The Grotto

The Saint Edward Grotto is a small stone garden alcove in the woods of Saint Edward State Park, built by the old seminary around 1945 and now one of the park's most popular wedding sites. Washington State Parks rents it for $978 plus tax per day, for up to 120 guests, from 10 a.m. to dusk all year. You can book up to nine months ahead.

What the Grotto Is

The Grotto was one of the quiet places the seminary built for prayer and meditation. The agency history dates it to around 1945: poured concrete faced with river cobblestones, set in shady woods close to the park's open lawns. Today a small lawn sits in front of it, with two stone stairways leading up to the historic alcove and its rock altar.

It is a short walk from the main lawns and picnic areas. On the agency map it sits southwest of the seminary building, and the Grotto Trail (trail 5) continues past it toward the lake.

Renting the Grotto for a Wedding

• Rate: $978 plus tax per day.
• Guests: up to 120.
• Hours: 10 a.m. to dusk, all year.
• Booking window: up to nine months before your date.
• How to reserve: online at washington.goingtocamp.com, or by phone at (888) CAMPOUT, which is (888) 226-7688.
• Not included: electricity and water. Plan any music, lights or catering around that.
• Parking: every guest's car needs a Discover Pass, daily or annual. Washington State Parks discount passes don't apply to day-use rentals.

The 2022 park brochure says visitors may arrange outdoor catering and that picnic areas and restrooms are nearby.

Special Activity Permits

The park asks groups planning special activities, such as outside vendors or a bounce house, to call (425) 832-2147 about a special activity permit. The agency warns that skipping this step can get a reservation cancelled.

The Other Reservable Spots

• The Orchard picnic area: a small grove of apple and cherry trees near the playground, with a stand-up barbecue grill, for up to 100 people.
• The Nun's Garden: a smaller spot for family gatherings and picnics, for up to 30 people.

Both are booked the same way as the Grotto. Washington State Parks strongly recommends reserving for events, because first-come picnic tables can fill when larger groups have the park booked.

The Grotto Versus the Lodge

The Lodge at Saint Edward, in the restored seminary building, runs its own private event and wedding business. The Grotto is a state park facility booked through Washington State Parks. This guide is independent of both. For the building's story, see history.