Arboretum RentalsReceptions, Meetings, and Events

Melva Lind Interpretive Center

Capacity: 55 seated at tables, 75 with theater-style seating, tables removed.

Ammenities: Two single-use restrooms, kitchenette, and fireplace.

The Interpretive Center features 20-foot high ceilings with exposed beams. Its wood paneled walls add charm to this warm, intimate setting. Patio doors provide an airy atmosphere on spring and summer days and a yellow-tiled wood-burning fireplace lend ambiance during the cooler Minnesota months. Enjoy the birds and flowers just outside the windows and the formal gardens that circle the building. 

 

Arboretum Grounds

The Arboretum grounds are beautiful year-round. Choose your own unique backdrop for your special day - whether it is beautifully-manicured lawns and gardens, bright spring blooms, or colorful fall foliage. Your guests will love the diverse features of the Arboretum – ponds, prairies, woodlands, vintage cabin, labyrinth, formal gardens, orchard, and more. Reservations come with the use of the Interpretive Center for facilities access.

 

Rental Fees

Please fill out this form to submit a reservation request and for more information on our rentals
(Click here for weddings)
Event Type Duration Fee (Due at the time of booking)

Receptions and Meetings

Part Day
8am - 2pm OR
3pm - 9pm

$200
 

Business Day
8am - 5pm

$300
 

Full Day
8am - 9pm

$400
* 10% discount for Gustavus employees, Alumnus, and Friends of the Arboretum

Additional Information

Indoor amenities:

Pull-down screen, LCD projector with sound and video/DVD player hook-up. Guests have access to the campus wireless internet. The space is equipped with tables and chairs that can be arranged to suit your needs. The ordinary arrangement is nine tables with six chairs each. The room accommodates up to 75 people in a theatre-style seating arrangement. There are single-person mens and womens restrooms as well as a small kitchenette with sink and refrigerator.

Outdoor events:

The Arboretum does not provide chairs, tables, tents, etc. for outdoor events. Please contact a rental company for availability. A small grounds fee will apply for tents.

Food and Catering:

Catering is allowed at the discretion of Gustavus Dining Service. Dining Service can provide an array of catering services ranging from snacks, to bag lunches to elegantly served dinners or receptions. The building is equipped with a small kitchenette. For more information, contact Margi Willmert with Gustavus Catering at (507) 933-6245 or mwillmer@gustavus.edu.

Parking:

Parking for the Melva Lind Interpretive Center is conveniently located near the main entrance in lots M and N. An easy walk to the building, the sidewalk passes under a wooden arbor to a plaza adjacent to the Johnson Waterfall and outdoor shelter. The Center has no steps, making it accessible to everyone.