Complete Wedding Planning Guide for your wedding at the Plummer House in Rochester, MN.
f you are dreaming of a wedding that feels timeless, intimate, and full of character, the Plummer House in Rochester might be exactly what you are looking for. This Tudor-style mansion is not just a backdrop, it is a place where history, elegance, and nature all come together.
What you will learn in this guide
In this guide, I will walk you through what it is really like to get married here. You will discover the beauty and the quirks, the things couples love, and the details you will want to plan ahead for. From stunning gardens and dramatic staircases to practical details like guest limits and rental options, you will get a clear picture of whether this venue fits your vision.
By the end, you will know if the Plummer House is the right match for your wedding day, and you will already be picturing where your first look, ceremony, and sunset photos could take place.
Table of Contents
Plummer House is a historic wedding venue in Rochester, MN.
The house was built in Rochester’s Pill Hill neighborhood, a rich, historic area, by Dr. Henry Stanley Plummer, an internist and endocrinologist at the Mayo Clinic.
This five-story Tudor Revival-style house, dating to 1924, sits on 11 acres. It contains 49 rooms, including ten bathrooms, nine bedrooms, a third-floor ballroom, a pipe organ, and five fireplaces!
It was outfitted with the era’s latest innovations: an automatic garage door, an intercom system, a dumbwaiter, and a security system. Those features that still rival many modern homes. It even had a 220-foot underground tunnel.
This luxurious estate also boasted a heated pool and a glasshouse, but now only the remains of the glasshouse are left.
The indoor decoration is remarkable! The rich wood paneling and millwork (windows, stairs, furniture), elegant décor (paintings, tapestries, wallpaper), and period lamps give the venue its distinctive charm.
After Dr. Plummer’s death in 1936, his wife Daisy Berkman Plummer, a gifted musician and patron of the arts (check at the Attic Ballroom!), continued to care for the home with their two children until 1969, when she gave the house with all its furnishings to the Rochester Art Center.
Today, the Plummer House still carries the atmosphere of elegance and excellence. It feels like stepping into another era, which is why so many couples are drawn to it for weddings.
A gem managed by the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department
In 1971, the Plummer family donated the property to the Rochester Art Center, which was established as an arts center. Today, it’s managed by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department and can be toured or rented for private events.
Note that the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department also rents other venues, such as the Floral Halls, the Aune Hall, but they do not have the same charm.
Numbers
Maximum guests: 100
Tour hours: 9 AM–5 PM in winter; open year-round with varying hours.
Weekend rental: $1,150 (grounds included)
Event hours: 9 AM–11 PM
Parking spots: 40
Amazing Room for photos: 10! 0
Outdoor: One of the best places for photo sessions in Rochester.
With its fountains, water tower, patios, varied staircases, and stately façade, Plummer House is a favorite for engagement, family, and graduation sessions.
Check this fall engagement session to measure how photogenic this place is.
It is important to know that while the grounds are often open to the public, a private event rental gives you exclusive use. When you book the Plummer House, you do not have to worry about strangers walking through your ceremony.
Pricing and What You Get
The Plummer House is one of the most affordable historic venues in Rochester, thanks to Rochester City Park Management. So, in a capitalist world where extreme profit becomes a normal thing, I guess we can thank them.
Rates for 2025
- House only, Sunday to Thursday: $650
- House only, Friday or Saturday: $900
- House and grounds, Sunday to Thursday: $900
- House and grounds, Friday or Saturday: $1,150
All rentals include access from 9 AM to 11 PM and are subject to tax.
What is included
- Exclusive use of the mansion’s first floor
- Eleven acres of gardens and terraces if you book house and grounds
- Tables and chairs for up to 100 guests
- On-site caretaker during your event
- Free parking for about 40 vehicles
What you arrange yourself
- Catering and bartending (licensed and insured vendors only)
- Alcohol service (no self-serve, insurance required)
- Setup and teardown of décor
- Entertainment (DJs are allowed, live bands are not)
- Transportation for guests if you need more than 40 parking spots
Ceremony Locations
You have several outdoor options for your ceremony:
- The East Fountain Lawn for a romantic outdoor ceremony framed by the fountain and trees (better for early morning ceremonies)
- The West Fountain Lawn which often offers softer light and shade (better for late afternoon ceremonies)
- The Upper Terrace in front of the mansion for a dramatic backdrop would work for small ceremonies
- The Upper Lawn, behind the mansion, next to the water tower, would work amazingly well in late afternoon with the sunset going through the giant white pine trees.
Indoor Ceremony Option
The Living Room would be your backup place in case of rain. That said, you won’t fit 100 guests in it. Plan more for an intimate indoor ceremony, with a maximum of 50 guests. You would enjoy the wood paneling work, the precious furniture, the fireplace, and the decorated ceiling!
Photogenic Getting Ready rooms at the Plummer House
One of the biggest advantages of the Plummer House is that not only can you get ready on-site but the rooms are amazingly photogenic!
The mansion has several naturally lit rooms that work beautifully for hair, makeup, and those first “getting ready” photos.
Master Bedroom For the Bride
The upstairs bedrooms offer plenty of space, big windows, and historic charm. The master bedroom, in particular, gets gorgeous light and is perfect for detail shots of the dress, shoes, and stationery.
Living room For the Groom
The living room downstairs is often the go-to spot. With its wood paneling, fireplace, chandelier, and vintage furniture, it gives your getting ready photos a moody, elegant feel.
Grooms who prefer more intimate location can opt for the upstair Daughter Bedroom.
Having separate spaces in the same venue makes the morning flow so much easier, and you don’t lose time shuttling between hotels and the ceremony site.
Dinner and Dancing on the Patio
The Plummer House is not a “big ballroom” kind of venue (despite the attic ballroom that is not open for all the guests). But it offers a couple of cozy, flexible options.
Dinner
Most couples choose to dine outdoors on the patio. With string lights overhead, the stone mansion as your backdrop, and the gardens surrounding you, it feels relaxed and romantic. For smaller guest counts, you can also host dinner inside in the dining room.
Dancing
The patio works well for a dance floor if the weather is on your side. Indoors, couples sometimes use the living room, but the space is more intimate and better suited to a DJ than a live band. Keep in mind that amplified sound is allowed but limited by city rules, so this is not a venue for late-night ragers.
A Mansion Perfect for Artistic Shots!
As a wedding photographer, I love venues that give me space to create more artistic images. The Plummer House is a dream for this.
Here is a list of the indoor options!
The Staircase
The staircase with its stained-glass windows is perfect for dramatic dress shots.
The Living Room
The wood-paneled living room and dining room chandelier give me the chance to play with light and shadow.
The Dinning Room
The dining room, with its chandelier and wallpaper, is also very photogenic.
I often use flashes with colored gels, mirrors, or reflections to create something bold and different.
The Third Floor Ballroom
The Attic Ballroom works amazingly great.
West Sun Room
The little west sunroom is a bonus.
Library
The old-fashioned library adds a touch of aristocracy.
The Foyer
The foyer provides an almost medieval vibe.
The South Sun Porch
The South Sun Porch is another little bonus that can be used for a few photos. Here for a first look.
Outdoor options for couple portrait
The outdoor options are, also, numerous!
The Mansion Roundabout
That’s where you enjoy the Tudor style at its highest.
The Main Arched Door
This beautiful wood door framed by limestone, works like a frame in the frame.
The Backyard of the House
With its little path, it gives a sensation of a secret court.
Note how in winter all colors change!
The numerous Arch Way
Those stone arches are just gorgeous, and work again as a frame in the frame.
The covered Arch Path
With its numerous roman arch and and its lime stone, its a photogenic plce.
The numerous Little Path
The 11 acres property as many paths that we can use.
The former Green House
This adds a touch of post-industrial to the real estate.
Simply the big trees
Simplicity often works great: the numerous trees are your friends.
The Metallic Stairs
Stairs allow another seating for photos, and the rusting post-industrial look just adds charm to the venue.
A venue as Good in winter as in Summer.
This venue works great all year long. If Minnesotan people love fall season, winter, spring, and of course summer, it looks great in photos. Whether it’s cloudy or sunny, this place offers plenty of options!
When couples choose the Plummer House, they are not just getting pretty portraits. They get artistic images that feel timeless and belong in a gallery.
Nearby Locations for more photos
This venue offers an incredible variety, but if you want more options, you can consider these:
Lakes: Minnesota’s thousands of lakes, try Silver Lake or Chester Woods Park
River: You have the nearby Zumbro River, but for a wilder backdrop, check out Root River Park.
Parks: Iconic Quarry Hill Park or Oxbow Park
Downtown Buildings: The Mayo Clinic and the iconic doors of the Plummer Building (yes same doctor).
Modern Downtown: Pair the historic location with a modern spot, such as a rooftop parking lot or a glass building!
If you need more options, check out my dedicated list of locations around Rochester.
What could your timeline look like?
On weekends, I offer only a long day of coverage (10 hours), which allows me to deeply cover each wedding.
That was Melissa and Adam’s timeline. Of course, you would have to adjust to your own needs and wishes.
- 10:00 AM: Hair & Makeup Begins
- 12:45 PM: Getting Ready & Photos Start
- 2:45 PM: First Look
- 4:30 PM: Break / Guest Arrival Time
- 5:00 PM: Ceremony
- 5:30 PM: Cocktail Hour & Family Photos
- 6:30 PM: Dinner
- 7:30 PM: Sunset Photos
- 7:45 PM: Reception Events (Toasts, Dessert)
- 8:15 PM: Artistic Photos
Should you get married at the Plummer House: Pros and Cons
The Plummer House has a lot of advantages, but also a few limitations that you should be aware of.
Pros:
- A sublime historic setting that adds character to your event
- Outdoor ceremony options, Limited indoor ceremony option in the living room
- Patio for a relaxed outdoor dinner atmosphere under the string lights
- Beautiful, historic, naturally lit rooms for preparations
- Extremely affordable for such a landmark venue
Cons:
- Loud music (no bands) is not allowed, so big parties are limited
- Interior spaces can feel dark in bad weather
- Guest limit of 100, and only 40 parking spots
- Don’t have any wedding coordinator
Remember, you can get ready and marry at Plummer House, then continue your celebration downtown, in a restaurant or club. Another good way to use the Plummer House and save money is to host a brunch wedding on Sunday.
Check real wedding at the Plummer House
Here are two example of wedding shot there that should give you a pretty good idea of what you can do in such a venue!
Conclusion: Perfect Place for a intimate to small wedding, Great place for a wedding under 100 guests with limitations
The Plummer House is one of Rochester’s gems. I hope those photos have helped you figure out what’s important when booking the venue.
Located just two minutes from downtown, Plummer House offers an exquisite historic setting for every part of your wedding day: pre-reception, ceremony, and reception. The place is highly photogenic and will give you good pictures. But it’s limited by the number of guests (100 max), and to a “crazy party”.
That’s why, in my opinion, the Plummer House is the best venue for hosting an intimate, small wedding. With a group of 50 guests, you can still enjoy a covered ceremony in the living room. And, intimate weddings rarely want to host a big party, and the weakness of this isn’t one anymore.
With a group of 50-100 guests, you are taking the risk of the weather. We wished that the Plummer House had a big white tent, like another historic wedding venue in Rochester: The Hill Top House.
But note that, given the “ridiculous price” (compared to expensive venues), some couples would rent the spot only to host the ceremony, and then drive to another place for the reception.
Opening to other venues.
The Tudor Mansion gives you the chance to get married in a place that feels elegant, historic, and intimate, all while staying within budget. You will have a stunning backdrop for portraits, creative opportunities for artistic images, and gardens that keep your guests enchanted.
But for a more energetic party or for a larger guest list, consider venues like Mayowood Stone Barn, Garten MarketPlatz, or Bearwood Event Barn, just to mention a few.
Note that some couples also rent the Plummer House to host their ceremony and do their photos, and move to another place (such as a restaurant), or a wedding venue for their reception.
Plummer House
Address:
1091 Plummer Ln SW
Rochester,
MN
55902
Website:
Official Rochester Parks & Rec PagePhone for Bookings:
507-328-2311
If you’re thinking of booking Plummer House and need a wedding photographer, I’d be honored to capture your day. Contact me now to schedule a consultation.
Bonus: Frequently Asked Questions, Your Definitive Guide to the Plummer House
I have created an FAQ section here that would answer most of your questions. This section provides clear, detailed answers to the most common questions about visiting the Plummer House and planning an event at this historic venue.
General Information & Visiting
Q: What is the Plummer House? A: The Plummer House is a historic English Tudor Revival mansion in Rochester, Minnesota, built between 1917 and 1924. It was the former home of Dr. Henry S. Plummer, a pioneering physician and one of the founders of the Mayo Clinic. The magnificent 49-room, five-story house sits on 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and is renowned for both its stunning architecture and the many technological innovations Dr. Plummer built into it, which were far ahead of their time. Today, it is owned and operated by the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department as a public park, a historic site for tours, and a popular rental venue for weddings, meetings, and other private events.
Q: Is the Plummer House the same as the Plummer Building? A: No, they are two different and distinct Rochester landmarks, though both were designed by Dr. Henry S. Plummer and stand as monuments to his genius. The Plummer House was his family’s private residence, while the Plummer Building is an iconic medical and administrative building that is a historic centerpiece of the Mayo Clinic’s downtown campus.
| Feature | Plummer House | Plummer Building |
| Primary Purpose | Private Residence | Medical Clinic & Office Building |
| Location | 1091 Plummer Lane SW (Pill Hill) | 110 2nd Ave SW (Downtown) |
| Completed | 1924 | 1928 |
| Architecture | English Tudor Revival | Romanesque Revival with Art Deco details |
| Key Feature | Historic home with gardens & early domestic technology | Bell tower, Carillon, 16-foot bronze doors |
| Current Public Access | Public tours on Wednesdays, grounds open daily, private event rental | Historical Suite open for self-guided tours on weekdays; lobby accessible |
Q: Where is the Plummer House located? A: The Plummer House is located at 1091 Plummer Lane SW, Rochester, MN 55902. It sits atop a prominent hill in a neighborhood colloquially known as “Pill Hill,” so-called because many Mayo Clinic physicians have historically resided there.
Q: When is the Plummer House open for tours? A: The Plummer House offers self-guided “Open House Tours” every Wednesday from February through November, between 12:00 Noon and 6:00 p.m.. While some tourism websites may list a shorter summer season, the official schedule provided by the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department is the most current. The grounds are generally open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset, except when they have been reserved for a private function.
Q: How much does a tour cost? A: As of the 2025 season, the rates for the Wednesday Open House tours are as follows:
- Adults (12 years and over): $10.00
- Youth (6 to 11 years): $5.00
- Children (5 years and under): Free. Private group tours for 10 or more people can also be arranged for a fee of $10.00 per person, regardless of age.
Q: Do I need to make a reservation for a tour? A: No reservations are necessary for the regular Wednesday Open House tours; visitors can simply arrive anytime during the open hours. However, reservations are required for private group tours (for groups of 10 or more) and must be arranged in advance by contacting the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department.
Q: How can I pay for a tour? A: Payment can be made at the front door of the Plummer House with cash or a check. For convenience, visitors can also pay with a credit card by registering online in advance through the official Rochester Parks and Recreation website.
Q: Is there parking available? A: Yes, there is ample free parking available for visitors on-site, near the house.
Planning a Private Event at the Plummer House (Weddings, Receptions, Meetings)
Q: Can I rent the Plummer House for a private event? A: Yes, the Plummer House is available to rent and is a highly sought-after venue for a wide range of private events, including weddings, receptions, corporate meetings, instructional classes, and parties.
Q: What is the event capacity? A: The official capacity for private events at the Plummer House is for groups of up to 100 people. While some third-party wedding websites occasionally mention a higher number, all official documentation from the City of Rochester consistently specifies this maximum, and event planners should adhere to this limit.
Q: What are the rental rates? A: Rental rates are based on the day of the week and whether the rental includes just the house or exclusive use of both the house and the grounds. The official rates are detailed below.
| Service | Days | 2025 Rate (+ tax) | Notes |
| House Rental Only | Sunday–Thursday | $650.00 | Up to 100 people |
| House Rental Only | Friday & Saturday | $900.00 | Up to 100 people |
| House & Grounds Rental (Exclusive Use) | Sunday–Thursday | $900.00 | Up to 100 people |
| House & Grounds Rental (Exclusive Use) | Friday & Saturday | $1,150.00 | Up to 100 people |
Q: How do I book the Plummer House for my event? A: To inquire about dates and make a reservation, you must contact the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department directly by phone at 507-328-2311. The city provides an online calendar where you can check for date availability and you may submit a permit request for information online. However, it is critical to understand that submitting an online request does not place a hold on your desired date. A reservation is only considered valid and confirmed once it has been officially entered into the main reservation book by staff at the Parks and Recreation office.
Q: Is a rental agreement provided? A: Yes. As a city-owned facility, all rentals are governed by a formal and legally binding contract. Renters will receive a facility use permit or rental agreement from the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department that outlines all specific rules, regulations, fees, and liabilities associated with using the historic property.
Event Policies and Vendor Coordination
Q: Is the Plummer House handicap accessible? A: Accessibility at the Plummer House is limited due to its historic, multi-level design. The first floor of the mansion is handicap accessible, and the main level grounds immediately surrounding the house are also accessible. However, all other floors of the five-story house, including the upper levels and basement, are not handicap accessible. For guests who require accessible entry to the beautiful lower garden area, special arrangements must be made in advance with the on-site caretaker to facilitate access.
Q: Do I have to use a specific caterer? A: No, the Plummer House does not provide in-house catering services or maintain a mandatory list of exclusive caterers. Renters are welcome to choose and hire their own preferred, licensed catering company for their event. Several local caterers are very familiar with the venue and list it as a place they proudly serve, including Catering by Design, Victoria’s Ristorante & Wine Bar, and The Tap House.
Q: What is the alcohol policy for private events? A: The City of Rochester does not publish a detailed, public-facing alcohol policy for private rentals at the Plummer House on its official websites. However, extensive documentation from wedding photographers, blogs, and vendor websites confirms that alcoholic beverages are regularly and properly served at private events like weddings.
The absence of a public policy is not an oversight but rather appears to be a deliberate risk management strategy by the city. By embedding the strict, non-negotiable rules within the legally binding rental contract, the city ensures that every party renting the facility is explicitly and contractually aware of their responsibilities. This forces a direct conversation between the renter and the department, preventing misunderstandings and ensuring all legal requirements are met on a case-by-case basis, which is a much stronger legal position for a public entity.
Renters should expect the rental agreement to contain specific clauses requiring that all alcohol be purchased by the client (not the caterer) and served exclusively by a certified, insured bartender provided by a licensed catering company. Self-service of alcohol is almost certainly prohibited. Furthermore, the renter will likely be required to obtain and provide proof of ‘host liquor liability’ insurance for the event. For the definitive and official policy, you must consult directly with the Rochester Parks and Recreation Department and carefully review your rental contract.
Q: Can we decorate the venue? A: Yes, renters are encouraged to personalize the space with their own decorations to match the theme of their event. However, all decorations must adhere to strict guidelines designed to protect the historic integrity of the house. General rules for similar public historic facilities prohibit any action that could cause damage, such as using nails, screws, or tape on historic surfaces, or drilling into any walls, floors, or ceilings. Decorations also cannot obscure any safety features like exit signs, fire alarms, or sprinklers. It is likely that a detailed decoration plan must be submitted to the venue manager for review and approval prior to the event.
Q: Are there rules about music and entertainment? A: Yes. While DJs and amplified music are a common feature of weddings and events at the house, all entertainment is subject to the rules and regulations governing a public park facility. General park ordinances for Olmsted County and the City of Rochester prohibit excessive noise that disturbs others, and the use of amplified sound systems typically requires advance permission from the park manager. Your rental agreement will specify the rules regarding sound, including any decibel limits and mandatory cutoff times for music.
The Grounds: Gardens, Photography, and Public Access
Q: Are the Plummer House grounds open to the public? A: Yes, the 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds—which include formal gardens, a historic quarry, and a bird trail—are considered a public park. The grounds are open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset, and there is no admission fee to visit them.
Q: Are the grounds ever closed to the public? A: Yes. When a private party selects and pays for the “House and Grounds” rental package, they are granted exclusive use of the property for the duration of their event. During these private functions, the grounds are closed to the general public. Per the rental agreement, it is the responsibility of the renter to enforce this exclusive use for their guests.
Q: Can I have a professional photoshoot at the Plummer House? A: Absolutely. The Plummer House and its stunning gardens are one of Rochester’s most iconic and popular locations for professional photography. The site is a favorite for wedding portraits, engagement sessions, high school senior pictures, and family photos due to its timeless architecture and beautiful natural backdrops.
Q: Do I need a permit or have to pay a fee for photography? A: The most critical rule for any photographer, professional or amateur, is to never interfere with a private event. While there is no specific fee or permit mentioned for casual photography on the grounds when they are open to the public, the venue’s popularity for weddings and private rentals requires careful planning. It is strongly recommended that photographers check the online event calendar or call the Parks and Recreation Department at 507-328-2311 before scheduling a session, especially on a weekend. This is to ensure the grounds have not been rented for exclusive private use. Arriving to find the venue closed for a wedding you are not a part of is the primary issue to avoid, and a quick check in advance can prevent any conflicts.
