This newly refreshed venue combines historic character with contemporary sophistication.
August 24, 2025
For more than 140 years, The Woods Retreat has been a gathering place for weddings and community events in Minnetonka. Originally founded by families such as the Stubbs and Maxwells, whose names still echo through the surrounding bays, this storied property has long held a special place in the community. The property was acquired in the summer of 2024, and a full renovation was completed between October 2025 and May 2026, updating every corner from top to bottom. Today, its legacy continues with beautifully refreshed facilities that pair historic charm with modern amenities, offering couples a venue that honors tradition while embracing contemporary needs.
From the moment you arrive, the property feels both secluded and inviting. Nestled among trees with a scenic pond and stone bridges, it provides a serene backdrop that separates your celebration from the bustle of everyday life. Guests are greeted with elegant pathways and terraces that hint at the beauty inside and the possibilities outdoors. Every corner of the five-acre property has been thoughtfully curated to balance its historic character with contemporary design touches.
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The Chapel
The centerpiece of The Woods Retreat is the 10,000-square-foot chapel, a space that effortlessly balances grandeur and intimacy. Its soaring wood beams and graceful arched windows fill the Sanctuary with warm natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere for couples and their guests.
The main level, known as the Sanctuary, accommodates seated dinners for up to 225 guests or cocktail-style receptions of up to 300. For more intimate gatherings or a stylish cocktail hour, the Gathering Room, located on the lower level, provides a modern, country club–inspired space equipped with all the amenities needed for a seamless celebration. Together, these spaces offer versatility and elegance, making the chapel ideal for both grand weddings and smaller, refined affairs.
Zach Morin
Outdoor Spaces
For couples dreaming of an outdoor wedding, the amphitheater overlooks a scenic pond and can host up to 350 guests. Stone terraces, bridges, and a cascading waterfall surround the property, providing picturesque spots for photographs, cocktail hours, or simply enjoying the landscape. The Terraces, a collection of three stone levels near the water feature, are especially popular for relaxed pre-dinner gatherings or evening celebrations. The patio, accessible from the Gathering Room, offers another inviting outdoor setting for mingling and taking in the views of the property.
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Suites for Preparation
The Woods Retreat offers three private suites where the bridal and groom parties can prepare for the day. The upstairs Maxwell Suite and the downstairs Stubbs Suite, both located in the Cottage on the grounds, provide comfortable and luxurious spaces with ample natural light, elegant furnishings, and all the amenities needed to relax and get ready. A third wedding suite, located on the second floor of the chapel, features a vanity, beverage station, and refined décor, creating a serene and organized environment for the bridal party to prepare. These suites ensure privacy and convenience while maintaining a connection to the venue’s historic charm.
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Seamless Wedding Planning
Couples enjoy exclusive access to the venue for 12 hours, covering the chapel, terraces, lounges, dining areas, amphitheater, and suites. An on-site Event Manager is available to guide the planning process and ensure logistics run smoothly, while a Day-of Wedding Coordinator can be added to manage the timeline, vendor communication, rehearsal, and the flow of the day. These services help couples focus on the celebration rather than the coordination, knowing that every detail is in capable hands.
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Dining and Beverage Experiences
The venue partners with a curated list of preferred caterers allowing couples to select menus that reflect their style and tastes. Outside caterers are permitted for an additional fee, providing flexibility for personalization. Beverage service is exclusively provided by LiquidMotion, offering professional staff, creative drink menus, and both hosted and cash bar options, ensuring the bar experience is seamless and elegant.
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Timeless Spaces for Any Wedding
From the chapel to the amphitheater, terraces, and suites, The Woods Retreat provides flexible spaces to suit both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Its blend of historic charm and modern amenities - exclusive access, on-site coordination, curated catering and beverage partners, and a beautifully maintained five-acre property - makes it a compelling choice for couples seeking a venue that feels both meaningful and versatile.
Karen Feder Photography
Every wedding at The Woods Retreat becomes part of its long history of love and community. The venue’s unique combination of elegance, practicality, and natural beauty allows couples to craft a celebration that reflects their personal style while enjoying the comfort of knowing every detail is thoughtfully handled. For couples seeking a venue where heritage meets modern convenience, The Woods Retreat offers a space where memories are made and cherished for generations.
Couples interested in hosting their wedding at The Woods Retreat are invited to fill out the inquiry form on their website.
The Woods Retreat 525 Leaf Street, Long Lake, MN 55356 Phone: (612) 367-7670 Email: info@woodsretreatmn.com
