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Modern Minneapolis wedding venue exterior with a wedding couple standing outside it

A Modern Minneapolis Wedding Venue

Gorgeous rooms for large and small wedding receptions

Looking for a unique wedding reception location? The architecturally-stunning McNamara Alumni Center is one of the most gorgeous Minneapolis wedding reception venues with numerous conveniences and amenities to offer both large and small wedding celebrations.

All-Inclusive Packages for Small and Large Wedding Receptions

The center has 2 unique zones for large and small wedding celebrations bundled in all-inclusive packages. They are in separate areas of the first floor and both accommodate ceremonies. We also offer a micro wedding package!

Large Wedding Package

Up to 400 Guests

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Small Wedding Package

Up to 120 Guests

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Micro Wedding Package

Up to 50 Guests

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Benefits to Choosing Us

Twin Cities Most Awarded Caterer Onsite—D’Amico Hospitality

D’Amico Hospitality is the exclusive caterer of the McNamara Alumni Center and must provide all the food and beverage service for weddings. They are the Twin Cities’ most awarded caterer and have an onsite kitchen facility with full-time sales and kitchen staff. They have extensive experience preparing delicious menus that meet dietary and cultural requests.  And they make delicious cakes, too!

Easy Access from Interstates 35W and 94

McNamara is very easy to get to! We’re just 9 blocks down University Avenue from Interstate 35W and a short drive off of Interstate 94.

Adjacent 500-car Parking Ramp

McNamara Alumni Center is conveniently located by several nearby parking facilities, all operated by University of Minnesota Parking and Transportation Services. This includes the adjacent University Avenue Ramp which is connected by tunnel to the alumni center. All University parking facilities are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are available to anyone coming to campus including athletic events.

Couples hosting their wedding here at McNamara will receive guidance and coordination from McNamara staff on recommended parking options, rates and maps to share with wedding guests.

Sleeping Rooms and “Get Ready” Rooms at Adjacent Graduate Minneapolis Hotel

The swanky Graduate Minneapolis Hotel is connected by tunnel to McNamara and offers 315 sleeping rooms with off-peak discounts for McNamara wedding clients. Their presidential suite overlooks the McNamara Alumni Center and they also have two wedding party “get ready” rooms each with mirrored stations, mini refrigerators and a TV.

Great Partners in Décor, Floral, Music Etc.

We’ve hosted nearly 600 weddings in the 24 years since we opened in 2000. We know what vendors are the best in the business and we see what’s trending. If you want our opinion, we can recommend vendors in almost every category as we’ve likely seen their work firsthand here at McNamara. We also poll our wedding clients every year to collect the vendors they recommend.

Picture your wedding here…

Mac Video

See for Yourself

This 2-minute video shows why McNamara is one of the most unique wedding reception venues!

Applause from our Clients

“It was so special for my husband and I to celebrate our marriage in the very building where we first met as University students. Everyone was floored with the stunning architecture both inside and out. The service was OUTSTANDING from the very first inquiry to the day of. Hannah really went out of her way to make sure our day went perfectly.”

-- Amanda B., Bride

“We toured a whole slew of venues but it was pretty clear from the get-go that McNamara Alumni Center was the perfect fit for what we were looking for including our budget. What really ‘sold’ it for us was the HUGE danceable floor; the fact that we could do the ceremony AND the reception there; floor-to-ceiling windows; the fountains and greenery outside for wedding photos. Regarding staff—every single person was SUPER attentive, knowledgeable and helpful.”

— Danielle W., Bride

“Absolutely perfect! The McNamara staff were so easy to work with along the planning journey and on our wedding day. They were so friendly and excited for me and my husband. I had last minute changes and they were so accommodating. At first I was nervous about working with an exclusive caterer, but they were just as amazing as the venue staff.”

— Haili R., Bride

“We had a great experience hosting our wedding ceremony and reception at McNamara. The space is so beautiful that we didn’t need to add much decor to have a spectacular setting. D’Amico Catering works closely with the venue, so catering and set up was seamless. The staff was super knowledgeable and helpful in suggesting layout and flow for the day. Overall it was a beautiful event. A gorgeous setting for an affordable price.”

— Jennifer S., Bride

“If you are looking for a spacious wedding venue with beautiful views, professional staff, and an overall amazing experience, McNamara is the right venue. The event coordinators and their detailed planning itineraries really allow you to enjoy your special day without having to worry. They help you organize everything. D’Amico Catering was also amazing! The Graduate Hotel is there for guests from out of town and a parking ramp is attached to the building. You definitely get more than you pay for with this venue!”

— Laura S., Bride

“McNamara was one of the best wedding decisions we made! It was an absolute dream venue! If you’re looking to impress your guests, THIS is the venue! Every single aspect was handled smoothly and professionally from start to finish!  I didn’t worry about a single thing the days leading up to or the day of our wedding. And the food–Wow! My husband and I just cannot say enough about every person we worked with and the venue itself! I would get married here 1000x’s over!”

— Allie M., Bride