Our Story
In 2016 Tom and Denise purchased 15 acres of land with a house and a cold storage building on highway 18. Once the house was furnished, they began renting it to guests. Then construction began to remodel the cold storage building, which then became the event space. As events started booking construction set about on a motel and campground sites. By April, 2017 Gate City Events and Lodging was fully functioning and open to guests. Today Gate City Events & Lodging offers a unique experience that has endless opportunity. A spacious venue, large rental home, motel, and campground are located on the 15 acres.Our 7,200 square foot event center provides a rustic flair for any event, and can seat 350 people. The rental home can sleep 20 plus. It boasts a beautiful kitchen, entertaining area, and full size saltwater pool. Our campground and 11 unit motel are within walking distance of the venue and rental house. Whether you need a motel for the night or you are planning a big event, Gate City Events & Lodging is the place for you.
The Owners
Tom and Denise Rutten are the owners of Gate City Events & Lodging. They have been married for 27 years and have 3 children. They first moved to Canton in 1996 as they started their family. Together over the years, they have established and ran multiple businesses. Today, they continue to grow Gate City Events & Lodging in the community of Canton, South Dakota. They run the business with the help of their family and employees.