Best Places in Coon Rapids, MN to host a Graduation party
Graduation marks a significant milestone in one’s academic journey, and what better way to commemorate this achievement than by throwing an unforgettable graduation party? If you're in or around Coon Rapids, MN, and are looking for the perfect venue to host your celebration, you are in luck! I’ve got you covered with scenic outdoor spaces to charming indoor locations. I’ve curated a list of the best places to fit your needs. Here are some top locations to consider:
1. Bunker Hills Event Center
📍 12800 Bunker Prairie Rd NW, Coon Rapids, MN
For those looking for a sophisticated venue, Bunker Hills Event Center offers beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces with stunning golf course views. It’s a full-service venue, meaning you must utilize their on-site catering (no outdoor food and beverages), spacious banquet rooms, and professional event staff to help make the day stress-free.
📌 Best for: Large gatherings, catered events, and a polished party experience.
2. Bunker Hills Activity Center
📍 550 Bunker Lake Blvd NW, Andover, MN
If you love the idea of an event space but want a more casual, budget-friendly option, the Bunker Hills Activity Center is a fantastic choice. It features banquet halls with kitchen access, plenty of seating, and a scenic location near Bunker Hills Regional Park. This is perfect for hosting a gathering that can easily extend outdoors. Outdoor food and beverages may be brought in, but there are limitations to alcoholic beverages. Tables and chairs are provide with rates beginning at $100 for the first two hours (updated as-of January 2025) and go up from there based on room size and duration. This is a great option for inclement weather days.
📌 Best for: Mid-sized gatherings, flexible indoor/outdoor events, and budget-conscious celebrations.
3. Coon Rapids Civic Center
📍 11155 Robinson Dr NW, Coon Rapids, MN
The Coon Rapids Civic Center is a spacious, versatile venue with banquet rooms that can accommodate up to 230 guests. There’s also a lovely outdoor patio and gazebo, perfect for photos. Whether you’re planning a small family gathering or a big celebration, this venue offers plenty of flexibility. The Coon Rapids Civic Center has many banquet room choices with varying sizes and the Coon Rapids Ice Center (CRIC) also has beautiful room rental options. 2025 rates begin at $155 for 5.5 hours and go up from there based on room size and duration.
📌 Best for: Indoor events with a touch of elegance, large groups, and easy accessibility.
4. Riverwind Community Center
📍 11155 Robinson Dr NW, Coon Rapids, MN
One of my favorite rental places in Coon Rapids is the Riverwind Community Center. Conveniently located with a playground, pickle ball and basketball courts in the backyard, this center has two rooms available for rent, each with a microwave, sink and refrigerator. Tables and chairs are available on site and rooms may be decorated to fit your desires. There are no alcoholic beverages, DJs or live music allowed. Rates start at $99 for a half day and go up from there based on day and time required.
5. Local Park Shelters
For a relaxed, outdoor celebration, Anoka County and Coon Rapids’ parks offer shelter rentals with picnic tables, open green space, and nearby playgrounds for younger guests. Rates begin at $85 per day and go up from there based on shelter size and location. Beer and wine are permitted at Anoka County parks, but may require special permission. Some popular options include:
🌳 Riverview Park – Great for casual picnics and outdoor games.
🌳 Lions Coon Creek Park – Offers a scenic setting with trails and a creek.
🌳 Bunker Hills Regional Park – Large pavilions and plenty of nature
🌳 Coon Rapids Dam – Large pavillions near the river and playgrounds.
📌 Best for: Casual BBQs, family-friendly gatherings, and budget-friendly outdoor fun.
🔗 Reserve a Coon Rapids park shelter
🔗 Reserve an Anoka County Park shelter
6. Your Own Garage or Backyard
Of course, one of the most common locations to host a party is the graduate's home. This is more traditional and can end up being a cheaper option, but requires considerably more work to prepare for. Graduation parties often have visitors that haven't been to your home for years (if ever) and naturally, people want to see what you have done to the place. However, graduation parties aren't meant to drive renovation plans. Consider the positive aspects of your location and whether it can comfortably accommodate a large group gathering. Having a party at home will allow you to begin to set-up much earlier than a rented location, and will allow you to have a more relaxed atmosphere. You could opt to have the food catered so that you can focus on visiting with friends and family or you could opt to prepare the food yourself. The options are endless. Transform your garage or backyard into the ultimate graduation party spot with string lights, lawn games, and a DIY food station. Renting a tent can provide shade, renting tables and chairs can provide additional seating, and adding a photo booth or memory board makes it extra special.
📌 Best for: Intimate gatherings, budget-conscious families, and a personalized touch.
Final Tips for Choosing a Graduation Party Venue:
✅ Consider guest count – Make sure the venue fits the number of people attending.
✅ Think about amenities – Do you need catering, restrooms, or outdoor space?
✅ Book early – Popular venues fill up quickly during graduation season.
✅ Make it unique – Add personal touches like a slideshow, custom decorations, or themed treats.
No matter which venue you choose, the most important thing is celebrating the graduate’s hard work and accomplishments. Whether you go big with an event center or keep it cozy at home, your party is sure to be a memorable one! 🎓🎉
*Rates last updated Feb 21, 2025
