Gather in the warm, welcoming lodge of the Medtronic Minnesota Trail. Log siding, a grand stone fireplace, and beautiful artifacts showcase Minnesota’s rich heritage with the outdoors. This setting is one smaller groups are sure to love.  May-August include the Medtronic Minnesota Trail to enjoy the native animals of Minnesota such as lynx, puma, and gray wolves.

Included in the room rental:

  • Dining tables & chairs
  • Coat racks and hangers
  • Setup, teardown and clean-up of the event
  • An event manager on-site for your entire event
  • Zoo security
  • Garbage and electricity
  • Parking

Included with the catering surcharge:

  • Standard table linens and skirting
  • Linen napkins-choose from over 12 colors
  • China, flatware, and stemware
  • Two votive candles per table

General Information & Helpful Hints

  • All food and beverage service is provided by the Minnesota Zoo’s exclusive caterer, Lancer Catering.
  • Lancer Catering has a well known reputation for outstanding cuisine and superb service.
  • Food or beverage may not be brought on-site or taken off-site.
  • Food and beverage may be consumed on the animal exhibit walkways; however, for the safety of the animals, no glass containers, straws, or stir sticks can be carried on the trails.
  • Additional fees may apply for set up and tear down of rental equipment.
  • Certain events may require the hiring of a police officer at client’s expense.
  • No feeding of Minnesota Zoo animals.
  • Discard trash in proper containers.
  • The Minnesota Zoo is a smoke-free facility.
  • Beverages containing alcohol are not served after 11:30 pm. All legal restrictions apply.

Reservation Procedures
Rental requests should be made at least one month in advance of your event. A non-refundable deposit of one-half your rental fee is required within ten calendar days of the confirmation of your event. We reserve the right to open your date if deposit is not received within this time. The balance is due ten days before your event date. Please make your check or money order payable to the Minnesota Zoo.

Maximum Capacity:

Cocktail reception – 100
Seated & served – 80
Buffet style – 80

Facility Rental Fee:

Friday & Saturday: $1,100
Sunday-Thursday: $800
Add the animal exhibits of the Minnesota trail to your event for $500.00 May- August only

Food & Beverage Minimums:

Friday & Saturday: $3,000
Sunday-Thursday: $2,300

Rental Hours:

October–April: 6 p.m.– Midnight
May–September: 6:30 p.m.–Midnight
Trail closes at 8 p.m.; subject to change