The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Located in Bradenton, FL, The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is a breathtaking wedding venue, meeting space and party location. A number of exclusive spaces set the scene for an unforgettable experience. Guests will be WOW'D by the astonishing spaces The Museum has to offer.

Established in 1947, this inspiring venue is a Museum of natural science and Florida history. Housed on the Gulf Coast, it displays a range of intriguing items unique to the area. This includes fossils, prehistoric artifacts, and so much more. With a number of different venue spaces The Museum offers a glimpse of true Florida beauty.

Our Spanish Courtyard space allows guests to be transported to Spain in the 1900's. This intimate setting is ideal for celebrations big and small. Add a little ambience to your event with our ever present café lighting lending to a romantic and elegant night filled with love. Columns and a lighted fountain add a touch of class and sophistication. There is space to host up to 225 guests in an extravagant affair. One unique feature of The Spanish Courtyard is that The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat houses majestic manatees who with the help of our Animal Care Team , get released back into the ocean once they are healed and may be present for your special event. The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat glass walls allow it to be viewable from The Jeanie Kirkpatrick Boardroom, designed for smaller gatherings (up to 60 guests seated) and can serve as a getting ready suite, conveniently located off The Spanish Courtyard.

Soon-to-be-weds can put a unique out of this world spin as The Planetarium Lobby sets the scene for upscale cocktail hours. An open floor plan gives guests plenty of space to wander around and socialize. The Planetarium itself is a great venue for proposals, ceremonies or a display a pre-programed show or personal slideshow for guests during cocktail hour. The happy couple can impress loved ones with the wonders of the night sky.

Need a larger space for a bigger event? The Riverside Plaza sits adjacent to the Manatee River and offers a large, paved, area for your ceremony, reception, and even a band and dancefloor and can house up to 400 guests. This sexy, modern space is for the couples who love to add a special design touch to their day. Adjacent to this space, The West Garden is great for mingling during cocktail hour, with lush grass and greenery spaces. With designated areas designed to house food or bar trucks leave your guests' bellies full and create a memorable experience. Capability to add bistro lighting has been installed to enhance the night sky with some extra twinkle. Additional indoor space allows guest access to our private powder rooms and allows a great cool-off zone for guests.

Be sure to check out the gallery for an exclusive 360° Virtual Tour!