilities.
A WHOLE NEW BALLGAME
St. Paul Saints at CHS Field
What makes it different: You’ll hit one out of the park when you book your next event at CHS Field. Home to the always entertaining St. Paul Saints, CHS Field offers tours of the facility, spectacular views from its terraces, and the Securian Financial Club for up to 200 guests. The field is even available for more than 12,000 guests!
Why we love it: A St. Paul Saints game is synonymous with “fun!” In addition to great minor league baseball, your team will love the between inning promotions. You never know what you might see—from sumo wrestling to tire races, usher training to trivia contests, a Saints game is a must-see event.
A FAIR DEAL
Valleyfair
What makes it different: The 125-acre amusement park is the perfect place to bring your peeps, whether for a corporate outing, company picnic, or team building gathering. You’ll find dozens of thrill rides, family rides, live shows, special events and more. Great food and concessions abound, and they even have a catering staff for private events.
Why we love it: In addition to all the rides, admission to Valleyfair also includes entrance to Soak City, the splashtacular water park. Find your fun at the wave pool, water slides, raging rapids, ripple rapids, and more. Plus, Valleyfair offers groups of 15-99 great discounts on admission tickets.
PLAY A ROUND
Topgolf
What makes it different: Topgolf is about the most un-corporate setting you could hope to find for your corporate event. Choose from a variety of games including Topgolf, a competitive game that focuses on accuracy; Top Scramble where teams compete to get the best score on each ball; and Quick 9, a speedy game of accuracy, plus more.
Why we love it: Great food, full-service bars, and upscale amenities will cater to your crew. Dedicated staff ensures your event is on par with your expectations. Group packages available.
