Meet Texas 2023-24

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Our Discover Odessa team specializes in securing affordable hotel rates, hassle free event planning, registration assistance, welcome bags, curated brochures and maps, assistance with transportation coordination, creation of name tags and much more!

MEETING TRANSPORTATION ONLY 10 MILES FROM THE MIDLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Plan your next visit to Odessa, TX!

Our Discover Odessa team specializes in securing affordable hotel rates, hassle free event planning, registration assistance, welcome bags, curated brochures and maps, assistance with transportation coordination, creation of name tags and much more!

Our Discover Odessa team specializes in securing affordable hotel rates, hassle free event planning, registration assistance, welcome bags, curated brochures and maps, assistance with transportation coordination, creation of name tags and much more!

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• DiscoverOdessa.org

How To Use This Guide

FIND WHAT YOU NEED, RIGHT WHERE YOU WANT TO BE.

Whether this is your first event in Texas or your 100th, the many distinctive cities and choices across the state can be overwhelming. To help you sort through it all, we organized this guide to make sense of the options and help narrow down your vision. First things first: Connect with a professional in the area and establish a point of contact. Texas has chapters from several national and international planning and event associations, and these folks are great contacts for your digital Rolodex. We also included a map to orient you and a contact list of all the convention and visitors bureaus in the state. With these upstanding professionals at the ready, you are sure to find your way to a Texas event worth remembering.

Planner Resources

4 Be Surprised by Texas

8 Let Us Lend A Hand

9 Texas Convention & Visitors

13 Host With History

Book one of the state’s historic sites that will remind attendees of their legacy and impact.

18 On the Horizon

Show you’re in the know by being one of the first to host an event at these new venues.

24 Only in Texas

Create an immersive experience with sites steeped in the state’s culture.

26 Under an Endless Sky

Broaden horizons and engage all the senses at these outdoor locales.

NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS

HYAT T REGENCY CONROE & CONVENTION CENTER

SPRING 2023

PRESIDENT TAMMY GALVIN

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – NATIONAL SALES RYAN MILLER

214-789-7716 | RMILLER@GREENSPRING.COM

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EDITOR AMY DURHAM

ASSOCIATE EDITOR AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

CONTRIBUTING WRITER MITZUKO BYRES

CREATIVE DIRECTOR TONYA SUTFIN

ART DIRECTORS MICAH EDEL, TRACI ZELLMANN

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ADVERTISING COORDINATOR MIKAYLA SNYDER

SALES + MARKETING SPECIALIST TAUSHA MARTINSON-BRIGHT

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER + DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, EVENTS + PARTNERSHIPS ARTHUR MORRISSEY

EVENT + OFFICE MANAGER RICK KRUEGER

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST TEGHAN MURPHY

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS KATHIE GORECKI

ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE AUSTIN SCHMELZLE

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR GERI WILSON

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER CINDY FISH

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VISIT

Be Surprised by Texas

THE FIRST BIG EVENT I ATTENDED IN TEXAS was a college expo. I was searching for just the right fit, and I was sure that would be a university out of state. After all, I had lived in Texas my whole life up to that point and thought I wanted to see something new. But despite my eventual acceptance to a few out-of-state schools for undergrad, I ended up staying in the Lone Star State for both my bachelor’s and my master’s at different universities. And, wow, were they contrasting experiences.

Austin is not Dallas. Houston is not Lubbock. And El Paso is not Corpus Christi. Not only because of the diverse climates in Texas—we cover USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 6-10—but also because of our diverse population. What you think you know about Texas might be true in one place and completely the opposite in another. That’s why this guide is so essential when planning events here.

In this issue of Meet Texas, we look at some of the dominant trends in the meetings and events industry, including outdoor spaces and historic spots for events with an unforgettable, authentic atmosphere. We also provide a handy guide to the newest venues around the state, thanks to a big boom in openings last year. You will also find a list of the state’s convention and visitors bureaus to easily contact someone who has the inside scoop on the region you’re planning to visit. And, finally, we share a few uniquely Texan treasures you might want to try.

Texas might be big, but when it comes to making visitors feel at home, we lean on our small-town manners. So, welcome, y’all!

Amy Durham

Editor, Meet Texas and Texas Meetings + Events adurham@greenspring.com

On Our Cover

TEXAN BOLDNESS.

Clockwise from left: Hike the rugged Palo Duro Canyon State Park, gather at the General Store in Luckenbach, savor a true Texas crawfish boil, get up close to a real cattle drive at the Fort Worth Stockyards, and wrap up your day at the beach with endless fun at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.

Photos, clockwise from left: Adobe / chet; Jason Risner; Adobe / pamela_d_mcadams; Stockyards Heritage Development Co.; Adobe / BJ Ray

PHOTO: AMY DURHAM

AMY DURHAM AT HYATT REGENCY LOST PINES RESORT AND SPA

Elevate your expectations

Take your event to the next level by hosting it in The Woodlands. From the glistening Waterway, to stunning venues tailor fit for your group, see how our team can help you inspire and impress.

Let Us Lend a Hand

The charismatic Texas meetings and events industry is ready to help.

IF YOU’RE NEW TO TEXAS or are planning a destination meeting or event, it’s always nice to work with a friendly face. Lucky for you, the state is home to personable people—particularly in the meetings and events industry. In fact, the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide, Meeting Professionals International, is headquartered in Dallas.

For a helping hand, turn to your fellow colleagues in these industry associations for guidance on the best vendors, venues, and activities to create the most memorable experience yet.

American Planning Association (APA)

Texas Chapter texas.planning.org

Global Business Travel Association (GBTA)

Austin Chapter gbta-austinbta.org

Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter dfw-bta.org

San Antonio Chapter santantoniobta.org

Texas (Houston) Chapter texasbta.org

International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE)

Central Texas Chapter iaeectc.com

Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter iaeedfw.com

International Live Events Association (ILEA)

ILEA Austin ileaaustin.com

ILEA Dallas ileadallas.com

ILEA Houston ileahouston.com

ILEA San Antonio ileasanantonio.com

Meeting Professionals International (MPI)

MPI Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter mpiweb.org/chapters/dallas-fort-worth

MPI Houston Area Chapter mpiweb.org/chapters/houston-area

MPI Texas Hill Country Chapter mpiweb.org/chapters/texas-hill-country

WANTED: RFPS

Finding the perfect spot for your group is as easy as uploading your request for a proposal to the Texas Association of Convention & Visitor Bureaus (TACVB). After you submit your RFP, the TACVB will send it to destinations across the state.

tacvb.org/page/meetingplannerrfp

National Association for Catering & Events (NACE)

NACE Alamo (San Antonio) sanantonionace.com

NACE Austin naceaustin.com

NACE Dallas-Fort Worth dfwnace.com

NACE H ouston nacehouston.net

Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA)

Gulf States Chapter gulfstates.pcma.org

PHOTO: RYAN CONWAY

Texas Convention & Visitors Bureau Directory

BIG BEND

GULF COAST

TEXAS CVB DIRECTORY

PANHANDLE PLAINS

PRAIRIES AND LAKES

TEXAS CVB DIRECTORY

TEXAS CVB DIRECTORY

PRAIRIES AND LAKES, CONTINUED

SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

Host With History

Texas’ rich, storied past comes alive at these awe-inspiring venues.

By Amy Durham

AUSTIN/BEE CAVE

VENUE: Star Hill Ranch

SINCE: 1850

THE ENVIRONMENT AT YOUR EVENT can make or break the overall mood. Of course, it’s not always easy creating the right vibe when you are planning an event for 100 executives or 1,000 professionals.

This year, get creative with the surroundings of your event, and book one of Texas’ historic and scenic locations. From formal and buttoned-up to casual and kicked-back, try one of these spots to experience Texas hospitality and history.

For a stroll down a historic lane, hop in your buggy and head to Star Hill Ranch, where historic buildings from various Texas Hill Country locales were relocated and restored to re-create the experience of an early 1900s Texas town. All 22 buildings on the ranch were originally constructed between 1850 and 1935, and since 2004 they have been brought together to form a main street unlike any you will see in the rest of the state. Located less than 30 minutes west of downtown Austin in Bee Cave, Star Hill Ranch offers multiple indoor and outdoor venues for small gatherings or larger get-togethers for up to 2,000. Highlights include the Biergarten, the Main Street/Plaza, Reception Hall in a converted schoolhouse, the Fitzhugh building for 300-plus, and the Outdoor Arbor & Pavilion. Hotel accommodations are available five minutes away in Bee Cave or nearby in Lakeway. The ranch also owns and operates The Relic Source, the preeminent movie prop business in the Southwest. Event clients can rent all manner of creative accoutrements, including vintage slot machines, liquor barrels, tombstones, and taxidermy.

PHOTO: AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

ADOLPHUS HOTEL, DALLAS

CORPUS CHRISTI

VENUE: Galvan Ballroom

SINCE: 1950

Opened by Corpus Christi police officer, entrepreneur, and musician Rafael Galvan Sr., this historic music and event venue is a state treasure. Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra played at opening night, and Galvan’s own orchestra was a frequent feature. Performers of big band, swing, and jazz music played the Galvan stage over the years, including Gene Krupa, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie. The ballroom was also host to Latin bands and groups from Mexico, allowing the integration of Hispanic and Anglo-American communities, along with African American performers, during a time when segregation was the law in Texas. Today, Galvan Ballroom is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a designated Texas Hispanic Heritage site. The ballroom offers 9,000 square feet of space for a lively gathering.

DALLAS

VENUE: Adolphus Hotel

SINCE: 1912

Elegant and upscale events require a particular aesthetic that you can’t find at just any venue. The legacy and authenticity of the Adolphus Hotel invite guests to create an immersive and extravagant experience. The 22-story hotel was hand built by European artisans for Adolphus Busch and modeled after a German castle. Since its inception as the first luxury hotel in Dallas, the Adolphus has hosted presidents, royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries from around the world. The beaux-arts hotel offers 15 rooms for events, with up to 400 guests in one elegant space under crystal chandeliers. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail in the French Room Bar & Salon, lunch at the City Hall Bistro, and get pampered at the Spa Adolphus. The flagship Neiman-Marcus store is just a block away for luxury souvenirs and afternoon tea.

FORT WORTH

VENUE: Fort Worth Stockyards

SINCE: 1893

If what you really want are a few cowboys, some longhorn cattle, and a rustic setting for your event, then mosey on over to the Fort Worth Stockyards Historic District. You will find shopping, restaurants, and, of course, daily cattle drives down the main thoroughfare—so you can get an up-close look at how the cattle business used to operate all over Texas. What most people don’t realize about this famed livestock stop is that it offers ample event space, including room for 400 at Chef Tim Love’s Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, upscale indoor venues at the Stockyards for up to 600 guests, and the River Ranch Stockyards that has room for 5,000 to kick up their boots and gather, Texas-style.

SINCE: 1847

The Texas Hill Country town of Fredericksburg is a quaint place to learn about early German settlers in the region, and Crockett Haus Event Center lets visitors gather in historic German buildings from the 1800s, refurbished with modern conveniences. Two places—the Wohnhaus and the blacksmith’s cottage—make up the indoor space at the center. Outside, the Biergarten features a dance area and stage, large fire pit, and plenty of yard space to mingle. Located in downtown Fredericksburg, Crockett Haus was originally built as an apothecary shop 11 years after the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. The event center is also directly across from the Marktplatz, giving visitors a walkable area for shopping, restaurants, and lodging.

HOUSTON

VENUE: Crystal Ballroom at The Rice Hotel

SINCE: 1913

Originally the capitol building for the Republic of Texas and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this storied hotel has roots as deep as Houston. Today, The Rice operates as a converted luxury, high-rise apartment building, but the Crystal Ballroom inside still retains its Old World elegance. Accommodating 400 guests for a seated dinner, the ballroom is a sight to behold when it’s decorated for an event with its elaborate architectural details, including graceful arches and relief sculptures. Amenities include a dance floor, a stage, 35-foot ceilings, and a wraparound porch overlooking downtown. Two smaller meeting rooms allow for flexible event scheduling, and lodging is nearby in downtown Houston.

MIDLAND

VENUE: The Destination Midland

SINCE: 1950s

Next to an abandoned lumber yard, an alley overgrown with weeds was turned into an eclectic mix of object art and entertainment opportunities. The Destination Midland opened in 2019 behind World War II army barracks and now hosts local and regional bands on its stage weekly. Guests enter through reclaimed wood fencing, past the thrifted metal signs, and onto a main stretch that’s bordered by a long row of what the owners call “porches.” Each porch seats up to 20 people and hosts its own quirky theme along with a historical marker to explain the antiques and architectural details. From the Titfer Hat Shop porch covered with—you guessed it—hats, to the Winnebago porch in front of a real camper, to El Escondido (which replicates a porch from the owners’ family ranch in Chihuahua, Mexico), the surprising and artistic venue is available for rent in its entirety. Food trucks, a stage wired for bands, a full bar, and a stray rooster here or there complete the ambiance.

GET CONNECTED

adolphus.com

crocketthaus.com

crystalballhouston.com

thedestinationmidland.com

fortworthstockyards.org

galvanballroom.com

starhillranch.com

CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE PAGE, LOWER LEFT: CRYSTAL BALLROOM AT THE RICE HOTEL; CROCKETT HAUS EVENT CENTER; GALVAN BALLROOM; THE DESTINATION MIDLAND; FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS

PHOTOS: GALVAN BALLROOM; VISIT FORTH WORTH; THE DESTINATION MIDLAND; (OPPOSITE) CROCKETT HAUS EVENT CENTER; KATIE HEWITT PHOTOGRAPHY

On the Horizon

A surge of Texas destination meeting spaces produces a crop of new venues perfect for your event.

By Mitzuko Byres

YOU MAY BE LOOKING FOR A PLACE with all the features to conduct a flawless corporate meeting, or maybe you want to plan an executive retreat your clients are sure to remember. The good news is that several venues have opened to give added variety to event planners. Meet Texas gathered a list of modern settings for your conference or meeting.

ABILENE

DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Downtown Convention Center

This hotel in Abilene is expected to open this summer and will give visitors accommodations within walking distance of many restaurants and across the street from the city’s convention center. The hotel will have 17,000 square feet of meeting space and 200 guest rooms. Other amenities include an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, and fitness center. hilton.com

AUSTIN

Hyatt Centric Congress Avenue Austin

The third floor of this newly constructed hotel boasts 2,560 square feet of event space with three meeting spaces featuring large windows and built-in audiovisual capabilities. For all occasions, there are upscale food and beverage options from Chef Steve McHugh. hyatt.com

The Loren at Lady Bird Lake

The Loren, perched high above Lady Bird Lake, provides a variety of indoor and lush, green outdoor spaces. Sophisticated private meeting and dining rooms with modern furnishings and nature-inspired color schemes add elegance to your events. There are four indoor and outdoor spaces that accommodate up to 200 guests. Enjoy customized menus as well as audio-visual equipment for a memorable experience. thelorenhotels.com

Moody Center

The Moody Center is situated in the heart of downtown Austin on the campus of The University of Texas at Austin (UT). It opened last April and was designed specifically to host concerts, so it has seating for more than 15,000 people. The $375 million arena is host to UT women’s and men’s home basketball games and has a full calendar of musical acts and other sporting events. The arena floor and private club rooms are available for rent. moodycenteratx.com

Thompson Hotel Austin

Discover Thompson’s bold style and Austin’s warm hospitality at the newest lifestyle boutique hotel downtown. Elegantly designed suites, guest rooms, and residences, along with beverage and food choices from Mashama Bailey, a James Beard award-winning chef, make this new hotel an exciting gathering place for locals and visitors. The total indoor meeting space is 7,500 square feet, with six rooms and additional outdoor areas. The hotel’s sister property, Tommie Austin, shares an address with the Thompson and offers additional guest rooms. hyatt.com

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ABILENE DOWNTOWN CONVENTION CENTER

DALLAS

Beehive Dallas

This flexible space features training rooms and coworking areas in a contemporary setting. Located in the heart of the Design District, this innovative venue offers members access to contemporary conference spaces for seminars, meetings, and training sessions. beehivedallas.com

Renaissance Saint Elm Dallas Downtown Hotel

Whether you are networking over drinks or meeting at the boardroom table, this new upscale hotel in the historic Tower Petroleum Building provides the perfect event setup. With high-tech audio-visual equipment, the 1,490-square-foot rentable area has three event rooms, the largest of which can seat up to 132 people. marriott.com

EL PASO

Starlight Event Center

While the El Paso Convention Center is the largest venue in the city, this new center comes in at second largest, with meeting and exhibit space of nearly 50,000 square feet. A cutting-edge structure equipped with the latest tech gear and contemporary furnishings, the Starlight Event Center features one of El Paso’s most extensive LED video walls. As a result, the center was voted as the best conference venue in the city last year in the annual poll by El Paso Inc. esc19.net

FORT WORTH

Caterina’s Restaurant

Caterina’s, an Italian-style restaurant, launched at Fort Worth Stockards last July. The restaurant's dress code requires men to wear dinner jackets and encourages guests to keep their phones in locked pouches provided by the restaurant to foster conversation and connection. Events can take place in the intimate private dining room or main dining area that seats 30, where diners can watch chefs prepare delectable dishes. caterinasftx.com

Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall

This venue is ideal for speaking or entertainment events. Prominent features include exceptional audiovisual components and spacious meeting rooms. It has a capacity of up to 1,000 people, including the VIP lounge. In addition, you can offer customized meals and personalized drinks for all event participants. tannahills.com

RENAISSANCE SAINT ELM DALLAS DOWNTOWN HOTEL

TANNAHILL'S TAVERN AND MUSIC HALL

STARLIGHT EVENT CENTER

FRISCO

Omni PGA Frisco Resort

The 500-room Omni PGA Frisco Resort will give destination meeting professionals more than 127,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, including a 22,000-square-foot grand ballroom, an 11,500-square-foot junior ballroom, and a 5,000-square-foot event pavilion. Frisco is 30 miles north of Dallas, and the resort will share an address with PGA of America. It is adjacent to two 18-hole championship courses and a 10-hole short course, among other courses, and is expected to open this summer. omnihotels.com

GALVESTON

Hotel Lucine

This courtyard-style boutique hotel has a vintage atmosphere and is located on Seawall Boulevard across the street from the Gulf of Mexico. The Lanai, just off the courtyard, is perfect for hosting private dinner groups and business meetings, and the rooftop bar lets guests take in 180-degree views of the Gulf of Mexico. hotellucine.com

Marmo Plaza

With its sunny windows, multiple seating areas, and an open floor plan, the Marmo Plaza makes for a versatile venue fit for any event. Here, you can host a trade show, a fundraiser, or a corporate party, and the networked meeting rooms can hold six to 75 people. marmoplaza.com

HOUSTON

J-Bar-M Barbeque

The Texas-inspired atmosphere and menu are ideal for any corporate gathering. The modern facility features several event options, from an expansive private patio to an intimate dining room. However, planners also have the option to rent the entire restaurant for large events. jbarmbbq.com

The Post

The Post, formerly the downtown post office, is now a hub for events, concerts, food, and technology. For outdoor events, the Outpost next to the rooftop farm can host 450 guests standing or 300 for a seated meal. Inside, there is the Office with a 3,000-person capacity and the X Atrium for up to 2,000 guests around dramatic crisscrossing staircases. posthtx.com

LUBBOCK

Amicis Wine Bar

Launched last June, Amicis is Lubbock’s new casual wine destination. In Latin, Amicis translates to “friends,” making it the perfect place to celebrate and bond with team members. From its fine selection of wines, elegant atmosphere, and location in the south of the city, Amicis is an ideal event space for private dinner parties or post-conference mingling. amiciswinebar.com

MCKINNEY

Serendipity Labs

This coworking space launched its latest location in McKinney, just north of Dallas, last June. The facility features high-quality equipment with Airtame wireless technology, whiteboards, webcams, and HDMI presentation capabilities, perfect for live or hybrid events. You can set up the professional space for workshops, meetings, and training sessions for up to 50 people per classroom or 250 participants for networking events. serendipitylabs.com

THE POST

MIDLAND

The Venue at Live Oak

Originally a gathering space for the owner and their family soon developed into a rentable venue last December. The Venue at Live Oak offers reservations of both the indoor space and outdoor patio. There are unobstructed views of the flat plains behind the venue, where guests can enjoy a stunning West Texas sunset. thevenueatlo.com

SAN ANTONIO

Ladino

Located in the Historic Pearl Building, this unique restaurant celebrates the cultures and cuisines of the Mediterranean. After strolling the San Antonio River Walk just a block away, planners can host seated dinners downstairs for up to 70 or cocktail parties upstairs at the bar with lounge seating for up to 40. ladinosatx.com

Marriott San Antonio Airport Hotel

The modern event space at the Marriott in San Antonio is ideal for organizing critical corporate events and meetings. The second floor is a convention center-style space equipped with 10 meeting rooms, among other flexible options. The ballroom space features six smaller rooms, each with electrical, lighting, and HVAC controls. In addition, the hotel’s Pearl Boardroom offers access to an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the city. marriott.com

WICHITA FALLS

The Delta by Marriott Hotel and Conference Center

A new Marriott hotel is expected to open this summer. The 200-room hotel will offer 14,725 square feet of event space, and the Conference Center includes 35,960 square feet of preconvention and back-ofhouse space. The new facility will be on the grounds of the MultiPurpose Event Center, along with an existing auditorium, coliseum, and exhibit hall. delta-hotels.marriott.com

THOMPSON HOTEL AUSTIN

LADINO

PHOTOS: THOMPSON HOTEL AUSTIN; SIDNEY DIONGZON; LADINO; (OPPOSITE) VISIT HOUSTON

SERENDIPITY LABS

RIVER RANCH STOCKYARDS

In the spirit of cowboys and cattle drives, River Ranch Stockyards takes your guests back to the Wild West!

Once a part of the famous Armour & Co. and Swift & Co. grounds, River Ranch Stockyards was transformed to host stylish events in the heart of the world-renowned Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Our combination of indoor and outdoor spaces provides endless options, and our experienced staff brings world-famous Texas hospitality to ensure that your event is successful and unforgettable.

From meetings as intimate as 30 people to parties of 1,000 or more—we can help you kick off your custom event ranchstyle. Our location is perfect for corporate events, fundraising dinners, weddings, day meetings, executive retreats, awards luncheons, stockholder meetings, team-building activities, holiday parties, and more.

Our award-winning culinary staff offers menus loaded with Texas favorites. Whether you choose barbecue, traditional TexMex, an authentic outdoor chuck-wagon dinner, or something custom, our staff can serve it up with some Texas flair! And don’t forget to wet your whistle with tasty beverages for your guests. Let us help create your ideal package with signature cocktails and premium bar offerings.

We’re like one big family here, so we hope you think of River Ranch Stockyards as you plan your next gathering!

Only in Texas

From boot scootin’ to beboppin’, some places have Texas style written all over them. By

Amy Durham

WHEN YOU PLAN TO VISIT TEXAS for your event, be sure not to miss the things that make the state so unique. Most people think of cowboys and the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys when the idea of Texas comes up. Our Western heritage is well-known, and our accents give us away in a New York minute. But Texas is more than boots and barbecue. We have music, festivals, ocean views, and outdoor adventures for visitors who are ready to see more of what makes Texas so special. But don’t worry—we have the honky-tonk traveler covered, too.

MORE THAN ALRIGHT, ALRIGHT, ALRIGHT

Near the Pedernales River in the Texas Hill Country, a new luxury camping experience is booking stays for 2023. Longbranch Ranch, in association with Walden Retreats and Texas native Matthew McConaughey, sits on 96 acres along cliffs and under seemingly

endless night sky. The ranch is named after Longbranch Bourbon, a small-batch Kentucky bourbon filtered with Texas mesquite and American oak charcoals that actor McConaughey created with the help of Wild Turkey master distiller Eddie Russell. The “glamping” (upscale camping) retreat ranch is just an hour from both Austin and San Antonio, and event space and scenic lodging abound. Guest activities include nighttime fly-fishing and hikes along the river, providing a relaxing connection to nature. Safari-style luxury tents, complete with kitchen and bathroom facilities, keep comfort in mind. Longbranch will match each guest package with a donation to The Trail Conservancy, a nonprofit based in Austin.

CALLING ALL DREAM MAKERS AND HEARTBREAKERS

Moon River Ranch sits on 550 acres along the horseshoe bend of the Brazos River less than 30 minutes north of Waco. Two lodges offer a total of 30 guest rooms, and stand-alone cabins throughout the property give guests privacy and porches for morning coffee. While this is a very Texas-typical setting, the ranch is home to several species of exotic animals like zebras, wildebeests, and oryz that roam free and enjoy a habitat like their native areas. Get outside and enjoy the views as you drive through the safari acreage, rent an ATV and travel the trails next to the river, or hop on a hayride. Guests will find numerous activities, including skeet shooting, fishing, ax throwing, and kayaking. A party barn and other event buildings offer flexible space for a variety of gatherings.

MOON RIVER RANCH

SPEND LONGER THAN EIGHT SECONDS HERE

At Gilley’s, the Pasadena bar in the 1980 movie “Urban Cowboy,” John Travolta won the heart of Debra Winger. While the original Gilley’s is no longer open, guests of the Dallas location can enjoy live music, pool tables, games, and an old-timey saloon. With seven event spaces available, from the speakeasy feel of the Bonnie & Clyde room and the balcony views of downtown from the Loft to the 27,000-square-foot Southside Ballroom, Gilley’s is far more than a music venue. Corporate events and Texas-themed gatherings find the perfect backdrop, along with all the mechanical bull rides you can handle—you can even see El Toro, the original bull from the movie. The bar is near downtown’s historic district and offers a variety of nearby restaurants and hotels to accommodate guests.

WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF GIANTS

It’s not every day you get to stand in the footprints of dinosaurs. In Glen Rose, it can be every day. When much of Texas was an ocean, dinosaurs walked along the seashore and left their footprints in the sands of time, now the bed of the Paluxy River in Dinosaur Valley State Park. Today, visitors can stand in those footprints and marvel at their size. Reserve a group campsite and lounge outdoors, or book luxury accommodations at the nearby Rough Creek Ranch, which offers room for 65 guests in suites, cabins, and full-house rentals. After following the downloadable app that maps dinosaur tracks, return to the ranch for dinner at its in-house restaurant that boasts a Zagat-award-winning menu. Visitors can ride on zip lines, putt at the golf range, or sharpen their archery skills. Challenges like rock climbing and paint ball engage the active folks, while the spa and fitness center allow guests to indulge in self-care. The conference center on-site is available for up to 125 guests, and other smaller meeting rooms and outdoor spaces are also available.

SOAK UP THE SOUTH TEXAS SUNSHINE

The extensive coastline along the Gulf of Mexico gives Texas a long stretch of beach resorts and attractions. A favorite since 1959, the Isla Grand Beach Resort in South Padre Island sits on 10 acres of tropical-style land with palm trees and private beach access. The resort regularly books live entertainment including comedy shows and musical guests. Meetings and conventions find the largest hotel meeting facility on the island perfect for functions up to 860 guests in the 10,000 square feet of event space. Enjoy the ocean breeze with an outdoor event in the 13,000-square-foot SandBar Courtyard with a stage and outdoor bar. With two swimming pools, sand volleyball and tennis courts, a nightclub, restaurants, and a beachside burger shack, the resort has something for everyone, including a splash in the sea.

THAT’LL BE THE DAY

Rock ’n’ roll pioneer Buddy Holly was born and raised in Lubbock, and the city has ensured visitors can host events that will make you say, “Oh, Boy!” The singer only lived to be 22, but his legacy lives on in Lubbock at the Buddy Holly Center, where visitors can learn about his life and his impact on musical history. For event planners, the Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences has multiple meeting spaces in a state-of-the-art facility, including a 2,200-seat theater, multiple grand halls, and airy outdoor spaces. Several hotels nearby give guests easy access to and from the center.

With these unique venues and attractions, meetings in Texas are sure to be one of a kind.

RIGHT: ISLA GRAND BEACH RESORT; BELOW: GILLEY'S

Under an Endless Sky

From starry nights to sun-filled days, the weather in Texas creates an idyllic backdrop for outdoor events and gatherings.

By Mitzuko Byres

AUSTIN

Cosmic Coffee and Beer Garden

Do you want your guests to enjoy food trucks, craft cocktails, live music, and locally brewed beer? Cosmic’s regenerative system of growing its own herbs and vegetables using chicken coop composting helped it achieve the Austin Office of Sustainability’s platinum rating for green business. The dog-friendly beer garden, patio, and indoor areas offer seating for 500 guests. cosmichospitalitygroup.com

Highbrow House/Lowbrow Garden

THANKS TO TEMPERATE WEATHER year-round, Texas boasts stunning outdoor venues perfect for all social and corporate events. When the summer heat gets too high, some venues offer indoor alternatives to help attendees cool off. These fantastic places include urban beer gardens, rural ranches, and rooftop decks with skyline views.

ARLINGTON

River Legacy Park

River Legacy Park is only a 15-minute drive from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. There are more than 400 species of wildlife, 28 species of trees, and 193 species of birds that call the 1,300 acres of this urban oasis home. The park follows the curves of the Trinity River and includes three rentable outdoor pavilions. The nearby River Legacy Living Science Center offers indoor space for up to 200 in the case of inclement weather. riverlegacy.org

Under pecan, bamboo, and crepe myrtle trees, the 12,000-square-foot Lowbrow Garden has standing capacity for up to 450 people and seats 118. The beer garden has a casual atmosphere with fire pits, bean bag toss games, and picnic tables. If you would like a smaller gathering indoors, enjoy the sophisticated decor of the famous Highbrow House, which features Persian rugs, oil paintings, and authentic antiques. The 1,400-square-foot open floor plan has seating for 33 people, but it can comfortably host a reception for 42 guests. hblbatx.com

CEDAR CREEK

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa

The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is 30 minutes from Austin along the Colorado River and offers guided horseback rides on trails in the Texas Hill Country. The venue is perfect for all indoor and outdoor events with a natural-landscape water park, golf course, and patios around the property. In addition to partaking in the onsite spa, guests can enjoy various cuisines at one of the seven cafes and eateries on the property, with options ranging from Tex-Mex to sushi. lostpinesresortandspa.com

FORTH WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN

DALLAS

Klyde Warren Park

The 5.2-acre deck park operates over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway (state Route Spur 366). Open to the public, the green space is between the downtown Arts District and Uptown but can be reserved with a permit for private events. Klyde Warren Park has public restrooms that are wheelchair accessible, has free Wi-Fi, and brings in food trucks daily. klydewarrenpark.org

Knight Sky

This chic indoor and outdoor venue in the Oak Lawn neighborhood features a rooftop deck with beautiful skyline views of downtown Dallas and an alternative indoor space. The Knight Sky is a private event and catering venue with a capacity of 175 for cocktail-style events and 80 for a seated affair. knightskydallas.com

Marie Gabrielle Restaurant and Gardens

This exquisite venue offers luxury amenities for 450 seated guests in a secluded garden and restaurant in the Harwood District. With full-service catering and meticulously manicured gardens, guests can enjoy events amid oak and river birch trees, a reflection pool, and twinkling lights. An alternate indoor space for 400 seated guests is also available, or both spaces can host 1,250 people for an indoor-outdoor cocktail gathering. marie-gabrielle.com

EL PASO

Keystone Heritage Park

With a capacity of 250 guests, Keystone Heritage Park is a popular venue for hosting weddings. The space also features the El Paso Desert Botanical Garden, which provides a beautiful floral setting for outdoor meetings and events. In addition, the Franklin Mountains create the perfect backdrop for any gathering. This venue offers several spaces including a deck, patio, and terrace. keystoneheritagepark.com

HYATT REGENCY LOST PINES RESORT AND SPA

COSMIC COFFEE AND BEER GARDEN

FORT WORTH Fort Worth Botanic Garden

This 117-acre venue has 14 different outdoor spaces for events and gatherings. Sixteen indoor accommodations ensure your guests will always have a place to go in the case of inclement weather. The gardens combine native Texas scenery with traditional English, French, and Japanese aesthetics incorporated in the design. The indoor facility includes an auditorium and several breakout rooms. fwbg.org

Tarrant Events Center

A modern industrial space, the Tarrant Events Center has over an acre of shaded lawn for outdoor events. It is fully equipped with largescreen TVs, speakers, and a stage for sharing your message with attendees. The venue is able to host up to 300 people. tarranteventscenter.com

Wild Acre Live

Celebrate your event or host a multiday festival at this flexible outdoor space boasting a rustic, industrial ambiance. The venue can accommodate up to 4,000 guests. In addition, you can contact in-house event planners to oversee the box office and ticket sales, production team members, and catering staff. wildacrelive.com

GALVESTON The Bryan Museum

The Bryan Museum, in a magnificent Renaissance Revival-style building originally built in 1895, is in the heart of Galveston. The venue has spaces to suit all types of events, from weddings to corporate meetings and intimate social gatherings. The conservatory, with its walls and ceilings made of windows, can host up to 150 seated guests for an outdoor experience without exposure to inclement weather. thebryanmuseum.org

Sea Star Base

Sea Star Base features spaces and experiences on both land and sea. The main event spaces include the waterfront amphitheater with wooden bench seating for up to 200 guests, or you can move the event indoors to the banquet hall located on the top floor and host up to 270 seated guests. For overnight guests, experience the property’s maritime-themed suites. Make a day of it and sail away on one of Sea Star Base’s charter fishing expeditions. ssbgalveston.org

GRANDVIEW

Beaumont Ranch

Situated among 800 rolling acres in North Texas, Beaumont Ranch has hosted extravagant events for the last two decades. The Blue Bonnet Barn and the Lone Star Barn each have 20,000 square feet of space, each with a capacity for 600 people. Nearby, the Sydney Sausen Cattle Co. Building has a capacity of up to 50 people. Guests can stay in luxury suites or rustic guest cabins, and outings are guided by authentic cowboys and cowgirls. beaumontranch.com

HOUSTON

Briscoe Manor

The elegant venue is west Houston’s premier wedding spot for locals, but it is a hidden gem for corporate gatherings in a natural, historic setting. The 50-acre private property offers multiple outdoor and indoor spaces along with beverage and catering services. The grand ballroom has capacity for 350 seated guests, while the courtyard and lakeside lawn can each host up to 300 seated. briscoemanor.com

Skylawn Rooftop Outpost at Post HTX

The former Barbara Jordan Post Office building is now a beautiful and vibrant cultural hub surrounded by parks. The whimsical rooftop outdoor venue, designed by Hoerr Schaudt, is adjacent to the organic urban farm. Guests can host large-scale and private events for up to 300 seated attendees with catering by chefs like James Beard award-winning Paul Qui and Michelin Star-winner Christopher Haatuft. posthtx.com

Spindletap Brewery

Spindletap Brewery opened to the public in 2015. There is an outdoor space of 3 acres with pickleball and kickball fields, putt-putt golf, a beer garden, and a pavilion, and the brewery offers an indoor, climate-controlled taproom for hot summers with a capacity of up to 60 guests. Of course, the house-brewed beer is always on tap. spindletap.com

SAN ANTONIO

San Antonio Botanical Garden

This beautiful garden is situated a few minutes from downtown San Antonio and serves as a living classroom and a tranquil escape. This 38-acre garden is also famous among locals for holding memorable events. Book The Betty Kelso Centre, which features sliding glass doors and patios surrounding the classroom, as well as audiovisual features for indoor-outdoor events. Among several outdoor venues, the amphitheater can host up to 300 guests. sabot.org

BRISCOE MANOR; ABOVE: HIGHBROW HOUSE/LOWBROW GARDEN OPPOSITE: KLYDE WARREN PARK

BIG BEND

NAMED AFTER THE BEND of the Rio Grande River between Texas and Mexico, Texas’ Big Bend region is home to 800,000-plus-acre Big Bend National Park, the largest national park in the state. The area has deep historical and cultural roots and is known for its extreme landscape that ranges from desert valleys to mountain slopes. It is the perfect meeting destination for the most adventurous of groups.

VISIT EL PASO

There’s a reason El Paso is commonly coined the Sun City—nothing is more invigorating than the warm, sunny weather available yearlong here. With its ideal climate, location, and selection of attractions and sights, El Paso is a special destination for meeting planners and their attendees.

Being out in West Texas provides meeting planners and attendees with an abundance of new experiences and opportunities that stray from tradition. El Paso’s character and culture is without equal. The city checks all the boxes when it comes to flexibility, convenience, and accessibility. And while El Paso is known for its friendliness, authentic Mexican food, and being one of the safest cities in the U.S., it’s quickly becoming America’s great meeting, event, and tournament hub.

The city offers more than 10,000 hotel rooms and eight event venues that include the El Paso Convention Center, which is the largest indoor option with 133,000 square feet of meeting space, and the largest outdoor venue, Sun Bowl Stadium, with over 46,000 seats.

Traveling to and from El Paso is easy. The El Paso International Airport has eight airlines to choose from, offering numerous nonstop flights to and from major cities. In addition, the airport’s central location puts guests a mere 15-minute car ride away from revitalized downtown El Paso.

El Paso delivers on a budget in ways other cities can’t, like offering lower rates for nearly every aspect of your event, from hotel rooms and event spaces to food and beverage,

transportation, and entertainment. El Paso also offers incentives that can often save you money, giving you the extra room in your budget to hire an exciting guest speaker or treat your attendees to dinner and a show.

Don’t think twice about choosing El Paso for your next event.

MEET IN ODESSA, TX

Get ready to meet, learn, and play in the manufacturing center of the Permian Basin! Odessa is ready to host you for your next meeting. Odessa is the heart of West Texas. Most often, when visitors think of Odessa, images of packed football stadiums, oil derricks, and pump jacks come to mind. While we are famously known for “Friday Night Lights” and the oil and gas industry, the city has much more. Odessa is home to continuous public art projects, murals, and revitalization of the downtown area. Must-see attractions are the Odessa Spire, Stonehenge Replica, The Ector County Coliseum, The Globe of The Southwest, Ratliff Stadium, and so much more! With over 300,000 square feet of meeting space, 50 hotel properties, and over 300 restaurants, Odessa has the team to help plan your meeting. The Discover Odessa team specializes in securing affordable hotel rates, hassle-free event planning, registration assistance, welcome bags, curated brochures and maps, assistance with transportation coordination, creation of name tags, and more!

DiscoverOdessa.org

700 N. Grand Ave., Suite 200 Odessa, TX 79761 432-333-7871

info@discoverodessa.org

PRAIRIES AND LAKES

FROM A DAILY CATTLE drive in the Fort Worth Stockyards to line dancing lessons at the legendary Billy Bob’s Texas or a trip to Southfork Ranch—where the primetime soap opera “Dallas” was set— the Prairies and Lakes region is pure Texan. You will also find dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park, which is only a short drive from Dallas’ city lights. Here, groups should expect the unexpected.

200,000 SQUARE FEET OF MEETING SPACE,

ALL WITHIN 4.4 SQUARE MILES

PHOTO: ADOBE/WISANUBOONRAWD

FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING OR CONVENTION, GO FOR THE W!

WITH SO MANY SMILES AND THINGS TO DO, EVERY MEETING IS A WIN.

WITH SO MANY SMILES AND THINGS TO DO, EVERY MEETING IS A WIN.

More than just a place to meet – Waco is a place full of incredible stories, experiences and the best hospitality anywhere in Texas. Oh, and of course, we have top amenities like a modern convention center with everything needed for an event to be successful. It’s the entire package only Waco offers that really makes it a win for both business and every guest.

More than just a place to meet – Waco is a place full of incredible stories, experiences and the best hospitality anywhere in Texas. Oh, and of course, we have top amenities like a modern convention center with everything needed for an event to be successful. It’s the entire package only Waco offers that really makes it a win for both business and every guest.

Rock the house.

Whether it’s an event of 800 or a meeting for 8, the Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas has you covered. From a multitude of flexible space to mouthwatering food and beverages options, and innumerable services to innovative features, this award-winning venue promises to elevate your next event to rock star status.

WAXAHACHIE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

For more than 150 years, Waxahachie has been a destination for locals and visitors alike. Today, it’s still the go-to place with over 120 delicious restaurants and numerous antique stores, boutiques, and specialty shops in the historic Downtown District. Waxahachie is also home to the legendary Ellis County Courthouse, the most photographed courthouse in the state of Texas, plus historic museums and art galleries, and easy access to the Waxahachie Creek Hike & Bike Trail. Waxahachie also hosts exciting festivals and special events throughout the year, like Scarborough Renaissance Festival, Gingerbread Trail Home Tour, Texas Country Reporter Festival, Bethlehem Revisited, and many more.

The Waxahachie Civic Center is a state-of-the-art, spacious facility that will knock your boots off. Hosting hundreds of boardroom meetings, ballroom galas, weddings, and corporate conventions each year, the Waxahachie Civic Center is ready to be the home of your next event. For your convenience, the Waxahachie CVB is located inside the Waxahachie Civic Center so you will experience downhome hospitality from two different departments all under one roof to ensure the success of your event. “The Waxahachie CVB staff can be hands-on to assist you with hotel rooms, convention services like registration, and anything else that you might need in the city to make your event and attendees feel special,” says Laurie Mosley, Waxahachie CVB director. Waxahachie is conveniently located only 30 minutes south of Dallas at the intersection of Interstate 35E and U.S. Route 287. Waxahachie—A Place in Your Heart, Texas.

WACO CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

A gathering place is way more than just a place to meet. If it were only that, your group could stay home. An exceptional meeting spot is one that opens possibilities, gives room for potential, and is energizing.

Located 100 miles from both Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin, and accessible via American Airlines to Waco Regional Airport, Waco is the perfect convention destination with everything your group needs to power up success. Waco’s convention facilities, gathering spaces, services, and operations are top-notch and ensure smooth and productive meetings. But that’s the entry expectations for any quality location, right?

Waco goes beyond the basics and gives a whole lot more. Downtown offers walkable wonders like the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos, the Dr Pepper Museum, and Balcones—an award-winning distillery. Plus, there are dozens of unique shops, antique stores, and live music in the Cultural District. Just minutes away, ride the world’s longest lazy river at Waco Surf, cruise up the Brazos River, go back thousands of years at Waco Mammoth National Monument, or explore local history at the Texas Ranger Museum and the Mayborn Museum. Hundreds of amazing places will have your attendees wanting to come back to Waco. WacoHeartofTexas.com

COLUMBUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITORS CENTER

Conveniently located at the nexus of Houston, Austin, and San Antonio, Columbus is known for its wonderful historic homes and buildings, an abundance of majestic live oaks, and vibrant, small-town friendliness. Rest your head at one of the many bed-and-breakfasts and modern hotels in the area. Columbus lodgings can accommodate groups of all sizes. Columbus offers a wide variety of event venues—from historic venues circa 1880 to a shabby-chic 1930s dance hall. You will also find unique shopping destinations filled with clothing, home decor, and antiques. The many Columbus restaurants and specialty shops are sure to satisfy your every craving.

ColumbusTexas.org

425 Spring St. • Columbus, TX 78934 979-732-8385 • assist@columbustexas.org

VISIT MANSFIELD

Have a small- to mid-sized meeting or event and looking for a centrally located spot near the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex where you can pick from rustic, historic, and modern venues? Really? And you are reading this specific ad? Boy, sounds like fate to us! Come join us in Mansfield, where you will find old-school Texas hospitality and modern amenities just 20 minutes from Fort Worth, and we will make sure your meeting is the biggest thing going on around here.

VisitMansfieldTexas.com

1164 Matlock Road • Mansfield, TX 76063 817-728-3382 • tim.roberts@mansfieldtexas.gov

VISIT ADDISON

Located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Addison, Texas, puts your meeting at the center of dining, upscale shopping, music, and more to help set your next meeting apart. An urban walkable oasis of only 4.4 square miles, Addison combines the energy, vibrancy, and perks of a big city, with over 200 diverse restaurants and 22 quality hotels offering nearly 4,000 rooms to meet your needs. Home to more than 200,000 square feet of meeting space, Addison can accommodate almost any size event, and unique venues make off-site meeting planning a breeze. Addison—at the center of it all!

VisitAddison.com

972-450-7079 • info@visitaddison.com

GRAPEVINE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Grapevine, Texas, centrally located between Dallas and Fort Worth and five minutes from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, is home to more than 1 million square feet of meeting space and 20 hotels, and is the premier meetings and convention destination in North Texas. With 11,000 hotel rooms within 15 minutes of historic Downtown Grapevine, attendees will enjoy the thriving downtown area, winery tasting rooms, locally owned restaurants and shops, attractions, and more throughout the city. Experience the city’s rich Texas heritage and unique event venues with all the modern-day technology necessary to operate a first-class meeting or event.

GrapevineTexasUSA.com

636 S. Main St. • Grapevine, TX 76051 800-457-6338 • visitorinfo@grapevinetexasusa.com

VISIT SEGUIN

Situated 30 miles east of San Antonio, Seguin features tree-lined river bottoms and the quaint, historic downtown experience that only small-town Texas can provide. Sprinkled around Seguin you will find all sorts of interesting venues— from museums and historic buildings to a downtown warehouse and a coliseum, there is something to suit every planner’s preference. Adding to Seguin’s uniqueness is a slew of attractions perfect for evening receptions or attendees’ free time. Guests can be dwarfed by the World’s Largest Pecan or can even ride the world’s first modern wooden shuttle roller coaster at ZDT’s Amusement Park.

VisitSeguin.com

116 N. Camp St. • Seguin, TX 78155 830-401-2309 • bfriar@seguintexas.gov

CLEBURNE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Cleburne is the ideal location for your next event. Whether it’s a wedding, a small meeting, or a major convention, Cleburne has a wide variety of unique venues and exciting entertainment. There are several ways to experience Cleburne, like visiting one of our many museums or catching a game at the Depot, home of the Cleburne Railroaders baseball team. Cleburne features unique shops and locally owned restaurants with various cuisines, and it is conveniently located minutes away from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Contact our staff to help you plan your next event!

Good to meet you, too.

EXPLORE GLEN ROSE

Explore the history, heart, and hospitality of Glen Rose. Known as the Dinosaur Capital of Texas, visitors can explore dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Valley State Park, walk among 150 life-sized dinosaurs at Dinosaur World, and delve into the science of the creatures at the Creation Evidence Museum. Travel through the heart of Glen Rose to seek out all the painted dinosaurs around town, tour Fossil Rim Wildlife Center to feed the giraffe and other animals, golf on the beautiful 36-hole golf course, or eat and shop at the many family-owned restaurants and stores in our Historic Courthouse square.

VISIT MCKINNEY

Looking for a walkable location filled with culinary delights, unique entertainment, and venues perfect for your meeting and after-hours events? Whether accommodating eight people or 800, your meeting and your attendees will always be a top priority in McKinney. We’ll help you plan the most productive and memorable meeting, networking events, and other activities. Submit your request for proposal, and learn more about our services at Visit McKinney by visiting our website.

VISIT MESQUITE

Experience authentic Texas culture in Mesquite, a city declared the Rodeo Capital of Texas by the governor. The world-famous Mesquite Championship Rodeo is staged in the Mesquite Arena, which has evolved into a top-notch concert facility hosting thousands of musical acts, conventions, and sporting events. Dedicated art enthusiasts will surely find something to spark interest through a rotation of local artists at The Mesquite Art Center. If music and theater are of interest, the Mesquite Symphony Orchestra or the Mesquite Community Theatre will surely be hits.

There’s no better way to experience Texas tradition than with our home-sourced, original events and festivals for adults and kids of all ages. And the city has countless possibilities that are either free or at a small cost.

With over 60 parks, the vibrant community of Mesquite is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Stroll through the Butterfly Trail in Paschall Park, try archery at the Westlake Archery Range, relax at Opal Lawrence Historical Park or the Mesquite Golf Club, or take the family to KidsQuest at Debusk Park. Bring your poles and bait box to Mesquite if fishing is your thing. Part of the Texas Parks & Wildlife’s Neighborhood Fishin’ Program, one of our lakes is routinely stocked with catfish and rainbow trout depending on the season. The fishing pier is a perfect location for a big catch. The possibilities for outdoor exercise and fun are endless. Who doesn’t love a unique shopping experience? Find intriguing items and memorable experiences while shopping

at Town East Mall or in Downtown Mesquite. For more excitement, check out Devil’s Bowl Speedway for live car races, Celebration Station for go-karting and arcade games, or Xscape Adventures for escape rooms.

After a day of adventures, relax and enjoy the city’s melting pot of food choices. In Mesquite, you can eat like a local at Zagat-rated restaurants like Yia Yia’s House of Gyros, Athenos, and Mesquite Diner, or revel in the flavor of the islands at two Caribbean restaurants: Reggae Wings and Tings and Jamaican Cook Shop. Experience the fall-offthe-bone magic of Texas barbecue at Mesquite BBQ (also Zagat-rated), a family-run restaurant for over 60 years, or try the chopped-beef-stuffed-potato-and-banana pudding at Slab’s BBQ. Mesquite has more than 250 dining options for you to enjoy.

Join us for a day, weekend, or week; you are invited to experience Mesquite.

TOPGOLF

• Venues overlooking Lewisville Lake

• 45 holes of award-winning lakeside golf

• Boats, paddle boards, jet skis and bike rentals

• World-class dining and boutique shopping

• Local microbreweries and taprooms across town

• Private wine tastings

A convention that doesn’t feel so conventional?

NEW CONVENTION CENTER OPENING IN 2024

Imagine a world where “can’t” doesn’t exist. Imagine all you can do in Arlington, Texas. Located just 15 minutes from DFW International airport, Arlington o ers everything you need to make your next event memorable, from our diverse collection of flexible venues to our growing hotel inventory — and a CVB team that excels at turning Arlington’s unique assets into experiences that make attendees say, “Wow!”

Arlington is also growing by the day. Our new 888-room luxury hotel and Arlington Convention Center is opening in 2024. So whether you’re planning for an event in the next few months or next few years, Arlington is ready. Email us at sales@arlington.org, and let’s talk about what we CAN DO for you.

VISIT IRVING

Meet Irving—a city with a spirited personality, Southern charm, and modernity, all comprising its distinct character. With culture, adventure, and entertainment in one compact, accessible footprint, Irving is primed for play and adventure. Visitors experience all of it from the central hub of Las Colinas, a master-planned community with a thriving, walkable entertainment district anchored by the Irving Convention Center (ICC) at Las Colinas. With 100,000 square feet of meeting and event space, the ICC is as functional as it is aesthetically appealing. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer scenic vistas, and a stacked layout allows for concurrent events in distinct spaces. For big groups, the vertical design translates to efficient flow between sessions. Plus, ample networking areas allow delegates to collaborate comfortably. The center offers walkable access to The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas headquarters hotel and to the Toyota Music Factory—a multivenue complex offering the ultimate in dining, nightlife, and live music. Also, within the entertainment district, accommodations abound— from the boutique Texican Court Hotel and distinguished resorts to familiar brands like Marriott that make hosting larger groups a breeze. With amazing resorts and exceptional brands for any budget, Irving is primed to welcome your group to experience the city’s one-of-a-kind convention center, varied hotels, and between-the-sessions culture, adventure, and entertainment—all brought to you with Texas-sized hospitality. IrvingTexas.com

VISIT BRENHAM

Perfectly located halfway between Austin and Houston, Washington County has over 30 venues available for group meetings, conferences, corporate retreats, and much more. From large multiperson events to private corporate retreats, and everything in between, Brenham delivers. You’ll experience small-town charm steeped in rich Texas history. Combine that with modern amenities at The Barnhill Center at Historic Simon Theatre to create an effortless, memorable event.

Eleven name-brand hotels in the Brenham area and top-notch bed-and-breakfast facilities throughout the county offer lodging options for every budget. Four local wineries and a brewery, as well as venues offering live music, add energy to the small-town ambiance. Live professional theater and the restored 1925 Vaudeville theater offer amazing entertainment.

Brenham’s relaxed historic downtown welcomes visitors with a mix of quality shopping and dining selections. Nearby touring destinations include Washingtonon-the-Brazos State Historic Site; the Texas Cotton Gin Museum in Burton; Antique Rose Emporium and the original site of Baylor University in Independence; and Chappell Hill’s intriguing shops, tasty dining options, and historic museum. Visit Brenham is here to help you plan an amazing event, including assisting with hotel room blocks, location scouting, planning historic tours, providing visitor bags, name tags, and more.

VisitBrenhamTexas.com

115 W. Main St. • Brenham, TX 77883 979-337-7585

hmertz@visitbrenhamtexas.com

VISIT BASTROP, DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATION

Texas hospitality was truly born here. Meet in Bastrop, and change your perspective. If you’re visiting for an event, whether a working conference, an outdoor wedding, or a special group retreat—the relaxed atmosphere of Bastrop will help you and your guests get away. Attendees will be delighted by the small-town charm, front-porch access to the great outdoors, and vibrant history and culture. Easy access to the airport and entertainment, an array of food options, and a variety of accommodations, from cabins with rustic history to luxury resorts, mean every traveler can find something to love during meetings and events held in our neck of the woods.

Hold an elegant gathering for 15 or 1,500 at the world-class Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa with more than 300,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Make meetings easy with unique spaces at the 26,400-square-foot Bastrop Convention Center in the heart of downtown Bastrop. This facility can accommodate up to 800 guests for a range of events, including conventions, corporate meetings, weddings, concerts, banquets, and more. For an experience you can only have in small-town Texas, book your event in the middle of our historic Main Street, and create a storybook moment punctuated with stars. No matter the choice, you’ll get the Bastrop standard of genuine service, friendly faces, and a unique story that will make the memories of your meeting and events here even richer.

VisitBastrop.com

1408 B Chestnut St. • Bastrop, TX 78602 512-332-8990 • info@visitbastrop.com

GULF COAST

TEXAS’ GULF COAST stretches along 624 miles of coastline extending from the Louisiana border to the Mexican frontier. It is here, during the 1800s, where the French pirate Jean Lafitte is said to have hidden away a treasure trove that is still yet to be found. This region is also where NASA’s mission control accomplished the seemingly impossible in guiding Apollo 11’s journey carrying a man to the moon. Imagine what treasures will inspire meeting and convention attendees in the Gulf Coast region.

Just a quick drive south of Houston, the city of Pearland has a spirit entirely its own. e thriving culinary scene, fabulous shopping, unique attractions, and a ordable hotels will draw you in, but the welcoming culture will have you coming back again, and again.

Host your next small meeting, event, or retreat in Pearland where personalized service is paired with exceptional planning support.

VisitPearland.com

11200 Broadway Street, Suite 1390

Pearland, TX 77584 • 281.997.5970

PHOTO: ADOBE/TOM

YOUR EVENT DESERVES A YOUR EVENT DESERVES A

Suite View Suite View

Perched on glittering Clear Lake, South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center is minutes away from Kemah Boardwalk, Space Center Houston, NASA, chic shopping, waterfront dining, and boating galore. South Shore Harbour Resort offers 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, along with a team of experienced meeting planners, on-site A/V, catering, and banquet services.

» 25,000 sq. ft. of event space

» 230 spacious guest rooms

» Indoor & outdoor venue options

» Onsite transportation and party boats available

SSHR.COM 281-334-1000

Learn more about additional spaces and hotels in League City including the newly opened Big League Dreams Park, Butler's Courtyard & Event Center, Walding Station Event Venue, Candlewood Inn & Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and Hampton Inn & Suites.

Chart Your Course to Clear Lake Just 30 minutes south of Houston and 28 miles from Galveston, League City is easily accessible! Houston’s Hobby Airport (HOU) is 20 minutes via I-45, and Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) just 47 miles north.

BEAUMONT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Beaumont, Texas, is ready to serve with an extra portion of Southern hospitality seasoned with a splash of bayou boldness and Cajun flair. Nestled on the Texas Gulf Coast, just 90 miles from Houston, Beaumont offers all big-city comforts, but with the added coziness and accessibility of a small town. Convention centers, meeting venues, hotels, restaurants, and attractions are eager to please and score high on accessibility. Personalized services and professionalism are both a passion and a specialty of the experienced Beaumont CVB team.

• Beaumont Civic Center: 41,300 square feet of space

• Event Centre: 16,000 square feet of space

• Ford Park Entertainment Complex: 83,000 square feet of contiguous meeting space

• Holiday Inn Beaumont East Medical Center: 4,695 square feet of space and 160 sleeping rooms

• Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Beaumont Plaza: 22,000-plus square feet of space and 252 sleeping rooms

• The MCM Eleganté Hotel & Conference Center: 20,000-plus square feet of space and 278 sleeping rooms

MeetBeaumont.com

505 Willow St. • Beaumont, TX 77701 409-880-3749

freddie.willard@beaumonttexas.gov

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND CONVENTION CENTER

Texas’ best beach, South Padre Island, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a tropical getaway. Meeting planners love the region’s setting and accommodations for events of all sizes. They also appreciate the island’s tropical feel, as it lures attendees excited to hit the beach while learning, networking, and growing their organizations.

South Padre Island is a natural learning environment with group-friendly tours and activities, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the waters, view bottlenose dolphins, interact with sea turtles, and learn about native birds and rare butterflies. Popular tours include horseback riding, where groups can enjoy unparalleled views of the Laguna Madre bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

A tropical backdrop leaves no room for boredom in the boardroom. South Padre Island offers ideal venues with meeting space, delicious island catering, and rooms equipped with modern amenities. A walkable boardwalk at the South Padre Island Convention Center and easy access to the Island Metro (a free shuttle with daily service) make getting to and from team-building activities, lunch, or meetings a breeze.

The famous Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville will open its doors this year. Meeting planners can find a place to stay, eat, and network all in one place. This hotel will offer 8,500 square feet of flexible event space, on-site catering, and a dedicated event team.

SoPadre.com/Meetings

7355 Padre Blvd. • South Padre Island, TX 78597 800-657-2373 • info@sopadre.com

In Beaumont, we don’t want you to have just any regular meeting. Our team of highly experienced meeting experts want to make sure your attendees get a taste of Beaumont and share amazing experiences with our partners. If you can’t see it all, we have opportunities for our partners to come to you. Or, if you want to get out and explore, we can plan exciting activities for you to experience the city.

MEET Memorable

When hosting your meeting in Beaumont, exploring the city is something that we want you to experience. From unique museums, an active nightlife, live music, outdoor adventures, and delicious food, Beaumont offers a number of options for your attendees to enjoy.

It’s time to break out of the board room for good! Discover unexpected meeting spaces like the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum which is a replica 1901 oil town, or the Beaumont Botanical Gardens Center, where you will be immersed in acres of blooming flora and fauna. Beaumont is suitable for any size group or budget.

We know our city inside and out. Call or visit us for all of your meeting needs!

MEETINGS WITH A VIEW

Escape the four walls and feel the sand on your toes with your next meeting on Texas’ only tropical island Wide-open natural beach and stunning Gulf of Mexico waters are the perfect backdrops for your event As “Texas’ Best Beach,” and with more than 5,000 guest rooms, attendees can choose from a wide selection of beach and bayside hotels and vacation rentals, all perfectly situated to help you explore South Padre Island

CONTACT US: 7355 Padre Blvd South Padre Island, T X 78597 1-800-657-2373 | www sopadre com | info@sopadre com

VISIT CORPUS CHRISTI

Conveniently located on the South Texas coast, just minutes from Corpus Christi International Airport, Corpus Christi is the perfect place to meet and stay for a while. The modern American Bank Center features more than 400,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space, perfectly positioned overlooking Corpus Christi Bay. Choose from more than 11,000 hotel and condo rooms with competitive rates, including over 1,200 rooms in the Bayfront and downtown areas alone. Find an array of dining, entertainment, and attractions in the proximity, and make this your biggest, boldest meeting or convention yet.

Here in the Gulf Coast Capital, our way of life is bigger than our beaches. Find some time to dust yourself off, fold up that beach towel, and explore your surroundings. Take a trip back in time aboard the USS Lexington, a World War II aircraft carrier, before treating yourself to some fresh Gulf oysters and an ocean view. Then, lose yourself in some natural beauty and go birdwatching on a walk through the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. You can cook your own catch or enjoy every meal with a view. Whatever you choose to do, you can coast your own way.

MeetCorpusChristi.com

400 Mann St., Suite 100 Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-881-1888 • sales@visitcorpuschristi.com

Host your next event at this pristine, historic ranch nestled along the Colorado River. In addition to full event amenities, you and your guests will enjoy all-inclusive luxe accommodations, field-and-farm cuisine, attentive staff, an infinity pool, and much more. You and your crew take over the ranch, and let Spread Oaks Ranch take care of everything else.

VISIT BAYTOWN

Baytown is an ideal location for meeting planners looking for that perfect venue in the Greater Houston area. Located just 30 minutes east of Houston along the Interstate 10 corridor, Baytown is convenient to both Houston Hobby and Bush Intercontinental airports. Baytown offers over 2,000 hotel rooms across 30 hotels. Whether hosting a family gathering, corporate event, or large convention, Baytown has a variety of locations to accommodate your needs.

The newest addition to Baytown is the stylish Hyatt Regency Baytown-Houston hotel and conference center on Bayland Island, opening this July. This waterfront hotel holds 208 hotel rooms and 18,000 square feet of versatile meeting space, including a 12,000-square-foot ballroom, and can handle conferences and galas for up to 1,200 guests. The water-inspired accommodations include a remarkable view of the iconic Fred Hartman suspension bridge, the longest cable-stayed bridge in Texas. The hotel’s bayside location also offers easy access to the Baytown marina, trendy restaurants, and entertainment.

Marriott’s Springhill Suites Baytown offers 4,500 square feet of meeting space, while the Hilton Garden Inn Baytown offers 6,882 square feet of event space. Both locations offer catering and technology services to meet your needs.

The Visit Baytown team is always available to help you find the perfect venue, lodging, and visitor information for your next event.

VisitBaytown.com

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VISIT SUGAR LAND

Close to Houston, far from expected. Just 20 minutes southwest of downtown Houston, Sugar Land’s top-ranked hotels, premier attractions, and the walkability of the Town Square collectively allow Sugar Land to offer a variety of venues that will have you thinking of your meeting in a whole new way. Sugar Land boasts more than 40,000 square feet of flexible hotel meeting space and 1,400 guest rooms. In addition, Sugar Land is home to various unique meeting venues from a performing arts center to a minor league baseball stadium. From corporate outings and trade shows to social events and team-building activities, you are sure to find your perfect fit. Visit Sugar Land strives to make your meetings sweeter. Its team of experts offer meeting planners assistance with site inspections, permitting, transportation, promotion, and more to make your Sugar Land event as seamless as possible. Scan the QR code to learn more on how the Visit Sugar Land sales team can help. VisitSugarLandTX.com

Just 20 minutes southwest of downtown Houston, you’ll find the top-rated Houston Marriott Sugar Land that sits in the heart of the city, offering 300 guests rooms and more than 26,500 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, all within walking distance of more than 30 unique restaurants and retailers.

HILL COUNTRY

EACH YEAR, the rolling landscape of the Texas Hill Country is blanketed in blue as the state flower, the bluebonnet, makes its spring appearance. Home to politicians and cowpokes, the region includes the state capital, Austin, as well as Bandera, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” It is also the epicenter of Texas Wine Country— perfect for a post-meeting group tour or a corporate retreat.

PHOTO: ADOBE/JOHN DAVIS

BANDERA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Bring your team to Bandera, the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” for personal meetings located less than an hour from San Antonio—where skyscrapers, city traffic, and noise give way to the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. Embrace Bandera’s cowboy culture, which is built on the three Rs: respect, responsibility, and realness. Simply put: Being respectful encourages acting responsibly and authentically.

Bandera’s cowboy culture allows your group to personally connect, roll up their sleeves, and tackle the issues at hand in a personal setting that strengthens team spirit and productivity.

Meetings in Bandera are best suited for groups of between 25 and 75 people. Some groups can be accommodated by area guest ranches: Imagine outdoor breakfasts, poolside breakouts, horseback rides and hayrides, evenings around a campfire, and an excursion to visit Bandera’s nightlife. For others, the Best Western Bandera Suites & Saloon, the Flying L Ranch Resort, Bandera’s two vintage boutique motels, and countryside locations offer endless possibilities for visitors.

No matter your choice, your team’s spirit and productivity are sure to be enhanced long after a meeting in Bandera. Let us help you with meeting your needs.

BanderaCowboyCapital.com

126 State Highway 16 S. • P.O. Box 171 Bandera, TX 78003 830-796-3045 • info@banderacowboycapital.com

MEET IN KERRVILLE

VISIT KERRVILLE

Nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River is one of the Texas Hill Country’s best-kept secrets. Rich in history and host to a diverse selection of things to see, do, taste, and experience, Kerrville is a must-see. Only a 60-mile scenic drive west from San Antonio and home to a variety of event spaces, the sky is truly the limit on the type of meeting or entertainment possibilities one would have to choose from to plan or attend.

MEET IN KERRVILLE

Nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River is one of the Texas Hill Country’s best kept secrets. Rich in history and host to a diverse selection of things to see, do, taste and experience; Kerrville is a must-see. Only a 60-mile scenic drive west from San Antonio and home to a variety of event spaces to choose from in area, the sky is truly the limit on the type of meeting or entertainment possibilities one would have to choose from to plan or attend. The Inn of the Hills Hotel & Conference Center and the Y.O. Ranch Hotel & Conference Center give you the luxury of booking not only your event space but allow you to accommodate your attendees overnight needs in one convenient location. Both properties provide ample in house amenities to not only keep your attendees entertained when not in sessions, but accompanying spouses and children as well. The Hill Country Youth Event Center provides a highly versatile multi-event space with a scenic Hill Country backdrop to make any affair memorable. With their ability to play host to an array of expo’s, showcases, and meetings; your event will sure to be a success among all of your attendees.No one understands the importance of your meeting’s success better than the Kerrville Convention & Visitors Bureau! We pride ourselves in comprehending each group’s individual needs, and then tailoring our services to optimize everyone’s experience while visiting our beautiful city. Regardless of your events size or needs our sales staff is on standby to assist you in finding the right fit.

Nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River is one of the Texas Hill Country’s best kept secrets. Rich in history and host to a diverse selection of things to see, do, taste and experience; Kerrville is a must-see. Only a 60-mile scenic drive west from San Antonio and home to a variety of event spaces to choose from in area, the sky is truly the limit on the type of meeting or entertainment possibilities one would have to choose from to plan or attend. The Inn of the Hills Hotel & Conference Center and the Y.O. Ranch Hotel & Conference Center give you the luxury of booking not only your event space but allow you to accommodate your attendees overnight needs in one convenient location. Both properties provide ample in house amenities to not only keep your attendees entertained when not in sessions, but accompanying spouses and children as well. The Hill Country Youth Event Center provides a highly versatile multi-event space with a scenic Hill Country backdrop to make any affair memorable. With their ability to play host to an array of expo’s, showcases, and meetings; your event will sure to be a success among all of your attendees.No one understands the importance of your meeting’s success better than the Kerrville Convention & Visitors Bureau! We pride ourselves in comprehending each group’s individual needs, and then tailoring our services to optimize everyone’s experience while visiting our beautiful city. Regardless of your events size or needs our sales staff is on standby to assist you in finding the right fit.

The Inn of the Hills Hotel & Conference Center and the Y.O. Ranch Hotel & Conference Center give you the luxury of booking not only your event space but also allow you to accommodate your attendees overnight in one convenient location. Both properties provide ample in-house amenities to not only keep your attendees entertained when not in sessions, but alao accompanying spouses and children as well. The Hill Country Youth Event Center provides a highly versatile multi-event space with a scenic Texas Hill Country backdrop to make any affair memorable. With its ability to play host to an array of expos, showcases, and meetings, Kerrville will ensure your event is a success in the eyes of all your attendees. No one understands the importance of your meeting’s success better than the Kerrville Convention & Visitors Bureau! We pride ourselves in comprehending each group’s individual needs and then tailoring our services to optimize everyone’s experience while visiting our beautiful city. Regardless of your event’s size or needs, our sales staff is on standby to assist you in finding the right fit.

KerrvilleTexasCVB.com

KerrvilleTexasCVB.com

2108 Sidney Baker • Kerrville, TX 78028 830-792-3535 • cvbsales@ktc.com

2108 Sidney Baker • Kerrville, Texas 78028 830.792.3535 • cvbsales@ktc.com

KerrvilleTexasCVB.com

2108 Sidney Baker • Kerrville, Texas 78028 830.792.3535 • cvbsales@ktc.com

SEE FOR YOURSELF WHY EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT AUSTIN, TEXAS.

With world-renowned restaurants nearby, 12,000-plus hotel rooms within a two-mile radius of the facility, and iconic music venues just a short walk away, there is no better place to host your next event than the Austin Convention Center.

MAKING YOUR VISION OUR MISSION

Located in the heart of downtown Austin, Texas

150+ nonstop flights to Austin from 95 destinations

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport named Top 10 Best Airport in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler three years in a row

100% CLIENT SATISFACTION

Our service-first culture, with an all in-house staff, takes ownership of the guest’s entire experience. As a result, 100% of our clients would like to return for their next event based on survey results.

TECHNOLOGY

With our cutting edge technology, customized network solutions and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout, we are ideal for many events with detailed and substantial technology needs.

VISIT UVALDE COUNTY

Uvalde County, named for Spaniard Juan de Ugalde, is in Southwest Texas and covers over 1,500 square miles midway between San Antonio and the International Amistad Reservoir on the United States-Mexico border.

The pristine Nueces, Leona, Sabinal, and Frio rivers flow through Uvalde County. And the three river canyons (Frio River Canyon, Nueces River Canyon, and Sabinal River Canyon) offer outdoor activities suitable for every age and any lifestyle.

Rich history can be found as the area was home to Native American tribes, Spanish missions, and a lost Franciscan silver mine. Old wagon tracks are visible in the rock of the Frio riverbed, and fossils and footprints of prehistoric animals can be seen in the limestone near the Sabinal River.

Today, a cave near the Frio River is home to over 10 million bats, the second-largest bat population in the world that is available for the public to view. Birding, hunting, fishing, rivergoing, hiking, and endless outdoor adventures await visitors.

VISIT CEDAR PARK TEXAS

Make your trip to Texas unforgettable by staying in Cedar Park! Only 20 miles north of downtown Austin and 30 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Cedar Park is the ideal destination to experience the region. Whether it’s the thrill of live music, a visit to the state’s capital, professional sports games, or some fun on the water, you can do it all while staying here. Not only does Cedar Park have a multitude of events and attractions to keep you staying for more, but our convenient location and accommodations also provide the flexibility to explore all the region has to offer with ease.

VisitCedarParkTexas.com

450 Cypress Creek Road, Building 1 Cedar Park, TX 78613 512-401-5060

cedarparktourism@cedarparktexas.gov

EARLY VISITORS & EVENTS CENTER

Looking for a place to meet outside the hustle and bustle? Meet in Early—conveniently located near the center of Texas—and learn while you rejuvenate and experience that small-town feel with urban amenities. The Early Visitors & Events Center is a beautiful facility that is well-equipped to host various indoor and outdoor events. Our staff will make your meeting easy, effortless, and memorable. You will also experience Texas hospitality at its finest while enjoying local shopping, dining, and entertainment. Combining business with pleasure is only a phone call away.

VisitEarlyTexas.com

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PINEY WOODS

AS ITS NAME SUGGESTS, East Texas’ Piney Woods region is a forest of towering pines interspersed with meandering rivers, sparkling lakes, and mysterious swamps. More than 675,000 acres of land serve as a natural public playground that includes four national forests and nine state parks. The communities located in Piney Woods offer small-town charm and Southern hospitality and welcome visiting groups with open arms.

PHOTO: ADOBE/ZACK FRANK

VISIT HUNTSVILLE, TX

Huntsville is conveniently located on Interstate 45 between Houston and Dallas, making it an unrivaled destination for your group’s get-together in the Piney Woods of East Texas. From historic homes to ranches and ballrooms, Huntsville has a tourism staff that is ready to help you pick the perfect meeting spot in Huntsville. Your group will enjoy shopping and dining in our downtown district, and our unique museums showcase Huntsville’s history. Enjoy the fresh air at Huntsville State Park, or challenge your group with team-building exercises at Sam Houston State University Camp.

HuntsvilleTexas.com

7600 State Route 75 S. • Huntsville, TX 77340 936-291-9726 • jlacy@huntsvilletx.com

VISIT TYLER

Whether your group is big or small, the Rose Capital of America offers a bouquet of possibilities. Tyler’s new W.T. Brookshire Conference Center is just steps away from the nation’s largest rose garden. Additional meeting facilities can be found throughout the city. With so many attractions, local eateries, and outstanding hotels, we are sure your group will enjoy meeting in Tyler.

dbayes@tylertexas.com

SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS

THERE’S NOTHING PLAIN about the South Texas Plains region. It’s where you’ll find the Alamo, Natural Bridge Caverns, historic Spanish missions, World Birding Center, and the famed King Ranch. The landscape varies from rugged brush to lush woodlands, and residents who call it home include Texas tortoises, Texas horned lizards, and green jays. With plenty to explore, picture your group’s post-meeting possibilities.

VISIT SAN ANTONIO

Few destinations provide a sense of place like San Antonio. San Antonio’s River Walk, Spanish colonial architecture, and parks and plazas make it one of America’s most picturesque cities. Also, as one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, San Antonio offers modern convenience in a historic city with diverse culture, global cuisine, and exciting attractions.

Much of the city’s unforgettable landscape has grown along the banks of the River Walk (also referred to as the “World’s Largest Hotel Lobby”) where stone paths run alongside the San Antonio River, connecting hotels, restaurants, shops, and the technologically advanced Henry B. González Convention Center in the downtown core. The 15-mile River Walk also links Spanish colonial missions (a World Heritage Site, along with the Alamo), museums, public art, and Pearl, a former brewery reborn into an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

The San Antonio International Airport is undergoing a major expansion adding flights, airlines, and a new terminal. The airport is currently ranked as the nation’s No. 4 medium-sized airport in the Wall Street Journal’s 2022 Best Airports Rankings. While the airport is expanding, rest assured the focus will remain on delivering excellent customer service and on making it even easier to fly to San Antonio.

San Antonio is growing at an invigorating pace, and there is always something new to see and do, which keeps the destination fresh for repeat groups and visitors. When you meet in San Antonio, you will have an unforgettable experience that stretches beyond the conference room.

Meetings.VisitSanAntonio.com

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PHOTO: ADOBE/TERRI CAGE

Real Inspiration. True Success.

Your San Antonio experience stretches beyond the conference room. Centrally located and basking in year-round mild weather, San Antonio blends rich history, contemporary amenities, spacious indoor & outdoor venues, and modern attractions – all in a dynamic community that celebrates our diverse culture.

To learn more, go to meetings.visitsanantonio.com.

PANHANDLE PLAINS

THE NORTHERNMOST REGION of Texas is where you can go from exploring quirky roadside attractions to naturally majestic sites in one day. Here, you will find Cadillac Ranch, an outdoor sculpture of half-buried, graffiti-adorned Cadillacs, as well as Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Known as the Grand Canyon of Texas, Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the country. A meeting backdrop like this is likely to bring out your group’s natural creative genius.

PHOTO: ADOBE/FANG ZHENG

TO MEET IN LUBBOCK, TEXAS

When considering a destination to host your next event, choose a city that lies west of your expectations. Where the people are as warm as the West Texas sun and hospitality is woven into our blue jeans, attendees and meeting planners alike will find Lubbock, Texas to be an unexpected host city that offers a one-of-a-kind experience. From critically acclaimed cuisine and a prominent wine region to a renowned arts community that boasts unique venues and hands-on activities, Lubbock welcomes groups of all sizes to experience the wild West Texas. Plan your meeting in the 806 today at visitlubbock.org/meet.

#LIVELOVELUBBOCK

The Nicolett

National Ranching Heritage Center

LHUCA Clay Studio

WICHITA FALLS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Discover blue skies and golden opportunities in Wichita Falls. A short two hours north of Dallas-Fort Worth, this thriving community with Texas-sized hospitality and Southern and North Texas charm awaits to accommodate your event needs, big or small. With its modern amenities, convenient location, and endless opportunities for fun and adventure, Wichita Falls is the perfect place for your next event. Our regional airport offers connecting flights to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, making it easy for delegates to get here and experience all our lively city has to offer.

The new full-service Delta Hotel by Marriott and Convention Center is conveniently located on-site of the Multi-Purpose Events Center in the heart of downtown Wichita Falls. The state-of-the-art facility offers spacious rooms and modern amenities, perfect for meeting and event planners looking for a destination that truly has it all. The hotel includes 200 rooms, 14,725 square feet of banquet space, a steak house and bar, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. The expansive banquet room complements the already 57,141 square feet of flexible floor space in the Ray Clymer Exhibit Hall, which has two main exhibit halls, 10 breakout rooms, and a 216-seat seminar room. The Kay Yeager Coliseum provides an arena floor with permanent seating for 6,500 attendees, with 3,500 temporary seats also available. Connected by a pedestrian bridge, the J.S. Bridwell Agricultural Center includes the 50,000-square-foot

Stall Barn and an indoor arena with seating for 1,200 people. Bookings for the on-site hotel have begun for events projected for this fall.

Not only does Wichita Falls offer luxurious accommodations and expansive, flexible event space, but it also boasts a bustling, revitalized downtown set against a backdrop of classic Romanesque and Victorian architecture. Venturing onto the timeless red brick road of the Depot Square Historic District—a six-block landmark from the boom days of oil discovery and turn-of-the-20th-century railroad development—places sightseers within walking distance of familyowned and independent restaurants, coffee shops, urban wineries, a brewery, retail shops, entertainment, and museums. Free parking is conveniently located throughout the city. Delegates can make the most of their time by using our app specifically designed to help them plan their visit. From exploring local attractions to finding the best dining options, the app makes it easy to get the most out of Wichita Falls.

Let us help you plan your memorable event in Wichita Falls!

VISIT LUBBOCK

When choosing a destination, meeting planners consider more than the logistics— the attendees’ experience provides an ideal measure of success of the meeting. Take your event to the next level in Lubbock through intriguing activities.

Known as the leading producer of wine grapes in Texas—with 85% grown on the Texas High Plains—the Lubbock region boasts a remarkable eight award-winning wineries. Taste the legacy of Texas wine with a happy hour post-conference. From intimate settings to large event rooms, each winery is equipped to meet the needs of your event.

For a true Wild West experience, visit the National Ranching Heritage Center. Travel through time to witness the evolution of ranching across America’s heartland with over 50 historically accurate structures.

At the Charles Adams Studio Project, resident artists provide screenprinting classes to create lasting pieces to take home. Try your hand at ceramics at the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts, where each souvenir is handcrafted by the individual creating it.

Ranked among the Top 10 public art collections in the country, the Texas Tech University Public Art Collection is a great option to explore the university’s campus. With over 100 art installations, there is something beautiful around every corner.

VisitLubbock.org

1500 Broadway, Suite 600 Lubbock, TX 79401

amy@visitlubbock.org

ADVENTURE PARK LUBBOCK

Adventure Park Lubbock is 20 acres of fun for everyone! It’s the perfect place for your group to be entertained, whether you are looking for meeting space, a mild adventure, or a big thrill. We have indoor and outdoor space to accommodate your group of 10 to 1,000-plus people. Grab a putter and come play either miniature golf or test your golf game on the putting course. Are you ready to start your engines? Harness your competitive drive racing at Adventure Speedway! Looking for even more thrills? Experience Cypress Peak Ropes Course and zip lining in Lubbock for your group today.

There is plenty of fun for all ages! Keep cool with our indoor meeting rooms with presentation capabilities, or grab some fresh air with our outdoor space either in our private pavilion or Thirsty Bar Garden for an intimate group.

We have plenty of activities year-round. Live music is on stage March through October in Thirsty Bar Garden, featuring fresh-squeezed margaritas and a variety of local and regional musicians. We offer special events throughout the year, such as community car shows, Petfest, Easter celebrations, End of Summer Music Festival, and Christmas in the Park featuring ice skating—just to name a few. The park is the perfect place for your next adventure. Let us help you create the perfect group experience. Contact us today for special group rates.

AdventureParkFun.com

5110 29th Drive Lubbock, TX 79407 806-793-7275

gr@adventureparklubbock.com

ABILENE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Hosting your meeting in Abilene means being part of history. Its unique blend of Texas tradition and innovation makes for meetings that leave a lasting impression on attendees, creating a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

Abilene, a city brimming with opportunity, presents the perfect backdrop to elevate your meeting to new heights. With a central location that puts you at the heart of the action, a charming and historic downtown, and an experienced team at the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau to expertly guide you through the planning process, you can rest assured your event will be a success.

Abilene’s unrivaled collection of storybook sculptures, which includes more than 40 large-scale sculptures of beloved children’s book characters throughout the community, earned its recognition as the Storybook Capital of America. The acknowledgment has not only inspired a love for the arts in its residents, but it has also created a culture of creativity and productivity that convention planners can tap into. From visiting local art galleries and educational museums to attending live music events and festivals, the city’s commitment to promoting literacy and the arts lends itself to experiences that will inspire and enrich conferencegoers. By incorporating these experiences into your event, you can create an engaging and unforgettable environment that promotes creativity, productivity, and teamwork among your attendees.

And when visitors have some downtime, there is no shortage of things to do. The city offers a variety of unique and memorable off-site experiences. From visiting the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature to exploring the Frontier Texas! history museum or taking in the beauty of the Abilene Zoo, there is something for everyone.

Opening this June, the DoubleTree by Hilton Abilene Hotel & Conference Center is the newest addition to Abilene’s flourishing downtown. With modern facilities, the DoubleTree is the perfect place to host your meeting or event. The hotel is in the heart of the downtown cultural district, providing visitors with easy access to local attractions and dining options. With its central location, historic downtown, and unrivaled hospitality, Abilene is the perfect destination for a successful and memorable event.

Don’t just host a meeting—make history in Abilene.

Authentically Abilene.

Escape the ordinary and experience the authentic charm of Abilene. Our city is brimming with rich heritage, cultural events, and Texas traditions. Whether you're looking for enriching adventures or a relaxing getaway, all roads lead to Abilene. Discover the beauty and hospitality of West Texas and see why Abilene is authentically charming.

Explore good eats, unique shops or just lounge in beautiful outdoor spaces at Allen Ridge.

KI C K OF F y o u r hav e SO ME FU N in El Paso .

H o s t i n g you r eve n t her e m ea n s you r a t ten d e e s c a n s e e u niq u e t hi n g s a n d p l a ce s t h ey m ay h ave n eve r s ee n b e f o r e, a n d t h a t ’s a g r ea t w ay to b u il d s o m e exc i te m e n t . Fr o m r idi n g i n a v i n t a g e s t re e t c a r to w a tc hi n g a n a r t i s a n ha n d c r a f t cu s to m b o o t s , E l Pa s o h e l p s yo u g e t m o r e o u t o f Tex a s .

• Re d u ce d F& B , h o te l a n d co nve n t io n ce n te r co st s

• Rev i t a l ize d , w a lk a bl e c i t y ce n te r

• N ew h o te l s do u b li n g ou r r oo m s d ow n tow n

Sc a n t o p l a n you r n ex t eve n t .

CONTACT VALERIE GARCIA: 915.534.0697

VGARCIA@DESTINATIONELPASO.COM

ROCKET BUSTER BOOTS