Weddings

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.

Father walks bride to first dance at the mammoth, in front of seated guests

Photo by Jimmy Ho Photography

Wedding ceremony on the Rianforest bridge as seen from afar.

photo by Cathy Bester

groom dipping bride on walkway with bamboo in background

Photo by Jimmy Ho Photography

Reception Spaces

Choose one or both of our galleries to hold your event:

Denny Gallery – starts at $2100 (seats up to 160 with dance area)
Thompson Gallery – starts at $1500 (accommodates 50-60 seated or up to 160 standing for cocktail hour)
Or rent both starting at $3000!

Add-ons:

Laura & Damon Rainforest wedding, June 2016 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 the Rainforest, the Discovery Zone, and the current featured special exhibit.

Butterfly Rainforest exhibit – $500 for the first hour
(accommodates 80 guests for a ceremony or up to 160 for exploring)
Discovery Zone exhibit – $250
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

Full pricing information.

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.

Bridal party at the buffet (bride and groom served by catering staff).

photo by Cathy Bester

guest self-serving form the buffet in Galleria; mastodon in background

fruit, pinwheel treats, and wine served by Celebrations Catering

Photo by Jimmy Ho Photography

Buffet set up in front of Discover Zone, blue and white color scheme.

View of Thompson Gallery through a tall rack of cupcakes.

Photo by Cathy Bester

Multiple cakes set up on table with guests in background

Photo by Hundreds of Moments

carving station set up in front of display in Galleria

Photo by Jimmy Ho Photography

Thompson Gallery desk used as a bar; "BAR" plaquard, glassses and purple tea lights.

Photo by Cathy Bester

Closeup of fruit and cheese board with pineapple, apples, grapes, crackers, and hunks of cheeses.

Accessibility & Staff

The Florida 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 parking to a lactation room to ADA 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.

Recommendations

WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2019 text and five golden stars — WeddingWire

As Seen on The Knot, white text in a light blue circle — The Knot

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.