University of Iowa Museum of Natural History

About University of Iowa Museum of Natural History

Located in Macbride Hall on the University of Iowa campus, the museum offers wedding ceremonies in Iowa Hall, Bird Hall, or Mammal Hall. Full ceremonies accommodate 25–50 guests, depending on the gallery, with rehearsal access and staff support as well as event-day access for a first look, ceremony, and photographs. Receptions can be held in any of the three galleries for up to 75 guests, with standing cocktail-style arrangements and limited seated dining by request. Couples booking both a ceremony and reception receive reduced reception pricing. Ceremony support includes planning with the Events & Operations Coordinator, onsite staff, private use of the selected gallery, a designated wedding-party area, access to all galleries before and after the ceremony, photography access to the galleries and grounds, and museum equipment. Reception provisions include staff support, a gallery for food, bar, and desserts, folding tables, cocktail rounds, banquet chairs, a dance area, and storage for up to one week. Catering is arranged separately through University Catering, the museum’s approved food and alcohol vendor. Couples arrange their own music or DJ, decorations, and any audio equipment. Rental fees vary by service level and time of day; request a quote from the Events Manager.

The facts

Guests

25–75 guests

Pricing note

Rental fees vary by service level and event time; quotes are provided by the Events Manager. Ceremony and reception booked together receive reduced reception pricing. Catering is separate.

Setting

Indoor

Kind of place

Museum

Last updated

November 2026

On the big wedding guides

• Not listed on WeddingWire (checked November 2026)
• Not listed on Zola (checked November 2026)

How to reach University of Iowa Museum of Natural History

• Website: mnh.uiowa.edu
• Phone: (319) 335-0480
• Address: 17 N. Clinton Street

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