Zoo Rental Venues

Nature Exploration Center

Opened in 2012, Sunset Zoo's Nature Exploration Center (aka NE.C) provides a unique, indoor space provides a state-of-the-art facility perfect for all of your celebrations. The NE.C. is located at Sunset Zoo's entryway and provides exclusive views of the animal collection and surrounding Flint Hills landscape. The facility offers over 4,000 square feet of indoor event space for up to 298 guests depending on your event's layout. The ultimate in flexibility, renters can choose among a variety of room and furniture arrangements that support anything from daytime staff retreats to evening cocktail receptions.

Wrapped in natural Flint Hills limestone and featuring a stunning terrazzo floor, the Nature Exploration Center will ensure your celebration is memorable. The adjacent outdoor plaza is also available to rent and included in some rental packages. Amenities also include guest restrooms, HD projectors and sound system with microphones in all rooms, and a catering kitchen.

Contact Us

  1. Sunset Zoo

    Contact Sunset Zoo

    Physical Address
    2333 Oak Street
    Manhattan, KS 66502

    Phone: 785-587-2737

    Directory

  1. 1 Nature Exploration Center
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The Nature Exploration Center offers the following spaces for rent. Due to the facility's movable walls, multiple spaces can be configured to best support your event needs.

  • One Multipurpose Room: up to 36 to 49 people
  • Both Multipurpose Rooms: up to 72 to 98 people
  • Open Rotunda: up to 100 to 170 people
  • Entire Facility: up to 250 to 298 people
  • Outdoor Plaza: up to 100 to 182 people

Outdoor Venues

Historic Limestone Pavilion: Up to 120 People

  1. 1 Historic Limestone Pavilion
  2. 2 Historic Limestone Pavilion 2

This open-air, covered pavilion was built by the Sertoma Club and features native limestone architecture. It is adjacent to the Zoo's playground, making it an ideal rental space for events with kids! It also features eight picnic tables, built-in counters in all four corners great for buffets/gift tables/etc. and is near four family restrooms. It's prime location in the heart of the Zoo makes it an ideal facility for family picnics, employee appreciation nights, birthday parties, and more!

Expedition Asia Overlook Pavilion: 88 to 150 People

Expedition Asia Overlook Pavilion

This open-air, covered and heated pavilion is set above the exhibits of Expedition Asia. It's a prime location in the heart of the Zoo and makes it an ideal facility for weddings, socials, employee appreciation nights, and so much more! Amenities also include proximity to four family restrooms, access to incredible views of the Tigers, Leopards and Sloth Bears, and options to add tables, chairs, a bar and cocktail tables.

Chautauqua Amphitheater: Up to 240 people

Chautauqua Amphitheater

This outdoor amphitheater provides a beautiful, natural setting and features large, rustic limestone benches. A set of metal bleachers towards the back of the amphitheater provides additional setting. The amphitheater is located in the heart of the Zoo and is oriented to provide guests the perfect sunset views. The space includes a large stage and we can supply an outdoor, wireless speaker complete with microphones for your event. This location is a favorite for outdoor wedding ceremonies!

Exclusive Zoo Rentals

Treat your guests to an exclusive visit to the Zoo's animal collection after the gates close. Rentals available year-round, weather dependent. Use of several Zoo rental facilities included in package, can accommodate up to 300 guests.