The Florida Museum is Gainesville’s most unique and distinctive venue to host your wedding. Choose one or both of our awe-inspiring galleries for your reception, and add an unforgettable experience to your event—an intimate Butterfly Rainforest ceremony!
Let us help you put together a custom wedding package that will suit your special event, from a simple and elegant cocktail reception, to a full sit-down dinning evening with dancing and special exhibits access.
Reception Spaces
Choose one or both of our galleries to hold your event:
- Denny Gallery – $2100 (seats up to 160 with dance area)
- Thompson Gallery – $1500 (accommodates 50-60 seated or up to 160 standing for cocktail hour)
- Or rent both for $3000! (Pricing does not include staffing and insurance costs.)
Add-ons:
Upgrade your special event by holding your wedding ceremony in the Butterfly Rainforest, then seamlessly continue your evening with a reception in our galleries! The Rainforest can accommodate wedding ceremonies with up to about 80 attendees (recommended during Daylight Saving Time only). All of our permanent exhibits are included for your guests to explore during your event, but you can also reserve either the Rainforest or the current featured special exhibit.
- Butterfly Rainforest – $500 for the first hour, for up to 160 guests to explore (or ~80 guests for a ceremony)
- Featured Exhibit – price varies
- Mammoth Lighting – $30
- Mammoth + Mastodon Lighting – $50
- 60″ round tables (seat up to 10) – $10/each
- Chairs, 36″ pub tables and 6′ & 8′ banquet tables – included
- LCD projector, screen and speakers – included
Catering, Alcohol & Other Vendors
We have a select list of approved caterers that serve the Museum. All of our caterers are insured and are also permitted to serve alcohol.
We also have a list of recommended photographers, DJs, florists, and other vendors that have experience working in the unique spaces of our galleries and exhibits.
Find out more about our approved caterers and and preferred vendors.
Accessibility & Staff
The Museum is a lovely venue for an event, and also a comfortable facility for your guests. Our climate-controlled building already serves individuals with a variety of needs, from simple parking to handicap accessibility. We have staff onsite for the duration of your event, and there is ample space for catering and other vendors to set up and serve your party with ease and efficiency.
Reservations, Deposits & Insurance
Wedding dates book fast here at the Florida Museum! Please contact us for a quote and to hold your desired date. When your quote is sent, your date is held up to two weeks without a commitment. Once your rental agreement is signed and your deposit paid, your date is fully reserved. Event insurance is required, and is included in your quote.
Recommendations
|
Inspiration
We’ve hosted many events with many creative themes, and we want to work with you to make your reception or party unique to you. If you have any questions or special requests, please feel free to discuss them with our experienced event staff.
Past Events & Blog
Pantone’s 2020 Color of the Year
Pantone has announced its 2020 Color of the Year… Classic Blue! Instilling calm, confidence, and connection, Pantone says this enduring…
Florida Museum maternity photo shoot
This Florida Museum maternity photo shoot by Water Bear Photography really took the term “Mother Nature” to heart! While the…
This Podcast Will Kill You live show
In October 2019, Dr. Nick Keiser from the UF Department of Biology rented the Florida Museum for a lecture by…
Planning Inclusive Events
Public venues such as the Florida Museum are required to meet ADA standards, but inclusiveness is more than just adhering…
Courtney and Michael’s May 2019 wedding
Courtney and Michael were college sweethearts who decided to gather their loved ones together on the University of Florida campus…
Beth and Derrick’s March 2019 Wedding
Beth and Derrick were a very fun couple! These two held their wedding ceremony at the UF Baughman Center and…
More on the Trends + Ideas blog…
Rental information and pricing
Request a Quote
Questions? Email rentals@flmnh.ufl.edu (preferred) or call 352-273-2045.
Revenue from private rentals helps sustain Museum programming and exhibits. Thank you for your support!