Best Reception Venues Near St. Isidore’s Catholic student center in Manhattan, KS

Samantha Kopecky
4 days ago
3 min read

A Local Catholic Photographer’s Guide to Celebrating the Sacrament Beautifully

If you’re planning a Catholic wedding in Manhattan, Kansas—especially at St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center—you’re probably searching for the perfect place to celebrate afterward. As a Catholic wedding photographer in Manhattan, KS, I’ve had the joy of documenting countless wedding receptions filled with light, laughter, and holy joy.

Whether you envision a sunset celebration overlooking the Flint Hills, an elegant ballroom dinner, or a cozy gathering just steps from campus, these Manhattan wedding reception venues offer a beautiful continuation of your sacrament. Each one pairs naturally with St. Isidore’s, both in distance and in spirit.

Below are some of my favorite local venues that photograph beautifully, flow smoothly for timelines, and hold the same sense of peace and joy that begins at the altar.

1. Blue Sage Barn at Prairiewood

Rustic, peaceful, and totally secluded

Address: 1484 Wildcat Creek Rd, Manhattan, KS

Website: prairiewood.com

Blue Sage Barn is a peaceful, high-prairie venue tucked into Prairiewood Retreat & Preserve. With sweeping views of native grasslands and soft natural light throughout the barn, it’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor receptions.

Why we love it:

Feels private and prayerful — like a retreat, not a party center
Stunning woodwork and windows for dreamy photo lighting
Space for 125–175 guests
Lodging available for bridal party or out-of-town guests
Easy 10–12 minute drive from St. Isidore’s

2. Blue Vista

Expansive views and simple, elegant design

Address: 4561 Tuttle Creek Blvd, Randolph, KS

Website: bluevista.info

If you love wide open skies, lake views, and a serene setting—Blue Vista is the venue for you. With both indoor and covered pavilion options, this space adapts well to your guest count and aesthetic.

Why we love it:

Stunning backdrop for outdoor portraits
Holds up to 385 guests — great for larger Catholic weddings
Pavilion and Lodge options for rain or shine
One of the best venues for late summer weddings

3. K-State Alumni Center

Elegant and right across the street from the church

Address: 1720 Anderson Ave, Manhattan, KS

Website: k-state.com/alumnicenter

The closest possible venue to St. Isidore’s. If you want zero travel time and a seamless transition from Mass to reception, this is the move. The building is classic, well-lit, and great for mid-size weddings.

Why we love it:

Literally across the street from the church
Spacious, elegant, and air-conditioned
Perfect if you're inviting lots of K-State grads or faculty
Easy parking and vendor access

4. Liquid Art Winery & Estate

Vineyard views and sunset romance

Address: 1745 Wildcat Creek Rd, Manhattan, KS

Website: liquidartwinery.com

Liquid Art Winery offers panoramic views of the Flint Hills with a vineyard setting that makes every photo glow at sunset. The estate includes both outdoor terraces and indoor spaces, creating a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

Why we love it:

Breathtaking sunsets and endless photo opportunities
Perfect for elegant yet laid-back celebrations
Large patio and tasting room for guests to mingle
About a 10-minute drive from St. Isidore’s

5. Manhattan Country Club

Classic elegance and intimate charm

Address: 1531 N 10th St, Manhattan, KS

Website: themanhattancountryclub.com

For couples looking for a smaller, refined venue with excellent food and beautiful indoor-outdoor spaces, Manhattan Country Club is a wonderful choice. It overlooks the rolling hills of Manhattan and provides a timeless atmosphere for your first dance.

Why we love it:

Perfect for more intimate receptions
Great photo locations both inside and outdoors
Excellent on-site catering and staff
Peaceful setting just minutes from St. Isidore’s

6. The Bluemont Hotel

Modern elegance with rooftop views

Address: 1212 Bluemont Ave, Manhattan, KS

Website: bluemonthotel.com

Located on the edge of Aggieville, the Bluemont is a boutique hotel offering multiple event spaces, including a rooftop patio and grand ballrooms. It’s classy and walkable—and guests love being able to stay overnight.

Why we love it:

Rooftop patio views of campus and town
Hartford and Excel ballrooms fit up to 200 guests
Great getting-ready suites and staging areas
Couples often stay here the night of their wedding

Bonus Tips from Sammy Kopecky Photography

Plan for travel time between the Mass and your reception (except Alumni Center!). We’ll build this into your timeline so everything feels relaxed and joyful.
We’ve photographed at many of these venues and know the lighting, best portrait spots, and how to work with their event teams.

Want to see real wedding galleries from each venue? Reach out—we’d love to show you what your wedding could look like at each of these places.

Let’s Plan a Christ-Centered Wedding Day Together

If you're getting married at St. Isidore’s or anywhere in Manhattan, KS, we’d love to come alongside you with reverence, artistry, and peace. We’ll help build a timeline that honors the sacrament first and reflects you—not just your Pinterest board.

Inquire now to get: