Go back in time as you step into your future by holding your wedding at the Natural History Museum of Utah in Salt Lake City. Overlooking the valley, this venue has amazing spaces for your ceremony and reception, as well as exhibits highlighting the region’s past for your guests to explore.
Here’s what you need to know to start planning your wedding at the Natural History Museum of Utah.
Natural History Museum of Utah Wedding Info
The Natural History Museum is an ideal destination for those looking to have a unique and memorable wedding experience. The museum provides a stunning backdrop with its spectacular exhibits, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views surrounding mountains. Whether you choose to exchange vows on the terrace or inside in the central space known as the “canyon,” your wedding will be filled with beauty, culture, and Utah history.
The museum hosts weddings at all times of the year.
Wedding Ceremony Sites
There are several ceremony options at the Natural History Museum. Outdoor options include the Land Terrace nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, which reflect in the soaring copper windows of the museum. The Native Voices Terrace on the fifth floor of the museum overlooks the entire Salt Lake Valley. The Canyon Terrace on the main floor of the museum also overlooks the valley and can accommodate a larger number of guests. Just off the canyon terrace is the main museum hall known as the canyon where indoor ceremonies are held.
Wedding Reception Site
Wedding receptions can be held in several locations depending on the size of your event. You have the option to rent out the entire museum, which includes a grand hall with room for dining and dancing with access to exhibits. For more intimate events you may choose to have your wedding on the fifth-floor galleries. Rental of all spaces includes tables and chairs.
Bridal Suite/ Getting Ready Rooms
There is no official space for bridal parties, though a room can be arranged if needed. Event organizers do recommend arriving at the venue prepared.
Other unique amenities
You can have your wedding in a building that also houses dinosaurs! Also, the views and the architecture are truly stunning.
What is the capacity?
Depending on the location chosen and the style of your wedding and reception the Natural History Museum can accommodate between 100 and 400 guests.
Ceremony:
- Native Voices Terrace: 60 guests
- Land Terrace: 120 guests
- Canyon Terrace: 200 guests
Reception:
- Canyon: 300/350 for seated dinner, 400 for a cocktail reception
The outdoor ceremony venues have limited seating with a capacity of 60 on the Native Voices Terrace and 120 on the Land Terrace.
Where is the location?
The Natural History Museum of Utah is situated on the east bench of Salt Lake City, right above the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.
How many weddings are hosted on-site each day?
One wedding a day is held at the museum.
Are there any time or noise restrictions?
All celebrations cannot begin until 6:30 in the evening and must be done by 11 pm.
Is this venue ADA-accessible?
This venue is completely ADA-accessible.
What is the pet policy?
Your pet is allowed to participate in the ceremony but must have a handler and is not allowed at the reception. Please arrange with the event coordinator.
Natural History Museum of Utah Cost
A wedding and reception at the museum, including access to galleries starts at $8,000. For a reception only the cost starts at $6,000. This includes the entire building.
For smaller weddings requiring less space please contact the museum.
Wedding Catering and Lodging
What are the catering options?
The museum has a preferred list of caterers, though you can use one not on the list for an additional fee of $2,000.
What are the included decor options and restrictions?
The museum does not allow flower petals, sparklers, balloons, confetti, or rice. It also does not allow the cutting, trimming, or arranging of florals on the grounds, and no soil, moss, or bark.
What are the lodging (on-site or nearby) options?
There is no lodging at the museum, but the Marriott University Park and University Guest House are both nearby. There are also multiple lodging options in downtown Salt Lake City which is minutes away.
Is there an in-house wedding planner or day-of coordinator?
The museum will provide an event coordinator as well as IT staff.
What are some nearby attractions?
The Natural History Museum is an attraction in and of itself, but it is also close to Red Butte Garden, Hogle Zoo, This is the Place Historic Heritage Park, and the University of Utah. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail runs directly in front of the museum for a lovely hike.
Natural History Museum of Utah Contact Info
Wedding Contact
For more information, please contact Calista or Tom at 801-585-9583.
Physical Address
Natural History Museum of Utah
301 Wakara Way
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84108
Natural History Museum of Utah
Why you should get married at the Natural History Museum of Utah
Couples looking for an unforgettable wedding experience should consider the Natural History Museum of Utah. This breathtaking venue offers multiple outdoor and indoor ceremony sites, galleries for intimate receptions, incredible views, and access to amazing exhibits. Their professional event coordinators are dedicated to helping you create the perfect wedding experience. With its one-of-a-kind setting, the Natural History Museum is sure to provide an unforgettable wedding with lasting memories for years to come!
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*Updated in April 2023 to reflect current wedding information. Please always confirm pricing and details with the venue, as items are subject to change
