After my event, can I leave my car in the interpretive center parking lot overnight?
No. We recommend parking on either side of Franklin Avenue, which permits overnight parking on both sides of the street.
Can I drop off items at the interpretive center the day before my event?
This isn’t something we can guarantee in advance. However, as we get closer to the event, we may be able to consider overnight storage for a very limited amount of supplies.
Can I leave items at the interpretive center after my event ends and pick them up the next day?
No. We do not allow items to be left at the interpretive center after an event. Please make arrangements with your vendors to have all items picked up by your rental end time.
How do I reserve a space at the interpretive center?
To check availability of a rental space at Westwood Hills Nature Center's interpretive center, contact Heidi Batistich at 952.928.1415 or hbatistich@stlouisparkmn.gov.
The city staff on duty oversee the interpretive center space, including making sure all the items promised are in place. Staff will open the doors and ensure the space is clean. When you arrive, staff will show you the lights, sound system and projector if requested. If for any reason we have building specific issues, like plumbing or electrical, staff will be available to assist.
The event will be run by you or your event coordinator, which includes guest check in, registration, presentation, ceremony, celebratory toasts and/or speeches, décor, vendor coordination, etc.
Is alcohol allowed at the interpretive center?
Based on city ordinance, the Westwood Hills Nature Center must obtain a Minnesota alcohol caterer's permit and a copy of insurance for liquor liability listing "covers all catered events" to permit alcohol. The city will need these at least one month before the event. Once you have secured your vendor, you or your vendor can send the current documents for final approval to hbatistich@stlouisparkmn.gov.
Alcohol is permitted after the interpretive center is closed, 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday and 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Alcohol is allowed in the exhibit space, multipurpose room and adjoining patios only. Please keep in mind that the facility does not have ice on hand. The facility does have a mobile bar and mobile cooler that can be rented.
While there are no preferred vendors, you can email hbatistich@stlouisparkmn.gov to get a list of vendors that have been used at Westwood Hills Nature Center before.
