Bay Preserve is a private waterfront oasis on Little Sarasota Bay. The preserve features a performance pavilion, dock, boathouse with observation deck, Great Lawn, the 1931 Burrows-Matson House, bayside oaks ceremony site, and the bayfront terrace and lawn.
This unique historic property is available for weddings, private parties, board meetings and retreats, corporate and community events. Sarasota’s premier caterer, Michael’s On East, is the exclusive caterer for this historic waterfront venue.
Those interested in full property rental for weddings and other private events should review the Venue Rentals at right. Those interested in partial property rentals while the park remains open to the public should review the Park Space Rental rates at right.
For more information, contact Sam Peterson at 941-266-1600 or s.peterson@bwlt.org.
Venue Rates
Check out our rates for weddings, private parties, meetings, and corporate events.
Park Space Rental
Check our rates for photographers or small groups looking to reserve a specific outdoor area of the park during regular park hours while the grounds remain open to the public.
Our Philosophy
Here at Bay Preserve in Osprey we focus on creating one-of-a-kind, highly exclusive events on the shore of Little Sarasota Bay.
Maybe you need time to install lights, a tent, or a stage for a band. Perhaps you want to drop off decorations on Friday while you’re onsite for the rehearsal. We realize it may take more than a day to set up for your dream wedding and we want your big day to be as stress-free as possible.
We cover all the bases and are always prepared. Our site manager will work with your vendors to ensure they have all their own liability insurance and both the site manager and an off-duty deputy will be present for the entire event as part of your rental.
It’s the little things that mean so much! Tuscan lights are above our Bayfront Terrace for evening parties and outdoor up-lighting in the trees provides a magical setting. Bathrooms are stocked with amenity baskets and directional signs are posted to make sure your guests are on time and arrive safely. If you’re looking for a unique departure after your event, we can help arrange transportation by boat so your guests can send you off in style!
It’s almost a guarantee you will be stressed at some point during the planning process! To assist your planning, our event coordinator can provide a preferred vendor list covering a variety of services and our property manager will be onsite for the duration of your rental period. The Bay Preserve property is comprised of a Bayfront Lawn and Terrace, Performance Pavilion, Bayside Oaks Ceremony Site, Outdoor Classroom, The Burrows Matson House, Great Lawn, and Boathouse Observation Deck.
Sharing private time with your family and friends is so important before the guests start arriving. For your comfort and convenience, your rental period includes time onsite pre-event allowing you to enjoy your big day.
wedding and event Gallery
