Hotel ballrooms and conference centers have their place. They're dependable, spacious, and stocked with the essentials—but sometimes, your event needs something *more*. If you're looking to break free from beige walls and fluorescent lights, it might be time to color outside the lines.
From thrilling amusement parks and blooming gardens to art museums and race tracks, these 10 unconventional Minnesota venues will help you plan an event that’s anything but ordinary.
Come Along for the Ride
Mall of America | Nickelodeon Universe | Bloomington
Let your inner child run wild—and bring your team along for the ride. Host a corporate party, team-building day, or celebration at Nickelodeon Universe inside the iconic Mall of America. Guests will enjoy more than 25 rides, the dazzling Universe of Light show, themed parties, and a full lineup of dining and shopping options. Yes, business can be this fun.
Watch Your Team Blossom
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | Chaska
Trade screen time for green time. At the **Minnesota Landscape Arboretum**, your group can breathe deep and dig into nature across 1,200 acres of gardens, woodlands, and trails. Choose from indoor or outdoor spaces, including classrooms, auditoriums, or intimate garden venues. Add on team-building activities like the Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt or a guided tram tour for a refreshingly grounded experience.
Museum Piece
Walker Art Center | Minneapolis & Landmark Center | St. Paul
Pair culture with cocktails at two of Minnesota’s most iconic art institutions.
At the Walker Art Center, you can dine in gallery spaces, take in skyline views on the rooftop, or host a playful round of mini golf among the sculptures.
The Landmark Center offers classic elegance with grand halls and galleries ideal for formal affairs or themed events.
Off to the Races
Canterbury Park | Shakopee
Looking for a high-energy venue? Canterbury Park delivers with unique spaces like the Triple Crown Club, Balcony Suites, and Track Level rentals. With live racing, table games, and outstanding catering options, your event is bound to be a winner.
A Good Sport
CHS Field | St. Paul & National Sports Center | Blaine
Minnesota’s sports facilities offer more than just games—they offer unforgettable group experiences.
At CHS Field, home of the St. Paul Saints, your team can hit the batting cages, play a game on the field, or just cheer from the stands.
The National Sports Center in Blaine is a 600-acre campus with soccer fields, ice rinks, a velodrome, golf, and meeting space.
Slide Into Something Different
The Loppet Foundation & Trailhead | Minneapolis
This venue is a dream for winter lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Theodore Wirth Park, the Trailhead is a hub for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and hiking. Host a snowy winter team-building day or a sunny summer picnic with miles of trails and a modern lodge-style event space.
Tap Into Local Flavor
Surly Brewing Co. | Minneapolis
Craft beer and cool industrial vibes? Yes, please. Surly Brewing offers several event spaces including the Surly Hall and Scheid Hall, plus a massive beer garden. It's the ideal venue for casual networking events, launch parties, or laid-back celebrations with serious style—and seriously good beer.
Make It a Retreat
Camp Fire Minnesota | Excelsior
Disconnect to reconnect at Camp Fire Minnesota, nestled on 103 acres along the shores of Lake Minnewashta. With a modern eco-lodge, team-building activities like canoeing and archery, and serene natural surroundings, it's an ideal retreat space for groups seeking clarity, creativity, and collaboration.
Make It Memorable
Whether you're planning a client appreciation event, leadership retreat, employee celebration, or community gathering, these unique Minnesota venues offer the kind of charm, excitement, and experience you just won’t find in a standard ballroom.
Need help connecting with one of these unconventional venues?
Visit meetingpages.com to explore, compare, and book the perfect Unique Minnesota Venue that will wow your guests.