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Weddings

Attributes highlighted by couples

Event coordination
Quality catering
Guests comfort
Amenities

About

Stop by and visit the State Historical Museum of Iowa located in the Historic East Village Neighborhood in Des Moines!

Our museum offers a variety of event spaces to accommodate a group size from 10–400. Our sky-lit atrium is perfect for a wedding ceremony or reception.

Café Baratta’s is open Monday through Saturday for lunch from 11am–2pm, but can hold private dinners or receptions up to 50 guests on evenings and weekends. Our Café Terrace is connected to Café Baratta’s on the third floor of the museum and offers a beautiful view of the State Capitol and downtown Des Moines. The Café Terrace is available for wedding ceremonies and receptions!

Lastly, the State Historical Building’s Grand Terrace, which has street level access from Grand Avenue, can accommodate up to 500 seated for a corporate dinner or reception.

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Frequently asked questions

Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?

Yes

Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?

Yes

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Chairs
Parking
Tables

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

10

Describe your venue:

Museum

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception

What event services do you offer?

Event Planner
Wifi

What transportation and access is available?

Parking

What months are included in your peak season?

April
May
June
July
August
September
October

What months are included in your off-peak season?

January
February
March
November
December
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Any other questions?

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Reviews of State Historical Museum of Iowa

4.6 out of 5 rating
4.6 out of 5 rating
17 Reviews
93% recommend it
  • Quality of service
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Average response time
    4.6 out of 5 rating
  • Professionalism
    4.7 out of 5 rating
  • Value
    4.6 out of 5 rating
  • Flexibility
    4.4 out of 5 rating
Matthew
Matthew S. Sent on 06/18/2019
5 out of 5 rating

A unique venue with outstanding customer service.

As a person who works in the event coordination industry, I cannot understate how impressed I was with the customer service and professionalism of the staff that assisted with our wedding. Leading up to the big day they answered all of our questions and gave recommendations, that really put our mind at ease. Even though we had planned for an outdoor wedding on the patio overlooking the city, Mother Nature had other plans. The staff gave us until noon the day of to decide, and made the switch for the ceremony / reception to take place inside on the main level seamlessly. Baratta’s catered an outstanding meal with enough options for everyone to enjoy. During the reception they made sure the wedding table and guests were taken care of though the whole thing. Finally at the end of the night they took care of cleaning up without us having to lift a finger. I would highly recommend this site to anyone looking for a unique venue with amazing staff included.
User2392128 Sent on 10/26/2015
5 out of 5 rating
We had our wedding reception here and it was wonderful. The staff went above and beyond our expectations. We worked with Vania and she was awesome in helping us get our reception planned and set up. I would highly recommend using them!
M
Megan Sent on 10/30/2014
5 out of 5 rating
We had our wedding ceremony and reception at the State Historical Building. The staff--particularly Peri and Vania--were very in tune with how we wanted our event to look and feel. Their flexibility and professionalism were huge during a time that can be very stressful for a bride and groom. In many cases, we asked for their candid opinions on what to do or how to set something up, and they always provided great options to make the whole event catered to our guests. I would highly recommend the State Historical Building for a wedding, and any other event that is in need of a 'wow' factor. Thank you for making our day so memorable!
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Awards

17
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2015 Winner

Real Weddings

Scott & Madison
24 photos · 10/06/2018

Professional Network & Endorsements

3 Endorsements
Music Man Productions Music Man Productions Wedding DJs

The State Historical Building is one of my favorite venues in the Des Moines area. What a unique atmosphere for a wedding or other event! I've found the staff here very easy to work with, professional and organized. And as a DJ, it's always nice to be in a venue with such a great atmosphere. After all, where else could I work next to a mammoth?

Absolute Music DJ Service Absolute Music DJ Service Wedding DJs

A really cool place to hold your reception and ceremony, if you like. Weather permitting you can be outdoors. Recently remodeled on the main floor.

BCP Weddings BCP Weddings Wedding DJs

Beautiful venue and great staff!

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