Looking to plan a family gathering or children’s party without traveling far from home? You’re likely thinking of different ways you can make a special day into a truly memorable occasion. But if you don’t know where to look, finding that perfect place for a party that’s not only fun but easy to reach can feel like a real challenge.

Fortunately, the area in and around Maple Grove boasts an array of settings ideal for your plans. Crème de la Crème of Maple Grove put together this list to get you started. Whether you’re looking for unusual spots for a party (think: a zoo or aquarium) or you want a place where you can reserve rooms and outdoor spaces, this list has you covered.

The City of Maple Grove’s Community Center

“round Happy Birthday cake with lighted candles” used with permission via Unsplash by therealnick

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to host the perfect party when you check out the Community Center right here in Maple Grove. The Community Center offers room rentals in a variety of spaces to meet your needs, including the banquet room, senior center, and various meeting rooms. If you’re planning a formal party, you’ll want to check out the banquet room, which can accommodate catering services for up to 250 people. You’ll also find various smaller rooms perfect for gatherings as a group.

With Wi-Fi access available, the Community Center makes planning an event that meets your family’s needs easier than ever before. Of course, Wi-Fi isn’t the only perk you’ll enjoy when you meet for a party here. The premier banquet room delivers a warm and attractive interior complete with quality sound and audiovisual equipment, not to mention a dance floor for tons of fun! The landscaped flower garden and patio are great for events in warmer weather, so put this space on your list if you’re planning a party for a wedding, graduation, anniversary, picnic gathering, and beyond.

If you’re searching for a smaller space, the meeting rooms here can accommodate 15 to 40 people. Configure the room for a theater or party set up, including extra tables for food, beverages, and gifts. You can bring your own food or schedule snacks from the Community Center when you book your room.

When available, you can also book birthday party packages with the Community Center. Kids can choose from playtime in the Grove Cove Aquatic Center pools, the Maple MAZE indoor playground, or go ice skating. You can even go for a themed party package, including the Princess Party Package, Superhero Party Package, Paw Patrol Party Package, and Unicorn Party Package.

The City of Maple Grove’s Town Green

Maple Grove’s Town Green is an ideal outdoor spot for a celebration. The urban park is situated between the Maple Grove Government Center and the Maple Grove Library for an easy-to-access and incredibly fun venue. You can rent five different areas here, so it’s no wonder the Town Green is popular with Maple Grove locals for everything from meetings and concerts to weddings, family celebrations, and other parties.

Structures available to rent include the bandshell, complete with a 105-foot wide white concrete canopy that covers the stage. You can also rent a lawn with a small stage, or go for a small meeting room, the park plaza, or a peninsula with a pergola.

SEA LIFE at Mall of America

If your kiddos are into sea creatures, you’ll want to at SEA LIFE at Mall of America’s birthday party packages to your list of unique party ideas. When birthday parties are available here, you can treat your kid to a special day beyond their wildest imagination. An underwater adventure gets kids up close and personal with intriguing animals like seahorses, sharks, stingrays, and so much more.

Birthday party packages take a celebration to the next level thanks to souvenir photos, birthday gifts, and party supplies. If you go for a premium party, guests will even get a behind-the-scenes tour and special activity with a SEA LIFE host.

Even if you don’t book a party package, you can still make the quick trip to this aquarium in Bloomington to celebrate your child’s big day. The interactive zones and exhibits are sure to delight the whole family. Check out the underwater tunnel, stretching 300 feet, to see sharks, sea turtles, and more. Journey through the rainforest, step onto a tropical beach, and touch sea stars and sea anemones. A birthday outing here is sure to become a memory that lasts a lifetime.

The Minnesota Zoo

Located close to Maple Grove in Apple Valley, the Minnesota Zoo offers another unique venue to consider when it’s time for a group celebration. The Minnesota Zoo offers group visits, making it easy to plan a children’s party in a fun and interactive setting. You can make group reservations for up to 25 people during the Zoo’s regular daytime hours, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Just make sure you have an adult chaperone so you can break into smaller groups to explore, and book your day of fun online in advance.

So, what can you expect to see when you pay a visit to this local zoo? A range of animals from across the globe will transform your kid’s special day into a memorable adventure. From penguins to prairie dogs, tigers to tapirs, and so much more, children will delight in a celebration that introduces them to some amazing new friends from the animal world. See wild dogs and snakes, seals and porcupines, all while spending time with loved ones and enjoying a celebration. If you’re searching for a special place to get together with a group, the Minnesota Zoo has what it takes.There you have it! Crème de la Crème of Maple Grove just gave you some great venues to check out in the area the next time you’re planning a party or family gathering. Do you have a party spot your kids love that we didn’t include? If you have another local space we missed, drop us a line so we can add your recommendation.