Business Rentals - Kalamazoo Nature Center

Corporate & Non-profit Rentals

Whether you are looking to get away for an hour or all day, your corporate team will appreciate a visit to the Kalamazoo Nature Center. You’ll enjoy meeting rooms with beautiful views of Cooper’s Glen, an old growth Beech-Maple forest. You can choose from five different rooms or plan an outdoor event in a variety of settings. All of this is just a ten minute drive from downtown Kalamazoo! KNC also has options throughout the area, including Heronwood Field Station in Alamo and the Carver House at the new Stryker Nature Preserve on Angling Road.

Contact the Events Manager at or call (269) 381-1574 ext. 37 to arrange a tour.

Contact Us

Events Manager
(269) 381-1574 ext. 37

More Rental Options:

Outdoor Venues >

Rental Packages >

Corporate & Non-Profit Rentals >

Create a Green Event >

Indoor Venues

KNC’s indoor venue options range from intimate spaces featuring amazing, floor to ceiling views of Cooper’s Glen to large, multi-use rooms perfect for a luncheon or reception.

Indoor Venues >

Outdoor Venues

Whether you choose to hold your event among the trees of the Beech Maple forest, or in an open-air amphitheater nestled on a grassy hillside, KNC has an outdoor space that will fit your needs.

Outdoor Venues >

Carver House

Located at the Stryker Nature Preserve, 2343 Angling Road, the Carver house features include a wall of windows facing the west branch of the Portage Creek on 22 acres of woodland.

Carver House >

Heronwood Field Station

Heronwood Field Station, located at 6378 Hart Drive in Kalamazoo, features an elegant log building with a pond view and 60 acres of woodland and fields beyond.

Heronwood Field Station >

FAQ: Rentals at KNC

Can we rent the facility before or after hours?

Regular KNC hours are as follows:

Visitor Center; Monday-Saturday, 9 am – 5 pm, Sunday 1-5 pm

The facilities are available after hours. An after hours charge of $125 per hour will be required for rentals, in addition to the rental rate, after 5 p.m. and before opening in the morning. Facilities are available for evening events until 10 p.m. Package rates include the after-hours charge.

Do our guests pay an admission fee to attend our event?

No, guests are admitted free. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the trails and exhibits of the Nature Center. Refreshments and/or beverages must remain in the event area.

May we use a caterer?

Yes, you are welcome to have any licensed, insured caterer service your event. We do not require any approval, although we love it when the caterer is interested in providing a “green” event by learning about the composting and recycling options here at the Nature Center. Self- catered food/beverage requires KNC permission and proof of insurance.

Is alchohol allowed?

Yes, beer and wine only. You need KNC permission, proof of Liability and Host Liquor Liability Insurance Policy, minimum of $1,000,000, with KNC named as additional insured and professional bartender. See KNC Alcohol Policy for details. We ask that only responsible amounts be served.

Can we set up before our rental begins?

Set-up and clean-up/take-down are to be completed within the timeframe of the decided rental times and hours of the contract. If you exceed your time, a rate of $125 per hour will be charged, (plus after-hours fee if applicable).

Can we decorate?

Yes, temporary decorations are allowed, within area rented, as long as you use fish line, rope, or other method to hang items. No nails, staples, or tape can be used. No ladders, step stools, etc., may be used. KNC stewards are available to assist for a fee.

Where do we get tables and chairs?

Tables and chairs are included inside Visitor Center spaces and Barn Upper Level. For outdoor spaces you may contract with a rental company to supply them.

Who sets up tables and chairs?

Set-up for Visitor Center spaces and Barn Upper Level is provided. For other spaces, you do the set-up, or your rental company does.

Can we have music?

Yes, however KNC staff has the right to control the volume of music.

Do you have media equipment?

You need to provide your own media equipment.

Is smoking allowed?

No smoking is allowed in buildings, or on the grounds.

Can we have candles?

No open flame is allowed in any buildings or structures. Grills and other open flame catering must be stationed at least 25 feet away from any building or structure.

Can we have rose petals or other special effects?

Birdseed, real flower petals, and bubbles are allowed outside. Flower petals need to be swept up afterwards. No balloons, glitter or live animals, (including but not limited to: butterflies, doves, and dogs) allowed.

Can we have tents?

Yes, most locations may have a tent(s). Tents requiring staking are not allowed inside the Hummingbird-Butterfly Garden. You must notify KNC staff of your plans.

When can we hold rehearsal?

Wedding rehearsals and planning visits are permitted prior to the event date during regular business hours. All rehearsals and planning visits must be scheduled with the Facilities Rental Coordinator at least three weeks prior to the event.

Are there changing spaces available?

Yes, you may make arrangements to use one space. Specific room assignments are not guaranteed. KNC is not responsible for personal belongings lost, damaged and or stolen.

What about mosquitos, bees, and other pests?

As a nature preserve we never spray pesticides in a general area to control or limit mosquitoes or other insects. Use of pesticide sprays is not allowed. Insects are beneficial and control measures are used only when absolutely necessary.

How do I make sure my guests will be comfortable?

For self-protection, remember to bring personal use insect repellent, sunscreen, water and any other supplies you need for yourself and your guests. The Visitor Center and Barn Upper Level is fully accessible and equipped with restrooms. There is a running water restroom near the Garden in the play-area.

Will the lawn be mowed?

KNC makes every effort to ensure a beautiful natural setting for your event, weather, animals, and unforeseen events permitting.

What happens if it rains?

You need to plan ahead for a back-up space. No refunds are given on account of the weather.

Want to learn more?

We look forward to working with you to create an amazing event! Contact the Events Manager to learn more.