The NP Event Space

The NP Event Space is located at Northern Pacific Center in Brainerd, Minnesota and is the home to both raw and finished event space. Historic buildings and outdoor areas occupy this old railroad property. From the Blacksmith Shop to Luminary Fern and many areas between, there is something for everyone. Intimate suites and large, open floor plans complete with original brick walls, exposed beams and massive doors are ready to be either left in current industrial state or designed and decorated for a soiree like no one has ever seen. This is the place to be for your "up north" event or wedding venue. The property is perfectly set with pieces of railroad history and a country feel tucked right in the corner of town.

Our website is based heavily on down scrolling, so please keep scrolling on each page for more content. Welcome and thank you!

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The NP Event Space

The NP Event Space is located at Northern Pacific Center in Brainerd, Minnesota and is the home to both raw and finished event space. Historic buildings and outdoor areas occupy this old railroad property. From the Blacksmith Shop to Luminary Fern and many areas between, there is something for everyone. Intimate suites and large, open floor plans complete with original brick walls, exposed beams and massive doors are ready to be either left in current industrial state or designed and decorated for a soiree like no one has ever seen. This is the place to be for your "up north" event or wedding venue. The property is perfectly set with pieces of railroad history and a country feel tucked right in the corner of town.

Our website is based heavily on down scrolling, so please keep scrolling on each page for more content. Welcome and thank you!

Photo by Aimee Jobe

Your Event Destination

The NP is an event space like no other. Located in Brainerd, Minnesota, what is now known as Northern Pacific Center was built in the 1800's originally as part of Northern Pacific Railroad and later the Burlington Northern Car Shops. This historic campus is privately owned and sits on over 47 acres within the Brainerd city limits. Commercial and industrial businesses operate from most buildings and only recently have a few spaces been opened up to offer something long requested in the area - a wedding and event space that is truly unique. We have everything from raw warehouses to mid-way renovated buildings to completely whitewashed suites. The outdoor and indoor photo and guest awing opportunities are endless. The NP is a must when searching for your "up north" event or wedding venue.

unlimited free parking
no food & beverage minimums
getting ready spaces
ceremony and reception spaces
new bathrooms
on-site farmhouse tables and chiavari chairs
on-site vintage rentals
so much more!

Keep scrolling down for more information. Please view the rental and information tabs for further details on rates and rules.

the NP Event Space

8,000 square feet
full heat and air conditioning
large maximum capacity
industrial lighting and chandeliers
restrooms
unique bar area
WiFi
pieces of original railroad history within building

OUTDOOR space

unique outdoor locations
maximum capacity unlimited
limited electrical availability
outdoor areas - no bathrooms

Questions & Answers

Photos by Aimee Jobe

What is the definition of an event space?
The NP offers event spaces in various buildings and outdoor areas. As an event space, we provide the space but do not have on-site staff besides your day of manager. This is why we recommend a reputable catering company to make sure your guests have beverage needs taken care of throughout the reception and food is served promptly.

Are all rental costs the same whether it is a wedding or other event?
No, weddings and privately hosted events are priced differently than for-profit events like group sales.

The spaces you are renting were built in the late 1800's. What amenities do they have?

The Blacksmith Shop Warehouse Space

updated electrical
industrial overhead lighting and chandeliers
restrooms

With over 8,000 square feet and a 40 foot ceiling, the temperature stays fairly moderate in the summer. We have added full heat and air conditioning to accommodate the winter months as well as the humid summer days. When the space was converted we added new restrooms that are so cute they may or may not be the most selfied bathrooms in the area. ;)

RED Outdoor Space

No bathrooms are available as this is an outdoor space, however we do have a common area in the Clocktower with restrooms. The northwest red door area is a blank canvas ready for your creativity. A single extension cord can be provided to most areas when a microphone is being used.

Courtyard Outdoor Space

No bathrooms are available as this is an outdoor space, however we do have a common area in the Clocktower with restrooms. A single extension cord can be provided to most areas when a microphone is being used.

LOFT Mixed Use Space

heat and a/c
updated electrical
overhead chandeliers
white-washed 15ft brick walls
large restored windows
wood floors
lounge furniture
white leather tufted loveseat
dress and clothing racks
restroom

The LOFT was originally restored by Aimee Jobe as her photography studio in 2011. She restored all south windows with original panes, resurfaced the floors and turned this space into a white-washed haven. At just over 2,000 square feet, it is filled to the brim with natural light and little details that make it a perfect place for getting ready or other small events.

Is smoking allowed?
No smoking is allowed inside any of the buildings and is only allowed in designated outdoor areas.

Do you have a sound system?
No, any sound must be provided by a DJ or other privately set up system.

How far in advance can I reserve the space?
We are currently booking now through 2021.

How much does it cost to rent each space?
Please view the pricing page for detailed rental information for each space.

Are there discounts available for booking in the off season? Yes, we do currently offer a small seasonal discount.

How do I secure my event date for the space I want?
A non-refundable 50% retainer is required to secure your space. The remaining 50% plus the security deposit is due 60 days before your event.

How do I pay for my retainer and balance?
We accept cash, check or online payment through major credit card via our client portal. We also offer a payment plan setup for those wishing to spread out over monthly payments.

What if my event is cancelled?
Unfortunately, we do not offer refunds. Your non-refundable retainer secures the date you book so please be sure when booking. Also, the final payment is due promptly 60 days before the event. If payment is not received on time, you will forfeit your space.

Are there other fees?
There is a $500 security/damage deposit that will be returned as long as the space isn't damaged during your event. We also require on on-site security person at events where alcohol is served.

Do you have food and beverage minimums?
No. The NP is an event space property and has no on-site catering.

You are charging for a reception space when other restaurants and resorts charge little to nothing for this space. What gives?
First, there is no location quite like The NP or the Northern Pacific Center in the Brainerd Lakes and the spaces we offer are unique and renovated to provide a place like no other. Second, that business model is operated through inflated food and beverage prices with $5,000, $10,000, even $20,000 food and beverage minimums. You are able to choose the caterer of your choice from our preferred catering list [some stipulations, see catering] with no minimums to meet when having your event at The NP. Please note that if your caterer is not on our preferred caterer list there is a $750 outside catering fee.

What are the options for a getting ready space prior to my event?
The Loft is our prime getting ready space. It is a large whitewashed space with hardwood floors, crystal chandeliers, a white leather tufted loveseat, and the most unique dress rack you have ever seen - tree branches hanging by double face satin from 15 foot ceilings. Either space is perfect for hair/makeup, getting ready and relaxation before your event. These spaces are rentable hourly or in time blocks.

Do you offer planning services?
We do not currently offer full planning services, but we highly recommend Bloom Designs for this. Kate and her team now offer planning on top of flowers and decor.

Do I have to provide insurance for my event?
Yes, we require all events to carry insurance of $1M general aggregate / $1M per occurrence including property damage as well as show proof 30 days before your wedding that each of your vendors is insured for at least these amounts also. The most economical option is to have a temporary policy added to your homeowners insurance. These insurance policies can also be found privately as well as through www.privateeventinsurance.com and www.wedsafe.com.

Can I provide my own alcohol?
Yes, you can provide your own alcohol as long as it is given to your guests for free. If you are charging for alcohol you must have it served by a licensed caterer.

When can we start setting up for our event?
Your setup time starts at the time of your contracted rental time.

When do I need to have everything out of the space?
We require everything out of the space at the end of your event.

Do you offer additional setup/cleanup time blocks?
No, we do not offer additional setup/cleanup time blocks.

What is required for cleanup?
All rentals and any thing else brought in for setup must be removed from the space (this includes all trash being bagged and put in dumpster on south side of building). Please note that while we do allow open flame, we do have a cleanup fee for any wax that that ends up on our tables/floor/chairs/etc.

Are there decorating restrictions?
Yes, you may not affix anything to any walls, doors, or windows of the spaces as this degrades the historic buildings. However, we do allow draping when done by a professional company.

Are tables and chairs provided?
Yes. The farmhouse style tables are included with all rentals. Gold Chiavari Chairs are also now included in the reception space for contracts with our per person pricing structure.

Are there any other restrictions for my event?
Yes. All vendors must be approved by management. There will also be someone present during your event day to make sure the rules and regulations are followed. We take pride in the property and need to make sure it is taken care of and not damaged. As a reminder, this is an event space and we do not have on-site staff doing things like setup/tear down, serving, catering, assisting, etc. We highly recommend having an event planner or trusted person managing the details of your day. An additional important reminder is that the only areas where you and your guests are allowed on the event day is you rented areas. The site is still private property and is not open to you or the guests to use freely. Businesses will be still be operating their normal hours.