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Venue Spotlight: Wildlife Prairie Park

Are you a nature and wildlife lover? Do I have the venue for you! Nestled in the heart of Illinois, just outside Peoria, lies Wildlife Prairie Park—a versatile haven for events ranging from weddings and family reunions to corporate retreats. We recently attended their Bridal Expo and we were amazed at the beautiful and versatile spaces they offer. And not only are the spaces rustic and enchanting, but image getting married surrounded by wolves and bison on the prairie below? A nature lover's dream!


The fireplace in teh Log Room at Wildlife Prairie Park decorated fro the bridal expo by Burlap and Lace Event Rentals.
Our booth at the Bridal Expo. We decorated the tables and fireplace

Spanning 1,800 acres, this unique zoological park is home to over 150 animals representing 50 native species, including bison, black bears, and cougars. The park's diverse landscapes and facilities provide a distinctive backdrop for any gathering. They offer 4 different outdoor venues - from Hazel's Hill Overlook to the Vista Patio. And there are 4 different indoor venues that can seat guests numbered from 80 to 250.


Weddings: A Natural Fairytale

For couples seeking a wedding venue that combines rustic charm with natural beauty, Wildlife Prairie Park offers an array of picturesque settings. Imagine exchanging vows amidst wildflowers on Hazel’s Hill or against the panoramic backdrop of the bison and elk prairie. The Vista Patio, with its regal staircase, provides a grand entrance for brides, while Hespell Bricks offers breathtaking views for ceremonies. These diverse locations ensure that each wedding is as unique as the love it celebrates.


The park's reception venues are equally captivating. Each space is designed to accommodate varying guest lists, ensuring both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations are comfortably hosted. Wildlife Prairie Park's commitment to personalized experiences ensures that every wedding detail aligns with the couple's vision, making it a cherished memory for all. I've met one of their event coordinators - while working on the bridal fair - and she is an excellent communicator and knows the park inside and out. Their onside event coordinators will help ensure your event is a success!


Hespell Deck with ceiling draping, wood floors and large windows overlooking the priaire where bison and elk graze.
Hespell Deck overlooks the bison and elk herd

Family Reunions: Creating Lasting Memories

Planning a family reunion requires a venue that caters to all ages and interests, and Wildlife Prairie Park fits the bill perfectly. The park's expansive grounds and diverse facilities offer numerous activities to keep everyone engaged. Families can explore hiking trails, participate in educational programs, or simply relax in the serene environment. The park's picnic areas and pavilions provide ideal spots for communal meals and gatherings, fostering connections among family members.


For those seeking overnight accommodations, the park offers unique lodging options that enhance the reunion experience. Staying within the park allows families to immerse themselves fully in the natural surroundings, making the reunion not just an event but a shared adventure.


Priaire Hall with sood floor sand a large stone fireplace with wood beam mantle. Large decorative rustic lighting and large windows bring plenty of light to the space. Peoria Illinois wedding venue.
Prairie Room is perfect to host your family reunion dinner

Corporate Events: Inspire and Unwind

Corporate events at Wildlife Prairie Park offer a refreshing departure from traditional venues. The tranquil setting, combined with modern amenities, creates an environment conducive to both productivity and relaxation. The park offers meeting and conference spaces that can accommodate groups ranging from 50 to 250 people, ensuring that both small teams and larger organizations find suitable facilities. Outdoor pavilion areas are also available for even larger gatherings, providing flexibility in event planning.


Team-building activities are elevated by the park's unique offerings. Groups can engage in guided nature hikes, wildlife encounters, and other interactive experiences that promote collaboration and camaraderie. The park's serene landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for brainstorming sessions, workshops, or simply unwinding after a day of meetings. The fusion of natural beauty and tailored event services ensures that corporate gatherings are both effective and memorable.


Accessibility is another key advantage. Located just ten minutes from General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport, the park is easily reachable for both local and out-of-town guests. This convenience ensures a stress-free arrival experience.


The Log Room at Wildlife Prairie park is the perfect space for 80 people. Decorated is the stone fireplace with pillar and taper candles all aglow. The tables have violet and sage green accents with brass candlesticks and green vintage glassware to top off the look.
Our table decor setup at the Bridal Expo. Love our couch in front of the fireplace!

Wildlife Prairie Park is more than just a venue; it's a destination that transforms events into unforgettable experiences. Whether celebrating love, family, or professional achievements, the park's versatile facilities, stunning natural surroundings, and dedicated staff ensure that every event is as unique and special as those attending. Choosing Wildlife Prairie Park means embracing a setting where nature and celebration harmoniously intertwine, creating memories that last a lifetime.


And, if you are looking for someone to transform these spaces into a rustic, elegant look, reach out to us. We would love to consult with you on table decor, linens, and unique vintage touches to bring your dream event to life!


Burlap and Lace Event Decor Rentals is a small family-owned business located in the heart of Central Illinois. We offer rentals of decor, linens, furniture, backdrops, tables, and chairs for your next event. We will deliver and set up at your location or you can choose to pick up and drop off your own rental items and set them up yourself. We pride ourselves on our extensive, high-quality inventory, excellent customer service and reasonable prices. Find out how we can help assist you with your next event.  Reach out to us to book a free consultation.

 

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Thank you so much for stopping by our blog, we hope you found this information helpful. We want to use our blog to increase awareness and support for locally owned wedding vendors. Locally owned wedding vendors tend to provide a higher level of expertise, service and dedication. They also have far less turnover than corporate owned or investor-owned vendors. As you plan your wedding, we hope you will consider a locally owned wedding vendor like ours. You can find locally owned wedding venues on this wedding venue map. Below is a shout out to fellow locally owned wedding venues around the country!


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