Book your next meeting experience close to all the action – Henderson. With many options for groups and excursions of all sizes. Just minutes from all the action of the Las Vegas Strip.
• Minutes from the Las Vegas Strip
• Over 25 Hotels to Choose From
• Over 350,000 Square Feet of Meeting Space
• Easy access to Harry Reid International Airport and the I-15
Nine Championship Golf Courses
M Resort: Official Hotel of the Las Vegas Raiders
A Variety of Shopping
Water Street: Dining, Events, Live Entertainment
Lake Las Vegas
Courtesy The Durham Hotel
Puzzled Where To Meet?
Puzzled Where To Meet?
ACROSS
2. Hike and bike trails pass through here.
3. Has the best facilities between Denver and Omaha.
6. 1,350 of these happen every year.
DOWN
1. Downtown Hub for eats and drinks.
4. Historical monument on 1-80.
5. A campus of conference, events and hotels.
7. Every year 1 million of these migrate through 8. HS FB All-Star game.
(We’ll give you a hint: Kearney.)
(Planning your next event in Kearney is no gamble.)
The solution is simple, Kearney is a fantastic place for your next meeting. Where superior facilities, top-notch event staff, affordably, & ease for attendees come together to make your event a success!
Why? Because Kearney has the best facilities between Denver and Omaha, and experienced staff that make sure every event is a win!
If you’re looking for a host city for your next event, make sure you look at Kearney, Nebraska.
If you’re looking for a host city for your next event, make sure you look at Kearney, Nebraska.
Every year, Kearney hosts more than 1,350 events. From the Nebraska Shrine Bowl to conferences large and small, top-notch entertainment – heck, even a million Sandhill Cranes make sure to meet in Kearney every year. Why? Because Kearney has the best facilities between Denver and Omaha, experienced staff, and wonderful volunteers that make sure every event that comes to town is taken care of.
If you’re looking for a host city for your next event, make sure you look at Kearney, Nebraska.
IN SIGHTS
WITH VICKIE MITCHELL
TAKING BACK YOUR TIME
We’d all like to squeeze more seconds into our schedules, and as summertime arrives and the sunshine lasts longer, it’s natural to want to shrink our work schedules and stretch our personal time. Here are five ideas to lighten the workload and shorten the workday.
Five ways to stretch your summer days
Accept an Assist from a CVB
Being advised to use a convention and visitors bureau’s meeting planning services is like being reminded to eat your vegetables. You know it’s a good idea, but you don’t always follow through. Yet, there aren’t many better ways to get a lot of help at little to no cost.
Choose Lansing, the tourism and meeting marketing arm for Lansing, Michigan, spells out its meeting planning services on its website (lansing. org). It’s a long list of services, all free: customized maps, microsites for hotel block info, photos and graphics for websites and social media, onsite registration support, and connections to suppliers and speakers. At a time when it’s hard to get short-staffed hotels and venues to respond to queries, planners often discover that having the CVB’s assistance is especially helpful. As Choose Lansing points out, “Our team has established relationships with hotel contacts, and we’re able to more quickly connect planners to hotel staff.”
Stay on Track with a Checklist
Creating and using checklists can save time and help a conference run more smoothly and efficiently. In his book “The Checklist Manifesto,” writer and physician Atul Gawande shows how experts in many fields use checklists to ensure desired outcomes and even, in some cases, to ensure safety. Gawande points out that when we make mistakes, there are two reasons: one, we don’t know enough about what we are doing, and two, we aren’t making proper use of what we do know. Most mistakes, he says, are rooted in the latter. As we proceed through processes that we’ve done many times over, like planning a conference, a checklist can take pressure off our overtaxed brains so that we don’t forget important steps. Checklists can also serve as auditing systems, a way to make sure everyone has completed their tasks. Checklists help avoid the stumbles that eat up time and money when important steps in any process are forgotten.
Reach for Helping Hands
Get more hands on deck in a hurry by recruiting members or supporters as conference volunteers. Granted, it takes time to recruit, train and organize a crew, but dedicated volunteers can cover a lot of ground. If you decide to use volunteers, keep a few things in mind. First, sign them up early, especially if your conference is large. Four to six months ahead isn’t too soon. Get the word out by social media, newsletters and word of mouth. Handpick people who you know will fit specific tasks. Use a volunteer scheduling tool so everyone knows where to be, when to be there and what to do. During the event, a mobile app can connect everyone, so questions are quickly answered, and unexpected issues are resolved. And always thank volunteers in a solid way. Thank-you notes, small gifts and volunteer-recognition meals or happy hours — any or all are nice ways to say thanks, and the gesture may make volunteers more likely to step up next year.
Tune In to Tech
We all worry about tech taking over our lives. But when it’s used wisely, technology is a tremendous time-saver. Of course, there’s a good bit of overwhelm. As Score pointed out in a recent article, a common app like Outlook is only used to 5% of its potential. Now, in addition to apps, meeting planners are using AI, most often to handle mundane administrative tasks, like registration and scheduling but also, increasingly, to analyze data. In a recent interview with Destination Colorado (destinationcolorado.com) a planner said her organization used AI to analyze answers to two questions it had asked its membership: “What do you value most about membership?” and “What service or product could we provide to help you most?” The ranked answers are helping guide membership retention and recruitment efforts. So, how are planners learning to use AI? Most recommend hands-on learning by simply trying a few AI-driven programs out there. But all are also attending sessions at industry conferences, signing up for online workshops and watching TikTok and YouTube videos. PCMA’s Spark, an AI-powered planning tool, gets frequent mentions.
Use Your Time Well
Worried you’re not using your time as well as you could? Of course you aren’t. We all have habits that eat away at our days, and you likely know what yours are. Do you let interruptions derail you? Being interrupted adds stress, exhaustion and errors, and studies show it takes about 20 minutes to get back on track after you’ve been interrupted. Solutions are fairly simple: Turn off your phone, close your door, schedule a meeting with yourself — whatever it takes to have some uninterrupted time to power through the piles on your desk. Speaking of which, if your desk is a mess, it’s likely stealing your valuable time. Ever record how much time you spend looking for things that have gone missing? Could a professional organizer or even a coworker with a dominant organizing gene help you straighten it out? Other key ways to protect your time include saying “no” and delegating more. You are not the only person who can do things.
SMALL MARKET MEETINGS SUMMIT IS A HIT IN Branson
Courtesy Explore Branson
SMALL MARKET
MEETINGS
SUMMIT
Business is brisk in Missouri’s Ozark Mountain destination.
BY MAC LACY
More than 100 meeting planners, destinations, hosts and VIPs attended the 2025 Small Market Meetings Summit in Branson, Missouri, held April 30–May 1 at the Chateau on the Lake Resort overlooking Table Rock Lake. The Summit is a concise, two-day gathering that brings planners and destinations together for business meetings and an evening event.
“Branson can always be depended on to roll out the red carpet for their guests,” said SMM Summit general manager Jennifer Ferguson of the Group Travel Family. “Branson is well-known for its leisure business, but meetings are huge here as well. They host events that draw five to 10,000 delegates, but they know all the details. Yvonne Long, their assistant director for meetings and conventions, was at the airport for arrivals to make sure everyone got picked up. That’s how they do things.”
Two marketplaces were held, offering most attendees two dozen or more 12-minute appointments, and a boisterous evening event took place at Full Throttle Distillery Grill & Smokehouse in downtown Branson. Host organization Explore Branson treated delegates to an open bar and barbecue dinner with a superb live band. Most
BAND AT FULL THROTTLE DISTILLERY
Photos by Mac Lacy, unless otherwise noted
BARBECUE DINNER AT FULL THROTTLE DISTILLERY
BREAKFAST WITH FRIENDS
MEETINGS
stayed for several hours, and many walked through downtown to enjoy Branson’s local sites.
“Our meeting business became very strong as a result of COVID, and now many of those meetings are returning,” said Yvonne Long of Explore Branson. “After having come here, they come back with their families so their kids can enjoy Branson. We have many military events here and have turned Veterans Day into Veterans Week. High school competitive events, like archery, come here because there is so much to do when the kids aren’t competing. Every age is entertained.”
Sponsors for the Summit included Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Explore Branson, Small Market Meetings Magazine and Visit Owensboro, which will host the Summit in 2026.
“We’re ready to bring this event to Owensboro,” said Teresa Jones of Visit Owensboro, a riverfront town in western Kentucky. “We host many Kentucky-based association meetings and any number of musician group meetings due to our bluegrass music heritage. The Southeast Regional Folk Alliance is coming this year with 150 musicians and entertainers, and many will perform in Owensboro.
“We call our convention center the ‘venue with a view’ because it overlooks the Ohio River,” she said. “We’re also able to incentivize some meetings, so the Summit is a perfect event for us to host next year.”
To register for the 2026 Summit in Owensboro, visit smmconf.com/summit.
SELLING OWENSBORO, KENTUCKY
WHAT DELEGATES ARE SAYING DESTINATIONS
“Bentonville is home to Walmart, which drives a lot of meeting business for us. We’re also nationally prominent in sports and outdoor adventure meetings. USA Cycling (mountain biking) is headquartered in Bentonville and generates a lot of events. We’ll have 300-400 delegates in September for the Up Summit, an aeronautical industry showcase. They’ll host a community day for 15,000 guests. The Association of University Research Parks drew 250 attendees last November. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art hosts many receptions and dinners for meetings, plus outdoor tented events.”
Wes Oliver Visit Bentonville Bentonville, Arkansas
“Half our business in the hotel is corporate or association groups or meetings. We have 20,000 square feet of meeting space and have banquet seating for up to 400 guests. We host 350 delegates for the Assemblies of God eight times a year in the hotel. Russell Cellular comes twice a year with about 300. O’Reilly Auto just brought us 80 or so, and we had 80 this year from the Missouri Chiropractic Physicians Association.”
Wes Stoner Doubletree by Hilton Springfield Springfield, Missouri
“Our busy season is April through September, and we’re here to build off-season meeting business. We’re hosting the SMM Summit in 2027 and can’t wait to have this event in Ketchikan. A few of the activities that delegates could enjoy are boat tours to the Misty Fjords, ATV tours and walking or driving tours for our totem poles. We have 80 authentic totem poles throughout our city that are pretty cool for guests. We’re on the coast, and our seasons are moderated by that. Snow only stays for a day or so much of the year.”
Brittney Shull Ketchikan Visitors Bureau Ketchikan, Alaska
WHAT DELEGATES ARE SAYING MEETING
PLANNERS
“I learned about incentives from CVBs for meetings at the Small Market Meetings Conference in Utah last fall, and this year I’ve earned $15,000 in incentives for meetings of ours! We teach licensed tax practitioners how to solve IRS tax problems. We host five to six smaller meetings from April through December for 60-75 attendees. We also host an annual advanced course for about 250 delegates. Recently, we’ve hosted the smaller meetings in Niagara Falls, New York; Park City, Utah; and Panama City, Florida. Our larger meeting will be held in Rockwell, Texas, outside of Dallas.”
Carolyn Ryer
American Society of Tax Problem Solvers Williamsville, New York
“I’ve got a corporate annual reunion for 125 business owners coming up at Margaritaville in Hollywood, Florida. In October, I have a leadership conference for about 75 Lutheran church leaders in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I also have 250 Lutheran clergy members for a biannual meeting in Lone Tree, Colorado. I will have 150 or so corporate franchise owners meeting in Daytona, Florida, as well.”
Lynn Lawson EventPrep Aurora, Colorado
“I plan youth and young adult events for Seventh-day Adventist congregations. This year, we’ll have about 200 delegates at four small market destinations, including Wichita, Kansas; Little Rock, Arkansas; and Fort Myers and Naples, Florida. I met with CVB officials from Gillette, Wyoming, at the 2017 Small Market Meetings Conference, and we ended up placing our Seventh-day Adventist annual meeting in Gillette. We had 60,000 attendees, and Gillette was great to work with. The event was a home run.”
Vern Byrd Center for Youth Williamsville, New York
Saddle up and experience St. Joe’s creative spirit
BY VICKIE MITCHELL
Throughout its history, St. Joseph, Missouri, has been a creative force. It’s where the Pony Express got its start in 1860. When pioneers headed west, St. Joe stocked them up with what they’d need for the long haul. It was among the first cities to roll out electric street cars. And, in 1918, long before hiking and biking were big, St. Joe built a 26-mile parkway to link parks and other beautiful spots for drivers, bikers and hikers.
Jolene Dempster, with the St. Joseph Visitors Bureau, taps into that Midwestern creativity as she helps meeting planners secure nontraditional meeting venues in her city. “There are so many possibilities here, from historic homes to interesting museums. I take the time to listen and talk to planners about their needs, so we can find the perfect fit/space for them.”
Here’s a sampling of venues that Dempster often recommends.
PONY EXPRESS MUSEUM
This museum, in the restored stable where the Pony Express was quartered, is a mustsee. Especially engaging is the Hall of Riders, which profiles the 200 men who rode for the Pony Express and displays their guns, hats, saddles and other belongings. Attached to the museum is the Community Room with a full kitchen and AV equipment that welcomes small gatherings. For old-school fun, planners can book a school marm to teach a class or conduct a spelling bee in a replica of a one-room 1860s school. The restored Pony Bar is a good place to settle in for a sarsaparilla and learn more, through the Goetz Museum, about the Goetz Brewery which was a major employer in the town’s early days.
ALBRECHT-KEMPER MUSEUM
Art instantly feels more approachable when it hangs in a handsome family home. That’s part of the magic at this museum, where a collection that includes works by such important artists as
Mary Cassatt and Thomas Hart Benton is displayed in a red-brick mansion where the Albrecht family once lived. The museum has interesting meeting spaces like the Albrechts’ speakeasy, preserved and ready for a small party. The museum’s largest space, the café dining room, handles 150 for dinner or 250 for receptions. An auditorium for 144 has a stage, AV and a baby grand piano. Original art hangs in every room and meeting space. Guided tours during events can hit museum highlights or delve into the 1933 mansion’s architecture.
MISSOURI THEATER
In 2027, this glittering former movie palace will turn 100. “I would say it is our pride and joy,” said Dempster. Although the theater has a busy schedule of concerts, plays and other shows, it is also available for conferences and special events. Given its gold trims, graceful pillars, murals of cloud dusted skies, red velvet curtains and other early 1900s touches, events there are truly special.
PARKWAY DISTILLERY/LOCAL STEAKHOUSES
At this local distillery, groups can cluster on cozy couches and chairs or sit on a covered deck or a sunny patio beside pickleball courts. For another way
to infuse a meeting with local flavor, try the Fredrick Inn, a steakhouse in business 75 years, Jake’s Steakhouse or Boudreaux’s, the mastermind of a Louisiana man who married a St. Joe girl and brought his Cajun recipes along.
EMPOWERU CAMPUS AT MOSAIC LIFE CARE
This cool space in a renovated warehouse has an auditorium-style room for 164, a 2,200-square-foot meeting room and five breakout spaces.
STONEY CREEK HOTEL
When guest rooms and meeting space must be in one place, Stoney Creek fits the bill. Décor at the 129-room hotel and its 9,282-square-feet of meeting space plays on St. Joe’s Pony Express ties. Breezy patios and fireside lounges serve as breakout spaces; a bar serving local craft beers and spirits beckons when meetings end.
MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY
Meeting spaces at Missouri Western State University have a wide range, from general classrooms to meeting rooms that can seat up to 500 people. The 700-acre campus is also home to the Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp and the Walter Cronkite Memorial, a salute to the famous newsman and St. Joe native.
GETTING THERE
From St. Joe it’s a 55-mile drive south down I-29 to downtown Kansas City. Kansas City International Airport is along the way, about 38 miles from St. Joe.
MEETING LEADERS
EVYA POTTS-RICHARDS
EBY REBECCA TREON
vya Potts-Richards says she didn’t find her career — instead, the career found her.
Potts-Richards, whose first name rhymes with “Chevy,” is the meeting manager for the nonprofit organization The Energy Council, a legislative institution made up of 16 energy-producing states and four Canadian provinces that assist the U.S. and its member jurisdictions to develop energy and environmental policy. Born and raised in Dallas, Potts-Richards is proud of her roots.
“I’m a native Texan, born and bred, which is kind of odd these days with so many transplants,” she said. “I’m in my early 60s, and I’ve really only had three jobs. I started in corporate, and I’ve stayed in every job for so long because I’ve enjoyed every place I’ve worked, and I’ve gained so many opportunities. Everything seemed to find me — I didn’t necessarily know what I wanted to do, and I was just guided to where I am now.”
Potts-Richards started her career as an administrator in corporate communications for Electronic Data Systems, where she worked for 13 years. It was there that she had a boss who pushed her to grow by taking classes and learning new skills.
“She was my mentor when I didn’t even know what a mentor was,” Potts-Richards said. “She always pushed me to do more, step up, talk more in meetings, learn different techniques. I used to think, ‘She’s pushing me so much — is she saying I’m not good enough?’ But what I learned later is that I just didn’t know what I didn’t know.”
It was through that mentorship that Potts-Richards discovered how much she loved projects that let her work with people in creative roles and brought out her own creative side. She started noticing what the people who organized and planned for the company’s board members did in their roles and thought it was a job she would enjoy. When a friend who worked for the accounting firm KPMG approached her because they were searching for a senior communications specialist in the HR department, Potts-Richards jumped at the opportunity.
“I thought, ‘Somebody would pay me to do what I actually like doing?’ And I worked in HR communications doing writing and planning fun things that would help people reduce their stress levels,” she said. “When a position as a meeting planner came up, and I applied. I had already been there for two years, so I was selected.”
Again, Potts-Richards was challenged by her boss to grow in the role of Southwest area meeting manager. Potts-Richards was encouraged to join her local Meeting Planners International chapter, to grow her confidence levels by trying new things, and to get her Certified Meeting Professional title.
Potts-Richards stayed at KPMG for roughly eight years before taking her current role as meeting manager at The Energy Council in 2007.
“I’m going into my 18th year here, and I feel like everything I’ve done has led me to where I am now,” she said. “This job can be very stressful and very hectic, and I’m grateful for every step I took to have more skills. I love this career.”
“This job can be very stressful and very hectic, and I’m grateful for every step I took to have more skills. I love this career.”
EXECUTIVE PROFILE
NAME Evya Potts-Richards
TITLE
Meeting Manager
ORGANIZATION
The Energy Council
LOCATION
Dallas
EDUCATION
Richland Community College, 1984
CAREER HISTORY
• Corporate Communications Specialist, Electronic Data Solutions, 1985–1997
• Meeting Manager, KPMG, 1997–2007
• Meeting Manager, The Energy Council, 2007–present
• Being connected with your local meeting and event professional chapter (such as MPI or PCMA) is integral to our professional and personal growth.
• Develop or continually work on your interpersonal skills. The hospitality industry is very relationshipdriven. People like working with people they like.
• Always say “please” and “thank you.” That should go without saying, but I found over the years that it’s not always common.
EVA POTTS-RICHARDS ENJOYS A CANAL CRUISE IN AMSTERDAM WITH HER HUSBAND DARRYL.
CITY OF MOBILE, ALABAMA, PARTNERS WITH OAK VIEW GROUP TO MANAGE NEW CIVIC ARENA
MOBILE, Alabama — The city of Mobile, Alabama, recently approved a long-term agreement with Oak View Group (OVG) to operate and manage its new, state-of-the-art entertainment arena in downtown Mobile.
Following the demolition of the outdated Mobile Civic Center, the city of Mobile is teaming up with OVG to build and operate a brand-new, world-class entertainment venue on the same property. Construction of the new arena began in March, and the project is scheduled to be completed in early 2027.
“This arena will be a generational investment in our city that will enhance the quality of life for Mobilians and attract visitors from across the region,” said Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson. “Oak View Group is an industry leader with the experience and partnerships to turn this new venue into a hub for entertainment, culture and community on the Gulf Coast.
Together, we’re building something that will serve Mobile for decades to come, and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
The Mobile City Council approved a 22-year contract with OVG in February, enlisting OVG’s expertise to manage the arena and bring top-tier events to Mobile. The city previously engaged OVG to manage two other downtown venues: the Arthur Outlaw Convention Center and the historic Saenger Theater.
As part of the new agreement, OVG will contribute to the construction of the new arena and establish a dedicated capital improvement fund for ongoing maintenance at the facility.
OVG owns and operates a wide range of venues worldwide, including stadiums, arenas, theaters, convention centers and cultural attractions, through its partnership with the city of Mobile. cityofmobile.org
COLORADO HOT SPRINGS RESORT ANNOUNCES MAJOR EXPANSION IN 2025
PAGOSA SPRINGS, Colorado —
The Springs Resort, an award-winning geothermal wellness destination in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, recently debuted a transformative expansion with new accommodations, new hot springs pools and an expanded spa.
Home to the world’s deepest geothermal spring, The Springs Resort is deepening its commitment to its signature approach to geothermal relaxation and well-being. This included relocating its spa and doubling the number of terraced geothermal mineral soaking pools along the San Juan River at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The extensive renovation also introduced 78 additional guest rooms, a new thermal spa, a Panoramic Sauna with halotherapy and new, curated wellness amenities.
Additionally, the property features a new restaurant, Wild Finch, which is set to open this month, and modern, versatile event spaces for meetings and special occasions. Located downriver from the original property, the expansion will continue to offer
opportunities for relaxation, renewal and exploration.
“This is more than an expansion — it’s a defining moment for hot springs wellness in the U.S.,” said Sharon Holtz, vice president of wellness. “At a time when travelers are seeking deeper, more transformative well-being experiences, we are setting a new standard.”
The new accommodations, which range from king rooms to two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, offer scenic views of the pools and are designed with comfort and sustainability in mind. Each room boasts nine-foot windows to provide views of the San Juan River and the surrounding landscape. Additionally, all rooms offer 24-hour access to the geothermal soaking pools.
A major highlight of the expansion is Wild Finch, the resort’s new signature restaurant. Inspired by the American Goldfinch, the restaurant will feature a wellness-focused menu crafted with locally sourced ingredients and seasonally inspired dishes. pagosahotsprings.com
THE SPRINGS RESORT
Courtesy The Springs Resort
MOBILE CIVIC CENTER
Courtesy Mobile Civic Center
RITZ-CARLTON DALLAS, LAS COLINAS UNVEILS NEW LUXURY VILLAS
IRVING, Texas — The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas, recently unveiled new meeting space and 124 redesigned luxury villas, the most recent piece of the hotel’s renovation. The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas opened its doors in the suburb of Irving in January 2024, becoming the newest addition to The Ritz-Carlton’s collection of over 110 hotels and resorts worldwide.
The property’s new meeting and events facilities span 80,000 square feet, including 29 event rooms and 19 breakout rooms. The largest event space is the 8,000-square-foot ballroom that can be split into four separate rooms, followed by two smaller ballrooms — one with 3,000 square feet, the other with 4,400 — that can each be divided. An amphitheater room seats 90 people, while outdoor spaces include event lawns, a pavilion and the resort pool.
The initial phase of updates introduced several enhancements, including Bar Juniper, a new lobby bar spotlighting
clear spirits. Additionally, 427 guest rooms were revamped with elements reflective of the resort’s historical roots as the former Little Ranch on the Hills.
The redesigned villas are located just steps from the resort pool and dining options, with the views of the TPC Las Colinas golf course serving as a backdrop. Each of the 124 villas offers distinct living, dining and outdoor spaces.
The property has a 38-year history in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and is undergoing a $55 million renovation.
Sitting on 400 acres in Irving’s mixed-use planned community of Las Colinas, The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas is located on a former family ranch just minutes from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and downtown Dallas. The property has two 18-hole golf courses and is certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
ritzcarlton.com
DRURY HOTELS OPENS NEW HOTEL IN COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS
ST. LOUIS — Drury Hotels recently opened its newest hotel in Texas. The Drury Plaza Hotel College Station — the 18th Drury Hotel in Texas — features 160 guest rooms and 1,100 square feet of meeting space. This is the first hotel opened by the company in 2025, with three additional openings slated before the end of the year.
The Drury Plaza Hotel College Station will feature Drury Hotels’ Meetings with More program. The program provides a high level of service, no food and beverage minimums, and free Wi-Fi for all meeting attendees.
The hotel can accommodate a variety of meetings and events for up to 120 attendees with pre-function spaces, customizable set-up options, catering and audiovisual options at affordable rates. Drury also offers a flexible cancellation policy that allows groups to use a portion of their cancellation fee toward a future
event at any Drury Hotel.
“We are pleased to expand our footprint in Texas as we open the doors and offer warm welcomes at the Drury Plaza Hotel College Station,” said Chuck Drury, CEO of Drury Hotels.
“Our team members are ready to ensure our guests enjoy the award-winning service, comforts and amenities they’ve come to trust from our hotels as they explore everything from Aggie Football to Century Square.”
The hotel employs 50 full-time and part-time team members in College Station, with general manager Matilda Harmon leading the team.
The Drury Plaza Hotel College Station is located blocks from Texas A&M University and less than 15 minutes from historic downtown Bryan.
druryhotels.com
DRURY PLAZA HOTEL COLLEGE STATION
Courtesy Drury Plaza Hotel College Station
Courtesy Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas
THE LOBBY AT RITZ-CARLTON DALLAS, LAS COLINAS
FOCAL POINTS
DEEP DIVES ON TRENDING TOPICS
FOLLOW THESE TRENDS FOR SOCIAL SUCCESS
WCorey Perlman
AUTHOR, SPEAKER AND SOCIAL MEDIA EXPERT Impact Social Media
Corey Perlman specializes in helping businesses and professionals leverage digital marketing to grow their brands. His insights are backed by more than 16 years of hands-on experience running a social media marketing agency, where he helped brands navigate and succeed in an ever-changing digital landscape
ith the staggering load of tasks the average meeting planner is managing, staying on top of the latest social media trends can seem pretty daunting. But social media is important because it can help you maximize engagement, boost attendance and create lasting connections with your audience.
As a keynote speaker for over 15 years — and having run multiple events myself — I recommend businesses avoid the pitfall of trying to spread themselves too thin across all the available social media platforms. Instead, they should focus on a few and try to do them really well.
These days, I’m seeing meeting planners find the most success on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. When you focus on these few, you’ll be able to free up some time and resources to maximize all the features those platforms have to offer. It can also enable you to be on the leading edge of new features, which, in turn, can reward you with better exposure and reach.
Here’s what you need to know about the latest social media trends to stay ahead of the competition in 2025 and beyond.
INSTAGRAM: ELEVATING EVENT PROMOTION
Though it started as a photo-sharing platform, Instagram has also become a go-to source for short-form vertical video. And Instagram Reels now supports videos up to three minutes long, opening up exciting possibilities for storytelling.
Some ideas for longer Reels are in-depth event previews, speaker interviews or behind-the-scenes footage that can create anticipation and engagement for an event. One idea for a campaign is to create a “Countdown” series, where you feature speakers, showcase venue highlights or provide valuable event tips leading up to the big day.
When it comes to still photos, Instagram has moved away from its traditional square image format, making way for more flexible content display. Planners should experiment with different aspect ratios to optimize event announcements, attendee testimonials and promotional graphics. And image carousels are a great way to tell a story — use them to share a step-by-step event
FOCAL POINTS
DEEP DIVES ON TRENDING TOPICS
agenda, highlight key moments from past events or introduce your event sponsors and partners.
One tool set planners should be sure to use is Instagram Stories’ interactivity features, such as stickers, polls and Q&A sessions, all of which help planners engage with attendees before, during and after events.
You can also run an “Ask Me Anything” session for your keynote speakers before the event or use polls to let attendees vote on session topics or networking activities.
FACEBOOK: STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY AND EVENT PROMOTION
Facebook remains a key platform for event marketing, with enhanced event pages, RSVP tracking and AI-driven advertising tools. And Facebook’s Groups feature is a good option to foster a sense of community before and after events, as well as keep attendees engaged year-round. Try creating a private event group where attendees can connect, ask questions and share their excitement leading up to the event.
Facebook has also become a favorite social platform for livestreaming events, which is a powerful way to boost engagement. Some ideas
STRATEGIC SOCIAL MEDIA USE CAN HELP MEETING PLANNERS PROMOTE THEIR EVENTS AND ADVANCE THEIR CAREERS.
for streams include keynote sessions, panel discussions or behind-the-scenes content to reach a wider audience. You can also go live before the event for a venue walk-through or a sneak peek of what attendees can expect.
LINKEDIN: NETWORK AND SHOWCASE YOUR EXPERTISE
LinkedIn has long been a venue for posting text and photo updates about your professional life, but its new video feed is gaining traction, making video content more visible than ever.
You can use video to share speaker highlights, industry insights and educational content to engage your professional network. You can also use it for event follow-up. Try posting short interview clips with event speakers or sharing a recap video after the event to keep the engagement going.
Whatever type of content you’re posting, remember that authenticity is key on LinkedIn. For the most success, showcase a mix of professional expertise and personal experiences.
By sharing real-world event challenges, success stories and behind-the-scenes moments, you can build trust and relatability with your audience. One idea is to post a series of “Day in the Life” videos showing what goes into planning a successful event.
And don’t forget that engagement is just as important — or even more important — than content. Networking is at the heart of LinkedIn. Focus on engaging with industry leaders, commenting on relevant posts and participating in discussions. Set a goal to spend 15 minutes a day engaging with key decision-makers to expand your reach and credibility.
Newsletters, another LinkedIn feature growing in popularity, allows you to share valuable insights and updates directly with your network. For newsletter content, try repurposing blog posts or event recaps to maximize visibility and audience engagement. For instance, after hosting an event, create a newsletter featuring key takeaways, speaker highlights and links to relevant content. This ensures your audience stays engaged long after the event is over.
By leveraging these social media trends, meeting planners and event marketers can create meaningful connections, increase attendance and enhance the overall event experience. Stay ahead of the curve and make 2025 your best year yet!
AUTHENTIC CONNECTIONS IN A HYBRID WORLD
Halee Grimsdale
DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND PARTNERSHIPS
Energy Disruptors
Halee Grimsdale is the director of production and partnerships at Energy Disruptors, whose summit events aim to unite people and companies for the purpose of solving problems in the global energy industry. Prior to her role there, she worked for E=mc2 Events as an experience coordinator and for the Alberta Mortgage Brokers Association as an event coordinator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Haskayne School of Business and obtained a master’s in international business from UPF Barcelona School of Management. She’s also a member of PCMA’s 20 in their Twenties, Class of 2025.
How can young planners make it a priority to build an authentic community for themselves?
A:The biggest challenge is the landscape we face currently. There aren’t that many industry events, and the newest generation of planners don’t have a ton of people to influence what we’re doing next. More experienced planners have a robust network of friends and colleagues. After COVID happened, the event industry took a huge hit. There’s a gap between the really experienced network of people and this group of new people who are trying to build a network but don’t always know how. The challenge will be putting ourselves out there because we don’t always have a roadmap. Companies should have a few days or events in-person to grow the communities within their workplaces, but also try to go to local events with other event planners. A lot of times it’s the older generations who automatically get to go to these professional development events, but I think the next generation should also be given the opportunities to go.
What are some challenges you’ve seen coming from a more digital or hybrid model of working?
A:For me, the biggest challenge I see with it is not with the internal front within your company, but on the external side of things. It’s very hard to build your network when we’re all so used to this digital world now. Even for us planners, going to events for ourselves isn’t always a priority. We say, “I’m so busy, I don’t have to, so I’m going to stay home.” But we still need to put ourselves out there to build that network and community. There are struggles internally, too. It can be challenging to build a relationship with your colleagues when everyone is working remote. When it’s an option, many opt not to come into the office at all, and then they’re not building relationships with people to lean on. The industry is so collaborative at its core. You want perspectives from different backgrounds because some people are more creative, and some people are more logical, and the ability to jump into conversations with one another at the office is so valuable.
BRIDGING GAP
A:THE
WITH RACHEL CRICK
What are some of the ways planners can counteract these challenges, both at work and in their professional lives?
In my opinion, it’s about flexibility. Everybody loves the fact that when they work remote, they can book a meeting or an appointment during the day, or they can do a quick load of laundry in between calls. There would definitely be pushback to mandating all in-person work again, and by no means am I pushing that. But within each organization, I think it’s really important to be intentional with your time and set days with your colleagues to go into the office together and have those experiences. Have that flexibility, but also have those days where you can go into the office. Externally, it’s important for us to connect as an industry outside of just virtually. In our local community, it’s valuable to know who the players are in the events world and build partnerships. I never had an industry event where I didn’t make a new connection or find somebody that could help me out moving forward.
How does social media contribute to forming an authentic community of event planners?
A:I definitely think it’s easier for us to connect on a global scale with social media. I just went to PCMA, and all of us connected on LinkedIn, making it so easy for us to reconnect at a later date and ask questions we need to ask. However, I’m hopeful that it’s not a crutch or doing us an injustice by making us feel like we have this connection without needing to meet. It’s supplemental and easy for quick help, but we’re not necessarily gaining that personal experience on social media.
What role can mentorships play in creating an authentic community for the next generations of event planners?
A:
I think it goes both ways. The younger planner needs to be reaching out and asking for help, and reaching out to ask, “Will you be my mentor? Can I ask you questions?” But it’s a million times easier when the experienced planner goes to the next-generation event professional and states, “I’m here to offer whatever you need” or “Let’s go to this event together, so I can explain how things work.” The outreach is important. So, these mentorships let you stay involved, and they’re important so it’s not just us as young professionals on our own and experienced planners in a bubble.
Aviation, agriculture and education soar in Wichita
BY VICKIE MITCHELL
If you want to understand Wichita, Kansas, the Wichita-Sedgwick Historical Museum is a good place to start. Within the walls of the old City Hall, a regal 1892 stone edifice, a collection of 70,000 artifacts helps show how a rough-and-tumble Midwest outpost became a nationally known leader in aviation, agriculture and education.
As the museum points out, creating this city in what it calls “the great American Desert,” took “courage, ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit.”
All three are still abundant in this metro area of 640,000, which can make Kansas’s largest city an inspiring meeting place.
Here’s a look at Wichita’s major economic drivers and how they enrich meetings and conferences.
AVIATION
Wichita’s aviation industry took flight when George Cessna brought his company to town in the 1920s. Beechcraft, Stearman, Laird and other aircraft makers soon followed, and in a few short years, Wichita became known as “The Air Capital of the World.” It continues to live up to that billing. Home to more than 450 aerospace companies, Wichita has the country’s third-largest concentration of
aviation workers. Since 1929, it has delivered 35% of all general aviation aircraft made in this country, more than any other city.
It’s impossible to miss aviation’s influence, beginning with arrival at Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, where three-dimensional displays illustrate the industry’s impact. As fitting for a place where flight rules, Wichita’s airport earns accolades, landing in 2024 on Newsweek’s list of top 10 small airports.
Along city streets where 100 murals splash across brick walls, visitors spot several with aviation themes — a massive plane in one; birds in flight reminding to “Fly In for Fun,” in another.
Several hotels have fun using aviation as inspiration for their décor, including the historic Hotel at Old Town, where aviation relics, photos and art enliven the Aviation Floor. At Scotch and Sirloin, a longtime favorite known for its steaks, walls in three private dining rooms mimic the side of a passenger plane.
Aviation-related attractions double as off-site venues. Wichita’s original 1935 art deco-style airport terminal houses the Kansas Aviation Museum, where exhibits include Women in Aviation and a 1920 Laird Swallow, the first production aircraft built in the city. A climb up the old control tower provides a 360-dgree view from one of the city’s highest points.
For events with military or aviation ties, the B-29 Doc Hangar, Education
and Visitors Center at Eisenhower National Airport is a favorite. The centerpiece for events in this 42,000-square-foot hangar is Doc, one of only two remaining, airworthy Boeing Superfortresses. For a fun treat, visitors can purchase a ride on the plane — a 30-minute flight for up to nine passengers.
At Exploration Place, a science center that engages those of all ages, the Design Build Fly exhibit is all about making aircraft. Visitors can design an airplane seat, test landing gear or rivet a plane’s wing. The center is also a beloved event space. Its 3,000-square-foot Waterway Hall needs little embellishment with its views of the Arkansas River through glass walls or from the adjoining shaded terrace. There’s also a boardroom, classrooms and the state’s largest 360-degree theater.
AGRICULTURE
To say Kansas is big in terms of agriculture is an understatement. An
Wichita’s aviation industry took flight when George Cessna brought his company to town in the 1920s. Beechcraft, Stearman, Laird and other aircraft makers soon followed, and in a few short years, Wichita became known as “The Air Capital of the World.”
estimated 88% of the state’s land is in agricultural production, and when it comes to producing cattle and calves, wheat, corn, soybeans and even sunflowers, Kansas is always at or near the top.
In the 1800s, Wichita was the end of the road for cattle drives, and later, the state’s fertile lands and the crops they produced grew the agricultural economy even more. New businesses arrived to support farmers and education stepped up to put focus on agriculture and research. The intent focus on the industry also attracted agriculture-related corporations, including Cargill. It’s hard to miss that company’s in downtown Wichita, where its Protein Division is headquartered in a $70 million building.
Groups that want to step back to the days when the cattle and cowboys first thundered into town might want to plan an evening event at Old Cowtown Museum, where restored log houses and other buildings re-create an 1865 community. A small crowd could have sarsaparillas in Fritz Snitzler’s Saloon, or a larger one could have a reception in the modern visitor’s center’s great room, with its stone fireplace and adjoining patio.
And, although Wichita is definitely urban, agritourism adventures are in and all around it. A downtown parking garage is home to Rise Farms, a 15,000-square-foot urban garden and solar farm. The produce the farm grows supplies both residents and area restaurants as it diminishes the urban heat island effect, prevents excess stormwater run-off and makes the building more energy efficient. Tours of the farm are offered during the growing season, so that people can learn more about growing fruits and vegetables without using manmade chemicals to diminish weeds and bugs. Firefly Farm, an active partner in Rise Farms, is another off-site experience. The
Cargill Protein Office
Kansas Health Science Center
five-acre farm, one mile from the city limits, is known for its heirloom vegetables and it has hosted a number of farm-to-table dinners and private parties and events. About 30 minutes north of Wichita, wine tastings in a small wine cellar or an event center with vineyard views at Grace Hill Winery are a way to enjoy the Kansas countryside. A sunny patio is a warm weather option. Fifteen minutes from town, Elderslie Farms is known for bountiful farm-to-table dinners. It welcomes private dinners and receptions in a restored farmhouse or a roomy patio with a covered pavilion.
EDUCATION
Complex industries require expertise, innovation and training, and Wichita’s education systems support not just aviation and agriculture, but all business sectors that impact the Kansas economy. Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research and the National Center for Aviation Training graduates about 1,500 students a year who have the skills needed for advanced manufacturing in the aerospace and general manufacturing areas. Nearly a dozen companies and organizations make their home at Wichita State’s Innovation Campus, which creates real-world work experiences for students. Access to these schools and others including WSU Tech, the Kansas Health Science Center and the National Institute for Aviation Research make it possible for conferences and meetings to include top-rated speakers and tours of state-of-the-art facilities in their itineraries. At Wichita State’s main campus, talks and tours involving entrepreneurism, can use the world’s first Pizza Hut as inspiration. The restaurant was moved to campus and is now a museum that tells the story of two Wichita State students who grew their pizza concept into one of the largest pizza restaurant chains in the world.
WSU Tech
Wichita State University
Streamlining Event Registration
MINIMIZE FRUSTRATION AND MAXIMIZE EFFICIENCY WITH THESE PRO TIPS
BY RACHEL CRICK
Aparty without invitations is a recipe for disappointment. So it goes for an event without well-planned registration. No matter how expertly designed an event, if registration is an afterthought, it will result in low attendance and dissatisfied attendees.
Registration is one of the most important components of event planning, and, with industry challenges such as smaller lead windows, limited budgets and late registration on the rise, it’s more critical than ever to get it right. So how are planners solving these challenges to streamline registration for events in 2025 and beyond?
Here is what three registration experts had to say.
SET UP YOUR REG FOR SUCCESS
One of the worst mistakes event organizers can make is not having enough resources devoted to registration.
“From our side, we’re trying to establish that the registration itself needs to be handled as its own event, not just part of the event,” said Natasha Xavier, event registration specialist at Event Options EU. “It should have its own team that’s managing that section and not just the event organizer that’s trying to do everything at the same time.”
When hosting an event for thousands of attendees and exhibitors, there are bound to be questions that arise, from fixing software glitches to simple how-to inquiries. While an AI chatbot can be great at fielding the simplest of questions or providing tutorials, no attendee wants to be waiting on an AI bot to answer something more complicated. Having a team that can respond quickly to any problems that arise makes attendees feel valued and minimizes frustration.
Another way to maximize registration’s efficiency is to incentivize attendees to register early.
“That’s why you always need early bird pricing,” said Jessica Duarte, product marketing manager at Swapcard. “But there are lots of ways of incentivizing it early.”
Duarte gave the example of packaging high-value information with registration to drive early registration. This could include sending hotel booking information, giving discounts on parking for the earliest registrants and making networking information or even member kits available after booking.
“We overload delegates during registration. So, part of your planning is to simplify the communication to just one piece of action and then change your tactic once they completed that action.”
FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR
Event Options
Experience: 20 years
Larna Jackson
“If they’re just doing [registration] for the sake of having a name badge at their event, I really think people need to relook at that because, at the end of the day, any event comes down to the data.”
“A month before the show, you can say, ‘You have to be registered. People are already setting up meetings, people are already networking,’” Duarte said. “It says to them, ‘You’re behind, register now,’ to drive more traffic.”
Finally, keeping good data hygiene can help organize registration and prepare the event organizers for future events. This involves keeping good records of which attendees belong to what category, and that can help determine what information you should request from them.
“These are your speakers, these are your potential sponsors, these are your members — segment your database as best as possible, trying to keep that current and up to date,” said Larna Jackson, managing director of Event Options. “Then the minute you finish your last event, start planning your next one by keeping your data fresh.”
FOCUS ON THE ATTENDEE EXPERIENCE
One growing trend across all sectors of the events industry is personalization and prioritizing the attendee experience over the needs of the event organizers.
“The focus is about personalizing the experience for the attendee based on what they need,” Jackson said. “So, for your dynamic registration pages, your speakers should be answering a completely different set of questions than your exhibitors. If you’ve edited the question so that you’re using smart logic, you are making sure it’s only relevant to that person’s questionnaire.”
Natasha Xavier
EVENT REGISTRATION SPECIALIST
Event Options EU Experience: 18 years
Smart logic or conditional logic in registration forms refers to the dynamic changes to a survey or form based on user input.
“You don’t want to be scrolling down a bunch of questions just because you don’t have the answer to one,” Duarte said. “So, you want to make the answer to number two jump automatically to number seven if they don’t match, instead of including all the questions and making them required.”
Similarly, if a planner already has data from an attendee from a previous year, they shouldn’t make them fill out a brand-new form; attendees’ existing data should automatically be filled in, allowing them to skip basic information.
It’s not a good idea to overload any attendees with questions. In a world of shortened attention spans, nobody wants to fill out a form that makes them scroll through several pages. Instead, try to present them with one call to action at a time, so they can easily process what’s next.
“We try and guide our clients as to what should be a mandatory field and what should not be a mandatory field,” Xavier said. “We would say, ‘This is the data that you want us to give you after the event. You’ve given us quite a lot of things here. What is your top priority?’”
AI and other tech tools are great for improving
the user experience and gathering additional data. For example, many platforms use AI to recommend exhibitors or sessions to attendees.
While it may seem tempting to opt for expensive all-in-one software, if it’s out of the budget, many registration platforms offer integration with existing software in an organization’s tech stack. Mobile apps or registration portals that integrate neatly with organizers’ websites are popular. This can also extend to integrating with business networking platforms like LinkedIn to help attendees network at the event.
ON-SITE REGISTRATION
Registration isn’t simply about getting attendees to fill out forms months in advance. It also involves the on-site experience as they arrive at the event and check in.
When setting up an event’s physical registration space, it’s key to avoid long lines or frustrating sign-in processes. This is where having a team of people handy is very helpful — the more stations for assisting attendees the better, particularly at large conferences. The team can assist with making badge modifications, answering questions and troubleshooting mobile apps.
Speaking of troubleshooting, it’s a good idea to test out all pieces of registration prior to the day of the event.
“Best practice for us is always — when anything is related to technology — to test, test, test the day before,” Jackson said. “On the day of, to avoid surprises, know that you’ve tested and checked and also double-checked with the client to ask them, ‘Has anything changed?’”
Some common trends in event registration over the last few years include incorporating QR codes on badges and promoting sustainability, whether that entails digital-first badges or printing badges with recyclable materials.
Jackson recommends printing off badges in real time at the event so attendees can make modifications as needed. However, sometimes sustainability can introduce its own complications, such as the special paper creating printer jams. Planners should make sure the registration team is equipped not only with the proper software to check people in, but also with the necessary hardware.
Similarly, if an event organizer is interested in digital-only badges, they should be equipped with solutions for malfunctioning mobile devices and dead batteries.
AI is also being used in exciting new ways on site during registration, including facial analysis software.
“A new thing that we’re looking at doing is to integrate software where we can see how everybody’s mood is at the registration,” Xavier said. “Was that person feeling frustrated because of waiting in a queue that was too long? Then we can target why that was happening. So that’s feedback.”
“If you’re trying to attract people, registration is literally the front door. They have to go through that door to get to your show. So, you want to make that a good experience and tell them what’s coming.”
years
Jessica Duarte
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SMALL MARKETS, BIG UPGRADES
Check out these new and improved venues across America
BY RACHEL CRICK
Towering hotels, expansive ballrooms and shiny new finishes — upgrades to convention centers involve more than just a new coat of paint.
That’s because convention centers are more than just gathering spaces. The events they attract generate millions of dollars for their local economies and plenty of exposure for additional tourism. Improvements to convention centers promise to draw in more business, create more jobs and give meeting attendees a seamless meeting experience.
Here are six convention centers undergoing upgrades in small-to-midsize markets across the country.
BRADENTON AREA CONVENTION CENTER PALMETTO, FLORIDA
The Bradenton Area Convention Center first opened in 1985 just off the Manatee River on Florida’s west coast. It’s the only convention center of its size within the 150-mile stretch between St. Petersburg and Naples, Florida, and is conveniently bookended by both the Tampa and Sarasota Bradenton international airports. Nearby, Anna Maria Island offers sugar-white sand beaches for attendees and their families to explore in between meetings. Its rich offerings for leisure travel are also what make it a great fit for corporate meetings, which is why the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau announced an expansion was underway in 2024.
Efforts to improve and expand the convention center began with the addition of a connected hotel, the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, a 252-room hotel with a 3,000-square-foot spa,
The Bradenton Area Convention Center is undergoing a renovation and expansion to bring its total rentable space to 90,000 square feet.
Above:
Courtesy Bradenton Area CVB
which was completed in 2024. Next up, the convention center’s $54 million expansion will add a grand ballroom seating up to 850 banquet-style as well as a climate-controlled connecting walkway to the hotel. That’s in addition to two large outdoor spaces and the existing 32,000-square-foot exhibit hall, which will be getting new paint and epoxy during the renovation. The improved convention center
will total 90,000 square feet of rentable space, in addition to 10,000 at the adjacent Marriott.
“It’s in the urban core, the Bradenton Palmetto Corridor that’s going through redevelopment,” said Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area CVB. “To be able to add a convention center remodel, it’s going to stimulate the downtown area with up to $30-$40 million of economic stimulus.”
“It’s a unique venue, one that has a rich history located in downtown Bloomington, and it’s always been a place for people to gather with the newest and latest things.”
— Talisha Coppock, Bloomington Convention Center
BLOOMINGTON CONVENTION CENTER BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA
In the heart of Bloomington’s walkable downtown, the Monroe Convention Center — soon to be renamed the Bloomington Convention Center — is already a standout thanks to its distinct place in Indiana history. Built as a Ford Model T assembly plant and showroom in 1923, the existing
Bradenton Area Convention Center and hotel, clockwise from left: Marriott Palmetto Resort and Spa’s restaurant; a rendering of the convention center lobby; the Palmetto Resort pool
Photos courtesy Bradenton Area CVB
convention center opened in 1991 with 24,000 square feet of event space. In 2024, the city announced an expansion was moving forward.
“It’s a unique venue, one that has a rich history located in downtown Bloomington, and it’s always been a place for people to gather with the newest and latest things,” said Talisha Coppock, the convention center’s executive director. “The new building will add modern amenities, provide a larger space for current events and attract new events.”
The expansion, slated for completion in February 2027, will consist of a second building across the street from the existing convention center, connected via skywalk. The building will be LEED Silver certified, with an emphasis on sustainability, and is expected to include a 27,000-square-foot exhibit hall, divisible into eight sections, and two smaller breakout rooms.
Coppock added that the expansion will perfectly serve conferences of up to 600 attendees and showcase
Bloomington’s booming arts and culture scene. Following the completion of the second building, smaller renovations will take place at the existing convention center to upgrade the space; this phase of the project is expected to be complete by July 2027. The convention center’s name is also expected to change to the Bloomington Convention Center. bloomingtonconvention.com
THE CORBIN CENTER
CORBIN, KENTUCKY
Located in southeastern Kentucky near one of the state’s most beautiful outdoor attractions, Cumberland Falls, the city of Corbin is set to expand its meeting offerings with improvements to its convention center. The existing Corbin Center offers more than 19,000 square feet of space, including a multipurpose room that’s divisible into four sections and has a capacity of up to 360 attendees. The expansion, which will break ground
Bloomington scenes, clockwise from left: Fourth Street; convention center expansion rendering; convention center expansion’s interior
Courtesy Bloomington Convention Center
Courtesy Bloomington Convention Center
Courtesy Visit Bloomington
from
in the coming months, will add an additional 15,000 square feet of connected meeting space, consisting of a convention hall and breakout rooms. The convention hall will accommodate up to 500 attendees banquet-style and bring the total convention center space to over 34,000 square feet.
In addition to the expansion, the existing Corbin Center will be undergoing cosmetic renovations. The 7,000-seat Corbin Arena, also owned by the city of Corbin, is a short drive up the hill from The Corbin Center. Its 100,000 square feet of space provides additional accommodation for large events and trade shows. The arena is set to receive cosmetic renovations in the near future.
A 113-room, dual-branded Marriott property, a Fairfield Inn-TownePlace Suites, is currently under construction adjacent to The Corbin Center. The hotel is slated for completion in late 2025 and will be connected to The Corbin Center’s expansion via
a covered walkway.
“We’ll be the only facility on Interstate 75 between Knoxville and Lexington with a hotel sitting adjacent to it,” said Bruce Carpenter, The Corbin Center’s executive director. “We feel like it will open up a lot of opportunity.”
thecorbincenter.com
“We’ll be the only facility on Interstate 75 between Knoxville and Lexington with a hotel sitting adjacent to it. We feel like it will open up a lot of opportunity.”
— Bruce Carpenter, The Corbin Center
By Rachel Crick
Clockwise
top left: The dualbranded Marriott in Corbin; The Corbin Center board room; a rendering of The Corbin Center’s expansion
Courtesy The Corbin Center
Courtesy The Corbin Center
THREE RIVERS CONVENTION CENTER KENNEWICK, WASHINGTON
The Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick, Washington, is located in the southeastern corner of the state, just three hours from Portland and Seattle. It opened in 2004 and currently consists of 13 total meeting spaces across 80,000 square feet. The convention center recently broke ground on an expansion that will more than double its size.
“This is a project we’ve been working toward for many, many years,” said Sybil Young, director of sales and marketing for the convention center. “We’ve had recurrent events needing more space and growth so they could expand without needing to leave our community. It also drives a significant amount of economic impact in our area, including hotels, shopping and restaurants that will benefit from this space.”
The expansion will add approximately 115,000 square feet to the existing facility, including a 60,000-square-foot exhibit hall divisible into four smaller spaces, as well as 5,000 square feet of meeting space. The expansion’s design and planned upgrades to the current convention center will ensure a seamless flow throughout the entire finished facility. The project is slated for completion in late 2026.
In addition to its 112-room SpringHill Suites on one end of the center, a new, 162-room hotel with a rooftop bar will be added for additional economic impact. threeriversconventioncenter.com
“This is a project we’ve been working toward for many, many years. We’ve had recurrent events needing more space and growth so they could expand without needing to leave our community.”
— Sybil Young, Three Rivers Convention Center
Courtesy Three Rivers Convention Center
A RENDERING OF THE THREE RIVERS CONVENTION CENTER
The premier event and meeting venue in Kentucky.
Centrally located between Louisville and Lexington, the Shelbyville Conference Center combines versatility, beauty, and modern amenities to provide a welcoming and accommodating venue for events of all types.
Flexible floorplans and state-of-the-art technology allow for groups ranging in size to intimate executive meetings to company-wide conferences to gather together in the premier event and meeting venue in Kentucky. Charming and historic Shelbyville is just steps away, offering dining, shopping, acommodations, and more for attendees to enjoy. Visit shelbykyvenues.com to learn more.
PASADENA ARENA & CONVENTION CENTER
PASADENA, TEXAS
Pasadena, Texas, is one of the most populous suburbs of Houston, and like many Texan suburbs, it’s fast-growing. The city’s economic development corporation is hoping a renovation and expansion of its convention center and municipal fairgrounds will help draw additional sports, entertainment and corporate events, as well as additional economic impact, to the area.
“Here in southeast Harris County, there’s not a facility of this sort that can hold the capacity and versatility of the needs we have here,” said Julianne Echavarria, marketing manager at the Pasadena Economic Development Corporation. “Our industry partners are needing a bigger space to bring more expos, conferences and meetings. With this facility we’re looking at servicing all our neighboring communities. This is a partnership for everyone.”
The existing Pasadena Con vention Center & Municipal Fairgrounds are about 50 years old and host a variety of local and sporting events. The city’s vision is to transform it into the Pasadena Arena & Convention Center. Plans include modernizing the existing convention center with interior design upgrades and addition-
Renderings of the renovated Pasadena Arena & Convention Center, clockwise from left: The convention center lobby; the arena; campus exterior
Courtesy Pasadena Economic Development Corporation
al A/V, as well as adding a 7,600-square-foot arena to bring the total square footage of the facilities to 200,000.
The project, which broke ground in 2024, is expected to be completed in the summer of 2026.
pasadenaedc.com
SHARONVILLE CONVENTION CENTER
SHARONVILLE, OHIO
Located in the Cincinnati suburb of the same name, the Sharonville Convention Center is conveniently located off Interstates 75 and 275. The center was recently renovated, unveiling its $24 million expansion in early 2024. In addition to extra space, the convention center was awarded LEED certification for its sustainable features, making it the largest LEED-certified venue in the Cincinnati area. Planners looking for eco-friendly options will be impressed with the Sharonville Convention Center’s commitment to sustainable practices, from a
Courtesy Sharonville Convention Center
SHARONVILLE CONVENTION CENTER
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recycling program to conscious design choices that limit energy and water use.
“We noticed a gap in our market, where there was no space for those who needed less space than the smallest ballroom in Cincinnati’s convention center, but were too large for what we had,” said Jim Downton, the center’s executive director. “So, we doubled our exhibit space to attract that business, and it has.”
The remodeled convention center doubled its exhibit hall, bringing it to 40,000 square feet. It also offers a 14,000-square-foot ballroom that can seat up to 1,000 at banquet rounds, as well as an 8,200-square-foot junior ballroom. Additional breakout rooms and a few smaller banks of meeting space can be configured to fit an event of any size. The facility features over 1,000 parking spaces for complimentary parking. Additional upgrades included new signage, technology and a projection wall at the main entrance.
The facility also introduced the Northern Lights Bar and Grill, a full-service restaurant, on the exhibit floor for
Courtesy Sharonville Convention Center
Meagan Drabik Sales Manager
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QUEEN
added convenience and service to attendees. The renovation has also resulted in the addition of two nearby hotels, including one that connects to the convention center, and a brewery and restaurant across the street.
sharonvilleconventioncenter.com
The [Sharonville Convention Center] was recently renovated, unveiling its $24 million expansion in early 2024. In addition to extra space, the convention center was awarded LEED certification for its sustainable features, making it the largest LEED-certified venue in the Cincinnati area.
Courtesy Sharonville Convention Center
SHARONVILLE CONVENTION CENTER LOBBY
Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Valor Hall is booking for 2026!
Valor Hall offers over 10,000 square feet of regular meeting space along with 6,000 square feet of glass enclosed prefunction space. Located just outside the gates of Ft. Campbell on the Tennessee/Kentucky state line, the center is the perfect solution for any shows, reunions, military balls or conventions wishing to reach a diverse population. From wedding receptions to trade shows and beyond, this facility is set to be the most dynamic meeting place in the region. If you are planning an event from afar, that's okay, we have an online tour, and our event coordinators would be happy to walk you through everything over a call.
Se habla español.
Colorado COOL
By Justin Bilancieri
All photos courtesy Visit Boulder
Home to the University of Colorado, Boulder sits in the shadows of scenic rock formations known as the Flatirons.
Boulder embodies the appeal of the Rocky Mountains
SBY DIANA BOCCO
et against the stunning backdrop of the Flatirons and the Rocky Mountains, the city of Boulder, Colorado, blends natural beauty with a forward-thinking spirit that makes it a magnetic spot for meetings. Known for its entrepreneurial energy, lively scene and deep commitment to sustainability, Boulder offers groups a setting where ideas come to life just as easily on a trail as they do around a conference table.
Boulder’s downtown is easy to explore on foot, with local restaurants, boutique hotels and unique venues around every corner. It’s the kind of place where it’s easy to grab some specialty coffee between sessions or unwind at an art gallery after a day of meetings. And, when it’s time to unplug, the mountains, trails and parks are just minutes away.
CITY
BOULDER AT A GLANCE
LOCATION: Northern Colorado, at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains
ACCESS: About 45 minutes from Denver International Airport
National Order of the Arrow Conference ATTENDEES: 6,500
The Latino Chamber’s Empowered Women Group Conference ATTENDEES: 300
Destination Highlights
Though Boulder is home to the University of Colorado and a hub for start-ups and tech innovators, it retains the charm and warmth of a laid-back mountain town. It’s a place where business suits and hiking boots comfortably coexist, and where groups can easily go from an inspiring keynote session to a sunset hike in the nearby foothills.
For planners, Boulder’s ease of access, pedestrian-friendly downtown and variety of meeting spaces make it a natural choice. Sustainability is more than a buzzword here — it’s part of the city’s DNA. From LEED-certified venues to farm-to-table dining, groups that prioritize green practices will find Boulder a perfect fit.
Beyond the boardroom, Boulder’s buzzing arts and culture scene offers groups an extra layer of inspiration. Live music spills onto Pearl Street, galleries showcase local talent, and year-round festivals add color to the city’s calendar. It’s this mix of natural beauty, creative energy and authentic local flavor that gives meetings in Boulder a spark of something unexpected — and unforgettable.
Distinctive Venues
Forget cookie-cutter meeting rooms — Boulder serves up venues that surprise and inspire. “The BMoCA (Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art) is a unique space to experience rotating art exhibits while hosting a reception or meeting,” said Bailey Burrows, media relations and marketing manager for Visit Boulder. “It’s located near downtown Boulder, so it offers a perfect blend of culture and convenience.”
For something with old-world charm, Chautauqua Community House, built in 1918, provides an intimate space surrounded by gardens and nature trails. Looking for a creative twist? The Dairy Arts Center offers a collection of flexible spaces, from theaters to galleries, that bring a splash of artistic energy to meetings or receptions. “It’s ideal for a creative twist on an annual meeting or sales training,” Burrows said.
For an out-of-this-world experience, Fiske Planetarium lets groups host seminars under the stars, complete with laser shows or celestial tours. And for a casual, local vibe, the Rayback Collective is the go-to in town. Once a plumbing supply store, it’s now a lively event space with rotating food trucks, a beer garden and plenty of room to mingle in a laid-back setting that encourages networking without the name tags. “If you’re looking for a casual vibe with flexible event flow, this is it,” Burrows said.
DISTINCTIVE VENUES
Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS A group hike in winter
Downtown Boulder
Colorado University’s Folsom Field
By Justin Bilancieri
Dairy Arts Center
Fiske Science Sphere
Major Meeting Spaces
Boulder’s larger venues offer a mix of historic charm, sweeping views and modern amenities. The historic Boulder Theater is a standout, hosting up to 850 guests in theater-style seating. With built-in staging, lighting and sound, as well as its art deco marquee and vintage ambiance, it’s a favorite for product launches, keynote sessions and corporate celebrations that call for a bit of flair.
Over at Folsom Field, the Byron R. White Club Level offers two elegant event spaces — each accommodating 400 guests — on the north and south sides of the stadium. These bright, open rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows and sweeping views of both the Flatirons and the field itself. For a bonus group activity, planners can arrange exclusive tours of CU Athletics facilities, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic sports venue.
For events that require serious scale, CU’s Macky Auditorium Concert Hall, built in 1922, offers seating for 2,050 guests. This historic venue, with its stately columns and ornate architectural details, creates an impressive backdrop for conferences, lectures and performances. Most availability falls during the summer months, when the university calendar frees up the space for larger public and private events.
Boulder’s meeting scene is also getting an upgrade this year with the opening of the Limelight Boulder hotel. Designed to accommodate up to 1,200 guests in banquet rounds, the venue will also offer flexible spaces perfect for receptions, networking events or team-building activities against a Rocky Mountain backdrop. “The venue will also feature outdoor space, perfect for a variety of event types,” Burrows said.
After the Meeting
Once the workday winds down, groups can shift gears and explore the city’s more playful side. The nearby network of trails makes it easy to set out for a scenic hike, join a sunset stroll or explore the area on a guided cycling tour. For groups looking for something more adventurous, tree-climbing sessions deliver a fun and active way to experience Boulder’s outdoor side. Culinary fans can explore the local food scene through guided tastings, cooking classes or interactive winemaking sessions where teams can blend their own bottles.
“Team-building opportunities include improv workshops, circus arts classes, chocolate-making sessions and escape room challenges,” Burrows said. For more unique activities, she said groups can find everything from planetarium shows to hot-air balloon flights and mindfulness sessions with flower mandalas.
Groups looking for after-hours relaxation have plenty of options, from local breweries offering craft beer tastings to farm-to-table restaurants that showcase Colorado ingredients. Boulder’s art galleries, live music venues and theaters also offer engaging ways to end the day, giving attendees a chance to experience the city’s creative side and connect in a more casual, social setting.
MAJOR MEETING SPACES Boulder Theater
A Boulder cooking school
Rayback Collective
By Justin Bilancieri
AMERICA’S
Vancouver
BY CYNTHIA BARNES
Just across the Columbia River from Oregon’s largest city, the city of Vancouver, Washington, is Portland’s pretty little sister and an ideal choice for meeting planners. With a lively waterfront, rich history and flexible spaces for meetings and conferences, it has all the ingredients for successful events. Best of all, it’s only 15 minutes from Portland International Airport and 150 scenic miles from Seattle.
“Washington’s Vancouver is still somewhat undiscovered in the Pacific Northwest, with a perfect blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm that you can’t find anywhere else,” said Erica Lindemann, director of marketing for Visit Vancouver WA. “We like to say we’re ‘close to everything, far from typical’ since we have the Columbia River Gorge, Mount St Helens and Pacific Coast basically in our backyard. These Pacific Northwest wonders worth the day trip, while staying in a lively and relaxing city.”
CHERRY BLOSSOMS AT CLARK COLLEGE
LOCATED NEAR MANY PACIFIC NORTHWEST LANDMARKS, VANCOUVER, WASHINGTON, OFFERS AN IDEAL SETTING FOR SMALLER MEETINGS.
VANCOUVER WASHINGTON
Destination Highlights
Not to be confused with the city of the same name in Canada, the “other” Vancouver is Washington’s fourth-largest city and affectionately referred to as “the Couve” (rhymes with “move”) by locals. With dramatic Mount St. Helens in the distance and surrounded by the lush peaks of the Cascade Mountains, Vancouver is delightful for outdoor enthusiasts — whether hiking and kayaking or just admiring sailboats and sea lions from a patio on the city’s downtown waterfront, which recently underwent a $1.5 billion makeover. Stretching across 30-plus acres of former paper mill land, the development’s centerpiece is a 90foot pier reaching out into the Columbia River. Above it, a towering metal beam and cable suspensions rise, echoing the graceful lines of a sail.
Visit Vancouver Washington offers an array of services to help make meetings of all sizes a success. Downtown walking maps encourage exploration, and the popular Show Your Badge Pass offers discounts at local restaurants and retailers to engage attendees. The destinations services team is happy to arrange a variety of experiences tailored to your group.
Major Meeting Spaces
The first hotel in the world to attain both LEED and Green Seal certification, the 226-room Hilton Vancouver Washington and Vancouver Convention Center offers contemporary design of customizable space, with 16 meeting rooms and 30,000 square feet that can accommodate up to 1,300 attendees.
A tribute to Pacific Northwest history, the distinctive (and dog-friendly) Heathman Lodge has 10,000 square feet of event and venue space for up to 400 attendees, along with 182 charmingly appointed guest rooms and suites.
Operated by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, the gleaming 14-story Ilani Resort has nearly 300 guest rooms, along with a casino, world-class entertainment and more than 22,000 square feet of meeting space for up to 2,200 attendees.
On the waterfront, the Hotel Indigo Vancouver and AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront are ideal for corporate gatherings, including board meetings and retreats. Great views, fitness facilities and a spa are among the amenities attendees will enjoy.
All photos courtesy Visit Vancouver WA
DUSK ON THE VANCOUVER WATERFRONT
Vancouver
“Washington’s Vancouver is still somewhat undiscovered in the Pacific Northwest, with a perfect blend of big-city amenities and smalltown charm that you can’t find anywhere else.”
— Erica Lindemann, Visit Vancouver WA
Distinctive Venues
At Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, the Red Cross House can host up to 150 guests in a unique setting surrounded by rich history and scenic views. Known as the birthplace of West Coast aviation, Pearson Air Museum is a working airport that is also part of the historic site. Permits can be arranged to hold events in the Historic Hangar, an indoor/outdoor venue that can accommodate up to 500 attendees, as well as at the 1870s bandstand and other locations within the park.
After the Meeting
One of the first permanent settlements west of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Vancouver was where the state’s first grape vines were planted in 1825. Today, the city is home to many tasting rooms, and a self-guided wine-tasting tour is an ideal way to explore some of Southwest Washington’s finest vintages. For beer aficionados, Vancouver is also a hotbed of craft brewing.
Dating to 1853, the five-acre Esther Short Park is the oldest public park in the Northwest. The 69-foot Salmon Run Bell Tower tells the story of the Chinook Indians by means of a glockenspiel diorama. The urban plaza also boasts a Victorian rose garden, an interactive fountain and a performance pavilion. It hosts festivals and events throughout the year.
HAWAIIAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL IN VANCOUVER
North Carolina Favorites
BY PAULA AVEN GLADYCH
North Carolina is known for its beautiful coastal and mountain scenery, diverse culture and rich history, making it an attractive place to plan large meetings and events. Here are five North Carolina cities that embody the spirit of the state and have much to offer meeting planners in the way of full-service venues, gorgeous natural surroundings and first-class attractions.
and life sciences sectors. Meeting groups hosting large conferences or events in the area have their pick of several venues, including the 500,000-square-foot Raleigh Convention Center, which is part of the Raleigh Convention & Performing Arts Complex. It features a 32,000-squarefoot ballroom and 20 meeting rooms. The convention center is undergoing an expansion that should be completed by 2028, along with a new 550-room Omni Hotel. Lenovo Center offers 700,000 square feet of space, including 17,703 fixed seats and 17,000 square feet of floor space that can accommodate events of 5,000 to 20,000. The arena also has six meeting spaces, 59 suites, 13 lounge boxes and a 9,100-square-foot club restaurant. The city has several full-service hotels that can accommodate larger groups, including Hilton Raleigh North Hills, with 30,000 square feet of meeting space and 333 guest rooms; Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley, with 26,182 square feet of meeting space and 379 guest rooms; and The Umstead Hotel and Spa, with 10,200 square feet of meeting space and 150 rooms.
CARY PARK IS AN INVITING NATURAL SPACE IN DOWNTOWN RALEIGH.
By David Kuhn, courtesy visitraleigh.com
HURRICANE RECOVERY
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated the mountain region of North Carolina. Though work is ongoing to restore some of the hardest-hit areas, most destinations in the region are ready to welcome visitors again.
Asheville has worked tirelessly to rebuild the areas that were devastated by flooding, including its famous River Arts District and Biltmore Village, the historic community at the entrance to the Biltmore Estate.
While the upper River Arts District has many arts and craft studios that are still open for business, it could be a few years before the lower part of the district, closest to the French Broad River, is rebuilt. Biltmore Village, which experienced massive flooding, is still a few months from getting back online.
Small mountain communities such as Boone and Blowing Rock were damaged by the storm, but all major attractions and roads in those areas are open. Nearby state parks have some trail and campsite closures, and some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway are closed, but secondary roads are available to get travelers where they want to go.
The Great Smoky Mountains, south of Asheville, were mostly unaffected by the storm.
Visit North Carolina has a travel advisory page on its website with an interactive map that lists current closures and road conditions so that visitors to the state can find alternate routes to the destinations they want to visit.
visitnc.com
The 500,000-square-foot Raleigh Convention Center is undergoing an expansion that should be completed by 2028, along with a new 550-room Omni Hotel.
THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA IN RALEIGH
WILMINGTON’S RIVERWALK
Courtesy visitraleigh.com
Courtesy Wilmington and Beaches CVB
The 107,000-square-foot Wilmington Convention Center is the largest venue of its kind on North Carolina’s coast. It can host groups of up to 2,000 and offers riverfront views.
Unique venues include Jaguar Bolera, a restaurant and entertainment complex in the Raleigh Iron Works mixed-used development that offers duckpin bowling, cornhole, karaoke and darts. For fun, attendees can visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences or RushHour Karting in Morrisville. The Outdoor Mural Trail and Raleigh Beer Trail are also fun for groups. visitraleigh.com
WILMINGTON
Wilmington is a desirable meeting destination because of its walkable convention district and coastal experiences. The convention district is located on the Cape Fear River and features restaurants, shops, nightlife and coastal activities all within walking distance of each other. Popular attractions in the city include the Battleship North Carolina, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Wilmington Riverwalk, The Children’s Museum of Wilmington, Cameron Art Museum and Fort Fisher State Historic Site.
The 107,000-square-foot Wilmington Convention Center is the largest venue of its kind on North Carolina’s coast. It can host groups of up to 2,000 and offers riverfront views and plenty of natural light. There are nearly 900 hotel rooms within walking distance of the convention center, including Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center with 125 rooms and a 7,300-square-foot ballroom. The 186-room Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront is adjacent to the convention center and offers 6,600
square feet of meeting space and a 4,000-square-foot rooftop bar. Hotel Ballast, Tapestry Collection by Hilton offers 272 guest rooms and 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.
Unique venues include Bellamy Mansion; the North Carolina Aquarium, which can accommodate up to 2,000 guests; the Wilson Center, which can seat 1,600; and the Brooklyn Arts Center, which can host up to 1,500. Wilmington’s three island beaches, Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville, are all within a 30-minute drive of downtown Wilmington, and two state parks offer nature trails and watersports.
wilmingtonandbeaches.com
FAYETTEVILLE
Fayetteville is home to Fort Bragg, the world’s largest military base. Because of that, the city also features several military museums, including the U.S. Army Airborne & Special Operations Museum, which displays equipment, planes and tanks that were used in special operations around the world. The museum can host receptions for groups of up to 300.
Also at Fort Bragg is the Iron Mike Conference Center, which can accommodate events for groups of up to 900 for banquets or 1,075 for receptions.
The Crown Complex includes a coliseum, arena, theater, ballroom and Agri-Expo Center. The expo center features 60,000 square feet of exhibit space for trade shows or large banquets. The 9,200-square-foot ballroom can accommodate
WATERFRONT HOTELS IN WILMINGTON
Courtesy Wilmington and Beaches CVB
receptions for up to 650 guests. There is a 7,000-square-foot kitchen that provides food service for events held there, and the Crown Lounge, which is in the Crown Coliseum, offers a perfect pre-function area or bar space for events.
Unique venues include the Cape Fear Regional Theatre and 226 The Warehouse, a two-story venue inside a former cotton warehouse. For fun, groups can host team-building events at ZipQuest, one of the top zip lines in the country, tour local farms or vineyards, or play a round of golf at several courses in
The Inn on Biltmore Estate just completed a two-year redesign of its guest rooms and corridors. The Inn and Village Hotel on the estate offer several event venues, including a walled garden South Terrace.
Courtesy ExploreAsheville.com
Courtesy DistiNCtively Fayetteville
Courtesy DistiNCtively Fayetteville
THE AIRBORNE & SPECIAL OPERATIONS MUSEUM IN FAYETTEVILLE
FAYETTEVILLE’S BAYONET GOLF COURSE
AN ASHEVILLE WINERY
the area. There are 6,700 hotel rooms in Cumberland County and 1,200 short-term rentals.
distinctlyfayettevillenc.com
ASHEVILLE
Asheville, which is known for the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Biltmore Estate and its extensive arts community, is a meeting planner’s dream. Several new meeting hotels opened in the city recently, including The Radical, a modern art hotel in a historic building decked out with street art. The owners of the hotel kept existing street art on the walls and added to it, so every room and space in the hotel features murals and artwork.
The Inn on Biltmore Estate just completed a two-year redesign of its guest rooms and corridors. The Inn and Village Hotel on the estate offer several event venues, including a walled garden for 120 guests and South Terrace, which can host up to 750.
The Grand Bohemian Lodge in Biltmore Village, just outside the entrance to the famous estate, experienced massive flooding during Hurricane Helene. It reopened to the public in May after a full renovation. Its largest space can hold 120 for a banquet.
The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa is the largest meeting facility in the area, with 513 guest rooms and 86,852 square feet of
PLACES
MEET. PLACES
PLACES
A VIEW FROM THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY NEAR ASHEVILLE
Meeting Guide
The facility overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains, and groups can book the spa as part of their events.
The city has more than 9,000 hotel rooms and plenty of fun experiences to keep attendees happy, including whitewater rafting, foraging hikes and mountaintop yoga classes. The city has an extensive arts and crafts scene that offers hands-on experiences for groups, such as glassblowing, ceramics and fiber art demonstrations.
exploreasheville.com
DURHAM
Durham has spent the past 20 years transforming its once-deserted downtown into a vibrant walkable area full of shops, restaurants and nightlife. It also punches above its weight when it comes to food. The city is home to two universities, as well as the Durham Bulls Minor League Baseball team and the Durham Performing Arts Center, which is one of the top theaters in the country.
Meeting planners wanting to tap into that downtown energy
The convention center has over 35,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including a Grand Ballroom that can accommodate groups of up to 1,700. There is a Marriott attached to the center as well as four nearby boutique hotels.
The Durham Armory dates to the 1930s and features wood floors and brick walls. It can host events for up to 585 in its ballroom. The Durham Arts Council has a small theater and rooms for receptions, and the Carolina Theatre, which turns 100 in 2026, is a beautifully restored theater complex that can host groups of up to 1,100. The Sheraton Imperial Hotel at Research Triangle Park can accommodate groups of up to 2,000 in its 31,504 square feet of meeting space.
Attendees can enjoy Durham’s craft brewery scene, catch a Durham Bulls game, or tour the Duke University or North Carolina Central University campuses.
discoverdurham.com
The Durham Convention & Arts Complex includes the Durham Convention Center, Carolina Theatre, Durham Arts Council and Durham Armory, all of which offer meeting space.
