Your Resource for Meetings in the Midwest Your
Resour
ce for Meeti
ngs in the Mid we
Digital E dition
st
MANDY H
National
Fall 2015
Fall 2015
AZLETT,
FFA Orga
Mee t In… Illin ois p. 66 DuP age p. 89 Indi ana p. 121
nization
CMP p. 20
Casi nos
- Full- Hou
Wate rpar
se Mee ting
ks - Just Add Wate
The Grea t Mind Your
s
r
Tip Deb ate
Mee ting
Man ners
Find us here…
DuPage
Brookfield Zoo/Chicago Zoological Society..................... D-8 City of Elmhurst .................................................................... D-20 Dave & Buster’s ..................................................................... D-11 Ditka’s ...................................................................................... D-11 Drury Lane Theatre & Conf Center ................................D-BC Eaglewood Resort and Spa ................................................... D-4 Enchanted Castle Restaurant & Entertainment Complex ............................................... D-18 Hilton Lisle/Naperville ........................................................... D-4 K1 Speed ................................................................................... D-8 Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge ..................................... D-10 Le Méridien Chicago - Oakbrook Center ..................... D-IFC Lucky Strike Entertainment Lombard .............................. D-10 Marcus Addison Cinema ........................................................ D-8 Marriott Hotels of DuPage County .................................... D-6 Mayslake Peabody Estate ..................................................... D-18 Naper Settlement - Outdoor History Museum............. D-18 Oakbrook Terrace Hotels .................................................D-IBC Odeum Sports & Expo Center .......................................... D-16 Pinstripes ................................................................................. D-9 Westin Chicago Northwest.................................................. D-6 Westin Lombard Yorktown Center .................................... D-5 WhirlyBall ............................................................................... D-10 Willowbrook Hotels ............................................................ D-12
Indiana
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum ..............................133 Ball State University.................................................................131 Bloomington/Monroe County Conv Center ............124, 125 French Lick Resort ..................................................................126 Grand Wayne Conv Center .......................................... 134, 135 Holiday Inn Ft Wayne - IPFW & Coliseum .........................133 Indiana State Park Inns ............................................................129
Iowa
Diamond Jo Casino ....................................................................53 Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino ...............................34
Kansas
Hyatt Regency Wichita .............................................................17 Kansas Star Casino ..............................................................38. 39 Prairie Band Casino & Resort .................................................46 Visit Wichita ....................................................................FCW, 25
Michigan
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel ......................................................BC FireKeepers Casino Hotel........................................................41 Greater Lansing CVB ..............................................................IBC Island Resort & Casino/Sweetgrass Golf Club ....................43 MGM Grand Detroit .................................................................51 MotorCity Casino Hotel ..........................................................49
Minnesota
Index
Belvedere Events & Banquets ..................................................81 Bloomington-Normal Area CVB.............................................82 Burr Ridge Hotels ......................................................................69 Carbondale Tourism ..................................................................84 Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro ...........................................70, 71 Crowne Plaza Chicago Northbrook................................70, 71 Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare.........................................70, 71 Crowne Plaza Lombard Downers Grove .......................70, 71 Crowne Plaza Springfield....................................................70, 71 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago - Alsip.......................69 Downers Grove VB....................................................................68 Drury Hotels...............................................................................72 Galesburg Area CVB .................................................................75 Gateway Center .........................................................................75 Hilton Chicago Northbrook....................................................68 Holiday Inn & Suites Carol Stream...................................70, 71 Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago Northwest - Elgin ..........70, 71 Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza River North ................70, 71 Holiday Inn Chicago North Shore Skokie Hotel ..........70, 71 Holiday Inn Chicago O’Hare Airport ..............................70, 71 Holiday Inn Chicago Oakbrook ........................................70, 71 Holiday Inn Chicago SW Countryside ............................70, 71 Holiday Inn Chicago West Itasca ......................................70, 71 Holiday Inn Express Palatine/N. Arlington Heights......70, 71 Holiday Inn NW Chicago Crystal Lake...........................70, 71 Holiday Inn Rolling Meadows ............................................70, 71 Hotel Arista ...........................................................................86, 87 Lisle CVB...................................................................................... 77 Meet Chicago Northwest .......................................................85 Novatoo Audio Visual ................................................................76 Peoria Area CVB ..................................................................78, 79 Pheasant Run Resort & Spa .....................................................73 President Abraham Lincoln Hotel & Conf Center .............81 Route 66 Hotel & Conf Center..............................................81 Springfield, IL CVB .....................................................................88 Starved Rock Lodge and Conf Center ..................................74 theWit Hotel ..............................................................................83 USML Conf Center....................................................................76 Viper Alley.................................................................................... 77
New Harmony Inn Resort and Conf Center ....................122 Oakwood Resort .....................................................................131 Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza..................................................128 Steuben County Tourism Bureau ..........................................130 University of Saint Francis......................................................136 Visit Fort Wayne .......................................................................132 Visit Greensburg/Decatur County ......................................123 Visit Hendricks County ..........................................................128 Visit Lafayette - West Lafayette CVB ...................................127
Arrowwood Lodge at Brainerd Lakes ...................................64 Arrowwood Resort & Conf Center ......................................55 Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort ...................................................46 Visit Bemidji................................................................................... 1
Missouri
Columbia CVB ............................................................................10 Holiday Inn St Louis SW Route 66 .......................................... 8 Tan-Tar-A Resort, Golf Club, Marina & Indoor Waterpark................................................................59
Nebraska
Lincoln CVB ................................................................................ 22
North Dakota
Astoria Hotel & Event Center .................................................. 6
Ohio
Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB .......................................... 6 Greater Licking CVB ................................................................... 9 Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park ...................................37 Hope Hotel & Richard C. Holbrooke Conf Center...........13
South Dakota
Cadillac Jack’s Gaming Resort .................................................29 First Gold Hotel and Gaming ..................................................28 Gold Dust Casino & Hotel ......................................................29 The Lodge at Deadwood .........................................................28 Tin Lizzie Gaming Resort .........................................................28
Wisconsin
Destination
Illinois
Blue Harbor Resort, Spa & Conf Center..............................65 The Charmant Hotel .................................................................24 Fox Cities CVB ......................................................................... IFC Glacier Canyon Lodge at the Wilderness .............................61 Great Wolf Lodge.......................................................................63 Hilton Milwaukee City Center ................................................11 Ho-Chunk Casino Hotel & Conv Center ............................47 IDM Hospitality Management..................................................21 InterContinental Hotel in Milwaukee ....................................11 Janesville Area CVB....................................................................23 Marcus Hotels & Resorts .........................................................11 Metropolis Resort & Conf Center.........................................59 Monona Terrace® Conv Center ............................................ 4, 5 The Pfister Hotel .......................................................................11 Potawatomi Hotel & Casino ....................................................31 Radisson Paper Valley Hotel.....................................................18 St. Croix Casinos........................................................................33 Wisconsin Dells VCB ................................................................57
Your Resource for Meetings in the Midwest
Fall 2015
MANDY HAZLETT, CMP
Casinos - Full-House Meetings
National FFA Organization p. 20
Meet In‌ Illinois p. 66
Waterparks - Just Add Water The Great Tip Debate
DuPage p. 89 Indiana p. 121
Mind Your Meeting Manners
Midwest Meetings ••••••••••• Fall 2015
Table of Contents
09
12
20 06 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 12
|
14
|
2
Planner Perspective A planner’s request and more
The Sweetness of Fall A light dessert that melts in your mouth
Herbal Infusion Herb-infused cocktails for fall
Paint & Sip Flourish with a creative outlet
Book Smart Community outreach promotes literacy
16
|
18
|
19
|
20 | 80 |
Mind Your (Meeting) Manners A basic primer for business social skills
by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
Where to Run Three apps to map your run
Changing Travel Emerging technology and trends
How Did You Get Here? Meet Mandy Hazlett, CMP
Chapter Chat MPI - Chicago Area Chapter
The Great Tip Debate Do you tip your support teams?
by Shawna Suckow, CMP
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Midwest Meetings ••••••••••• Fall 2015
Table of Contents
26 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 44 | 48 | 50 |
Full-House Meetings Take a gamble on a casino meeting
The Poker Playing Planner From The Big Deal to The Main Event
by Shawna Suckow, CMP
Place Your Bets
54 | 56 | 58 |
Great table games for groups
Bet On Entertainment More than just gaming at casinos
Advancing Casino Meetings
60 |
The Global Gaming Expo
Just Add Water Extensive meeting space at waterparks
Not Just For Kids Waterpark resorts cater to adults
Behind the Waterpark Scene Keeping waterparks clean
by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
Truly All-Inclusive Waterpark experiences for guests with disabilities
by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
62 | Meetings
Waterparks Compete for
Casino Conduct Calming nerves of novice gamblers
Q&A with industry expert David J. Sangree
A Unique Edge Casino amenities kicked up a notch
by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
MEET IN… Illinois
T
here’s no place quite like Illinois for your next meeting or event and your at-
T
Indiana
tendees are sure to enjoy every minute spent there. Meet in the Aurora Area where you can choose from 10 cities and towns
with unique charm, unified by the Fox River that rolls throughout the valley. Timber Creek Convention Center offers unmatched meeting space, while Hayloft and Copley Theatres serve up impressive spaces for your event. While your’re there, encourage your attendees to explore Farnsworth House or Silver Springs State Park. From vast auditoriums to small, intimate spaces, there’s no shortage of facilities and venues in Bloomington-Normal. Choose from the McLean County Museum of History with it’s elegant courtroom, or the state-of-the-art U.S. Cellular Coliseum.
MEET IN GREENSBURG he hardest thing about a meeting in Indiana is deciding where to go. Across the state you’ll find cities both large and small offering diverse facilities, unique entertainment, and so much more.
Attendees will find modern meeting facilities and award-winning restaurants, wineries, and
brewpubs in the hip and welcoming community of Bloomington. Meet at the state-of-the-art Convention Center in the heart of the city or overlooking the grounds of the state’s largest and oldest winery. A downtown photography gallery or the interactive science museum offer space for a memorable event. After the meeting, they’ll enjoy endless entertainment options including museums, music, and art. Give attendees the opportunity to take in the serene breathtaking beauty of Northern Indiana
The Peoria Area, set in the scenic Illinois River Valley, greets you with a state-
Lakes Country with a meeting in Angola. Potawatomi Inn offers a lakefront setting with state-of-
Page 121
of-the-art convention center, international airport, and numerous attractions. Meet
the-art conference space. Enhance your meeting with a group outing to the 400-acre Wild Winds
Indiana Dunes State Park,
among beautiful works of art, under the stars, or in a distinctive outdoor space at the
Buffalo Preserve. Attendees will also enjoy a visit to northeast Indiana’s first winery or a round of
Peoria Riverfront Museum. Give your attendees a meeting they’ll always remember on
golf on one of the six beautiful courses in the area.
the Spirit of Peoria.
Fort Wayne is a great fit for any group and is home to two premier, world-class event facilities,
Meetings in Carbondale afford you the opportunity to meet on the campus of South-
the Grand Wayne Convention Center and Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. Attendees are
Chesterton Above: Downtown Indianapolis Below: Jennings Park, Vevay
ern Illinois University-Carbondale, a nationally ranked research institution. A pictur-
sure to have fun in downtown Fort Wayne’s vibrant and upbeat atmosphere. With more than 40
photo credit:
esque vineyard with breathtaking scenery welcomes you to southern Illinois. Attendees
bars and restaurants, an award-winning ballpark, and countless attractions and museums, there’s
www.switzcotourism.com
meeting at Walker’s Bluff will be treated to gourmet cuisine and the largest selection of
something for everyone.
local and national wines in the area.
Choose from eight towns when you meet in Hamilton County. With more than 100,000 sq. ft. of
Decatur is home to the largest conference center hotel between Chicago and St.
combined meeting space throughout the county, you’re sure to find the perfect venue for your meet-
Louis, the Decatur Conference Center & Hotel. Progress City, USA is perfect for your
ing. Attendees will want to extend their stay to take in all that Hamilton County has to offer, from
large-scale outdoor events. Leisure time will be well spent with year-round recreational
live music and theater, to history and cultural trails, and locally owned restaurants.
activities, shopping, and exciting nightlife.
Choose Indiana for your next meeting or event. You won’t be disappointed.
Meeting destinations abound in Illinois and CVBs throughout the state are ready to welcome you and your attendees to enjoy Illinois!
Left Page: City skyline, Chicago Above right: Flame of Hope, Effingham Above center: Strickler Planetarium, Kankakee Right: LaSalle Canal Boat, LaSalle
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
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67
Illinois ................................66 DuPage County ...............89 WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
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121
122
Midwest Meetings Fall 2015
Indiana ............................. 121 3
4
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
5
• A planner’s request for feedback on registration apps • One planner’s ideal meeting • Sage advice from an Event Manager
Searching for a registration/check-in app solution. Our website has a very extensive CMS and LMS system that we use to keep in touch with our learners and generate certificates, etc. However, we are looking for good registration/check-in apps to help us automate our attendance tracking. In addition to our live conferences, we have departmental liaisons who handle
Leisl Ashbaugh Administration OSU Center for Continuing Medical Education Columbus, OH Years of experience: 24
most of the day-to-day RSS duties such as gathering and entering in attendance of their individual RSSs. Since they have many duties other than the RSS management, we would love to find a way of making it easier for them to enter in attendance. We would greatly appreciate any guidance/advice on which registration or checkin apps our peers are using and/or which apps they do not recommend and why. Provide your feedback on registration/check-in apps at Editor@MidwestMeetings.com or leisl.ashbaugh@osumc.edu.
6
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
What does your ideal meeting or event look like? My ideal program begins with an initial consultation with the client to FALL 2015
Publisher Randal Hennen Hennen Publishing Randy@MidwestMeetings.com
Communications Coordinator/ Editor Christianne Beringer Christianne@MidwestMeetings.com
discuss the plans, goals, objectives, and
Tricia Clement, CMP Corporate Meetings and Events Planner Polaris Meetings & Events Kansas City, KS Years of experience: 11
vision for the event. Setting the goals at the beginning ensures that I am able to secure the best suited vendors for the program. All vendors work together to provide the best value to achieve the desired outcome for the client’s investment. Attendees, client, and vendors feel that they receive ample communication so that they are confident in the plans for the program. The program dates arrive
Circulation Manager
and all details play out as planned. If any
Lisa Jennings Lisa@MidwestMeetings.com
obstacle arises, it is addressed promptly and a solution is implemented to mini-
Art Director
mize impact. The client, attendees,
Amy Hennen Amy@MidwestMeetings.com
and stakeholders are delighted in how smooth the program is executed and all
Sales Director
desired outcomes are achieved.
Steve Van Maanen Steve@MidwestMeetings.com
Money spent on
Sales Manager
Money spent on customized bid pad-
Jeff Pinkava Jeff@MidwestMeetings.com
A special “thank you” to all those who contributed to this issue’s articles: Shawna Suckow, CMP Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP Shadia Cook Midwest Meetings® is a registered trademark owned by Hennen and Hennen. Midwest Meetings is published by Hennen Publishing. 302 6th Street W Ste A, Brookings, SD 57006 800-288-8510 • Fax: 605-692-9031 Info@MidwestMeetings.com www.MidwestMeetings.com Hennen Publishing reserves the right to reject or edit any manuscripts received for publication. Postmaster: Send address changes to 302 6th Street W Ste A, Brookings, SD 57006 Midwest Meetings welcomes all unsolicited material. Volume 23: Issue 4 © 2015 Midwest Meetings. All rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission is prohibited. WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
was a waste.
dles was a waste. For our annual Gala event we thought it would be great to tie the theme (light) into what we thought would be a clever idea that our guests
Meghan Gustafson Event Manager Basilica Events, LLC Board President International Special Events Society - Mpls St. Paul Minneapolis, MN Years of experience: 13
would bid using little flashlights. This wasn’t the first time our committee had this idea to do this type of thing. The reality of live auction bidding is that people don’t use anything other than their hands or eye contact to place their bids. This makes it really important to have really attentive spotters and auctioneers looking for those people who are bidding. Some of these big spenders like to be more aloof and come in at the last minute and steal that prized item right out from under the other bidders.
We’re always looking for industry professionals and experts to share their perspective in the pages of Midwest Meetings. Contact us at Editor@MidwestMeetings.com today!
7
FOOD
The Sweetness of Fall • A light dessert that melts in your mouth • A nice ending to a fall meal
P
astry Chef Megan Ketover, CEPC, with the Orchids at Palm Court (www.orchidsatpalmcourt.com), shares
her
mascarpone
sabayon
mousse, with hazelnut financier, butternut squash ice cream, ginger-poached honeycrisp apples, candied currants, and truffled hazelnuts. “This dessert is very light in texture and melts in your mouth,” said Ketover. “Butternut squash is a flavor that I love to use in the fall, it lends itself well to sweet or savory applications. The ice cream is very rich and has flavors of vanilla bean and brown sugar. I like that butternut squash has a little more delicate or refined flavor.” According to Ketover, they try to incorporate seasonal flavors and local products as much as possible, “We do that through the honeycrisp apples (from a great fruit farm in Michigan), and the addition of kumquats that we preserved when they were in season.” Ketover suggests this dessert as a nice ending to a fall meal, or following an entrée of venison or shortribs. “It is just the right amount of sweet to be refreshing, said Ketover. “Most fall desserts have a lot of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. I like that this dessert uses different layers of other ‘warming’ flavors like brown butter, hints of caramels, and hazelnut.” Megan Ketover incorporates her passion for the science and art of baking through the desserts, breads, candies, and pastries she creates for the French-inspired restaurant.
8
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Beverage
Herbal Infusion
For instructions on infusing the Laird’s
Apple Jack, a video showing the crafting of these beautiful cocktails, and a bonus
cocktail, visit www.midwestmeetings.com/ fall-2015-issue/beverage
A
• Herb-infused cocktails for fall • A unique twist on a beverage station
dd depth and flavor to your next event with an herb
The Merry Mary (non-alcoholic)
cocktail station.
2oz Orange juice
Rosemary & Apple Martini
1/4oz Agave nectar
1-1/4oz Laird’s Apple Jack Brandy infused with fresh
Ginger beer
Jonathan apples and fresh rosemary 1-1/2oz Fresh apple juice
1/2 Sprig of rosemary Lemon wedge
1oz Maple syrup 1/2oz Fresh squeezed lemon juice
Midwest Meetings would like to thank the Sheraton Hotel Kan-
1/4oz Grated cinnamon
sas City and The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center for the reci-
1/2tsp Grated fresh ginger
pes to these herb cocktails, made with herbs grown on property at
Fresh rosemary sprig
The Westin.
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
9
Teambuilding
Paint&Sip
C
• Flourish with a creative outlet • Drive innovation and creativity
hoosing teambuilding events that are fun, exciting, and
painting. This option is just what you think; when the music stops,
effective can often be a challenge. You want something
everyone takes a seat and an artist guides them through the next
that everyone will enjoy and participate in, while mak-
step of the painting. Haley Connor, Marketing Manager at Pinot’s
ing sure the activity aligns with the goals set forth for
Palette (www.pinotspalette.com) said this musical chairs activity is
your team.
While you are certain Susan from Marketing and Jane from Accounting would love a paint and sip class, what about Bob from Engineering or Joe from Sales? Art knows no gender and it may be just the thing some of the males in attendence need to let go of their inhibitions to open their minds and drive innovation and creativity. Paint and sip events offer the opportunity to paint, drink, and have fun as a group.
a great bonding event aimed at improving interpersonal relations and everyone leaves with a work of art created by their whole team. You can find Pinot’s Palette throughout the Midwest, but there are also properties adding paint and sip events to their list of teambuilding offerings. At the St. James Hotel in Red Wing, MN, you’ll get an event customized to the purpose of your meeting. “These events drive innovation and force individuals to take risks,” said Marilyne Bouteiller, Director of Sales and Marketing,
There are a number of options for your event from individual
St. James Hotel. “Participants are able to look at themselves, their
or self-guided painting to collaborative painting, where everyone
colleagues, and their company with an open mind, and they be-
comes together to create one large masterpiece, or musical chairs
come more appreciative of unique personalities and styles.”
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
11
Hospitality Hero
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
u
Book Smart
• Community outreach promotes literacy • Guests are rewarded for involvement
L
iteracy - the ability to read and write - is crucial to a child’s development and sense of well-being. Children who are solid readers have a healthy self-image, perform better in school, and become lifelong learners.
Today, experts estimate that nearly 40% of US 4th graders are not achieving basic levels of reading proficiency and nearly two-thirds of America’s children living in poverty have no access to books at home. In their second year, Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, KS, participated in the Book Smart promotion. The 2015 Kansas City promotion benefited the Bookmobile of Hands to Hearts, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the lives of children everywhere. The Bookmobile is available to provide books to at-risk children within the metropolitan KC area, primarily serving within the KCK school district. In order to most
print or audio book – appropriate for kids up to middle school age.
effectively use resources, they seek partnerships with schools and
A new addition to the 2015 program allowed guests the opportu-
organizations that are already working with these children. Book-
nity to leave a monetary donation and the hotels purchased books
mobile visits are pre-scheduled with community partners and are
on their behalf. As a thank you, guests enjoyed a credit for a com-
given out free of charge.
plimentary adult beverage, including wine, beer, or a cocktail in
“This is our second year participating in the Book Smart pro-
several of the Valencia Group locations. Guests that participated
motion, and it is an important initiative for Hotel Sorella Coun-
at Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza last year were treated to a
try Club Plaza,” said Dan Posch, director of sales and marketing.
complimentary flat-bread.
“We’re part of this community and we want to give back to the city
This year guests could donate in a number of ways – including
that’s welcomed us with open arms. Making a difference in the lives
making a donation at check-out at either the front desk or the res-
of children seems to be a great way to accomplish that.”
taurant. If guests gave a minimum donation of $10 or a children’s
Last year, Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza was able to provide
book, they were given a free signature cocktail at Bar Rosso, the
a few hundred books and this year, they want to do more (the num-
restaurant/bar at the top floor of Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza.
ber of books donated in 2015 was not available at press time).
According to Roy Kretschmer, Executive Vice President of Op-
Eight years ago, Houston-based Valencia Group started the
erations for the Valencia Group, “It’s been exciting to see Book
“Book Smart” program, which has resulted in the donation of al-
Smart grow each year. We feel this is a fun and easy way to involve
most 1,000 children’s print and audio books to libraries, hospitals,
guests, thank our frequent visitors, and promote literacy while sup-
and non-profit groups in communities served by their hotels.
porting key community organizations.”
The program, held this year from June 1, 2015, to August 31, 2015, rewards the support of overnight guests who donate a new
12
If you and your organization are giving back to your community, contact us today at Editor@MidwestMeetings.com!
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
13
The Great Tip Debate • Do you tip your support teams? • Whom should you tip? • A few ways to tip
by Shawna Suckow, CMP
I
had an infuriating conversation a couple weeks ago with a well-known European meeting planner. She casually mentioned in a conversation that she doesn’t believe in tipping. Anyone. Anywhere. Ever. Being on the other extreme of the pendulum, I couldn’t let her comment slide. I questioned her, and she reiter-
ated her stance. “So you don’t tip anywhere, even if you’re in a country where the cultural norm is to tip?” I asked.
Nope. She explained that even in America, she doesn’t tip because she thinks it’s ridiculous to tip someone for a job they’re
already getting paid to do. She instead offers an explanation to taxi drivers, restaurant servers, and hotel workers. She explains that she doesn’t believe in tipping because their wages should be enough compensation, or they should look for another job. While she is an extreme case, there are many others in our industry who don’t tip their support teams at hotels, DMCs, or venues. In many cases, planners just aren’t aware that it’s common practice. In other cases, planners can’t convince higher-ups to budget for tips. Either way, it’s a huge shame. When I was a young, corporate planner, I had no idea that tipping was the norm. I had no formal job training, no mentor, and no association memberships to educate me. It wasn’t until one day that a salesperson friend casually
14
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Because there are no formal rules or implied understandings about tipping in the meetings industry, it can be confusing whom to tip. mentioned it to me that I became aware of it. I was terribly embarrassed! From that moment forward though, I understood that tips are part of a living wage for most hotel workers. They don’t expect tips every time like a restaurant server does, but they nevertheless hope that their hard work didn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated. They hope that each planner is savvy enough to be in on the whole tipping practice. Moreover, those service charges that you pay as part of your final bill? Most, if not all, of that percentage goes to the hotel, not the workers. You have to ask to be certain. Why is the practice of tipping not more common knowledge in our industry? I believe it should be taught in every college program and every designation program.
• Bellmen who deliver all our boxes get tipped individually, along the way. • I tip bartenders after group events, if it was an open bar. Cash bars usually generate tips from individuals. • If I’m working with a DMC, I tip my main contact (not the salesperson, but my account manager). • As an individual, I ALWAYS tip hotel maids. How to Do It • I budget for tips as a regular line item, and it is non-negotiable. I’d decrease my F&B budget before I’d reduce my tipping. I may not spend the whole amount, depending on the service levels I receive, but I always budget for it. • You can reserve an overall percentage of your total meeting bud-
Why is tipping not discussed on message boards? That’s a simple
get, or reserve a certain dollar amount per attendee to go toward
answer – it can be discussed in generalities, but any specific discus-
tipping. If you want to chat numbers with me privately, email
sion of numbers can be deemed collusion or price fixing.
me at shawna@spinplanners.com.
Whom to Tip
• Some companies require tips to be paid via company check. My
Because there are no formal rules or implied understandings
clients have always been fine with me requesting a petty cash
about tipping in the meetings industry, it can be confusing whom
disbursement from the hotel on arrival day. This amount gets
to tip.
added to the meeting’s master bill, but allows the planner to
• I have tipped a salesperson only once in my career, and that’s
disburse cash tips along the way (i.e. to bellmen who deliver all
because the poor guy went way above and beyond, helping his
your boxes, bartenders the night of an event, etc.).
hotel open for the first time, and serve us – the hotel’s first group.
• I tell my team on arrival day to keep track of any individuals
Otherwise, they are well compensated, commissioned, and bo-
who go above and beyond. On the last day, we decide as a team
nused.
how to dole out all the tips. We write hand-written notes to
• I tip every Convention Services Manager (CSM) – with only
individuals or entire departments. We always try to hand-deliver
one exception in my 20+ year career, and that was because the
directly to the individuals. If not, we typically entrust the deliv-
CSM failed miserably and did nothing to recover or apologize.
ery of envelopes to our CSM.
CSMs typically receive the largest tip I give to any individual
In an industry that relies on service, I’d love nothing more than
worker because they work on every detail of my program for
to see every behind-the-scenes individual rewarded along the way,
weeks or months, and really orchestrate everything.
every time they do a great job. Remember, they’re the ones making
• I tip Banquet Captains individually if they went above and beyond. If they just did their job, I include them in a bulk tip to the Banquets department. • I tip A/V people on occasion, if they really stood out, helped me out of a bind, etc.
us look like rock stars. Shawna Suckow, CMP, is a veteran planner and the Founder of SPIN:Senior Planners Industry Network (www.spinplanners.com) and The Hive Network (www.thehivenetwork.org). She’s the author of Planner Pet Peeves and Supplier Pet Peeves, both available on
• If the rooming list was especially a bear, I tip my main contact.
Amazon. She is an award-winning speaker to audiences worldwide on
• Front Desk people rarely get tipped, so a little goes a long way if
audience engagement, supplier-planner relations, and other meetings
they handled special requests, handed out gift bags, etc. WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
industry topics.
15
Mind
by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
r u Yo
(Meeting)
Manners D
• A basic primer for business social skills • First and last impressions and everything in between • Tips from a protocol and etiquette expert
oes that sound like something your mother used to bark
pay attention to, especially if you’re not sure what to wear. Always
as you were heading out the door on your way to have
best to go for a more conservative and professional look than flashy
dinner at a friend’s house? Well guess what? Now that
or showy, both of which should be left to the dance floor.
you’re all grown up and have joined the professional
Have a brief and meaningful self-introduction that you
work force, your boss wants to shout the same thing to you every
deliver with pride and confidence along with your business card
time the company sends you out in the world to conduct company
and a firm handshake. Nothing says “I have no idea who I am or
business. Why?
why I’m here” faster than the opposite of this scenario which you
Because business manners matter. It’s as simple as that. What-
hope never to be guilty of, right?
ever you do while on company time and money is representative
Don’t take the lead unless you are truly the leader. There
of that business. From sales calls to meal functions to travel and
will be clear times when you are given the responsibility of leader-
more done while out on business, you can expect that your actions,
ship and times when you’re a team member. Know the difference
dress, and mannerisms are all being judged from the viewpoint of
and act accordingly. Among other things, leaders start conversa-
you=your company. So if you’re a recent graduate working your
tions, pay taxi and meal tabs, make group introductions, and know
first-time job or a new hire trying to make an impression, best if
what to order (a simple salad and steak/chicken) and what to avoid
you pay attention as we walk you through some basic social skills to
(BBQ ribs!). If these tasks are not in your wheelhouse, step back
help you navigate the road ahead.
and follow the professionals.
minutes to spare. Impressions start even before introductions.
those silly pictures and comments that are meaningless and only
Do respect the clock. Arrive on time, or better yet with a few Dress for success. Yes, an overused term but one you should
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Take social media seriously. That means stop posting all
funny to you (and possibly your college drinking buddies) for the
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
world to view and pass judgment. Don’t use your camera incessant-
before heading out in the world. And in case you’re wondering,
ly for social media posts. Stop talking loud on your cell phone while
your college backpack should be left behind; in the real world a
in public for all to hear. Don’t spend all day at your desk checking
professional portfolio, tote, or briefcase is your new backpack.
personal emails and social media hits unless those tasks are includ-
Understand the politics of seating arrangements. If you
ed in your job description. And, in case you haven’t heard, emails
are the first to arrive at a restaurant or meeting, wait to be seated.
sent via your office computers can all be used as evidence in a court
Know where the power seats are and leave those to the leaders or
of law. Write maturely.
hosts. If you are the visitor in a client’s office, stand until you are
Drink responsibly. This shouldn’t take any further explana-
instructed to be seated.
and/or other business associates, be the leader and know when to
Know how to make a professional phone call and also how to leave an appropriate message. Pay attention to your
stop. If you are being hosted at a meal function, wait to see what
voice, cadence, diction, duration (no more than 30 seconds,
alcohol (if any) the host orders or offers; if you are the host, make
please), and whatever details need to be left on the message.
tion, but for some it does, so here goes: if you are out with clients
your guests comfortable by suggesting a wine or cocktail (if appropriate) to set the tone.
Eat sensibly and know your limits. Just because you are on
Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP, better known as TML, travels, plans meetings, and then writes about all those experiences from the viewpoint of being on the road and in the center of the action. It’s usually
company money doesn’t mean you have permission to order the
a good combination, or at least worth an interesting read. Having worked
most expensive items offered. And it shouldn’t matter whether it’s
on both sides of the industry, she writes from the viewpoint of a veteran
your company paying or someone else, in order to stay in an appro-
planner as well as a travel-savvy road warrior. If you want to read more
priate comfort zone, always be mindful of what others at your table
from TML you can follow her at www.MidwestMeetings.com and at
are drinking and eating and follow suit.
www.tmlwrites.com where you’ll find stories covering both destinations
Organize yourself and your presentation materials
and detours or visit her blog at www.hypeorlando.com/hospitality-hive/.
Colleen Rickenbacher Whew! So many details and only one column in which to share! For a summary, I consulted with industry expert, Colleen Rickenbacher (www. crspeaks.com), who gives presentations and publishes books on all forms of acceptable and intolerable business behavior. She is also one of the founding partners of the Global Protocol, Etiquette and Civility Academy (www.globalpecacademy.com) based in Dallas, TX, and had these important closing thoughts to share about basic business manners:
“Dress everyday as if you are meeting the best client of your life. When you walk into a room your first impression is already made within 3-5 seconds of that entrance, so always give it your best.” And her final tip was really memorable, “To set you apart from all of the rest, follow up your sales appointment or job interview with a handwritten thank you note. Remember, it’s the little things that will make the big differences.”
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17
Health&Wellness
W
Where to Run
• Three apps to map your run • Stay active wherever you are hen you’re home or at your office, you have the
Runkeeper
running trails near you that you know and love.
Runkeeper (runkeeper.com) is another app that allows you to
You’ve got it figured out just how far you can go
search for pre-planned routes in your area. You can search for routes
over your lunch break or between getting home
based on a variety of activity types such as running, walking, cy-
and getting dinner on the table. But, you’re a planner. And you often travel for work. Don’t let
cling, or hiking. Runkeeper also connects with a number of apps for sleep and nutrition tracking and even games.
an unknown city, or perhaps the fear of getting lost in it, keep you
Runkeeper is free and available for Android and iOS.
from your run.
Strava
We’ve researched some running apps and here are three that are great for running in an unfamiliar city.
Strava (www.strava.com) allows you to track your activities using the mobile app, available for free on Google Play and the App
MapMyRun
Store, or with one of over 50 compatible GPS devices, such as a
With MapMyRun (www.mapmyrun.com), you can choose from
Garmin. In addition to helping you discover the best routes to run
over 70 million routes, which means you’re sure to find a route in
when you’re traveling, you can compare your effort against other
whichever city you happen to be in. You can see routes that have
athletes who’ve run the same route.
been mapped by other runners in the area or you can search routes based on distance, trail surface, and other key words. Download MapMyRun for free from the App Store, Google Play, or Windows Phone.
18
And you can always ask the concierge at your hotel, or any locals in the area, for their advice on running routes nearby. Many hotels are even adding apps with running routes that start and end at the hotel to their list of services.
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
ChangingTravel • Emerging technology and trends • Business and leisure travel merge
inspired by the leisure travel and retail sectors, while catchinnovations such as Big Data, virtual credit cards, and social
media are all paving the way for further “markets of one” customization - a term coined for a level of personal preferences and service which makes
ing on to widespread trends such as the sharing economy. Key
B
usiness travelers are continuing to adopt new tools and apps
But while travelers still express concerns about items such as data secu-
customers feel they are being treated exclusively.
A Few More Facts
easier and better, especially as providers continue to find ways to address
rity, they appear willing to accept these changes where it makes their lives
Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT)’s latest report, Faster, smarter, bet-
these issues with their offerings.
• A Meetings Mean Business® survey showed that federal workers place tremendous value on in-person meetings, conferences, and events. 98% of those surveyed say that
travel: customization; mobile technology; the sharing economy; new book-
in-person meetings are important for ad-
ter? tackles the five key trends that are transforming the world of business
vancing their agency’s mission. 92% say
a survey of over 127 travel managers and 1,080 travelers who provided
that engaging with colleagues, peers, part-
ing methods; and new payment solutions. The report was created following
ners, and vendors face-to-face improves
The study also indicates that 35% of travel managers are planning to
feedback for the study.
their ability to work effectively. 84% of federal workers agree that America’s future
their travel programs and another 38% are actively considering them. For
innovation and competitiveness require
incorporate these technologies and trends they ranked as important into
engagement, collaboration, and learning
in the next year.
with those inside and outside of govern-
those looking to incorporate these trends, 56% are planning to do so with-
ment (www.MeetingsMeanBusiness.com).
CWT, said: “As the pace of technological change is accelerating, so is mar-
• Total Tourism-Related Output was $1.6
David Moran, Executive Vice President, Global Enterprise Strategy,
trillion in the first quarter of 2015. It
In this increasingly connected world, the role of the TMC (Travel Man-
consisted of $905.4 billion (58%) of di-
ket readiness for new ways of buying, managing, and experiencing travel.
rect tourism spending and $663.2 billion
navigate these changes, providing new technology as well as ensuring they
(42%) of indirect tourism-related spend-
agement Company) is also continuing to change – we’re helping clients to
ing (www.bea.gov).
One travel procurement and policy manager interviewed for the study
see all the benefits from the data that these new technologies provide.”
• During Q1 2015, US hotels enjoyed a
concluded, “TMCs are able to collect massive amounts of data and are in
fourth consecutive quarter of revenue per
a position to build travel services that precisely match travelers’ wishes.”
available room (RevPAR) growth of 8.0%
or higher (www.cbre.us).
To view the full report, visit www.cwtinsights.com.
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How Did You GET HERE? • Meet Mandy Hazlett, CMP • Creating memories for FFA members • Customize attendee experiences 20
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
21
B
orn and raised in Indianapolis,
Portland, OR, she returned to Indianapolis. Today, she’s the Senior
IN,
CMP,
Event Manager with the National FFA Organization. Hazlett
attended college at the University
enjoys working out and baking, “they even each other out,” and
of
she also spends time on a small crafting business on the side with
Mandy Sourthern
Hazlett, Indiana.
Upon
receiving her bachelor of science in
communications/advertising,
she did an event internship with the 500 Festival in Indianapolis.
her sisters, participating in a variety of craft and art shows.
Midwest Meetings: Tell us about your event internship
experience with the 500 Festival.
Her first event planning job was with a company called Brylane
Mandy Hazlett: The 500 Festival runs special events dur-
where she planned internal corporate special events. After working
ing the month of May leading up to the Indy 500. My first day
in marketing and events for a science education company in
on the job was the day of the parade. I showed up onsite and was picked up in a golf cart by a colleague and we proceeded to an area to pick up a couple, who were casted as munchkins in the Wizard of Oz, to take them to their float. I knew then, I had chosen the right career.
MM: Tell us about yourself and your job. MH: I am the Senior Event Manager for the
convention & events management team with the National FFA Organization. I have been with the organization since 2008. My team is responsible for the overall logistics & planning of the organization’s events. My role is to manage the team, site selections, vendor relations, contract negotiations, overall event logistics, budgeting, marketing, and city relations. We have an annual event in the fall, the National FFA Convention & Expo, that hit a record attendance in 2014 of 64,409. The event itself is four days in length and hosts more than 350 different meetings & events including competitions, general sessions, workshops, tours, community service projects, award banquets, concerts, rodeos, and an expo and shopping mall with more than 400 exhibitors and vendors. In addition to the annual convention we also plan another 20+ conferences and meetings throughout the year.
MM: What do you like most about your job? MH: The different experiences being an
event manager can bring. This job has given me the opportunity to meet and work with some incredibly talented people. I learn something new all the time, it’s never boring!
MM:
What’s your approach to planning
meetings and large expo’s?
MH:
Organization, a “yes I can make that
happen” attitude, and a great team. I’m only as good as those around me and for an annual event of our size I need good people.
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
“ITʼS NO LONGER JUST AN ROI ON THE DOLLARS SPENT TO COME, BUT WHAT DID I, AS AN INDIVIDUAL ATTENDEE, GET OUT OF YOUR EVENT AND HOW CAN I INCORPORATE THAT BACK HOME. ARE MY INTERESTS BEING MET THROUGHOUT EACH COMPONENT?” MM:
What’s the best day you’ve had in your career in the
meetings industry?
MH: When I started with the National FFA it was two weeks
before our annual convention that year. I didn’t really know what to expect and I was blown away in those four days. But the best part was the next year. After being able to plan the event all year, walk-
their CMP is time and patience to study. Balancing your job, family, and studying isn’t easy, but people do it all the time and it can be done.
MM:
Describe your all-time favorite catering menu for an
event?
MH:
The best catering menu I’ve ever had was at a dinner
ing into the first opening ceremony and seeing all the FFA mem-
event. Rather than going for the normal plated dinner of chicken
bers in the sea of blue jackets together energized, singing, dancing,
with vegetables or chicken plus meat and vegetables, it was an
and knowing that I had a hand in making this memory for them,
assortment of themed food stations paired with drinks to match.
was pretty cool. I was hooked on this industry once again!
There was something for everybody. It kept the food fun and it cre-
MM:
What prompted you to obtain your CMP designation
and do you have any advice to those looking to get their CMP?
MH:
I am always looking for ways to keep learning and to
sharpen my skills. Going after my CMP was a big goal for me and I
ated good table conversation.
MM: What challenges do you feel meeting and event planners
face today and what is your approach to those challenges?
MH:
I believe one of our biggest challenges is making sure
knew it was what I needed to help keep myself renewed and com-
that our events and meetings stay relevant to our attendees. In this
petitive in my career. The best advice I can give to those seeking
day and age, professionals have to be very purposeful within their
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23
budgets and where they choose to spend those additional development dollars. In my case, with our annual event we need to be conscious of all our attendees, which include students, teachers, and adult professionals. Seeking feedback from each type of attendee is crucial to success of our national event each year.
MM: What changes have you seen in the meetings/events industry during
your career?
MH: I would be remiss if I didn’t answer with technology. I don’t just mean
the advancements within audiovisual and the Internet, how people participate in your event, navigate through your event, and what they take with them when its over. In years past the only way to attend an event or meeting was to physically be present. Now we have virtual event and meeting capabilities allowing the organizer to have a far greater reach to those who can’t attend, giving them an experience that while not like being there in person, allows them to still take advantage of what is offered. Experience customization is also now becoming more important. It’s no longer just an ROI on the dollars spent to come, but what did I, as an individual attendee, get out of your event and how can I incorporate that back home. Are my interests being met throughout each component? It’s no longer just building workshop tracks to meet a certain criteria. You must align someone’s interest in all aspects. Within our annual event we are looking into different ways to customize ones experience based on studies or interests whether you are a student attending or a professional.
24
JUST
FOR FUN PEOPLE WHO KNOW ME WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN… I ONCE WORKED ON A COUPLE OF CASES WITH A PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR MANY YEARS AGO… VERY INTERESTING WORK. If you would like to recommend an outstanding industry professional for future issues, send an email with their name, title, employer and a brief description of why they should be featured to Editor@MidwestMeetings.com.
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
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• Take a gamble on a casino meeting • Win big with diverse amenities
26
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
G
o all in with a full-house meeting or event at a Midwest Casino. Many casinos throughout the Midwest offer flex-
ible meeting space by day and a variety of amenities to enjoy by night, which means the odds are in your favor when you place your bets with them. You’ll win big with the state-of-the-art meeting space, flexible for any size group, offered at most Midwest casinos. These high-tech meeting spaces are all about business, the places where strategies are devised and attendees are motivated. Meetings can’t be all work and no play, especially when you’re meeting at a casino! Attendees will be pleased with the diverse options available at Midwest casinos. From traditional casino entertainment like gaming, comedians, and music, to world-class spas, golf, bowling, and so much more, attendees’ downtime will be anything but. Food and beverage options are endless at casinos, known for their wide variety of dining options, from catered dinners to grand buffets. Many Midwest casinos are stepping up their game, offering fine dining from well-known chefs. Choose a casino located in the heart of all a city has to offer and you’ve opened the door for even more dining and entertainment options for your attendees.
Both planners and attendees find the combination of meetings or events in casinos a winner, no matter the outcome at the tables. Roll the dice and place your bet with a meeting at a Midwest casino. And win big with your
full-house
meeting.
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Up the game and up the ante with a meeting in Historic Deadwood. History comes alive as you walk in the footsteps of legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Witness daily shootouts on Main Street or a re-enactment of the trial of Wild Bill’s murderer, Jack McCall. Meetings in Deadwood, an entire town that’s a registered National Historic Landmark, never disappoint. Old West history welcomes you with modern-day amenities. WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
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by Shawna Suckow, CMP
• From The Big Deal to The Main Event • Journey to the World Series of Poker • A big meeting in its basic elements
M
y story begins last August, at the 2014 MPI World Edu-
I’ve spent the past year studying and playing poker like it was my
cation Congress. Two planner friends and I wandered
job – I’m that competitive! Let’s just say my husband now has some
down to have a quick drink at the MPI Foundation’s
serious competition.
annual poker party called The Big Deal. We planned to stay just for
Fast forward to July 2015 – The World Series of Poker. What
a bit, but fate had other plans. As it turned out, I ended up playing
most novices don’t know is that the WSOP is actually a series of
in the poker tournament, and won the whole thing. My prize was a
68 different events, culminating into The Main Event. Through-
ticket (valued at $10,000) to play in The Main Event at the World
out the past year, I found out that a large number of people have
Series of Poker, plus airfare for two, lodging, and other perks.
the WSOP on their bucket list. It was never on mine, but it was
You might assume I’m a poker ace, and you’d be correct – now. But
definitely on my husband’s. Unfortunately, my winning seat wasn’t
a year ago, I was a complete novice. I knew the basic fundamentals
transferrable. Nevertheless, my husband spent the year coaching
of Texas Hold ‘Em, but that was about it. My husband was the
and mentoring me, handing me a constant barrage of poker books,
poker expert in the house. Since winning that MPI tournament,
apps, and recordings.
30
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
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31
When I walked into the meeting space at The Rio All Suites Hotel & Casino (host of the WSOP since 2006), one thing oc-
the sexiest rigging I’ve ever seen!” as I admired the clean lines and stainless steel beauty overhead.
curred to my planner brain as I struggled to take in the spectacle of
Preparation for the WSOP begins each year immediately after
it all. The World Series of Poker is really just a big meeting. A huge,
the current tournament ends, as you might expect. I spoke with
potentially life-changing meeting giving away millions of dollars,
our gracious host, Bill Greaves, Executive Director of Catering,
but at its very core, still just a meeting. I don’t know why that came
Conventions and Events at The Rio. (As an aside, when the hotel
as a shock to me, but it did. Break it apart into its basic elements,
underwent a major renovation in 2005, adding their current con-
and there’s registration, seating, staging, production, staffing, spon-
vention center, I was one of the first meeting planners in-house
sors, speakers, an emcee, and decor.
with a group, and Bill was likely my CSM at the property – small
I got a chance to meet with Freddie Onsaga, Director of Sales
industry, indeed!)
for Encore Productions. Every year, his company sponsors the MPI
While the WSOP is a major coup for Caesars to own and oper-
Foundation Event by providing all the equipment and staffing to
ate, from an industry perspective, it’s got to be frustrating for the
run The Big Deal at MPI-WEC. Other sponsors are Caesars En-
sales team (who, by the way, were all fabulous to my whole motley
tertainment, which provides the grand prize WSOP package, and
crew of friends and family out in Vegas to support me). It takes
Hilton – a Caesars partner company. What I didn’t realize was that
all their ballroom space out of commission for other meetings &
Freddie’s company, based in Las Vegas, is the official production
events for three months. They can’t operate a single non-WSOP
company for the entire WSOP. Yes, the one that ESPN reruns prac-
meeting or event in the ballrooms of The Rio while the 68 tourna-
tically nonstop every night.
ments take place.
Walking into the ballrooms at The Rio, I had a special apprecia-
If you’re wondering whether or not I lived the High Roller life
tion for all that Freddie’s crew does for the event. Just looking up
during my WSOP week in Vegas, you bet I did! From the moment
at the ceiling was impressive – the sheer volume of rigging bars, ca-
Caesars picked us up from the airport in a limo, we felt like rock
bles, lights, speakers, and hidden cameras was staggering – a beauti-
stars. When we emerged from the limo, a camera crew from En-
ful spectacle for people in the industry, but an afterthought at best
core filmed us like we were celebrities. A small crowd of bystanders
for anyone else. I actually exclaimed to my husband, “Wow – that’s
actually formed, recording us with their cell phones as if we were
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
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33
famous – we even heard somebody say, “I think I know that guy,” about my husband. We stayed in a suite compliments of Caesars, ate at the famous Voodoo Steak restaurant, visited the exclusive Foundation Room – a private club at Mandalay Bay, and filmed commercials to be aired at the 2015 MPI Big Deal tournament. We got to meet actress Jennifer Tilly, and see other celebrities including James Woods and Brad Garrett, along with dozens of the big-name celebrity poker players. I bet you’re wondering how I played in the tournament. Well, I sat down with poker professionals and held my own for nearly 12 hours, losing all my chips just before midnight to – get this – an ancestor of the man who founded the WSOP. I guess that was a reputable way to end my WSOP career. For now. Would I do it all again? You bet. Hopefully, by the time you read this, I’ll be the first two-time winner of The Big Deal, and on my way to play in the 2016 WSOP! Shawna Suckow, CMP, is a veteran planner and the Founder of SPIN:Senior Planners Industry Network (www.spinplanners.com) and The Hive Network (www.thehivenetwork.org). She’s the author of Planner Pet Peeves and Supplier Pet Peeves, both available on Amazon. She is an award-winning speaker to audiences worldwide on audience engagement, supplier-planner relations, and other meetings industry topics.
34
Shawna with Freddie Onsaga, Encore Productions.
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
• Great table games for groups • Classic games remain most popular • New Poker games excite players
E
ncourage your group to grab their entourage and try their
simplest game to learn. Attendees will want to channel their inner
luck with the dice or cards at some of these trendy games.
James Bond when they play his table game of choice. They need to
The “big four,” according to Mark Kelly, Vice President of
make only one decision - whether to wager on the “player” or the
Table Games for Caesars Entertainment’s Bally’s, Paris, and Planet
“bank.” Easy to learn, fun to play, and the ultimate in sophistication.
Hollywood, are Blackjack, Baccarat, Craps, and Roulette. Cheers,
Baccarat will soon be a favorite among your group.
laughter, good luck charms. There’s nothing like a live casino table game to bring people together.
While at the Craps table don’t be intimidated by the many wagering options or the unique slang. Once you learn the basics of this
Blackjack (or 21) may be the casino table game of choice and
table game, you’ll immediately begin to appreciate the excitement
has been played across the globe for generations. Everyone at the
of playing, and watching. The whole table erupts in cheers and
table plays against the dealer and the object is to get a total closer
strangers high five when the dice are hot.
to 21 than the dealer’s, without going over. The basic strategy of
The Roulette tables are pure chance with endless possibilities
Blackjack is easy to master, but the game can often reflect the per-
that can lead to exciting payouts. The spinning wheel has num-
sonality of its players.
bered spaces from 1 to 36 (plus 0 and 00). So, what’s your lucky
Baccarat is a longtime mainstay in casinos and may be the WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
number?
35
The Roulette tables are pure chance with endless possibilities that can lead to exciting payouts.
You’ll find one or all of these popular games throughout the
Crazy 4 Poker has the same elements of Three Card Poker, but
Midwest, including Cadillac Jack’s and Tin Lizzie gaming resorts in
with new rules, betting options, and a higher payout. Players re-
historic Deadwood, SD. These two casinos now feature live craps,
ceive five cards to make their best four card poker hand.
roulette, and keno in addition to the slot machines and other table games available. “We’ve really had a great response to our new games,” explained David Schneiter, Casino General Manager at Cadillac Jack’s. “Guests love the camaraderie and drama that comes with every spin of the wheel and roll of the dice.” Keno has also been a hit. The exciting lottery-style game is simple to play, but filled with excitement as every new number
In Let It Ride, a popular poker variation, players make three bets, are dealt three cards, and then have three chances to win. As each community card is revealed, players decide whether to pull their bets or Let It Ride. Attendees can play any of these games as a group or by themselves. Let’s say that 15 members of your group would like to all play at the same craps table. The casino may not be able to arrange a private game just for those 15 people, but there’s a way around it.
is drawn. “All three games have enhanced the atmosphere of the
Many casinos can expand the casino floor at certain times. Your
casino,” said Tin Lizzie General Manager Austin Burnham. “They
contact at the casino should be able to let you know what time
really attract and entertain a crowd.”
a table will be opening up and where. The group can show up in
Many poker-derivative games are quite popular now as well, according to Kelly. Games such as Three Card Poker, Crazy 4 Poker,
advance and when the table opens, they’re able to essentially take over the table and have a “private” game.
and Let It Ride can be found at Caesars Entertainment properties.
Whether your attendees go in with a strategy or leave it all up to
Three Card Poker offers players a fun, fast-paced, and new twist
chance, they’re sure to have a great time playing these hot games!
(that’s easy to learn) on the classic Poker. Two games in one, it
And don’t forget your good luck charm.
gives players up to four different ways to win.
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
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We
really
must start meeting like this!
perfect destination
• More than just gaming at casinos • Book a show or mingle with celebrities • Cash in on special group packages
Ryan Pulvermacher, Ho-Chunk Gaming, Wisconsin Dells, WI
Gary Sturm, Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Welch, MN
W
hen you think casinos, Las Vegas may be the first city that comes to your mind, but it isn’t the only game in town. It’s time to check out what’s in your own backyard! The Midwest region is home to a vast
number of casino properties offering their own “Sin City” excitement, including venues with resorts, spas, golf, and premier entertainment. Meeting professionals and their guests might initially think that the only thing
40
Barb Goin, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Prior Lake, MN
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Like most venues, groups are welcome to bring in their own entertainment, but casino resorts offer an added edge for entertainers and planners. to do at a casino venue is gaming. Yes, there is plenty of fun in
hands!
gaming options, featuring everything from slot machines to table
Goin shares, “Our entertainment department can assist with
games, but one of the key incentives to holding an event at a casino
booking all manner of private entertainment for your event - from
property is the bountiful entertainment available!
live music or a DJ to performers including celebrity impersonators,
What kinds of options are available to meeting planners and their guests? Here is some insight from the region’s top casino resorts. As Gary Sturm, Hotel & Convention Sales Manager, Treasure Island Resort & Casino in Welch, MN, shared, there are many fun
contortionists, caricaturists, aerialists, and psychics.” At Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells, Ryan Pulvermacher, Senior Sales Manager, and his team help groups coordinate the logistics with customized gaming experiences, meet and greets, and more.
entertainment options for their guests, “We work with a variety
“One thing I really like to encourage is setting up personalized
of different corporate groups, associations, and tradeshows. We’ve
group gaming areas, whether it is a private black jack table with
had groups rent our bowling alley (which you can rent privately)
hors d’oeuvres or a party near the casino floor so people can enjoy
and we’ve set up games and tournaments for them. We also offer a
gaming if they want,” said Pulvermacher. They’ve also arranged for
100-passenger yacht that groups can enjoy and we can even help
special events for VIP guests including the chance to mingle with
arrange to bring aboard a small entertainment act.”
celebrities and plan to do more special packages in the future.
Cutting Edge Equipment
Like most venues, groups are welcome to bring in their own en-
Piggy Back on Onsite Entertainment and Packages
tertainment, but casino resorts offer an added edge for entertain-
When booking your event, ask the resort about any events go-
ers and planners. Instead of having to outsource the elaborate and
ing on at the same time. Find out if there are options to purchase
expensive equipment needed for high-quality productions, many
a group ticket block, arrange a private show for your group the day
casino venues offer in-house, high-quality equipment, from staging,
before or after, or even arrange a room rate that includes tickets to
screens, sound systems, and even green rooms for the performers.
the event.
Sturm shared, “We’ve had groups bring in everyone from Louie
For example, Treasure Island offers free lounge entertainment
Anderson to a small cast from the Guthrie Theater. Since we host
on Fridays and Saturdays. This is a great way to offer some no-cost
national acts, we have built-in dressing rooms (three total) and
entertainment options for your attendees. Ask the property what
offer state-of-the-art sound and lighting that you’d find at concert
nights they offer free events and promote to your guests to enjoy
venues.”
during their downtime.
Barb Goin, Director of Sales, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Prior Lake, MN, also highlights their venue’s unique AV options. “We
Don’t miss out on the great events casino’s already have planned! Most resorts offer special packages for events they’re hosting.
have an outstanding in-house team of professional sound and light-
Goin notes, “We also offer ticket discounts to groups for our
ing engineers available, creating unlimited opportunities for truly
annual holiday show and, depending on availability, can explore
stunning, one-of-a-kind events.”
discount ticket options for headliners in the Mystic Showroom as
Expert Assistance
Since casino resorts are often homes to national acts, their staff have the right connections and experience to help you find the best entertainment. Whether you prefer to ask for referrals or request the hotel handle the details for you, rest assured you are in safe
42
well as Mystic Comedy Club. During the holiday season we offer suite packages for our holiday show including a luxurious suite with a great view of the stage plus food and beverage service.” Casinos offer much more than just gaming, they are a sure bet to being able to offer all of your guests a high-roller experience!
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
43
• The Global Gaming Expo • First-ever Integrated Resort Experience • Keeping meeting spaces at the forefront of technology
T
he largest gathering of gaming industry
developments for meeting and convention
professionals will take place September
spaces in casinos. Meetings and conventions are
28th through October 1st, 2015, at the
an important component of the gaming-resort
Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas. G2E is the international gaming tradeshow and conference “by the industry and for the industry.”
casino meeting spaces are at the forefront of technology, now and in the future. “Gaming is one component of a diverse en-
What does this event mean for meeting pro-
tertainment offering in destinations across the
fessionals and their attendees? For the first time
globe, and we’re excited to enhance G2E in a
ever, gaming industry professionals will be con-
way that reflects the full integrated resort expe-
nected to leading-edge technology, products, and
rience,” said Ron Rosenbaum, Chief Operating
services through the Integrated Resort Experi-
Officer of the AGA.
ence (IRE) at G2E.
44
setting and this new segment of G2E will ensure
The Integrated Resort Experience will be di-
This experience, led by the American Gaming
vided into six sections and an extensive and di-
Association (AGA) and Global Gaming Expo,
verse collection of experts will present concepts
will be dedicated to showcasing the lastest
to gaming industry professionals in attendance,
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Ron Rosenbaum, Chief Operating Officer of the AGA
giving them a glimpse of what’s to come for meeting and event spaces at their properties. Dwell and Zen Wellness is penetrating the hospitality industry and working environments are changing rapidly, so it is a natural progression for Delos (delos.com) to incorporate its innovative Stay Well features into meeting environments. Stay Well Meetings offers healthy environments for high-performance meetings with meeting rooms and spaces designed to optimize the health and well-being of attendees. The meeting concept complements their sleeping room program, also called Stay Well. Special technology and acute attention to detail provides increased indoor air quality, lighting, physical comfort, and psychological impacts to optimize
service culture and environment with technology to meet specific
the physical and emotional well being of guests.
needs of the Food & Beverage environment. Unique concepts that
A few of the Stay Well elements include: • Air Purification: Reduces allergens, toxins, smoke, and microbes from the air. • Circadian Lighting: Engineered to emulate the properties of natural light, enhancing productivity, energy, and experience. • Acoustic Elements: Reduces the amount of noise from outside the room, allowing for an uninterrupted meeting. • Ergonomic Elements: Furniture intended to provide optimal comfort and to avoid stress or injury • Hydration Station: Infused water strategically placed to encourage attendee hydration. • Mobile Application Software: Interactive app highlighting tools for activity, nutrition, jet lag, and Cleveland Clinic Wellness programs.
will be demonstrated at IRE include: • 100% POS integration • Automated day parting • Unlimited modifiers • Full menu mobile app • Android and iOS platforms • Real time menu updates • Highest level of payment security - Validated P2PE and EMV support Play The core G2E show floor will present the greatest depth of games and the Integrated Resort Experience will be the place to see them incorporated into casino settings. Gamblit (gamblitgaming.com) will be showing their next gen-
• Wellness Station: Innovative wellness tools such as the Well-
eration hardware as well as their latest games at IRE. They are ex-
ness Moment Portal, guided meditation, and more to create a
cited to be at IRE because it more closely represents where millen-
smarter way to meet.
nials are already hanging out (lounges/clubs), and their games are
Indulge
a natural fit in those areas. Gamblit likes to provide gaming expe-
Food and beverage will be a focus and unique restaurant, bar,
riences that are similar to what people are already doing-playing
sports, and entertainment concepts will be featured. eTouchMenu (www.etouchmenu.com) is the only customer fac-
games on their phones and playing games on consoles at home. Connect
ing ordering and payment digital menu system in the restaurant
The Integrated Resort Experience will present smart, ergonomic,
industry that has mastered digital technology application in a high
and connected meeting rooms with the latest A/V, furnishings,
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
45
The Global Gaming Expo and Integrated Resort Experience may be aimed at gaming industry professionals, but it’s the meeting and event planners, and their attendees, that will benefit in the end. If you’re booking meetings and events at casinos in the future you may likely find some of these elements enhancing the experience for your attendees. floors, lighting, walls, and services.
The Global Gaming Expo and Integrated Resort Experience
Captivate
may be aimed at gaming industry professionals, but it’s the
The Integrated Resort Experience will feature next-generation
meeting and event planners, and their attendees, that will benefit
products and technologies for theaters, concert halls, event
in the end. If you’re booking meetings and events at casinos in the
centers, lounge performances, day and nightclub concepts, and
future you may likely find some of these elements enhancing the
more.
experience for your attendees.
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
• Calming nerves of novice gamblers • Table game and slot machine tips
O
calls, no social media.
dds are good that, if you are planning a meeting or event at a casino, you will have novice attendees in your
There is a no cell phone rule at all table games - no texting, no
midst. They’ve either never been to a casino before or
Let’s move on to the slot machines. If the casino is not crowded,
rarely go. Either way, they may be a little nervous about hitting the
it is very likely that players will toss coins into adjacent machines
gaming floor after the meeting.
so be sure to check that no one else is playing that machine before
To help calm some of that nervousness, Midwest Meetings reached out to FireKeepers Casino Hotel in Battle Creek, MI, and Gold Dust Casino & Hotel in Deadwood, SD, for advice on casino etiquette.
you drop your first coin in. Many gamblers are superstitious and consider it bad luck if someone else touches the slot machine they are playing. Sara Lanning, part of the marketing department at FireKeepers,
Let’s start with table games. There should be a placard located
told us, “Selfies and other photos are permitted on the casino floor.
somewhere on the table telling you the table minimum and maxi-
However, they cannot be done at table games or with a direct shot
mum bets. You need to convert your cash to casino chips when you
of a slot machine.” Gold Dust Casino & Hotel recommends that
play table games, and dealer’s can’t take the cash directly from your
you do not take pictures inside the casino without permission. This
hand. Place your money on the table and ask the dealer for chips.
especially applies to taking pictures of other players in the casino.
In most games players are not allowed to touch the cards. Use the appropriate hand signals at the tables. If you don’t know them, ask. Dealers are always willing to teach you the rules of the game.
48
Visit
www.MidwestMeetings.com/Fall-2015-Issue/Casino-Con-
duct for more casino etiquette tips.
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
• Casino amenities kicked up a notch • Rooftop suites and private dining events • Midwest gaming facilities have it all
W
hen it comes to casinos, everybody wants to be a winner. But planners can have the upper hand in making their attendees all feel special at any number
of the gaming facilities that also cater to meeting business. And now, thanks to more states embracing gaming facilities, there are plenty of resort casino complexes that don’t require a trip to Las Vegas. In fact, recent statistics show that there are at least 20 states allowing
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
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51
Today’s boutique casino resort complexes offer many of the same amenities you’ll find at similar big name, full-service resorts.
commercial casinos (meaning owned and managed by private companies on non-Native American land), and more than 30
back inside there’s an indoor water play land to explore year round.
states that have American Indian gaming. For planners who book
• At the MGM Grand Detroit (MI) you’ll find nine plush roof-
events in gaming facilities, that gives them a unique edge (casino
top suites in which to pamper your own VIPs while they enjoy
lingo for advantage) with a whole lot more choices out there.
the Motor City from the top down.
And to be clear, the planning process with a casino resort is
• You’ll find a nationally ranked RV Park and Campground with
no different than working with any other destination: plan as far
full amenities at Prairie’s Edge Casino Resort (Granite Falls,
out as possible and know your group dynamics in order to get a
MN). Encourage your CEO to drive himself in his beloved RV
good fit. But there are other things to consider when placing
and know that he’ll be staying in luxury.
your meetings and events into a gaming facility - namely how
• Located on the Ohio River and within a one hour drive from
much free time you should plan into your schedule so attendees
three international airports - Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and
can have some fun at the game tables and slot machines. After
Lexington/Louisville - is Belterra Casino Resort (Florence,
all, that would be one of the reasons to bring them there in the
IN). The complex includes 608 guest rooms, more than 50,000
first place, so planners shouldn’t ignore the obvious. Beyond that,
sq. ft. of state-of-the-art meeting space, 1,500-seat showroom,
today’s boutique casino resort complexes offer many of the same
full salon/spa, plus an 18-hole Tom Fazio Golf complex. A
amenities you’ll find at similar big name, full-service resorts, and
complete planner package for sure!
sometimes these are even kicked up another notch to aim at a
• At FireKeepers Casino Hotel (Battle Creek, MI) groups are
specific niche or exclusive market that links directly back to their
able to take over Nibi, their award-winning fine-dining restau-
location.
rant, in its entirety for private dining events. This complex also
Take a look at some of the more unique options you can find at any number of the Midwest’s finest casino complexes:
has a designated wedding team in place to make bridal dreams come true.
• At the MotorCity Casino Hotel (Detroit, MI) you can arrange
• Cadillac Jack’s (Deadwood, SD) offers ample motorcycle park-
to have live feed sound/video from their distinctive event per-
ing complete with rags and washing stations to keep those ma-
formance space projected into private meeting rooms. Your
chines preened and polished.
VIP’s will feel like they’re in the center of the action in the
Speaking of motorcycles, one thing to look out for in booking
large arena while enjoying a more intimate, private location.
any of these specialty locations is the potential for popular local
• Potawatomi Hotel and Casino (Milwaukee, WI) not only has
activities (think bike week or poker tournaments) that might
381 luxurious sleeping rooms but now they’ve added the Po-
snatch up room inventory fast and early, so always inquire when
tawatomi Events Center with more than 30,000 sq. ft. of space
doing your site search.
- one of the biggest venues in Milwaukee - to create special
Surprised to find all these things at casino complexes located
events, meetings, tradeshows, and gatherings of all kinds; com-
anywhere but Las Vegas? From multiple gourmet dining options
plimentary parking included for all groups.
to excellent meeting space and outstanding recreational possi-
• At The Lodge at Deadwood Gaming Resort (SD) you’ll en-
bilities including fishing ponds, bowling alleys, and everything
counter a gamer’s paradise both inside at the casino tables but
in between, Midwest gaming facilities have it all and then some.
also outside as your guests enjoy a million acre playground per-
TML is a meeting planner and free-lance writer who has never re-
fect for hiking, biking, snowmobiling, skiing, and motorcycling
ally been lucky in a casino but, ever-the-optimist, still feels compelled
to name just a few of the outdoor sports readily available. Plus,
to empty her change purse whenever she passes a slot machine.
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
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53
W ter
• Extensive meeting space at waterparks • Networking and teambuilding in and out of the water
W
hen you’re planning your next meeting or event, just add water!
Midwest waterparks add an ele-
ment of fun to any meeting, but they also offer extensive and flexible meeting space, the latest in technology, and plenty of amenities outside the water. The all-inclusive nature of Midwest waterparks provides meeting professionals everything their attendees need for a successful meeting, without ever having to leave the property. You’ll find a wide range of waterparks throughout the Midwest, able to fit a variety of budgets and group sizes, and
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
many have dedicated team members available to ensure your meeting goes as planned. Your attendees will find themselves enjoying every minute of their stay as they get down to business and take in all the waterpark has to offer. Many attendees may even extend their stay and bring their families for a mini-vacation after the meeting is over.
Midwest waterparks can also offer a relaxing atmosphere, great for networking and socializing.
Midwest waterparks can also offer a relaxing atmosphere, great for networking and socializing. Whether it’s fine dining or something more casual or a relaxing bar or lounge, attendees will find more than enough options to satisfy their appetites after the meeting. Add in world-class spas and championship golf and you have the perfect mix for attendees to enjoy their downtime. For more fun outside the water many Midwest waterparks have an extensive list of activities. Theme parks, bowling, go-karts, live-action adventure games, arcades, and more make excellent teambuilding activities for your whole group. There’s proven values and benefits to hosting your next meeting or event at a Midwest waterpark. Why wait any longer?! WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
55
NOT JUST
for Kids
• Waterpark resorts cater to adults • Swim-up bars are a hit • Keep safety front of mind
M
eetings at indoor/outdoor waterpark resorts are great for attendees with families any time of year. But sometimes it’s not feasible to bring children along. If you’re left with a
group of adults, and no kids, are indoor/outdoor waterpark resorts still a great idea? The answer is a resounding yes! The thrill of the rides at any of the waterpark resorts you’ll find in the Midwest are perfect for the kid at heart. But wait, there’s more. Many waterpark resorts are catering to the adult crowd like never before. Wilderness Resort, America’s largest waterpark resort, located in Wisconsin Dells, added Margarita’s Swim-Up Bar in 2014. “Our ultimate goal was to build an area in one of our waterparks where adults could escape and relax in an adult’s-only area,” said Joe Eck, Wilderness Resort General Manager. “However, we wanted to do this without taking anything away from our existing hot tubs and pools. So we thought if we were going to build something new why not make the most unique, adults-only swim-up bar in Wisconsin, complete with bar stools, conversation coves, LED lighting, six flat screen TVs, and indoor/outdoor access. Its popularity has far exceeded our expectations.” Half the bar is located in the pool, allowing guests to swim up and order their drinks. The other half of the bar is outside the pool, perfect for those guests looking to stay dry. Margarita’s Swim-Up Bar serves up tropical drinks, specialty mixers, and of course, margaritas. Wilderness Resort isn’t the only one serving up drinks poolside. Kalahari Resort is home to Wisconsin’s first swim-up bar, the Mud Hut. In this oasis, you’ll discover a full bar along with specialty onthe-rocks and frozen drinks. The Mud Hut also includes indoor/outdoor access and is a great place to catch a big game as it’s surrounded
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Much the same as a regular bar, if a guest appears to have consumed too much, they will most likely be served water and possibly even asked to take some time off from the pool.
by TVs. Any time you’re consuming alcoholic beverages around water, saftey is an important factor. Wilderness Resort encourages their patrons to drink responsibly and if you’re planning a meeting at a waterpark resort that has a swim-up bar you should do the same. Much the same as a regular bar, if a guest appears to have consumed too much, they will most likely be served water and possibly even asked to take some time off from the pool. Or they could be advised to return to their room to relax for a while. Any time of year, waterpark resorts offer the perfect backdrop for a successful meeting, whether attendees bring their kids or not.
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
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BEHIND
the Waterpark Scene by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
• Keeping waterparks clean • Safety is a vital fundamental • Continual training for all staff
H
ave you ever thought about what it takes to keep your favorite mega waterpark clean and safe? We’re talking millions of gallons of water, dozens of employees, continuous safety training, and so much more.
“We have several staff members who retain Certified Pool Operator status.
They test the water every hour to maintain proper levels of chlorine and alkalinity, and the overall water turnover rate is every six hours. In addition, staff is consistently checking on and maintaining the water hardness/softness factors to protect the structure of all pools and equipment” said Debbie Whitcher, Aquatic and Facilities Manager for Paradise Bay Water Park, an award-winning, six-acre, state-of-the-art facility located in Lombard, IL. And when asked about cleaning routines around the rest of this six-acre facility, the response was just as detailed. “Disinfectant is used twice each day over the full facility. Spot cleaning is done all throughout the day; in fact at any given time we have six designated staff responsible for just cleaning the locker rooms that, at end of day, have received a combined total of three hours of thorough cleaning.” For most waterparks, the filtration systems that are in place, coupled with the chemicals used, are the lifeblood of what keeps the water sparkling fresh. These massive systems of multiple filters are state of the art, and they should be considering they’re processing millions of gallons of water throughout numerous pool and water areas. In fact, in larger parks, it’s common for the water to be constantly recycled throughout the many layers of pools that are available. Since cleanliness and safety seem to be issues that go hand in hand, we also liked this information provided from Dan Mulka, Marketing Manager at Raging Waves, Illinois’ largest waterpark: “Safety and cleanliness are two of the fundamentals that are vital to providing the best summer experience to every person that visits our park. For instance, we typically have over 40 lifeguards - all of whom are certified, trained, and licensed - present at one time, rotating through various positions to keep each guard as fresh as possible. But their official training is continuous to ensure that they keep their skills up.”
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
And that statement about continual training for the lifeguards was repeated by every waterpark we contacted. In fact, most lifeguards are familiar with, and completely trained in, CPR and AED techniques in addition to the standard Red Cross life-saving certifications. Plus their training goes beyond the actual water rescue skills to include proper safety use of all equipment as well as being first-hand familiar with water features in all pools, locations of drain flows, depth of water, and so much more as needed per the individual properties of each park. It was also reassuring to learn that most waterparks require all staff members, not just the lifeguards, to have some level of first aid training. Often this requires going outside the actual pool and water areas to identify potential hazards around the facility (such as picnic areas, concessions, parking lots, locker rooms, entrance zones, etc.) and includes training on the basic mechanics of the overall venue. And finally, an integral component of any venue’s guest-protection and safety plan is the inclusion of further training with local police and fire departments, considered part of the overall emergency operating team at parks all across the country. So hopefully all this information has given you a new appreciation for the teams of professionals employeed to keep the millions of gallons of water used at waterparks clean and ready for your next adventure. Terry is an experienced meeting planner and writes about industry issues. Her idea of
These massive systems of multiple filters are state of the art, and they should be considering they’re processing millions of gallons of water throughout numerous pool and water areas.
a waterpark adventure involves an inner tube and a lazy river. Yeah, she’s that kind of adventurer.
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59
TRULY
All-Inclusive by Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP
• Waterpark experiences for guests with disabilities • What to look for with ADA compliance • Communicate with guests and waterparks
S
ince being signed into federal law in 1990, the Ameri-
Note: If details are not readily available, it does not mean
cans with Disabilities Act (ADA), has prohibited
the waterpark is not accessable for disabled guests. Any
discrimination by guaranteeing that people with dis-
newly constructed waterpark resorts, or those recently ren-
abilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to par-
ovated, should be fully ADA-compliant. Even those that
ticipate in the “mainstream of American life.” In researching
haven’t undergone renovations should have taken the nec-
more about this subject and how it applies to different aspects
essary steps to ensure their properties are ADA-compliant.
of the hospitality industry, we quickly discovered that there
• Once you’ve identified specific disabilities you will be deal-
are enough industry-specific discussion topics out there about
ing with from your group, make sure to work with Guest
ADA applications to fill up a hotel swimming pool, which
Services/Relations to coordinate the visit. In some cases
ultimately led to this writing assignment about the quality of
such as for sign language interpreters, this need must be re-
a guest’s experience at waterparks for persons with disabilities.
quested ahead of time, usually at least 48 hours or more in
Chances are pretty darn good that at some point you’re
60
advance of arrival.
going to organize a group event at some type of attraction and
• Many waterpark resorts now print guest assistance guides
then disability questions will be addressed specifically to you
you can access prior to your visit and/or upon entry. These
and, well, at that point you’d best be prepared. Consider this
will further clarify some important issues like disabled park-
your starter kit of what to know before you get involved.
ing policies, availability of wheelchair accessible bath-
Just as all savvy planners (finger pointing at you now,
rooms, showers, and changing facilities, ramp locations,
right?) have started including different meal options as stan-
zero-step areas within the venue, sites with pool lifts, and
dard operating procedure in order to be considerate to those
very specific ride guidelines. This could also be helpful in-
with food allergies and special dietary concerns (pause while
formation to distribute to your group ahead of guest arrival.
receiving standing ovation for same...), you should also be
• Pay close attention to instructions and information pertain-
aware of potential ADA compliance concerns as they pertain
ing to those requesting attendance with service animals,
to your venue selection process. So here are some ‘best prac-
which according to the technical portions of ADA guide-
tices’ and/or things to look for when approaching this topic:
lines, are still defined as “dogs that are individually trained
• Your first step will be to review the venue’s dis-
to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.”
ability guidelines which should be posted on their
But this is an area that can get really cloudy. Especially in
website. This information will give you some idea
light of people attempting to bring in all sorts of animals
as to how accessible they are as well as what types
under the claim of ‘emotional support, stress control’ and
of challenges your disabled guests might encounter.
a variety of other questionable practices. And while most
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
waterpark resorts allow the presence of bonafide service dogs, these animals are rarely if ever allowed in any pool/water areas due to hygiene issues. In summary, the ADA was one of America’s most comprehensive pieces of anti-discrimination legislation signed into effect since the 1964 Civil Rights Act which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Think of the ADA as an “equal opportunity” law for people with disabilities, and then try to visualize special needs attendees at your events and activities in order to provide for the best possible experience for all attendees. Terry Matthews-Lombardo, CMP, better known as TML, travels, plans meetings, and then writes about all those experiences from the viewpoint of being on the road and in the center of the action. It’s usually a good combination, or at least worth an interesting read. Having worked on both sides of the industry, she writes from the viewpoint of a veteran planner as well as a travel-savvy road warrior. If you want to read more from TML you can follow her at www.MidwestMeetings. com and at www.tmlwrites.com where you’ll find stories covering both destinations and detours or visit her blog at www.hypeorlando.com/ hospitality-hive/.
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
Just as all savvy planners (finger pointing at you now, right?) have started including different meal options as standard operating procedure in order to be considerate to those with food allergies and special dietary concerns (pause while receiving standing ovation for same.. ), you should also be aware of potential ADA compliance concerns as they pertain to your venue selection process.
61
WATERPARKS
Compete for Meetings • Q&A with industry expert David J. Sangree • Waterpark industry trends • Potential to increase attendance
T
he fun and excitement of waterpark resorts is abundant in the Midwest. With 339 waterparks, it has more than any other region in the United States.
David J. Sangree, MAI, CPA, ISHC, President, Hotel & Leisure Advisors, LLC, is no stranger to the world of waterparks. As a nationally recognized expert, he’s completed more than 400 studies of waterpark resorts and was named one of Aquatics International magazine’s “Power 25.” As one of the pioneers in waterpark research his expertise makes him the go-to consultant around the country! Midwest Meetings had the pleasure of speaking with him to learn about insights and trends in the waterpark market. MIDWEST MEETINGS: How did you become involved in the industry and become one of the leading experts in waterparks? DAVID SANGREE: I went to Cornell University for hospitality and worked in operations with Westin Hotels after graduation. While working with US Realty Consultants I was asked to do a study concerning a waterpark resort in the late 1990s. I took my family, including my toddler son, with me to Wisconsin Dells where we had a wonderful time! I thought that the waterpark was a great idea for families. This study turned out well (done for Great Wolf Lodge) and prompted me to do more studies. This led me to begin speaking at World Waterpark Association events, which I’ve been doing for over a decade. Our firm has collected the most financial data for waterparks of any firm in the country. It’s fun to be an analyst in this neat
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MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
industry! Plus with my own family, I have direct experience on how different ages respond to different parks, rides, and attractions. I love a family resort and personally enjoy swimming so it’s very interesting and fun to be a specialist in this field. MM: What are the most impactful insights you are finding in the waterpark market? DS: Like the hotel industry in general, the waterpark resort market was also affected by the recession in 2009 and 2010. It wasn’t hit as hard as other segments and it has definitely come back. Performance figures show RevPAR up 4.5% in 2014 performance compared to 2013, which is also happening in the hotel business in general. When trying to secure locations, meeting planners are finding that prices are not as low as they were. The difference in waterpark resorts is that they are more aggressive in pricing midweek and more interested in having groups and meetings come. Using a waterpark resort midweek can be a good thing for groups and the hotel. On weekends when families are interested in coming to stay, the room rates are typically much higher. Among bigger resorts we’re seeing that the continued focus is on what new attractions they can add. For example the Wilderness at the Smokies Waterpark Resort and Family Adventure Center in Tennessee, which is attached to a convention
“The difference in waterpark resorts is that they are more aggressive in pricing midweek and more interested in having groups and meetings come.”
facility offering 100,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, added a family entertainment facility. When the kids get tired of the waterpark they can go and play games, offering another entertainment option. Each year waterpark designers come up with new rides and
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63
attractions. It’s an interesting industry because of the innovation happening. MM: Are there any emerging trends you’re seeing and anticipate in the future concerning waterparks?
“Using a waterpark resort midweek can be a good thing for groups and the hotel. On weekends when families are interested in coming to stay, the room rates are typically much higher. “
DS: I think there is a trend in not just waterpark resorts, but amusement parks in general to add new attractions. The customer has an expectation for new things happening every year or two. This is different than in the traditional hotel industry, planners expect hotels to be kept up nicely, but not that they will add a new attraction every two years. The hotel industry averages a renovation every five to seven years to stay in good shape and compete well within the market. With top tier waterpark properties, there is this greater expectation, as in, what have you added this year? There is an enhanced demand for families and for groups coming (since they often bring their families). MM: How do waterpark resorts compete in today’s market, specifically within the meetings and convention industry and not just family and leisure markets? DS: There is definitely a growing trend toward waterpark resorts targeting groups and meetings. The Kalahari was a pioneer in this area, with their multiple locations in Wisconsin Dells, WI, Sandusky, OH, and they are now opening another location in the Pocono Mountains. Their approach with offering a large convention space has shown that they can attract a lot of groups for fun traditional activities, but use demand to fill in slower times when families are not available. Other waterpark resorts are adding and increasing meeting space to better compete because a number of them couldn’t due to their lack of space. For example, two new resorts in Pocono have substantial meeting space and can attract groups of 500 people and up because they realized having more space allows higher occupancy. There is a lot of potential for waterpark resorts to work with the meetings and events industry, the challenge is the supply. Only 133 resorts in the US qualify as indoor waterpark resorts offering a minimum of 10,000 sq. ft. of waterpark space. Only about half of them have larger meeting space facilities. Everyone has a little, but not 7,000 sq. ft. or more of meeting space. There’s a wide range of property types out there so it’s hard to generalize when there are large ones like Kalahari and others that don’t meet the threshold of space and quality, Having the waterpark allows you to market to families and group guests can bring them (family) along at little or no additional charge (not the case for all waterparks). For many groups the waterpark is an amenity, but not used as much unless they bring their family. For some groups it is an advantage. I believe Kalahari cites that they get a 20% increase in meeting attendance because of their amenities. Some very businessoriented groups might first think, why would we want to go to a waterpark resort, but in many of these cases the meeting space and waterpark are at completely opposite ends. Ultimately it comes down to deciding if the meeting space and price fits the meeting planner’s requirements.
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here’s no place quite like Illinois for your next meeting or event and your attendees are sure to enjoy every minute spent there. Meet in the Aurora Area where you can choose from 10 cities and towns
with unique charm, unified by the Fox River that rolls throughout the valley. Timber Creek Convention Center offers unmatched meeting space, while Hayloft and Copley Theatres serve up impressive spaces for your event. While your’re there, encourage your attendees to explore Farnsworth House or Silver Springs State Park. From vast auditoriums to small, intimate spaces, there’s no shortage of facilities and venues in Bloomington-Normal. Choose from the McLean County Museum of History with it’s elegant courtroom, or the state-of-the-art U.S. Cellular Coliseum. The Peoria Area, set in the scenic Illinois River Valley, greets you with a stateof-the-art convention center, international airport, and numerous attractions. Meet among beautiful works of art, under the stars, or in a distinctive outdoor space at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Give your attendees a meeting they’ll always remember on the Spirit of Peoria. Meetings in Carbondale afford you the opportunity to meet on the campus of Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, a nationally ranked research institution. A picturesque vineyard with breathtaking scenery welcomes you to southern Illinois. Attendees meeting at Walker’s Bluff will be treated to gourmet cuisine and the largest selection of local and national wines in the area. Decatur is home to the largest conference center hotel between Chicago and St. Louis, the Decatur Conference Center & Hotel. Progress City, USA is perfect for your large-scale outdoor events. Leisure time will be well spent with year-round recreational activities, shopping, and exciting nightlife. Meeting destinations abound in Illinois and CVBs throughout the state are ready to welcome you and your attendees to enjoy Illinois!
Left Page: City skyline, Chicago Above right: Flame of Hope, Effingham Above center: Strickler Planetarium, Kankakee Right: LaSalle Canal Boat, LaSalle WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
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A Hotel for Every Occasion Whether your meeting event is a big production or small and personal, our great selection of hotels assures that we have the perfect match for your occasion. Our Chicago area hotels offer you full-service amenities to meet your every need! Comfortable guestrooms, efficient meeting and catering facilities, on-site restaurants and room service options, high speed internet access and many more amenities. We pride ourselves on providing you with excellent service at all of our area hotels!
11. Itasca
14. Crystal Lake 6. Elgin 4. Palatine 10. Rolling Meadows 8. Skokie 1. Chicago 5. Glen Ellyn 2. Rosemont 9. Oakbrook Terrace 3. Countryside
12. Carol Stream
7. Northbrook
13. Springfield
1. Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza River North 350 West Mart Center Dr Chicago, IL 60654 Brigitta Metzinger sales@martplaza.com 312-529-1118 Holiday Inn Chicago O’Hare Airport 5615 N Cumberland Ave Chicago, IL 60631 Vincent Ziga vziga@lakhanihospitality.com 847-763-3002
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Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro 733 W Madison Chicago, IL 60661 Randy Keck rkeck@thechicagometro.com 312-602-2107 2. Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare 5440 N River Rd Rosemont, IL 60018 Michele Lee mlee@crowneplazaohare.com 847-928-3868
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
Great Hotels Guests Love, that’s InterContinental Hotel Group.
IHG.com 3. Holiday Inn Chicago SW Countryside 6201 Joliet Rd Countryside, IL 60525 Aida Cruz a.cruz@holidayinn-cs.com 708-354-4200 Ext 646
7. Crowne Plaza Chicago Northbrook 2875 N. Milwaukee Ave Northbrook, IL 60062 jhager@bayshospitality.com 847-298-2525
11. Holiday Inn Chicago West Itasca 860 W Irving Park Rd Itasca, IL 60143 Gary Maass gary@holidayinnitasca.com 630-773-2340
8. Holiday Inn Chicago North 12. Holiday Inn & Suites Carol Shore Skokie Hotel Stream 5300 Touhy Ave 4. Holiday Inn Express Palatine/ 150 S Gary Ave Skokie, IL 60077 North Arlington Heights Carol Stream, IL 60188 Vincent Ziga 1550 Dundee Rd Sue Widerski vziga@lakhanihospitality.com Palatine, IL 60047 swiderski@hicarolstream.com 847-763-3002 John Rohrbach 630-681-7309 jrohrbach@hiepalatine.com 9. Holiday Inn Chicago 847-494-8600 13. Crowne Plaza Hotel Oakbrook Springfield 17W350 22nd St 5. Crowne Plaza Lombard 3000 S Dirksen Pkwy Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 Downers Grove Springfield, IL 62703 Vincent Ziga 1250 Roosevelt Rd John McGinnes vziga@lakhanihospitality.com Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Jmcginnes@cpspringfield.com 847-763-3002 Lena Lahart 217-585-2868 llahart@cpglenellyn.com 10. Holiday Inn Rolling Meadows 630-613-1235 14. Holiday Inn NW Chicago Schaumburg Area Crystal Lake 3405 Algonquin Rd 6. Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago 800 S Route 31 Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 Northwest-Elgin Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Sam Patel 495 Airport Rd Nikki Delrio sam@brijen.com Elgin, IL 60123 nikki.delrio@pillarhotels.com 847-409-3349 Angela Johnson 815-477-7000 angela@hichicagonw.com 847-717-8653
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Pheasant Run Resort Things are shaping up nicely
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roperty improvements continue at Pheasant Run Resort & Spa under the management of Hostmark Hospitality Group. We are in the process of transforming the experience of the resort to make your stay as memorable as possible. Plans to revitalize the resort include fresh alterations to our lobby, guest rooms and restaurants. Our Mega Center now offers a brand new 33,000 square foot versatile flooring surface that gives an attractive, high-build, textured surface that is safe and extremely durable. Additional improvements to the Mega Center include a new heating and air conditioning system plus new lighting. We are confident you will find everything you are looking for at Pheasant Run Resort. Just let us know your needs, and our experienced staff will make it happen.
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
Pheasant Run Resort Sales Department 4051 East Main Street St. Charles, IL 60174 630-584-6300 www.pheasantrun.com salesandmarketing-staff@pheasantrun.com
Rooms/cabins: 293 Meetings space sq. ft.: 80,000 Meeting rooms: 33 Reception capacity: 2,500 Golf course nearby: 18-Hole Golf Course Onsite restaurants: 5
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Starved Rock Lodge Starved Rock Lodge: Get out of the office & into the woods!
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Visit us online at www. starvedrocklodge.com or call 1-800-868-7625. Like us on Facebook.
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tarved Rock Lodge lies in the heart of more than 2,600 acres of dense forests, spectacular sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and hiking trails. Located in Utica, IL, the Lodge is just minutes from the intersection of I-80 & I-39 and less than 90 minutes from Chicagoland. Starved Rock Lodge hosted over 125 weddings in 2014 and has become a destination for dream weddings and corporate retreats, offering a wide variety of teambuilding activities, dining options and meeting facilities. The Starved Rock Room is well-suited for meetings up to 200. There are additional, smaller meeting rooms on the property. The sales team will help plan trolley tours, progressive dinners, guided hikes, or a catered banquet. The historic stone-and-log lodge is built around the Great Hall, which has the largest 2-sided stone fireplace in Illinois. The hotel has 90 comfortable rooms, including cabins in the woods (all with free WiFi). The Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday Brunch. Onsite, visitors enjoy outdoor dining on the Veranda, The Back Door Lounge (bar), Gift Shop, CafĂŠ, therapeutic massage, two trolleys, an indoor pool complex, and much more!
Jenny Roulston, Sales Manager Routes 178 & 71 Utica, IL 61373 815-220-7335 Fax: 815-667-4198 www.starvedrocklodge.com jennyt@starvedrocklodge.com Rooms/cabins: 90 Meetings space sq. ft.: Varies Meeting rooms: 6 Reception capacity: 200 Golf course nearby: Yes Onsite restaurants: 3
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ILLINOIS
Gateway Center Great Way to Gather for Your Event! One Gateway Drive Collinsville, IL 62234 1-800-289-2388 Fax: 618-345-9024 www.gatewaycenter.com info@gatewaycenter.com Area hotel rooms: 800 Meeting space sq. ft.: 50,000 Largest room sq. ft.: 40,000 Meeting rooms: 17 Maximum capacity: 3,500 Entertainment nearby: More than 50 golf courses, casinos, thoroughbred horse racing, a water park, local historical and novelty attractions. St. Louis attractions and nightlife are less than 10 minutes away.
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hose who plan business meetings large and small have found that Gateway Center accommodates their gatherings in more ways than one. Our flexible meeting rooms, reasonably priced and delicious inhouse catering, convenient location, easy access from five interstate highways, modern technology and amenities are just some of the reasons meeting groups choose us time and time again.
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ILLINOIS
Peoria Area CVB So Many Ways to Play! Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 456 Fulton St. Peoria, IL 61602 309-676-0303 Fax: 309-676-8470 www.enjoypeoria.com info@peoria.org
Area hotel rooms: 4,500+ Meeting facilities: Peoria Civic Center, five area convention hotels Attractions nearby: Caterpillar Visitors Center, Running Central Athletic Outfitters, Sports Complex (to be completed in 2015), Wildlife Prairie Park, Peoria Riverfront Museum, Peoria Zoo, Spirit of Peoria
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ocated in the city’s downtown, the SMG-managed Peoria Civic Center is the largest exhibition facility in downstate Illinois. It
boasts over 900,000 sq. ft. of meeting space including 110,000 sq. ft. of exhibit hall space, a 12,000-seat arena, a beautiful ballroom and a number of smaller meeting rooms. The Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette and Peoria Courtyard Downtown hotels sit right next door to the Civic Center. An indoor skywalk connects the three, making the Civic Center easily accessible at any time
Peoria is a dynamic destination located in the heart of Illinois halfway between Chicago and St. Louis. From the “World’s Most Beautiful Drive” to the bustling Peoria Riverfront’s concerts and festivals, to the renovations of our budding Warehouse District, you’ll find so many ways to play (and meet) in Peoria.
of the year. These hotels make up 400 of the 4,000 hotel rooms within a comfortable distance from downtown Peoria. The city’s redeveloped downtown and vibrant riverfront provides a list of food and entertainment options that caters to anyone. The Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau works tirelessly to let people know that Peoria is a perfect place to stay and play and the ideal location for any meeting. Its sales and marketing team can help find the perfect facility for potential meetings, score the best hotel deals, create competitive pricing proposals, provide amazing publicity, and make meetings run as smoothly as possible. Peoria gives meeting-goers the ideal venue to host a meeting and an amazing place to visit.
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Hali Cooper, CMP Immediate Past President, MPI-Chicago Area Chapter Director of Business Development - Meeting Expectations! Midwest Meetings: What was your first experience with the meetings/events industry?
new technologies out there that will encourage participation at higher levels, and at a greater return for sponsors and exhibitors.
Hali Cooper: I definitely started in the industry at the bot-
There are emerging technologies that will track the attendee
tom. My first job was working as the lost and found and package
flow to help you design an exhibit floor better, give direct feed-
room clerk logging items and FedEx envelopes at the Palmer
back to change the content of your speaker while he/she is on
House Hilton. It was a promotion to actually work the front
stage, and mood lighting.
desk! MM: What trends do you see emerging in the next year? HC: The integration of conference applications into the content of programs will take on a new life. There are so many
MM: Favorite professional sports team(s)? HC: If I could attend every Chicago Blackhawks game of the season, I would! One of my favorite players of all time was Eddie Belfour; even though he left the Hawks after ‘07.
14th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival September 25-27, 2015 The Mother Road captures the imaginations of travelers from all over the world through its legendary diners, one-of-a-kind roadside attractions, and friendly faces along the way. Celebrate America’s Highway! More than 1,000 cool cars will roll into the heart of Springfield’s historic downtown. Enjoy music, entertainment, great food, and a great time. Visit some of the nation’s most popular automotive aftermarket vendors too. Source: Illinois Office of Tourism
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MEET IN ILLINOIS
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ILLINOIS
Bloomington-Normal Area CVB Central Illinois’ Meeting Destination
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Let our premier location, facilities and affordability increase attendance at your next meeting. Contact the BloomingtonNormal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau today!
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loomington-Normal offers the finest facilities and hotels to enhance your next meeting! Major facilities include the Marriott Hotel & Conference Center with 23,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, the DoubleTree by Hilton with 15,000 sq. ft., the Chateau Hotel & Conference Center with 9,000 sq. ft. and the 180,000 sq. ft. U.S. Cellular Coliseum. Bloomington-Normal is also home to Illinois State University, which can accommodate groups of up to 10,000, and Illinois Wesleyan University. Our state-of-the-art facilities, affordability and unmatched hospitality prove that BloomingtonNormal is the ideal site for your next meeting. Centrally located in the heart of Illinois and just two hours from Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis, Bloomington-Normal is an optimal destination for first-class meetings and conventions. The professional staff of the Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is ready to assist you from site selection through post-convention follow up to ensure a successful event!
Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 3201 CIRA Drive, Ste. 201 Bloomington, IL 61704 800-433-8226 Fax: 309-661-0743 www.visitbn.org Area hotel rooms: 3,500 Entertainment/attractions nearby: Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, Children’s Discovery Museum, The Corn Crib, Cruisin with Lincoln on 66 Visitor Center, David Davis Mansion, McLean County Arts Center, McLean County Museum of History, Pepsi Ice Center, U.S. Cellular Coliseum Meeting facilities: The Chateau Hotel & Conference Center, DoubleTree by Hilton, Eastland Suites Hotel & Conference Center, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, Illinois State University, Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, Parke Regency Hotel & Conference Center, U.S. Cellular Coliseum
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ILLINOIS
Springfield CVB Always Legendary
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The road to your best meeting ever starts here. Surprises. Historic treasures. Political intrigue. Dancing. Dining. Adventures to explore. You will find it all right here in Springfield, Illinois.
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lan a legendary meeting in historic Springfield, Illinois! With our newly renovated Prairie Capital Convention Center, three distinct convention areas, over 4,000 hotel rooms and quality facilities, you can see why conventions and events of all sizes are finding a home in Springfield. Located in the heart of the Midwest, this capital city also provides plenty of options for attendees to balance business with pleasure. World-class historic sites, unique local dining, nightlife and recreation options abound. Many of the city’s historic sites and museums double as one-of-a-kind venues for off-site functions. At the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, we understand the scope of planning both large and small events and offer a menu of complimentary services that will help you execute even the most complex event with ease. Get in touch and let’s talk about making your next meeting Always Legendary!
Gina Gemberling, Executive Director 109 N Seventh St Springfield, IL 62701 800-545-7300 Ext 5531 Fax: 217-544-8711 www.planonspringfieldil.com gina.gemberling@springfield.il.us Airport: Abraham Lincoln’s Capital Airport - Springfield Area rooms: 4,000+ Major meeting facilities: Prairie Capital Convention Center (newly renovated), Illinois State Fairgrounds Attractions: Abraham Lincoln Historic sites including the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Complex. Central location, economical destination, many options for unique venues for special events!
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DUPAGE CHICAGO’S WESTERN SUBURBS
DUPAGE COUNTY MEETING PROFESSIONALS GUIDE SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT: FACILITIES AT A GLANCE
DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 800.232.0502 | www.DiscoverDuPage.com | #meetindupage
LE MÉRIDIEN CHICAGO OAKBROOK CENTER 2100 SPRING ROAD OAK BROOK, IL 60523
IGNITE INSPIRATION Discover the stunningly transformed Le Méridien Chicago - Oakbrook Center. The beautiful 3,000 square foot Grand Salon Ballroom is positioned on the 9th floor with floor to ceiling windows and spectacular views. Looking to plan the perfect meeting? Utilize the Discovery Boardroom that seats 12 and offers the highest level of technology and sophistication. For more information, visit lemeridienoakbrook.com or call +1 630 468 2228. N 41°51' W 87°57' DESTINATION UNLOCKED
©2014 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Aloft, Element, Four Points, Le Méridien, Sheraton, St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, W, Westin and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
MEET IN DUPAGE:
JUST BEYOND CHICAGO’S SKYLINE DuPage County is a popular and affordable alternative to Chicago. Just 20 miles west of Chicago’s “Loop,” DuPage County combines the convenience, variety and affordability of the western suburbs with the excitement and allure of the nation’s third largest city. Benefits of holding your next meeting in DuPage County: • Easy access to O’Hare and Midway International Airports, major interstates and regional mass transportation.
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
GREAT MEETINGS BEGIN HERE
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CLUSTERS OF CONVENIENCE
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PLANNER ENDORSEMENTS
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LEISURE ACTIVITIES
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SUPPLEMENT: FACILITIES AT A GLANCE • HOTELS & RESORTS
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• Nearly 2 million square feet of combined meeting space.
• CONFERENCE/BANQUET & UNIQUE MEETING SITES
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• More than 16,000 guest rooms in 100+ hotels and resorts scattered throughout our 38 communities.
• RESTAURANTS WITH MEETING SPACE
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• SIGNATURE SERVICES
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• MAP OF DUPAGE COUNTY
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• Countless world-class attractions, restaurants, entertainment and shopping venues. • An abundance of rich culture, heritage and landscape. Discover why meeting planners consistently rank Chicago’s western suburbs as a premier Midwest destination for groups up to 5,000.
GETTING AROUND
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DUPAGE COMMUNITIES
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICE PROVIDERS
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ADVERTISING INDEX
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09/15 33M
915 Harger Road, Suite 120 Oak Brook, IL 60523 PHONE 800.232.0502 | 630.575.8070 FAX 630.575.8078
meetings@discoverdupage.com www.discoverdupage.com | #meetindupage 800.232.0502
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M E E T I N D U PAG E
| G R E AT M E E T I N G S B E G I N H E R E
GREAT MEETINGS BEGIN HERE DUPAGE COUNTY’S MEETING VENUES ARE COMFORTABLE, SPACIOUS AND VERSATILE WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY. Whether you prefer a stand-alone conference center or full-service hotel with meeting space, DuPage delivers great facilities with incomparable service and exceptional selection. Attendees will also appreciate the ease of access and free parking.
H OT E L S W I T H M E E T I N G S PAC E
With over 16,000 rooms and plenty of meeting space, DuPage County’s 100+ hotels and stunning golf & spa resorts consistently offer a level of comfort, service and convenience that is surprisingly affordable for a major metropolitan area, allowing you to stay within budget while we take good care of your attendees. UNIQUE VENUES
Look to DuPage County for unique meeting locations ideally suited to stimulate fresh, creative thinking and reap outstanding results: • Breathe new life into your meetings with the natural backdrop of a world-famous zoo, breathtaking arboretum or elegantly restored mansion surrounded by lush rose gardens. • Expand your mind at one of DuPage County’s renowned art galleries, cultural sites, religious venues, historic attractions or science museums. • Escape to a secluded country estate, winery or recreational theme park. • Score extra points by holding your meeting at an equestrian center, golf and tennis club, entertainment center, bowling lounge or sports complex. • Consider retreating to a boutique hotel for an intimate environment that inspires productivity.
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M E E T I N D U PAG E
| G R E AT M E E T I N G S B E G I N H E R E
LARGE EVENTS
When an event requires large-scale space and personalized service to match, DuPage delivers with a variety of banquet, conference and expo centers that can accommodate groups of up to 5,000 people. Our largest expo center has 85,000 square feet of exhibit space. Several others have between 20,000 and 35,000 square feet. All are convenient to area hotels. Nearly a dozen DuPage hotels have at least one meeting room of 7,500 square feet or more, and more than two dozen hotels have over 10,000 square feet of total meeting space. T R A I N I N G FAC I L I T I E S
Several International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) approved properties are perfect for education and training events, and area colleges and universities have meeting space in peaceful academic settings and fine service at affordable rates. DINING VENUES
Looking for a tasty location for your breakfast, lunch or dinner meeting? Consider one of the many restaurants with private meeting space in DuPage County. Groups up to 800 will find a welcoming atmosphere and delicious dining in private meeting rooms at some of the finest dining spots in the area. I N T E R N AT I O N A L A P P E A L
Several DuPage County hotels, resorts and entertainment venues are experienced at catering to an overseas audience and meet international tour company specifications.
SEE PAGES S-2 THROUGH S-6 IN OUR SUPPLEMENTAL “FACILITIES AT A GLANCE” SECTION FOR A COMPREHENSIVE GRID OF SERVICES OFFERED BY OUR HOTELS, RESTAURANTS AND MEETING VENUES.
800.232.0502
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WE’VE JUST INVESTED $7.5 MILLION INTO YOUR NEXT MEETING
CREATING HIGH-ENERGY MEETINGS JUST GOT EASIER AT EAGLEWOOD WITH OUR MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR ROOM RENOVATION
855.875.5468 • EaglewoodResort.com • #EaglewoodMeetings 1401 Nordic Rd • Itasca, Illinois 60143
4 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Get your attendees motivated for the most dynamic event of their lives at Illinois’ premier IACCcertified conference center. With an extraordinary staff of meeting professionals anticipating your every need, delectable dining options and the latest technological offerings in both the boardroom and the guestroom, amped up productivity is just the beginning.
M E E T I N D U PAG E
| CLUSTERS OF CONVENIENCE
CLUSTERS OF CONVENIENCE
DuPage County takes the hassle out of your logistics planning with several clusters of meeting venues within walking distance or a short drive of lodging, shopping, dining and entertainment. Here are four of our most popular cluster areas.
OA K B R O O K A R E A :
N A P E RV I L L E / L I S L E / WA R R E N V I L L E A R E A :
Oak Brook is an upscale international destination just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago and home to many corporate giants, such as McDonald’s, Ace Hardware, Blistex and Sharpie. One of the nation’s most prestigious outdoor shopping destinations, Oakbrook Center features six department stores and over 160 upscale shops and restaurants. Several brand-name full-service hotels, a golf resort, and other lodging choices are within a two mile radius of the center.
Naperville, located 28 miles west of downtown Chicago, is one of Illinois’ top communities. Its unique downtown showcases charming shops and distinctive restaurants along tree-lined streets. DuPage County’s Naperville/ Lisle/Warrenville technology corridor offers a wide variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options, as well as several full and select service hotels.
LO M B A R D A R E A :
“The Lilac Village,” as Lombard is known, features a historic town center with a vibrant array of businesses and shops, and Lilacia Park, a horticultural gem that attracts visitors from all over the world. A few miles south of the town center, Yorktown Center offers three unique shopping venues, 150 stores, over 17 restaurants, movie theatres, and entertainment venues. In addition to the onproperty Westin Lombard Yorktown Center, a number of hotels are within an easy walk or drive.
I TA S C A /S C H AU M B U R G A R E A :
On the northern edge of DuPage County, Itasca is a community alive with activity. One of DuPage County’s premiere full-service golf resorts is located here, offering world-class golf, a luxury spa and delicious dining. Itasca is also home to a scenic Riverwalk, the Scottish Festival & Highland Games, and plenty of nightlife and entertainment. Home to Woodfield Mall and Streets of Woodfield, the Itasca/Schaumburg area offers several shopping, dining, entertainment and lodging choices.
MEETINGS SET FOR SUCCESS At the Westin Lombard, we know when you feel your best you can truly be your best and that means paying careful attention to the most important elements of your stay. When you hold your meeting at The Westin Lombard Yorktown Center, we remove the distractions so your group can focus in a calm and comfortable environment. Our Clutter-Free Meetings help planners and guests stay organized and productive with open room design, and delicious SuperFoodsRx menu choices for keeping minds sharp. Streamlined stations keep everyone’s individual work area neat and clear. Our hotel offers a total of 26 meeting rooms with more than 39,000 sq. ft. of sophisticated meeting accommodations. The Westin Lombard Yorktown Center is anchored by our 19,000 sq. ft. Grand Ballroom, the largest in the western suburbs. You’ll experience ease and comfort during your stay with internet access throughout the hotel, and fax and print capabilities in our lobby Haven.
To begin planning your next event or to make a reservation, visit westinlombard.com or call (630) 719-8000. LOMBARD YORKTOWN CENTER
70 Yorktown Center, Lombard, Illinois 60148
800.232.0502
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A BETTER BUSINESS PLAN
Meetings are an opportunity to connect with colleagues and explore new ideas. When you hold your meetings at The Westin Chicago Northwest, we remove the distractions so your group can focus on the business at hand for an effective and successful session. The Westin Chicago Northwest hotel is set in a peaceful park setting 3 miles from Schaumburg and located only 12 miles from O’Hare International Airport. Our hotel offers a total of 31 meeting rooms with more than 45,000 square feet of meeting accommodations. Whether you’re hosting a small group of colleagues or a large-scale conference, our seasoned meeting specialist will assist you with every detail. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION, VISIT WESTINCHICAGONORTHWEST.COM OR CALL 630.773.4000 For a better you.™
I N S P I R E D B Y Y O U. Elevate your stay with the Chicago Marriott Suites Downers Grove and Chicago Marriott Oak Brook. Both locations offer amazing amenities and superior service for a productive and memorable meeting or event. Experience Meetings Imagined, our digital innovation offering inspiration and tools to make events more visual and purposeful and therefore, more successful. — Visit MarriottSuitesDownersGrove.com or MarriottOakBrook.com for more information on services and offerings.
CHICAGO MARRIOTT SUITES DOWNERS GROVE 1500 OPUS PLACE DOWNERS GROVE, IL 60515 (630) 852-1500 MARRIOTTSUITESDOWNERSGROVE.COM
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CHICAGO MARRIOTT OAK BROOK 1401 WEST 22ND STREET OAK BROOK, IL 60523 630.573.8555 MARRIOTTOAKBROOK.COM
M E E T I N D U PAG E
| C O M M I T T E D TO E XC E L L E N C E
COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE NOTHING MAKES US HAPPIER THAN A SATISFIED CLIENT. Certified by the State of Illinois, the DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau has served as the official destination marketing organization representing DuPage County’s multi-billion dollar tourism industry for over 25 years. See what planners who’ve been here have to say about DuPage County and why they look to the DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau for help when planning their meetings and events.
“What a great event! Such great people, I love your team, they are all amazing! It really was a great opportunity to see some of your awesome hotels. DuPage certainly has an excellent option for every group!” MANAGER, GLOBAL ACCOUNTS
HELMSBRISCOE
“Thank you so much…DuPage County offers a lot more high caliber properties than I was expecting. You did a fabulous job of organizing meaningful visits to each of the properties. Not only was the trip very educational, but it was also a ton of fun. You did a remarkable job in making each participant feel very special.” EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, CMP
SPECTRUM BRANDS, INC.
“The DuPage Convention & Visitor Bureau did an outstanding job in showcasing DuPage County’s best with professionalism, style, competency and fun. I highly recommend their services to anyone who has the responsibility of planning meetings.” OFFICE MANAGER
ILLINOIS COUNCIL ON LONG TERM CARE
“Like so many who live and work in the City of Chicago, I was unaware of all the fabulous hotels with great meeting space, plus easy access to airports, dining, world class shopping and entertainment that the western suburbs of Chicago has to offer! The DuPage CVB was instrumental in connecting me with the hotel, restaurants and other attractions in the area, in addition to arranging transportation and assisting with all the additional meetings support we required in order to make this event a huge success.” EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ILLINOIS OSTEOPATHIC MEDICAL SOCIETY
“The hotels did a fabulous job showcasing their properties. The food and beverage offerings were excellent, and we all know how important that is to programs. I did make a couple of connections which will lead to a future visit to DuPage County. Thanks for the fun and for being such great hosts and hostesses! You are true partners in our quest to make our clients happy!” DIRECTOR, GLOBAL ACCOUNTS
HELMSBRISCOE
“The DuPage CVB is a great resource to have. They have saved me time and money in meetings I have put together in the past. Their recommendations have all been excellent. I have recommended the CVB to other staff members in my office.” ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR/ CENTRAL DIVISION
MCDONALD’S USA, LLC
VISIT THE PLANNERS > TESTIMONIALS SECTION AT DISCOVERDUPAGE.COM TO SEE MORE ENDORSEMENTS FROM PLANNERS OF ALL KINDS OF MEETINGS AND EVENTS.
800.232.0502
discoverdupage.com | 7
AMERICA’S PREMIER INDOOR KARTING CENTER
BIG SCREENS BIG IMPACT Marcus Theatres are perfect for meetings, client appreciation and employee outings!
5 convenient Chicagoland / 56 midwest locations. Full service AV, catering and private movie screenings available.
CONTACT US TO BE THE STAR OF YOUR NEXT EVENT! Jessica Sumner, Regional Account Manager 608-770-0105 • JessicaSumner@MarcusTheatres.com
MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE A $50 GIFT CARD FOR EVERY $500 SPENT Code: DuPageMeetings Expires: 8/31/16
8 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
GREAT FAMILY FUN!
SPACIOUS LOBBIES
2381 W ARMY TRAIL RD, ADDISON, IL 60101 | (630) 433-3700 301 HASTINGS DR. BUFFALO GROVE, IL 60089 | (847) 941-9400
AZ - PHOENIX, CA - CARLSBAD . IRVINE . ANAHEIM . TORRANCE . ONTARIO . SANTA CLARA . SAN FRANCISCO . SACRAMENTO SAN DIEGO, CO - DENVER, FL - FT. LAUDERDALE . MIAMI . ORLANDO, GA - ATLANTA, HI - KAPOLEI, IL - BUFFALO GROVE . ADDISON IN - INDIANAPOLIS, MA - KINGSTON, NY - ALBANY . POUGHKEEPSIE, TX - AUSTIN . HOUSTON . SAN ANTONIO . DALLAS, UT - SALT LAKE CITY, WA - SEATTLE OPENING SOON! MEXICO - MEXICO CITY
LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE | K1SPEED.com
M E E T I N D U PAG E
| D U PAG E D I V E R S I O N S
DUPAGE DIVERSIONS MEETINGS CAN BE HARD WORK, AND IT’S IMPORTANT TO CARVE OUT SOME TIME EACH DAY TO RELAX AND RENEW. What’s your pleasure? A little retail therapy or spa treatment? A lively conversation shared with new friends over a delectable dinner? Perhaps you’d prefer to decompress with some activity, like a walk or run through a peaceful forest preserve, or let your mind escape into the song and dance of a Broadway-style play. Whatever you need to help “recharge your batteries,” you’re sure to find it in DuPage County.
Sophisticated Fun Team-Building Bowling & Bocce Tournaments Indoor/Outdoor Dinners & Receptions Private Meeting & Dining Rooms Off-site Catering & Delivery
SHOPPING
DuPage County rivals nearby Chicago for spectacular shopping. Take your pick from huge retail complexes filled with brand name stores, upscale open-air shopping centers with urban charm, massive outlet centers, or quaint suburban town centers lined with unique shops and eateries. DINING
World-class dining options are a major benefit of DuPage County’s proximity to Chicago. Choose from hundreds of fine restaurants, brew pubs and casual cafés that are sure to give you tasty memories of your stay. S P O R T S & R E C R E AT I O N
Indulge your active side in DuPage. Here you’ll find over 50 golf courses, 25,000+ acres of woodlands, 600 acres of lakes, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and more than 450 miles of trails. Add to that water parks, indoor sports complexes, ice arenas and more, and there’s no excuse to be idle in DuPage.
AT T R AC T I O N S
DuPage County offers a broad range of things to see and do, with a variety of museums, fascinating cultural and historical exhibits, Illinois’ first winery, a world-famous zoo and worldclass arboretum, and more. NIGHTLIFE
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down in DuPage County, with performing arts that are second to none. Treat your group to a concert, comedy club or Broadway-style theatre, or take your pick from a variety of night spots. EVENTS
DuPage County offers a year-round calendar of events that are more than just special. View professional sporting events, experience historical re-enactments or partake in one of our many seasonal concerts, festivals and fairs.
change your frame of mind Northbrook, IL
South Barrington, IL
Overland Park, KS
Edina, MN
Oak Brook, IL
Chicago, IL
Georgetown, D.C.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN DUPAGE COUNTY, VISIT THE VISITORS SECTION AT DISCOVERDUPAGE.COM.
pinstripes.com 800.232.0502
discoverdupage.com | 9
Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge A Perfect Setting for any Occasion
Surrounded by 52 acres of beautifully appointed park land, the Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge is a charming example of an era gone by. • Spacious living room with working fireplace. • Dining room adorned with windows overlooking the patio and grounds. • Large second-floor ballroom with beautiful beamed ceiling and dramatic antique lanterns. • Full working kitchen. Designed by R. Harold Zook in the 1920s, the Lodge adds elegance and grace to any corporate or social gathering welcoming up to 220 guests.
Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge
5901 S. County Line Road • Hinsdale, IL 60521 (630) 789-7095 • www.villageofhinsdale.org/klm Find us on Facebook!
10 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
D
I
S
C O V
E
R
DUPAGE CHICAGO’S WESTERN SUBURBS
FACILITIES AT A GLANCE
DUPAGE COUNTY MEETING PROFESSIONALS GUIDE SUPPLEMENT
915 Harger Road, Suite 120, Oak Brook, IL 60523 PHONE 800.232.0502 | 630.575.8070 FAX 630.575.8078
meetings@discoverdupage.com www.discoverdupage.com | #meetindupage
800.232.0502
discoverdupage.com | S-1
•
•
27
22 24
DUPAGE
•
MIDWAY INTL.
$
O’HARE INTL.
COMMON AREA
•
GUEST ROOMS
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION
I
MILEAGE TO AIRPORTS
MEETING ROOMS
LOCAL SHUTTLE
WIRELESS INTERNET
POOL (INDOOR/OUTDOOR)
ROOM SERVICE
RESTAURANT/ LOUNGE (R/L)
COMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST
FITNESS CENTER
BUSINESS CENTER
ON-SITE CATERING
THEATER
CLASSROOM
SEATING CAPACITY
BANQUET
LARGEST MEETING ROOM (SQ. FT.)
TOTAL MEETINGS SPACE (SQ. FT.)
NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS
DOUBLE DOUBLES/ DOUBLE QUEENS
| FAC I L I T I E S AT A G L A N C E
NUMBER OF GUEST ROOMS
M E E T I N D U PAG E
A C C O M M O D AT I O N S W I T H M E E T I N G S PA C E (*IACC APPROVED) Aloft Bolingbrook
155
0/56
1
532
532
32
24 40
35
•
•
•
L
Best Western Plus Oakbrook Inn
45
0/23
1
1000
1000
20
•
•
•
•
•
18
18 20
Chicago Marriott Naperville
424
0/161
20
24000
7031
600 400 800
•
•
•
• R/L
•
I
•
$
•
•
•
25
30 13
Chicago Marriott Oak Brook Hotel
350
0/156
17
18600
11040 1000 700 1200 •
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
$
•
•
•
14
21 24
Clarion Inn Suites and Conference Center
104
44/0
6
20000
12000 2000
•
•
•
R/L
I
•
$
•
•
•
15
23 15
ClubHouse Inn & Suites Hotel
136
16/39
2
795
575
40
50
50
•
•
•
I
•
Comfort Suites Oakbrook Terrace
103
41/0
3
1800
696
45
35
50
•
•
•
Comfort Suites of Lombard - Addison
64
0/37
1
625
1000
50
36
60
•
•
•
• •
L
•
•
18
18 20
•
•
•
17
22 26
I
•
•
•
16
31 10
1
675
675
25
20
30
•
•
I
•
•
•
•
•
7
25 20
4
2500
1300
80
56
90
•
•
•
R/L
I
$
$
•
•
•
13
25 15
147
2
1274
637
43
33
45
•
•
•
R/L
I
•
•
•
•
17
22 19
Crowne Plaza Lombard Downers Grove
119
7
9500
3800
250 200 300
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
$
•
•
•
21
25
DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago-Oak Brook
427
204/0
32
30000
7500
750 500 1000 •
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
$
•
•
•
15
21 24
Eaglewood Resort & Spa*
295
0/145
39
37000
7031
500 392 700
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•/$
•
•
•
12
30 16
Embassy Suites Chicago-Naperville
168
8
13450
13000 1000
•
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
•
28
30 12
Embassy Suites Hotel Chicago-Lombard/Oak Brook
262
6
4046
2016
150 110 200
•
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
•
•
18
23 15
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Chicago Lombard
110
4
5000
2100
120
•
L
•
•
•
16
31 15
Hampton Inn & Suites Addison
87
2
1400
1400
Hampton Inn & Suites Bolingbrook
90
3
1620
1584
Hampton Inn Chicago/Carol Stream
121
59/0
2
1500
1000
Hilton Chicago Oak Brook Hills Resort and Conference Center*
386
0/156
35
42500
Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook
211
0/74
4
1362
1362
90
56
Hilton Garden Inn Addison
153
60/0
6
2800
1100
80
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago/Oak Brook
128
52/0
1
1617
1617
Hilton Garden Inn Naperville/Warrenville
135
0/45
4
2100
Hilton Lisle/Naperville
309
114/0
23
18000
Holiday Inn & Suites Bolingbrook
145
23/40
7
Holiday Inn Chicago Oak Brook
227
0/84
Holiday Inn Itasca
160
70/0
Howard Johnson
120
Hyatt House Chicago/Naperville/ Warrenville
123
Hyatt Lodge at McDonald's Campus
218
Hyatt Place Chicago Lombard/Oak Brook
Country Inn & Suites O'Hare South
92
Courtyard by Marriott Elmhurst
140
Courtyard by Marriott Oakbrook Terrace
54/0
57/0
0/32
60
150
•
•
•
80
72
80
•
•
•
80
100
60
75
•
•
•
I
•/$
$
I
7
•
I
•
•
•
•
18
30 18
•
I
•
•
•
•
31
22 17
•
I
•
•
•
22
35
•
•
•
17
15 18
•
•
•
15
21 25
•
•
•
11
22 15
•
•
•
15
21 25
•
•
•
26
34 12
•
•
•
24
30 15
•
•
13432 1000 900 1100 •
•
•
R/L
•
I/O
•
130
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•/$
70
100
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
120
90
145
•
•
•
R
•
I
•/$
1380
70
50
80
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
5280
480 400 700
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
4600
3773
320 200 500
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
•
•
•
31
22 35
5
7000
2900
200 170 300
•
•
•
R
•
I
•
•
•
•
16
22 18
10
8500
5000
425 350 600
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
•
•
•
11
27 18
2
500
500
•
•
•
2
938
938
75
•
•
•
•
0/140
45
47000
5100
350 300 500
•
•
•
151
82/0
2
1024
1024
50
50
75
•
•
•
•
Hyatt Place Chicago/Itasca
126
58/0
2
1000
1000
60
42
75
•
•
•
Hyatt Place Chicago/Naperville/ Warrenville
123
0/36
2
1188
1188
100
50
100
•
•
•
1
1500
1500
40
36
80
•
•
Inn at Water's Edge
6
85
$
$
$
•
•
•
•
12
20 18
I
•
$
•
•
•
28
33 11
I
•
•
•
•
15
21 26
R/L
I
•
•
•
•
17
23
•
R/L
I
•
•
•
•
12
32 20
•
R/L
I
•
•
•
•
27
33 11
•
R/L
•
•
•
25
30 15
R/L
•
•
La Quinta Inn & Suites Bolingbrook
99
0/53
1
450
450
30
25
40
•
•
•
I
La Quinta Inn Chicago/Oakbrook Terrace
150
87/0
2
780
780
30
30
30
•
•
•
O
S-2 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
$
8
•
8
•
•
•
31
22 16
•
•
•
16
22 15
MEETING ROOMS
GUEST ROOMS
O’HARE INTL.
MIDWAY INTL.
DUPAGE
MILEAGE TO AIRPORTS
COMMON AREA
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION
WIRELESS INTERNET
LOCAL SHUTTLE
POOL (INDOOR/OUTDOOR)
ROOM SERVICE
RESTAURANT/ LOUNGE (R/L)
COMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST
FITNESS CENTER
BUSINESS CENTER
ON-SITE CATERING
THEATER
CLASSROOM
SEATING CAPACITY
BANQUET
LARGEST MEETING ROOM (SQ. FT.)
TOTAL MEETINGS SPACE (SQ. FT.)
NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS
DOUBLE DOUBLES/ DOUBLE QUEENS
| FAC I L I T I E S AT A G L A N C E
NUMBER OF GUEST ROOMS
M E E T I N D U PAG E
•
•
•
23
14
27
•
•
•
16
21
21
•
•
16
35
20
•
•
•
31
22
17
•
•
•
30
22
28
A C C O M M O D AT I O N S W I T H M E E T I N G S PA C E (*IACC APPROVED) La Quinta Inn Chicago/Willowbrook
130
49/0
1
200
200
10
•
Le Méridien Chicago - Oakbrook Center
172
0/57
4
3500
3000
150 130 202
•
1
500
250
35
27
44
•
35
24
30
•
Lynfred Winery Bed & Breakfast Suites
4
Quality Inn
63
32/1
1
560
560
Ramada Inn Bolingbrook
61
0/30
1
350
350
Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago/ Naperville/Warrenville
130
0/35
2
1000
675
36
36
Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Oak Brook
156
0/156
1
1000
1000
48
48
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Bolingbrook
82
38/0
1
325
325
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Elmhurst/Oak Brook Area
128
59/0
3
775
775
50
40
60
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Naperville/Warrenville
128
59/0
2
924
924
60
40
80
Stay Inn Chicago Lombard
128
30/0
2
720
360
18
20
The Drake Hotel Oak Brook
84
16/0
12000
Westin Chicago Northwest
408
228/0
33
Westin Lombard Yorktown Center
500
0/208
Willowbrook Inn
190
•
•
• •
•
R/L
•
L
•
•
•
I
$
$
•
•
•
I
•
•
•
I
•
•
•
•
26
34
12
•
•
•
I
•
•
•
•
15
21
20
•
•
•
I
•
•
•
•
31
22
29
•
•
•
I
•
•
•
•
8
20
18
•
•
•
•
I
•
•
•
•
28
33
12
30
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
19
24
12
3770
340 270 600
•
•
•
•
•
•
13
21
24
45000
9600
1000 600 1000 •
•
I
•/$
•
•
•
12
32
20
27
47000
18915 1370 1400 2200 •
14
13436
4032
• 50
360 350 500
•
•
R/L
•
•
R/L
•
•
•
R/L
•
I
•
$
•
•
•
19
23
15
•
•
R/L
•
O
•
•
•
•
•
23
15
30
•
14
21
16
•
•
27
3
11
•
•
22
16
3
•
•
22
15
25
•
•
18
24
18
•
•
19
24
19
A C C O M M O D AT I O N S O N LY Brer Rabbit Motel
17
Candlewood Suites Chicago/ Naperville/Warrenville
122
•
Champagne Lodge & Luxury Suites
35
•
Econo Lodge
105
Extended Stay America - Chicago Lombard - Oak Brook
136
Extended Stay America - Chicago Lombard - Yorktown Center
98
0/8
Extended Stay America - Chicago Westmont - Oak Brook
141
0/5
•
•
19
20
24
Extended Stay America Elmhurst
117
19/0
•
•
10
20
22
Extended Stay America Itasca
125
•
•
12
26
19
Intown Suites Chicago West
81
•
•
17
20
18
Motel 6
110
•
•
14
16
8
Red Roof Plus+ Chicago - Willowbrook
109
•
•
22
15
25
Residence Inn by Marriott Chicago Lombard
144
•
•
•
19
24
15
Staybridge Suites Chicago/ Oakbrook Terrace
112
•
•
17
22
25
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Lombard
125
•
•
18
23
15
•
• • •
0/42
•
O
26/0 O 54/0
23/0
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
O
O
800.232.0502
•
discoverdupage.com | S-3
| FAC I L I T I E S AT A G L A N C E
DUPAGE
MIDWAY INTL.
MILEAGE TO AIRPORTS
O’HARE INTL.
WIRELESS INTERNET
MEETING RMS.
ON-SITE CATERING
BAR/LOUNGE
THEATER
CLASSROOM
BANQUET
LARGEST MEETING ROOM (SQ. FT.)
TOTAL MEETING SPACE (SQ. FT.)
NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS
LOCATION
SEATING CAPACITY
COMMON AREA
M E E T I N D U PAG E
C O N F E R E N C E / B A N Q U E T FA C I L I T I E S & U N I Q U E M E E T I N G S I T E S (*IACC APPROVED) Abbington Distinctive Banquets
Glen Ellyn
4
21000
15000
1200
800
1100
Arrowhead Golf Club
Wheaton
6
9500
5500
300
75
200
Bensenville Park District
Bensenville
5
3430
3430
250
Bobak's Signature Events & Conference Center
Woodridge
5
35000
13500
1200
9000
1400
Bolingbrook Golf Club
9400
780
500
1100
Bolingbrook
6
10000
Bottle & Bottega
Glen Ellyn
2
1800
Brookfield Zoo/Chicago Zoological Society
Brookfield
15
48000
3000
1000
Cantigny Golf
Wheaton
3
2800
2300
180
Cantigny Park
Wheaton
3
3500
2300
250
Darien
4
21900
150
150
Carol Stream
3
3000
3000
200
Carmelite Campus National Shrine of St. Therese Carol Stream Park District Chateau Orleans Banquets
200
25
100
50
793
Darien
2
4000
4000
275
12
100000
40000
350
5000
Cosley Zoo
Wheaton
2
2400
2400
100
100
Dave & Buster's
Addison
6
4000
250
2000
250
300
Downers Grove Golf Club
Downers Grove
2
4000
Downers Grove Park District
Downers Grove
6
60
60 120
30
180
Oakbrook Terrace
9
35000
22000
1800
1000
952
Naperville
7
6735
1265
200
160
200
DuPage County Fair Association
Wheaton
5
45000
21600
1377
2222
DuPage County Historical Museum
Wheaton
1
2025
2025
80
100
100
DuPage Expo Center
St. Charles
2
25000
23500
1500
728
2400
Edge Ice Arena
Bensenville
2
1500
100
100
120
6458
2548
160
175
1713
96
106
2
Elmhurst
60
Elmhurst Park District
Elmhurst
4
20700
5000
100
Enchanted Castle Restaurant & Entertainment Complex
Lombard
5
60000
6000
625
Entertainment Cruises
Chicago
10
16019
3560
749
Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory
350
6000
150
200
1904
1904
120
75
Glendale Heights Sports Hub
Glendale Heights
9
10221
2600
24
Glendale Lakes Golf Club
Glendale Heights
3
6000
3690
250
150
250
Oak Brook
3
1080
360
50
25
61
Joliet
2
3000
1500
250
Bolingbrook
2
4400
4000
200
30
Wheaton
26
20000
1230
250
50
iPic Theaters & Salt Sports Bar
Bolingbrook
8
23000
3040
80
Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge Laser Quest LEGOLAND® Discovery Center
S-4 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Itasca
4
6800
4800
500
Addison
6
7000
4000
800
Hinsdale
2
4000
2000
220
Downers Grove
4
1200
400
40
Schaumburg
2
30000
1200
•
5
20
10
•
•
18
18
30
•
•
•
•
28
18
20
•
23
30
13
•
•
•
15
6
28
•
•
•
•
20
35
5
•
•
•
•
20
35
5
•
26
15
26
•
•
24
32
9
•
•
•
23
17
26
•
•
•
25
30
15
21
27
11
•
•
•
13
19
14
•
•
•
•
•
25
27
19
•
•
25
27
16
•
•
•
15
15
20
•
•
28
28
14
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
220
320
100
1
20
24 15
12
23
6
20
15
13
17
18
•
17
21
12
•
•
•
17
12
43
40
40
5
19
26
13
•
•
•
24
34
11
•
•
24
34
11
•
•
15
16
26
39
24
26
•
•
32
26
22
•
•
24
29
13
•
•
28
22
24
• •
•
•
11
25
19
•
•
•
•
18
26
14
•
25
42
5
•
600
55
33
•
150
33
9 10
•
•
80
30 35
•
•
•
20 25
•
48
Illinois Institute of Technology
K1 Speed
•
•
•
6000
Itasca Country Club
•
350
1
Illinois Aviation Museum at Bolingbrook
•
•
1
Haunted Trails Restaurant, Entertainment Center & Picnic Groves
11
•
Batavia
Graue Mill and Museum
15
29
900
Glen Ellyn
Glen Ellyn Park District
27
25
•
DuPage Children's Museum
Elmhurst
21
•
•
180
Elmhurst College
•
•
150 50
Glen Ellyn
Elmhurst Art Museum
•
•
300
College of DuPage
Drury Lane Theatre & Conference Center
• •
•
•
•
19
15
27
10
15
15
14
30
23
| FAC I L I T I E S AT A G L A N C E
DUPAGE
MIDWAY INTL.
MILEAGE TO AIRPORTS
O’HARE INTL.
WIRELESS INTERNET
MEETING RMS.
ON-SITE CATERING
BAR/LOUNGE
THEATER
CLASSROOM
BANQUET
LARGEST MEETING ROOM (SQ. FT.)
TOTAL MEETING SPACE (SQ. FT.)
NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS
LOCATION
SEATING CAPACITY
COMMON AREA
M E E T I N D U PAG E
C O N F E R E N C E / B A N Q U E T FA C I L I T I E S & U N I Q U E M E E T I N G S I T E S (*IACC APPROVED) Lewis University Oak Brook Campus
Oak Brook
18
30000
2040
72
72
Lombard
4
7800
3400
260
150
Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
Elmhurst
2
3000
3000
100
Lombard Park District
Lombard
5
2232
150
Lucky Strike Entertainment - Lombard
Lombard
4
27000
600
Roselle
2
500
25
Main Event Entertainment
Warrenville
5
2310
1260
Maple Meadows Golf Course
Wood Dale
1
3000
3000
Marcel's Culinary Experience
Glen Ellyn
1
600
600
Marcus Addison Cinema
Addison
21
Mayslake Peabody Estate
Oak Brook
8
5915
1848
Lindner Conference Center
Lynfred Winery
McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage
330
•
•
15
21
20
•
•
15
22
20
12
23
15
•
•
15
15
10
•
•
17
24
18
•
•
15
35
19
•
75 175 • 27
44
60
50
90
140
150
400
•
•
•
•
30
35
11
•
•
•
•
8
35
20
25
30
14
20
30
21
16
21
20
25
30
15
12
38
20
4125 140
175
175
1450
1450 30
27
30
14
30
175
30
30
14
34
29
20
200
27
30
14
•
•
Glen Ellyn
8
40000
14000
120
1
85000
55000
1450
Millennium Carillon in Moser Tower
Naperville
1
400
400
24
Naper Settlement – Outdoor History Museum
Naperville
5
4100
1530
80
Naperbrook Golf Course
Plainfield
1
1200
1200
60
Naperville Park District
Naperville
5
5000
3000
160
200
NIU Naperville Conference Center*
Naperville
29
40000
3750
280
210
400
•
•
•
27
27
13
North Central College
Naperville
33
57000
57000
300
110
1050
•
•
•
27
27
14
Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club
Oak Brook
3
4200
2600
200
75
100
•
•
16
18
27
Oak Brook Golf Club
Oak Brook
1
2000
2000
95
99
90
15
25
22
Oak Brook Park District
120
16
19
26
18
22
17 12
Oak Brook
5
4200
1925
Villa Park
3
1400
1000
Odeum Sports & Expo Center
Villa Park
10
85000
22000
2000
Paradise Bay Water Park
Lombard
2
6000
6000
100
Oak Brook
5
33000
3500
600
Prairie Landing Golf Club
West Chicago
3
3100
2300
200
Ruffled Feathers Golf Club
Lemont
4
6000
4400
275
200
300
Safari Land
Villa Park
14
3000
1000
300
300
166
Springbrook Golf Course
Naperville
2
1200
1200
65
80
80
The Morton Arboretum
•
•
•
Oakbrook Terrace Park District
Pinstripes
•
•
Schaumburg
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
850
•
50
•
25
150
750
5200
•
•
•
•
•
5
33
•
•
16
26
16 25
•
•
•
•
17
22
•
•
•
•
30
34
2
•
•
•
•
30
20
25
•
•
14
26
15
•
33
32
15
Lisle
15
12000
4956
275
120
150
•
•
•
•
24
25
16
Topgolf Chicago
Wood Dale
4
7920
2688
100
90
125
•
•
•
•
9
35
16
Topgolf Naperville
Naperville
3
6100
3000
200
200
300
•
•
•
•
28
34
10
Village Links of Glen Ellyn
Glen Ellyn
2
2950
150
150
•
•
•
23
29
14
Warrenville Park District
Warrenville
2
2200
2000
100
Elmhurst
10
30000
12000
1500
2400
2400
Waterford Banquet & Conference Center Western Acres Golf Course
75
•
Lombard
1
Westmont Park District
Westmont
5
Wheaton Park District
Wheaton
9
WhirlyBall
Lombard
4
8000
2560
325
250
Bensenville
2
3430
2380
250
300
Elmhurst
9
9000
912
250
White Pines Golf Club & Banquets Wilder Mansion
100
60
60
60
50
•
•
•
27
34
10
•
•
15
23
15
•
522 450
•
21
27
16
•
19
13
24
•
24
26
12
•
•
•
•
18
23
18
•
•
•
•
5
20
10
•
10
18
18
800.232.0502
discoverdupage.com | S-5
| FAC I L I T I E S AT A G L A N C E
4
2500
1000
Oakbrook Terrace
4
2500
Arrowhead Restaurant & Bar
Wheaton
5
Buca di Beppo
Lombard
D.O.C Wine Bar
Lombard
DUPAGE
Bloomingdale
MIDWAY INTL.
20
O’HARE INTL.
40
MEETING RMS.
CLASSROOM
500
COMMON AREA
BANQUET
750
BAR/LOUNGE
LARGEST MEETING ROOM (SQ. FT.)
2
MILEAGE TO AIRPORTS
THEATER
TOTAL MEETING SPACE (SQ. FT.)
Lisle
LOCATION
WIRELESS INTERNET
SEATING CAPACITY
NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS
M E E T I N D U PAG E
30
•
•
•
19
22
15
50
•
•
•
15
20
19
1000
150
•
•
•
15
20
19
9500
5500
300
•
•
•
25
29
11
7
4000
864
200
17
24
19
1
900
900
50
19
24
18
R E S TA U R A N T S W I T H M E E T I N G S PA C E Allgauer's Restaurant - Hilton Lisle/Naperville ANYWAY'S - American Grill & Pub ANYWAY'S - Chicago Restaurant & Pub
Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket
Willowbrook
75
200
• 40
50
•
•
•
100
•
•
21
15
27
16
16
18
Devon Seafood + Steak
Oakbrook Terrace
2
110
110
40
•
•
Ditka's
Oakbrook Terrace
5
4000
3500
180
•
•
•
15
21
25
Eddie Merlot's Warrenville
Warrenville
3
1491
651
45
•
•
•
26
24
5
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse - Oak Brook
Oak Brook
2
1500
1100
110
•
•
•
15
21
24
Glen Prairie
Glen Ellyn
2
1600
1170
136
•
•
•
22
25
7
Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse
Lombard
7
6100
6100
300
400
•
•
•
18
24
18
Heaven On Seven
Naperville
1
1200
1200
100
75
•
27
27
13
Holy Mackerel! Seafood
Lombard
2
80
40
40
Maggiano's Little Italy Naperville
Naperville
4
3150
3150
200
144
Maggiano's Little Italy Oak Brook
Oak Brook
6
4500
2834
300
100
McCormick & Schmick's Seafood and Steaks
Oak Brook
3
Mesón Sabika
Naperville
9
8000
5000
450
Mon Ami Gabi
Oak Brook
4
1822
80
250
Morton's The Steakhouse
Naperville
3
1170
1170
88
60
100
•
Parkers' Restaurant & Bar
Downers Grove
4
2000
561
100
75
100
Oak Brook
5
2300
1272
Itasca
2
1600
Reel Club
Oak Brook
5
Reserve 22
Glen Ellyn
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery - Warrenville
630
• •
•
•
18
24
18
300
•
•
•
25
30
14
250
•
•
•
20
25
25
•
•
•
17
23
20
29
28
14
•
16
21
25
•
•
26
30
14
•
•
•
25
20
15
80
•
•
•
9
12
16
1600
150
•
•
•
17
25
16
2500
2500
300
50
75
•
•
•
16
21
25
4
2356
2356
160
180
200
•
•
•
23
29
14
Warrenville
1
1000
1000
70
•
18
23
18
Seasons 52
Oak Brook
4
1789
1576
90
Sullivan's Steakhouse
Naperville
2
1210
735
75
Oakbrook Terrace
2
1252
626
40
25
Oak Brook
5
2500
1500
450
Bolingbrook
2
1200
864
The Public Landing Restaurant & Banquet Center
Lockport
3
3050
Waterleaf at College of DuPage
Glen Ellyn
1
Weber Grill Restaurant
Lombard Oak Brook
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille Prairie River Restaurant, Eaglewood Resort & Spa
The Bistro, Courtyard by Marriott Oakbrook Terrace The Clubhouse Restaurant The Nest Bar & Grill
Wildfire
S-6 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
300 40
300
• •
• 100
•
•
•
16
21
19
•
•
•
27
30
14
40
•
•
•
14
19
19
120
90
•
•
•
15
20
24
40
30
50
•
•
•
34
27
22
1800
150
100
175
•
•
•
37
28
34
2669
2669
120
•
•
•
22
27
16
2
1200
65
65
•
17
22
19
3
2000
700
50
•
16
21
25
65
200
65
• •
•
M E E T I N D U PAG E
| FAC I L I T I E S AT A G L A N C E
SIGNATURE SERVICES NO ONE KNOWS CHICAGO’S WESTERN SUBURBS BETTER THAN THE TALENTED TEAM OF PROFESSIONALS AT THE DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU. Take advantage of our wide array of complimentary “Signature Services” to simplify your planning experience and help you create an event that is beyond remarkable. L E A D C R E AT I O N / R F P S O U R C I N G
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES REFERRALS
Our strong relationships with area hotels and meeting venues make it easy to review your criteria, match up qualifying facilities and provide you with proposals from properties that meet your needs—usually within 48 hours. Your contact information remains confidential.
Let us assist you with finding high-quality local service providers, from transportation companies to florists, printers and more, who you can count on to help pull all the details of your meeting together.
SITE INSPECTIONS
We will schedule and accompany you on site inspections and develop an itinerary to make sure you experience all the best that DuPage County has to offer. D E S T I N AT I O N P R E S E N TAT I O N S / AREA PROPOSALS
Does your committee, board or organization need some convincing? We will be happy to provide a concise destination proposal that features the benefits of meeting in DuPage County and includes all your hotel proposals. We can also conduct a professional presentation that generates excitement and illustrates why DuPage County would be the perfect choice for your event.
P R O M OT I O N A L A S S I S TA N C E
We can help create dynamic PR ideas and materials, event promotions, social media campaigns, mobile media promotions, attendance boosters and more. CO N V E N T I O N S E RV I C E S
We offer assistance with on-site registration support, customized welcome videos, social media support, banners, fun-filled tour itineraries for attendees and guests, impressive VIP gifts and welcome packets, and securing accomplished keynote speakers and local dignitaries to speak during your event. C R I S I S M A N AG E M E N T A S S I S TA N C E
Count on us to pitch in to help when a last-minute crisis, unexpected predicament or usual convention chaos develops. F O L LOW- U P A S S I S TA N C E
Once your event is over, our sales team will follow up with post-event assistance to ensure satisfaction and gather qualified information on consumed hotel rooms, number of attendees and additional services. ADDITIONAL EVENT PLANNING
CONTACT US AT 630.575.8070 OR MEETINGS@DISCOVERDUPAGE.COM TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMPLIMENTARY SIGNATURE SERVICES AND BEGIN PLANNING YOUR NEXT MEETING OR EVENT BEYOND CHICAGO’S SKYLINE.
Our team of professionals are also experts at assisting with: • Reunions, weddings & other special events • Military reunions & events • Tours for domestic & international groups • Sports events
800.232.0502
discoverdupage.com | S-7
| COMMUNITY MAP Schaumburg
Glen Ellyn Rd
Church Rd Grace St
Finley Rd Highland Av
York St
Ardmore Av Villa Av Midwest Rd
Blvd
Orchard Rd
d
Clarendon Hills
83rd St
Darien
Burr Ridge
91st St
Lemont Rd
87th St
Madison St
d dR
Clarendon Hills Rd
iel inf Pla
Robert Kingery Highway
75th St
Cass Av
Fairview Av
Woodridge
County Line Rd
63rd St
Hobson Rd
Modaff Rd
Garfield Av
Yackley Av
55th St
Av Maple
Rd
Av
Hinsdale
Metra BNSF Line
d Greene R
W as hin gto n
Olesen Dr
Mill St
ago Chic
Naper Blv d
k an Pl
d R
St
Book Rd
Oak Brook Rd
4
Av Ogden
W es t St
St E New York Aurora
31st St
8
v Aurora A
Liberty St
22nd St
Warrenville Rd
Rd
Dr ond Raym
North Aurora Rd
Montgomery Rd
Butterfield Rd
Diehl Rd
th ie Pa Prair Branch ra Auro
Roosevelt Rd
Meyers Rd
ster
Prairie Path Main Stem
Main St
he Manc Rd
v Hill A
Harrison Av
Herric k Rd
Williams Rd
Ferry
ld Rd Winfie
d lR el
Prairie Path Batavia Branch
Rd
Park
rn Pu Ba ta v Rd ia
ll Jewe
Shaffner Rd
Batavia
Mack Rd
Bloomingdale Rd
Schmale Rd
Gary Av
Kuhn Rd
Winfield
d
Grand Av
St Charles Rd
nt Blvd sce Cre
Lambert Rd
eR
Jefferson St
0
Geneva Rd
President St
Lak
rn Trail
Coll ege
wy Fabyan Pk
Fullerton Av
Na per ville R
High
Joliet St
Metra Union Pacific West Line
North Av
Great Weste
Pleasant Hill Rd
Prairie Path Geneva Branch
Eola Rd
Carol Stream
West Chicago
Prince Crossing Rd
Powis Rd
St Charles
Lies Rd
County Farm Rd
Klein Rd
Fair Oaks Rd
Army Trail Rd
Wood Dale
Addison Rd
Bloomingdale Wayne
d ic R
Mill Rd
Schick Rd
Nord
Rohlwing Rd
Lake St
York Rd
Milw au Wes kee Dis trict t Lin e
Swift Rd
Bartlett Rd
Munger Rd
Bartlett
Elk Grove Thorndale Av
Lombard Rd
Hanover Park
Metr a
Medinah Rd
Roselle
Stearns Rd th P a ch i e an air Br Pr lgin E
Roselle Rd
Central Av
Devon Av
0
Janes Av
M E E T I N D U PAG E
Lemont
915 Harger Road, Suite 120 Oak Brook, IL 60523 PHONE 800.232.0502 | 630.575.8070 FAX 630.575.8078 meetings@discoverdupage.com www.discoverdupage.com #meetindupage
COPYRIGHT 2015 - COUNTY OF DUPAGE, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. USED BY PERMISSION.
09/15 33M
S-8 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Business Meetings Luncheons Bridal Showers Rehearsal Dinners Family Celebrations
Oakbrook Terrace Chicago Arlington Heights
ditkasrestaurants.com
800.232.0502
discoverdupage.com | 11
ON
Historic Route 66 A CHICAGO STAY WITHOUT THE CHICAGO PAY Whatever your plans and wherever they take you in the Chicago metropolitan area, Willowbrook offers value-minded groups a convenient location that is second to none: • Just off Route 66/I-55 and near several major thoroughfares. • Quick and easy access to downtown Chicago, McCormick Place, and Chicago’s museum campus and cultural district. • Minutes from Midway and convenient to O’Hare International Airport. • Close to a variety of meeting venues, major business hubs, world-class dining, shopping and entertainment. Look to Willowbrook’s four select service hotels for comfortable accommodations, generous amenities and exceptional service. LA QUINTA INN CHICAGO/WILLOWBROOK 855 W. 79th Street • Willowbrook, Illinois 60527 630.654.0077 • www.laquinta.com RED ROOF PLUS+ CHICAGO – WILLOWBROOK 7535 Kingery Hwy. • Willowbrook, Illinois 60527 630.323.8811 • www.redroof.com ECONO LODGE WILLOWBROOK 820 W. 79th Street • Willowbrook, Illinois 60527 630.789.6300 • www.econolodge.com WILLOWBROOK INN 7800 Kingery Hwy. • Willowbrook, Illinois 60527 630.325.6400
VISIT WILLOWBROOKHOTELS.COM FOR INFORMATION ABOUT ACCOMMODATIONS, DINING, EVENTS AND MORE.
12 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Get you
r kicks!
M E E T I N D U PAG E
| GETTING AROUND
GETTING AROUND WITHIN A DAY’S DRIVE OF OVER HALF OF THE NATION’S POPULATION, DUPAGE COUNTY IS SERVED BY EIGHT MAJOR EXPRESSWAYS. DuPage County is convenient to both O’Hare and Midway international airports, and DuPage Airport provides corporate, commuter and charter travel services to the heart of the I-88 technology and industrial corridor. A portion of the historic Route 66 also runs through DuPage County. Three Metra commuter rail lines provide direct access from DuPage communities to Chicago’s downtown business district, “The Loop,” just 20 miles away. National consumer rail service is available through Amtrak.
M I L E S TO D U PAG E CO U N T Y CHICAGO O’HARE AIRPORT
15 MILES
CHICAGO (DOWNTOWN)
20 MILES
CHICAGO MIDWAY AIRPORT
21 MILES
MILWAUKEE
87 MILES
INDIANAPOLIS
161 MILES
SPRINGFIELD
190 MILES
ST. LOUIS
289 MILES
COLUMBUS, OH
370 MILES
MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL
405 MILES
DuPage County is accessible via I-55, I-80, I-88, I-90, I-94, I-290, I-294 & I-355
SEE PAGE S-8 OF OUR SUPPLEMENTAL “FACILITIES AT A GLANCE” SECTION FOR A DETAILED MAP OF DUPAGE COUNTY.
800.232.0502
discoverdupage.com | 13
M E E T I N D U PAG E
| C O M M U N I T I E S O F D U PAG E
COMMUNITIES OF DUPAGE DuPage has Illinois’ second largest county population behind Chicago’s home of Cook County, which borders DuPage to the north and east. Together, the two counties account for over half of the state’s population. Major municipalities include Oak Brook, Naperville, Itasca, Lisle, Lombard, Wheaton and Downers Grove. The DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau is especially proud of our partnerships with the following communities.
DUPAGE COUNTY IS MADE UP OF 38 MUNICIPALITIES, 20 OF WHICH LIE ENTIRELY WITHIN THE COUNTY’S BORDERS. CITY OF ELMHURST
Elmhurst has one of the most vibrant downtown areas in the western suburbs, with great shopping, dining, entertainment and special events throughout the year. It also offers a unique grouping of museums within walking distance of its City Centre.
V I L L AG E O F A D D I S O N
Home to a fifth of all DuPage County manufacturing operations, Addison offers dining options for just about any appetite, the Marcus Addison Cinema multiplex, and Dave & Buster’s, an ideal venue for group entertainment. V I L L AG E O F G L E N E L LY N
This prosperous village offers a historic downtown and robust park district. The Village Links Golf Club hosts USGA and PGA Tour qualifying events. The College of DuPage is the largest single-campus community college outside of California. V I L L AG E O F I TA S C A
V I L L AG E O F B E N S E N V I L L E
Just ten minutes from O’Hare International Airport, Bensenville is a unique combination of affordability and high-quality amenities. Its park district features a golf club, waterpark, leisure center, 88-acre recreational complex and a professional ice arena formerly used as a training facility by the Chicago Blackhawks.
Taking pride in its strong sense of community, this pedestrian-friendly village features a new scenic Riverwalk and Nature Center. One of DuPage County’s finest full-service golf resorts, Eaglewood Resort & Spa, is located here.
V I L L AG E O F B O L I N G B R O O K
One of the fastest growing and most diverse communities in DuPage County, Bolingbrook is well-known for its aggressive efforts to promote industrial and commercial growth, such as the area surrounding The Promenade Bolingbrook, with its many stores and restaurants. V I L L AG E O F LO M B A R D
The “Lilac Village” cultivates a distinctive spirit and quality of life. It’s a shopping, dining and entertainment mecca with Yorktown Center and its historic Town Centre. Lilacia Park is a horticultural gem that attracts visitors from all over the world.
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| C O M M U N I T I E S O F D U PAG E
C I T Y O F WA R R E N V I L L E
This diverse community is nestled in the center of DuPage County’s nationally recognized research and development corridor. The city’s Cantera development is a “city within a city” with commerce, entertainment, shopping, dining and hotels. V I L L AG E O F W E S T M O N T
PHOTO CREDIT: OAKBROOK CENTER
V I L L AG E O F OA K B R O O K
Known for its upscale residential living and home to a number of international corporate giants like McDonald’s and Ace Hardware, Oak Brook is known to locals and visitors alike for upscale shopping, dining and entertainment at Oakbrook Center.
This friendly village is known as home to the late Chicago blues legend, Muddy Waters, and Ty Warner, industrialist and inventor of Beanie Babies. Their luxurious Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center includes an IACC-approved meeting facility.
V I L L AG E O F W I L LOW B R O O K C I T Y O F OA K B R O O K T E R R AC E
This thriving business community takes pride in its warm neighborhood feel. Its award-winning Drury Lane Theatre & Conference Center features Broadway-style live entertainment and dinner theatre, as well as ample meeting and special event space. V I L L AG E O F V I L L A PA R K
The original U.S. headquarters for Ovaltine, Villa Park offers a small town atmosphere and exceptional recreational facilities. The Odeum Sports & Expo Center, DuPage County’s largest sports and special events facility, is located here.
Off historic Route 66, Willowbrook is home to famous Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket. It is also a growing industrial and retail center with hotels, stores and shopping centers lining Route 83, the village’s main artery. DuPage County communities not profiled here include Aurora, Bartlett, Batavia, Bloomingdale, Burr Ridge, Carol Stream, Clarendon Hills, Darien, Downers Grove, Elk Grove Village, Glendale Heights, Hanover Park, Hinsdale, Lemont, Lisle, Naperville, Roselle, Schaumburg, St. Charles, Wayne, West Chicago, Wheaton, Winfield, Wood Dale and Woodridge.
REFER TO PAGE S-8 OF OUR SUPPLEMENTAL “FACILITIES AT A GLANCE” SECTION TO LOCATE THESE COMMUNITIES ON OUR DETAILED MAP OF DUPAGE COUNTY.
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A DV E RT I S E M E N T
ODEUM EXPO CENTER DUPAGE COUNTY’S LARGEST
The Odeum Expo Center, located in Chicago’s western suburbs, is DuPage County’s largest sports and exposition facility.
QUICK LOOK Meeting Rooms: 10
Seating Capacity: 5,200 Banquet Capacity: 2,000 Meeting Space: 130,000 sq. ft. Exhibit Space: 85,000 sq. ft.
CONTACT
Brad Walsh Brad@OdeumExpo.com (630) 941-9292 Fax (630) 832-9183 Odeum Expo Center 1033 N. Villa Avenue Villa Park IL 60181 www.OdeumExpo.com
Located just five miles southwest of O’Hare International Airport with easy access to all major expressways and surrounded by major hotels, restaurants and shopping malls, the Odeum is an ideal choice for your public and private events. With over 85,000 square feet of clear span exhibition space and parking for 2,000 cars, the Odeum can accommodate over 600 trade show booths, a general assembly for 5,200 people, three regulation-size indoor soccer fields, with space for numerous sporting events. Privately owned and operated and a right-to-work facility with a dedication to customer service, our facility and staff are uniquely qualified to provide in-house convention services such as decorating, security, medical, audiovisual, electric and general labor with considerable savings to our clients. Our exclusive concessionaire will cater to all your food and beverage needs, whether you desire an elaborate plated dinner in our 9,000 square foot banquet room or have a specific ethnic menu. Whether you are putting on a trade show, video conference, sporting event or concert, the Odeum Expo Center is the place where you can “Set the Date and Leave the Rest to Us!”
DUPAGE COUNTY’S LARGEST SPORTS & EXPO CENTER 5 miles Southwest of O’Hare Airport ▪ Access to All Major Tollways 15 Miles West of Chicago ▪ Full Service Food & Beverage Meeting/Banquet Rooms ▪ Accommodates 600+ Trade Show Booths Video Conferences ▪ Automotive Research & Training ▪ Corporate Events Boxing/Mixed Martial Arts ▪ Indoor Soccer, Football & Lacrosse
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AT YOUR SERVICE WHEN YOU COME TO DUPAGE COUNTY, YOU’LL FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED – FROM MULTI-MEDIA EQUIPMENT TO FOOD, FLOWERS AND MORE – TO CREATE A SUCCESSFUL EVENT. Our experienced team of professionals will help you connect with high-quality local service providers like the ones listed here, who you can count on to help pull all the details of your meeting or event together. A DV E R T I S I N G , M A R K E T I N G , GRAPHIC & WEB DESIGN
J Rudny, LLC P.O. Box 640 Batavia, IL 60510 630.605.2990 | www.jrudny.com K. Foundos Creative, Inc. 24430 W. Blvd. DeJohn Naperville, IL 60564 630.234.0078 | www.kfoundoscreativeinc.com C AT E R I N G
Chef by Request 5100 Academy Drive, Suite 200 Lisle, IL 60532 630.493.4300 | www.chefbyrequest.com
E CO N O M I C D E V E LO P M E N T
Downers Grove Visitors Bureau 5159 Mochel Drive Downers Grove, IL 60515 630.729.0380 | www.dgedc.com E V E N T & D E S T I N AT I O N M A N AG E M E N T
Plan Ahead Events - Oak Brook 18W140 Butterfield Road, Suite 1500 Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 630.613.7010 | www.planaheadevents.com/oakbrook F LO R I S T
Phillip’s Flowers & Gifts 524 N. Cass Avenue Westmont, IL 60559 630.719.5200 | www.phillipsflowers.com M E D I A / P U B L I C AT I O N S
Chicago Windy City Guide Magazine 2324 Oak Avenue Northbrook, IL 60062 847.715.4574 | www.windycityguide.com Daily Herald Business Ledger 4300 W. Commerce Court, Suite 100 Lisle, IL 60532 630.955.3593 | www.thebusinessledger.com Midwest Meetings 302 6th Street W, Suite A Brookings, SD 57006 800.288.8510 | www.midwestmeetings.com M U LT I - M E D I A
AVQuote.com 550 N. Commons Drive, Suite 101 Aurora, IL 60504 630.340.5034 | www.avquote.com
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MAYSLAKE
From corporate events to family affairs!
Peabody Estate
Meetings • Corporate Events • Picnics Exhibits • Theater • Music Mansion Tours
The historic Tavern and Meeting House offer unique rental space for:
• Birthdays, holidays and graduations • Corporate outings and meetings • Bridal and baby showers and rehearsal dinners
Century Memorial Chapel is an intimate setting for:
• Weddings and vow renewals • Baptisms, recitals and memorials
The Harvard Early Learning Playscape provides a fun and educational environment for: • Birthdays and playgroups
Discounted group tours are also available.
523 S. Webster St. Naperville, Illinois 630.420.6010 napersettlement.org
1717 W. 31st Street, Oak Brook (630) 206-9566 mayslakepeabody.com
U FN
is on our agenda
How about yours?
Restaurant & Entertainment Complex
BOOK YOUR EVENT TODAY
TEAM BUILDING
COMPANY EVENTS HOLIDAY PARTIES
SALES MEETINGS & KICKOFFS
ASSOCIATION DINNERS
1103 S. Main St. Lombard, IL 18 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
(630) 670-4876
BUFFETS & MORE!
enchanted.com
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| AT YO U R S E R V I C E
P H OTO G R A P H Y
S P E C I A L O CC A S I O N S E RV I C E S
Chicago Convention Photography Plainfield, IL 60585 630.428.4540 www.chicagoconventionphotography.com
Classic Party Rentals 9480 W. 55th Street McCook, IL 60525 708.485.8575 | www.classicpartyrentals.com
Élan Photography, Inc. 1944 University Lane Lisle, IL 60532 630.960.1400 | www.elanphotography.com
The Coffeecake Connection Company 1601 Atlantic Drive, Suite 133 West Chicago, IL 60185 630.449.7846 | www.coffeecakeconnection.com
PRINTING/MAILING/ P R O M OT I O N A L P R O D U C T S
TO U R S
AlphaGraphics Oakbrook Terrace 17W703 Butterfield Road, Suite A Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 630.261.1227 | www.us232.alphagraphics.com D & B Graphics, Inc. 1308 Sheffield Court Carol Stream, IL 60188 630.293.1606
Naperville Bites and Sites 200 E. 5th Avenue Naperville, IL 60563 630.347.6553 | www.napervillefoodtours.com T R A N S P O R TAT I O N
303 Taxi 5200 N. Otto Avenue Chicago, IL 60656 630.303.0303 | www.taxiwithus.com
ER2 Image Group 110 Ridge Avenue Bloomingdale, IL 60108 630.980.4567 | www.er2image.com
Aries Charter Transportation 931 W. 75th Street, Ste. 137 #258 Naperville, IL 60565 773.826.2000 | www.ariescharter.com
Graphics Plus, Inc. 1808 Ogden Avenue Lisle, IL 60532 630.968.9073 | www.graphicsplusinc.com
DuPage Flight Center 2700 International Drive, Suite 200 West Chicago, IL 60185 630.584.2211 | www.dupageairport.com
Proforma Innovative Marketing Products 7021 Plymouth Road Downers Grove, IL 60516 630.729.7020 www.proforma.com/innovativemarketing
Midwest Transit System 7800 College Drive, Suite 3NW Palos Heights, IL 60463 708.448.7822 | www.midwesttransitsystem.com
R E A L E S TAT E
Strobeck Real Estate, Inc. 915 Harger Road, Suite 100 Oak Brook, IL 60523 630.954.2400 | www.strobeckrealestate.com
The Trolley Car & Bus Company 226 Park Street Bensenville, IL 60106 630.350.RIDE | www.trolleycar.net West Suburban Travelers Limousine, Inc. 27W291 Geneva Road, Suite K Winfield, IL 60190 630.668.9600 | www.westsublimo.com Windy City Limousine Worldwide 9377 W. Grand Avenue, Suite 200 Franklin Park, IL 60131 847.916.9300 | www.windycitylimos.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DUPAGE COUNTY SERVICE PROVIDERS, VISIT THE PLANNERS>PROFESSIONAL SERVICES SECTION AT DISCOVERDUPAGE.COM.
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ADVERTISER INDEX PAGE #
PAGE #
BROOKFIELD ZOO/ CHICAGO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
8
LUCKY STRIKE ENTERTAINMENT – LOMBARD
DAVE & BUSTER’S
11
MARCUS ADDISON CINEMA
8
DITKA’S
11
MARRIOTT HOTELS OF DUPAGE COUNTY
6
DRURY LANE THEATRE & CONFERENCE CENTER
BC
EAGLEWOOD RESORT & SPA CITY OF ELMHURST
4 20
ENCHANTED CASTLE RESTAURANT & ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
18
HILTON LISLE/NAPERVILLE
4
K1 SPEED
8
KATHERINE LEGGE MEMORIAL LODGE LE MÉRIDIEN CHICAGO OAKBROOK CENTER
10 IFC
10
MAYSLAKE PEABODY ESTATE
18
NAPER SETTLEMENT – OUTDOOR HISTORY MUSEUM
18
OAKBROOK TERRACE HOTELS
IBC
ODEUM SPORTS & EXPO CENTER
16
PINSTRIPES
9
WESTIN CHICAGO NORTHWEST
6
WESTIN LOMBARD YORKTOWN CENTER
5
WHIRLYBALL
10
WILLOWBROOK HOTELS
12
www.elmhurstartmuseum.com
PICTURE YOUR EVENT IN
OCT
ELMHURST 12 14 IDEAL FOR EVENTS THAT GO BEYOND THE ORDINARY
www.elmhurst.org
www.wildermansion.org
20 | DUPAGE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Whether your next event is for 15 or 1,500 guests; is black tie, business friendly, or intimate and elegant, Elmhurst has IDEAL settings just for you. From conference centers and banquet facilities to award winning museums - go beyond the ordinary and impress your guests. Contact us at (630) 530-6018 to learn more about Elmhurst's Extraordinary Event Venues.
www.lizzadromuseum.org
OAKBROOK TERRACE
The City of Hospitality THE BEST PLACE IN ILLINOIS TO
meet, work and play!
• Home to seven hotels, all offering free parking and complimentary, pre-arranged shuttle service within a five-mile radius.
• Meeting space in all hotels and over 35,000 square feet of space at Drury Lane Theatre & Conference Center.
• Outstanding Broadway-style productions at the Drury Lane Theatre, the “hottest ticket in town.”
• Sumptuous dining at over 40 restaurants. • Premier shopping at nearby Oakbrook Center, with over 160 stores and restaurants.
• Bargain hunting at Chicago Premium Outlets and the new Fashion Outlets of Chicago.
• Just minutes from downtown Chicago, O’Hare PHOTO CREDIT: OAKBROOK CENTER
and Midway Airports, with easy access to interstate highways.
www.oakbrookterracehotels.com 800.232.0502
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I n d iana
WWW.MIDWESTMEETINGS.COM
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T
he hardest thing about a meeting in Indiana is deciding where to go. Across the state you’ll find cities both large and small offering diverse facilities, unique entertainment, and so much more.
Attendees will find modern meeting facilities and award-winning restaurants, wineries, and
brewpubs in the hip and welcoming community of Bloomington. Meet at the state-of-the-art Convention Center in the heart of the city or overlooking the grounds of the state’s largest and oldest winery. A downtown photography gallery or the interactive science museum offer space for a memorable event. After the meeting, they’ll enjoy endless entertainment options including museums, music, and art. Give attendees the opportunity to take in the serene breathtaking beauty of Northern Indiana Lakes Country with a meeting in Angola. Potawatomi Inn offers a lakefront setting with state-of-
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the-art conference space. Enhance your meeting with a group outing to the 400-acre Wild Winds
Indiana Dunes State Park,
Buffalo Preserve. Attendees will also enjoy a visit to northeast Indiana’s first winery or a round of
Chesterton
golf on one of the six beautiful courses in the area. Fort Wayne is a great fit for any group and is home to two premier, world-class event facilities, the Grand Wayne Convention Center and Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. Attendees are
Above: Downtown Indianapolis Below: Jennings Park, Vevay
sure to have fun in downtown Fort Wayne’s vibrant and upbeat atmosphere. With more than 40
photo credit:
bars and restaurants, an award-winning ballpark, and countless attractions and museums, there’s
www.switzcotourism.com
something for everyone. Choose from eight towns when you meet in Hamilton County. With more than 100,000 sq. ft. of combined meeting space throughout the county, you’re sure to find the perfect venue for your meeting. Attendees will want to extend their stay to take in all that Hamilton County has to offer, from live music and theater, to history and cultural trails, and locally owned restaurants. Choose Indiana for your next meeting or event. You won’t be disappointed.
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MEET IN GREENSBURG
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INDIANA
Bloomington/Monroe County Convention Center April Wason Sales Coordinator 302 S College Ave Bloomington, IN 47403 812.336.3681 www.bloomingtonconvention.com april@bloomingtonconvention.com
Area rooms: 615 rooms within 5 minutes of center Meeting space sq. ft.: 24,000 Meeting rooms: 10 Reception capacity: 500
T
he Bloomington/Monroe County Convention Center offers 24,000 square feet of meeting space with 10 spacious, private meeting rooms and banquet facilities. The layout is perfectly suited for anything from a small meeting to a large gathering with breakout
space. Our staff will coordinate the details of your event with our professional in-house catering and audio visual companies as well as other rental providers, ensuring the success of your event. Centered in the heart of Bloomington’s Historic Downtown District and the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District, we are only steps away from all that Downtown Bloomington has to offer. Within walking distance, downtown Bloomington is a mecca for gourmets, art aficionados and anyone looking to find an eclectic mix of small town charm with a big city feel. Home to Indiana University, Bloomington is nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana. Downtown’s historic courthouse square is a revitalized shopping, eating and meeting district with a vibrant night life. From bed-and-breakfasts to hotels/motels, accommodations are plentiful and suit any traveler’s mood or budget. Bloomington’s dining choices are second to none. Find many one of a kind and traditional items while shopping. See the rich arts and entertainment culture that Bloomington is known for, from unique art galleries to live shows. Hike the trails, spend the day boating on Lake Monroe or show your support at a sports game. Participate in Bloomington’s vibrant night life with plenty of activities and bars to choose from. Whatever it is you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Bloomington.
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MEET IN INDIANAPOLIS
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INDIANA
Northern Indiana Lakes Country Convenient Natural Choice for Meetings 430 N Wayne St, Ste 1B Angola, IN 46703 www.lakes101.org info@lakes101.org 800-LAKE-101 Fax: 260-665-5461
P
Northern Indiana Lakes Country is conveniently located at the intersection of I-69 and I-80/90.
Area hotel rooms: 650 Entertainment nearby: Pokagon State Park, Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve, Briali Vineyards and Winery, Satek Winery, The Outlet Shoppes at Fremont, six scenic golf courses Meeting facilities: Holiday Inn Express, Potawatomi Inn Resort and Conference Center, Ramada, Trine University, Glendarin Hills Golf Course
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otawatomi Inn celebrates creating memories to treasure for over 80 years with excellent service, attention to detail and outstanding food service. Within a three-hour drive of Indianapolis, Chicago, Cleveland and Detroit, the serene, breathtaking beauty of the area is a meeting natural. Potawatomi Inn is located on Lake James, Indiana’s third largest natural lake. We offer extraordinary and personal service for meetings up to 600 attendees. Northeast Indiana’s first winery and a 400-acre buffalo preserve make us the perfect winter meeting getaway. With meeting facilities located in close proximity to one another, much larger meetings can be accommodated. Special events can be arranged at one of our beautiful golf courses, including Glendarin Hills. Call us today to begin planning your next event.
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MEET IN FORT WAYNE
Fort Wayne Josie O’Donnell 927 S. Harrison St • Fort Wayne • IN • 46802 800-767-7752 • 260-424-3700 www.visitfortwayne.com • josie@visitfortwayne.com
Area hotel rooms: 5,000 Entertainment nearby: TinCaps baseball at downtown’s Parkview Field, Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo (one of the top ten in the nation!), Botanical Conservatory, Science Central, the Embassy Theatre, Fort Wayne Museum of Art, Arts United Center, and the largest public genealogy research center in America at the Allen County Public Library Meeting facilities: Grand Wayne Convention Center and Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
• Indiana’s second largest city - located in the heart of the Midwest • Featuring two premier world-class event facilities: - Grand Wayne Convention Center - one of the most advanced venues in the Midwest, with over 225,000 sq. ft. of versatile space and two attached hotels - Allen County War Memorial Coliseum and Expo Center - one of the region’s most popular venues for sports events, concerts or gatherings for up to 10,000 people • Call us today at 1-800-767-7752 or visit us online at www.VisitFortWayne.com!
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MEET IN FORT WAYNE
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MEET IN FORT WAYNE
Grand Wayne Convention Center Downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana The capacity, capability, comfort and creativity an event planner needs. Marcy McKinley, DoSM 120 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46802 www.grandwayne.com • mmckinley@grandwayne.com 260-426-4100 • Fax: 260-420-9080 225,000 square feet of versatile space Meeting space: 80,000 sq. ft. Meeting rooms: 18 Largest room: 50,000 sq. ft. Reception capacity: 7,000 Theatre max: 4,000 Banquet max: 3,100 Classroom max: 2,880 Golf course nearby: Yes
G
Grand Wayne Convention Center is an ideal destination facility located within one easy day’s drive of a third of the U.S. population and conveniently by air via Fort Wayne International Airport.
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rand Wayne Convention Center encompasses two city blocks of luxuriously appointed convention and meeting space within a sleek, contemporary style. The Center’s reputation for incomparable service and exceptional amenities is the primary reason that nearly 80% of the Center’s events are from repeat business. Planners can create and manage their events with the support of Grand Wayne’s on-site staff and in-house services: an attentive sales team; detailed event managers; amazing AV technicians; gourmet F&B services; professional room set-up; and award-winning hosts. Grand Wayne Convention Center is among the most congenial, affordable, and accessible facilities in the Midwest, providing event solutions with: • Experienced, reliable, knowledgeable staff • Full service event management • Fully-equipped, customizable, state-of-the-art AV • Free high density, high performance WiFi • Easy move-in and accessibility • Intuitive floor plans • 225,000 square feet of flexible space • Fully-carpeted convention, trade show and meeting spaces • Individual room climate control • Large public areas with natural, ambient light • Banquet seating for up to 3,100 guests • Two connected, full-service luxury hotels • Covered garage parking Grand Wayne’s exceptional AV capabilities are complete with automated remote lighting control, theatre-quality digital sound, wireless and hard-wiring options throughout, drop screens with remote operation, data and telecom options in every room, and thousands of power connections. Similarly, the Center’s catering features an in-house gourmet chef and professional staff operating from a 12,000 square foot kitchen and the capacity to serve up to 3,100 guests in a single setting — or multiple events simultaneously.
MIDWEST MEETINGS FALL 2015
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MEET IN FORT WAYNE
University of Saint Francis T
he University of Saint Francis offers facilities for rent in downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana. Boast-
Debra Bragg 2701 Spring Street Fort Wayne, IN 46808 260-399-7700, ext. 6100 usfpac.com dbragg@sf.edu
From large concert and theatrical performances to intimate cocktail
ing excellent acoustics and sight lines, the historic art-deco USF Robert Goldstine Performing Arts Center auditorium seats over 2,000. The single raked
receptions, USF offers the perfect
floor format, with no boxes or balcony, provides hand
facilities for your events in the heart
rails and a walking aisle mid-house and handicap ac-
of downtown Fort Wayne.
15,000 square foot ballroom can seat up to 400 at
cessible seating in front of the stage. The charming round tables. It’s one of the few Fort Wayne facilities that can accommodate large weddings and banquets
Facilities: USF Robert Goldstine Performing Arts Center -Auditorium -Ballroom -Horseshoe Lobby Women’s Club
comfortably and elegantly. Beautifully appointed, the 4,056 square foot horseshoe-shaped lobby wraps around the historic 2,000 seat auditorium. Perfect for a cocktail reception or other celebration involving 50 to 200 guests. For corporate meetings, seminars and receptions, the Women’s Club is available to accommodate up to 200 in a sophisticated, professional setting.
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