Questions guests ask about Highbanks Metro Park

Question 1

How far ahead can I book?

Accepted Answer

Up to 365 days ahead, starting at 8AM on that day. Within 14 days, email the reservations desk first for availability.

Question 2

When do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Full payment is due when you make the reservation.

Question 3

Is there a lower rate for locals?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Franklin County residents get a lower rate. Metro Parks offers no other discounts, including to government or school groups.

Question 4

What do the shelters and meeting room cost?

Accepted Answer

Mansion and Northern shelters: $175 a day for Franklin County residents, $200 for non-residents. Nature Center Multipurpose Room: $250 resident, $275 non-resident, per day. These come from a fee chart dated June 2022.

Question 5

What is the refund policy?

Accepted Answer

Cancel 30 days ahead for 90% back and 29 to 14 days ahead for 25% back. Cancel 13 days or less ahead and nothing is refunded. Bad weather does not earn a refund.

Question 6

Can we set up early or stay late?

Accepted Answer

No. Early and late access is not provided, so setup and cleanup happen inside your reserved time.

Question 7

Are the shelters open in winter?

Accepted Answer

Metro Parks says reservable outdoor shelters are closed for winterization from November 1 to April 14. It also says indoor venues are available year-round.

Question 8

Can we bring our own caterer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can bring any caterer. No cash may change hands on park property, so pay food trucks in advance.

Question 9

Can we serve alcohol at the shelters?

Accepted Answer

Yes, at the Mansion and Northern shelters, with a Metro Parks permit. Only beer, wine, champagne and hard cider are allowed, with no mixed drinks or liquor. The park does not serve alcohol. 21+ with valid ID.

Question 10

How does the alcohol permit work?

Accepted Answer

The permit costs $250 plus a $250 refundable deposit. You can start up to 60 days before your date and must finish 30 days before. Guests may not charge for drinks or collect tips.

Question 11

How many guests does each space hold?

Accepted Answer

Mansion Shelter holds 100 (80 under cover). Northern Shelter holds 120. The Nature Center meeting room holds up to 99.

Question 12

What are the decoration rules?

Accepted Answer

Use non-marring tape or string. No nails, staples, tacks, duct tape, push pins or glue. No confetti, glitter, open flames or sparklers. Decorations stay off signs, gates and trees.

Question 13

Are food trucks allowed?

Accepted Answer

At the Northern and Mansion shelters, yes, with Metro Parks approval by email. Trucks need their own power, not a generator, and cannot serve park guests outside your event.

Question 14

Can we hold a wedding here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Metro Parks says you can hold a wedding at any reservable facility, within the facility rules and capacity.

Question 15

Where do guests park?

Accepted Answer

Guests park in marked spaces only, never on the grass. The Northern Shelter has parking for 86 cars.

Question 16

Can we bring dogs?

Accepted Answer

Dogs and cats are allowed in picnic areas, parking lots and on roadways, on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Highbanks Metro Park

Highbanks Metro Park

Highbanks Metro Park

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Questions guests ask