Northwest Meeting + Events Winter 2023

Your Basecamp To Adventure. Located on the southside of Idaho Falls, the Mountain America Center will be a game changing amenity for Eastern Idaho. Idaho Falls is the hub of Eastern Idaho. It is the largest metropolitan area between Salt Lake City and the

Your Basecamp To Adventure. Located on the southside of Idaho Falls, the Mountain America Center will be a game changing amenity for Eastern Idaho. Idaho Falls is the hub of Eastern Idaho. It is the largest metropolitan area between Salt Lake City and the

Canadian border and a major jumping off point for tourism in the Greater Yellowstone area. It is also a growing center of economic activity: since 2000, the population of the Idaho Falls area has grown a whopping thirty-one percent.

Canadian border and a major jumping off point for tourism in the Greater Yellowstone area. It is also a growing center of economic activity: since 2000, the population of the Idaho Falls area has grown a whopping thirty-one percent.

FACILITY •11,000sq,ft.banquetand conference space. • Flexibility tobesplitintofve separate meeting rooms. •Accommodatesessionsranging from 500 to 5000 people. • State-of-the-art HVAC system.

500 to 5000 people.

Feature //

A Bright Future for the Pacific Northwest

BY TERESA BERGEN

Meeting Notes

Take your next meeting from drab to fab with the help of these products, places, and inspiring ideas. 10 Meet + Eat Caterers create clever culinary delicacies perfect for your next gathering.

Industry

Update

Discover the latest industry updates through our Meetings + Events infographic and Pacific Northwest news. 22

Snapshots

The National Association for Catering and Events Tacoma Chapter took a trip down the rabbit hole. 24

People Profile

Jill Rutherford’s passion for Fernie, British Columbia, is reflected in her craft distillery.

Mountain Meetings

Soar above the clouds for your next meeting or event.

C-1

Casinos & Gaming

Combine business with pleasure at these worldclass venues.

PHOTO COURTESY MOUNT BACHELOR

Welcoming the Unknown

» I HAVE ALWAYS HAD THE TRAVEL BUG. It began with my family’s annual summer cross-country road trips and flights to new cities for soccer tournaments when I was younger. By the time I was in my 20s, I had been to about half of the states in the country. My first “big” trip was my study abroad semester in Florence, Italy. I was a bustling mix of eagerness, anxiety, and wariness of the unknown that lay ahead. But that’s the thrill of it all, right?

When I accepted a position with Greenspring Media’s Meetings + Events group as an associate editor in May, I was yet again stepping into uncharted territory. Sure, I had worked in editorial positions throughout college, but this was my first full-time job following graduation. A milestone. And I felt that eagerness again—that wary-but-excited feeling for what was to come.

As I curated the stories included in this issue of Northwest Meetings + Events, I regretted the fact that the Pacific Northwest is a region I’ve never been to. And again, that urge to venture to someplace new and unfamiliar returned. After hours of Google searching, poring over firsthand accounts of the region from locals I talked with, and reading anything else I could get my hands on, it occurred to me that writing about the Pacific Northwest simply wouldn’t suffice—I had to visit.

So, I booked a trip to Portland this past November. I spent five days in the City of Roses—along with a day on the coast at Cannon Beach—where I roamed the shops and eateries along Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, ate delicious cuisine at Tartuca, and basked in the autumnal beauty of the Portland Japanese Garden with Mount Hood in the distance.

If you also get that aching feeling to seek out the unknown, consider this Editor’s Note encouragement. And, if you are like me and new to all things Pacific Northwest, this issue has some excellent places for you to hold your next meeting or event. Curiosity drove my ideation, and my inbox is always open for your Pacific Northwest meetings and events news.

AMANDA CHRISTENSEN Associate Editor achristensen@greenspring.com

PHOTO: ASHLEY DREWIANKA

The place to meet in Seattle is growing.

Seattle Convention Center is adding more space to collaborate, innovate and celebrate in the heart of downtown Seattle. Learn more about hosting your event at Arch, our original building, or Summit, opening January 2023.

seattleconventioncenter.com

FUN-SIZED EVENTS

When thinking about events, consider a micro-approach to enhance and encourage interactions among attendees.

Condensed in size and scope, micro-events help foster meaningful relationships through their intimate, tightknit settings and frequency. In addition, planning micro-events can be cost-effective due to their smaller scale.

To better accommodate greater connections, swap out a once-a-year occasion for a collection of smaller, hyperfocused meetings throughout the year—breaking up what would normally be one large event into smaller affairs scattered on a monthly or quarterly basis. Another option would be to schedule regular minibonding events to keep the attendees engaged throughout the year.

One organization that has become an expert in this style is the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE). Meeting monthly, these networking get-togethers are a way for event-industry leaders to get involved, learn more, and feel inspired on a more regular basis.

Discover innovative ways to create the best immersive experience for your attendees with these three approaches.

Gaming is an immersive way to have fun, make lasting memories, and learn from one another. Consider activities such as an escape room, Topgolf, or a baking class where everyone can get involved, chat, and work together to accomplish something outside the office walls.

Themed events add more than just fun flair, they also make the occasion more marketable to potential attendees, clients, or sponsors. Showcase your creativity by fusing the theme into not only the decor, but also the menu, dress code, and overall message for the event. For ideas, consider a whimsical tea party lunch, a modern outdoor picnic, or a “Great Gatsby”-themed cocktail hour for a spirited event.

Workshops can provide a beneficial incentive for attendees. More specifically, they are a way for individuals to explore trends, apply new techniques, and interact with others with the same interests. These educational sessions can be broken down into a quarterly series to showcase different parts of a whole concept. In addition, they can provide a way for the guests to grow and learn together at the same pace, with the same effective resources.

COMPILED BY AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

Micro-events prove that bigger is not always better. BY AVA DIAZ

Immersive experiences such as Topgolf Swing Suites instill small groups with comfortable, fun vibes.

Whales, Wine, and Skiing Among the Pines

» WHILE WINTER MAY MEAN SOMETHING a little different for places across the country, in Oregon, it’s all about slowing down and enjoying all that the chilly temperatures have to offer. Depending on where in the state you choose to visit or host your next gathering, snow may be a rarity—but that doesn’t take away from the myriad activities available this season.

Whether you choose to stick with winter tradition and hit the ski slopes or slow down a bit and get cozy next to a fireplace with a flavorful glass of local wine, the Beaver State is nothing short of bountiful with winter cheer.

AS LONG AS YOU ARE LOOKING

As winter approaches and peak tourism season fades, Seaside offers a quieter side to Oregon. Situated on the north coast of the state about 90 miles from Portland, the quaint little town is best known for its summer fishing and “quintessential beach experience,” says Joshua Heineman, director of tourism marketing for the city of Seaside.

Transitioning from warm summers to the cooler fall and winter seasons often brings out a different sort of traveler to the town, Heineman notes, and you will more often see visitors roaming the stormy beaches looking for sand dollars or searching for whales.

“You just never know. As long as you are by the ocean and you are looking, you might see [a pod of whales],” says Heineman. This increased chance of spotting the sea creatures is due to their migration patterns as they move up and down the coast. Along with being home to farm-to-table restaurants, a rich history, and serene lodging for any season, Seaside might just offer something truly extraordinary—as long as you are looking.

HIT THE SLOPES

One of the largest ski areas in the country, Mount Bachelor Ski Resort offers 360-degree ski slopes around the large volcano after which the resort is named. Views of the nearly 2.5 million acres of surrounding forest will have visitors in awe of Mother Nature.

“The mountain can average 450 inches of snow per year,” says Reese Thedford, director of sales for the ski resort and Sun Country Trails. The resort’s dedicated events team works with visitors to arrange gatherings from intimate corporate meetings to large multiday festivals. While there is no convention center at the mountain, there are two base lodges with space for events.

Dining and catering are coordinated by the events team with meeting planners for gatherings of up to 200, and the resort is closely connected to the nearby city of Bend—where visitors can find hotels (there are no accommodations on the mountain), good eats, and other activities.

If planners wish to add winter-focused activities to their event itineraries, the resort offers myriad options alongside skiing, including dog-sledding and snowshoeing. “It’s a very playful place to ski and be active on the mountain; it’s a place [without boundaries]—you can go anywhere,” says Thedford.

PEACEFUL WINE COUNTRY

The Salem region of Oregon, encompassing Polk County, Marion County, and the capital city of Salem, is situated in the heart of the vast Willamette Valley. Downtown Salem offers a bustling, walkable downtown rich in history. The majority of meetings and events are held in the Salem Convention Center that has lodging available at the adjoining Grand Hotel.

“It’s a very approachable area,” says Kara Kuh, deputy marketing officer for Travel Salem. And “20 minutes outside of town, you have rolling hills and farmland and wineries, and some really accessible outdoor recreation like waterfall hikes.”

Boasting nearly 50 wineries nearby, visitors can explore the vineyards year-round. “A lot of them have fireplaces and cozy indoor setups because we are [in] a cooler climate that has a longer rainy season than other places,” says Kuh. While guests may need to bundle up a bit, these small- to medium-sized wineries offer a variety of personalized experiences, from tastings to ATV tours, and comfortable places to sit back and relax. –Amanda Christensen

Ski slopes at Mount Bachelor

SLOW DOWN IN ELLENSBURG

» ABOUT TWO HOURS SOUTHEAST of Seattle sits Ellensburg, a quaint city with a population of nearly 20,000—and Hotel Windrow is in the heart of the town. Originally built next to the historic Elks building on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Main Street, the 59-room hotel stands at four floors and offers guests a feeling of “chic-country elegance,” says Mark Anthony Breuninger, room and sales manager of the hotel.

The guest rooms include an assortment of coffee and tea, Wi-Fi, and a mini fridge, and the hotel is equipped with a fitness center, business center, and three event spaces of various sizes and capacities to supply planners with flexibility and versatility—and a touch of small-town pleasure.

The largest space, the Historic Elks Grand Ballroom, offers over 3,000 square feet of space and can seat up to 250 guests. Its grand bay windows reveal views of Main Street and of the shops and eateries lining the road. Two smaller rooms are

also available for use: the Yakima Room, with 1,000 square feet of space and seating for up to 70 guests; and the Boiler Room, a conference-style room for up to 16 with a large table made from repurposed wood and an exposed-brick wall shared by the Elks building.

While visitors have plenty of opportunities to slow down and explore the streetscape of downtown Ellensburg by foot, the town also provides outdoor lovers a chance to enjoy the crisp winter weather with nearby sledding, ice skating, holiday events, and more.

“It’s a great little town,” says Breuninger. “There’s a lot of people that come down from Seattle just to slow down.”

And when you get hungry, be sure to check out the local eateries and bars including Julep Kitchen & Bar, Frontier Tavern, and Cafe C5—all within walking distance of the hotel. –Amanda Christensen

hotelwindrow.com

POTATOES AND POTENTIAL

» PART TRACTOR MUSEUM and part six-story indoor-outdoor event space, Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP) in downtown Boise, Idaho, is a hub for creative team building. With 51 tractors and steam engines dating to 1885, JUMP’s unusual mix of art, potato farming history, and 13 light-filled event spaces, terraces, and gardens offers ample room for employees to explore their potential.

“It is an inspiring place to dream about what you are doing in the world, how you want to make [what you are doing] better,” says Karen White, JUMP’s events manager. “We are a place where people can come and think creatively about what they are passionate about.”

JUMP features an amphitheater, a 1/3-acre sculpture garden, a tool-filled workshop, a five-story spiral slide, and catering from Thomas Cuisine Management. For private events, JUMP works with nonprofits and businesses on team building, brainstorming, and other activities that benefit employees.

White adds, “We have a lot of people who come here because it is such a beautiful building to dream and to plan.” –Todd R. Berger

Ingenious Fare Affairs

Pacific Northwest caterers create outside-the-box delicacies.

BY NATALIE COMPAGNO

» FOOD BRINGS GROUPS TOGETHER

Culinary gatherings feed the body and soul, creating lasting memories for attendees. Catering offers unique flexibility for planners to get creative—and smart caterers understand that the way to event planners’ hearts is through their guests’ stomachs.

This season, group culinary events are all about innovative approaches to experiences. Creative catering calls for mixing activities with meals, providing learning moments, incorporating special elements into event design, and highlighting the bounty of the region—turning the simple act of cooking into a savory adventure.

EXPERIENTIAL CATERING

Alderbrook Resort & Spa, situated in Union, Washington, masterfully incorporates education, exploration, and their backyard—the scenic Hood Canal and its surrounding evergreen forest landscape—into their creative offerings. Many of their culinary delights were developed following demand from their customers. Using the grove to its advantage, the space became a stunning outdoor venue that inspired customers to want to immerse themselves in the environment through learning experiences and interactive classes.

Chef Sara Harvey at Alderbrook has been noting this trend for a while. “Guests are hungry for education and authentic experiences. They want to know that their organic dishes are truly made with organic ingredients, and who they are supporting with their dining dollars. When chefs support smaller farms, diners then feel a deeper connection to their food.”

Groups love the resort’s Union Market Canal Cookout right on the water, where they can watch fresh seafood being cooked in the open. Gathering Grove is a fairytale setting where guests can dine among the trees on sustainable native meat like rabbit and elk. Harvey’s artistic creations are prepared en scène, for the benefit of hungry, adoring groups. Oyster shucking classes, interactive foraging trail walks, sushi classes, cocktail mixing, and more turn culinary group offerings into memorable, video-worthy activities.

“The rise of the ‘experiential diner’ has had a surging effect in food and beverage,” explains Jennifer Rafuse, regional director of operations for Sodexo Live! “At the Vancouver Convention Centre, it’s about collaborating with our clients to create interactive, engaging action stations. For example, our culinary team has designed Neapolitan pizza stations where guests can watch as chefs make pizzas that are then baked and served fresh. We are also known for our ‘scratch’ kitchen and prepare all the pizza dough in-house using imported flour from Italy. Combined with San Marzano tomatoes and fior di latte cheese, our Neapolitan pizza station creates an authentic blend of flavor while providing attendees with a memorable event experience.”

“The rise of the ‘experiential diner’ has had a surging effect in food and beverage.”

JENNIFER RAFUSE, REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, SODEXO LIVE!

Lobster carbonara from Seattle’s General Harvest Restaurants

Boise Centre showcases Idaho’s bounty with a live action huckleberries jubilee station and Idaho potato gnocchi station. Delicious vanilla bean ice cream is flambéed with huckleberries and rum, while potato dumplings with alfredo and marinara sauce simmer and satisfy.

VIRTUAL CATERING

General Harvest Restaurants in Seattle caters at any of their six restaurant locations and at their event space. In addition to on-site interactive cooking classes, demos, and cocktail classes, the catering team can do virtual cooking classes. Chef Brian Clevenger leads these virtual soirees, answering questions and sharing culinary tales. When companies have a distributed workforce across the globe, this is a smart way to bring everyone together through tech and taste. Food boxes with ingredients are sent to everyone, or a list of ingredients can be provided for individuals to purchase on their own.

BEES PUT ON A BUZZ SHOW

Idaho’s Coeur D’Alene Resort is perched by its namesake lake with views of the mountains. It seems to fit in with its surroundings as much as the wildlife that inhabits the region. Many of the resort’s 25 event rooms and over 32,000 square feet of conference, exhibit, and meeting space feature stunning views of water and rocks. Flavors and traditions of the Pacific Northwest are an important part of the resort’s dining offerings.

The catering division at Coeur D’Alene Resort looks for new ways to partner with local food providers, bringing the terroir into guests’ experiences—the chefs enjoy finding interactive ways to present their catering menus. One sweet example at a recent event involved local apple orchard Athol Orchards. They constructed a honey wall, with the comb draped over and attached to a copper framework. The honey dripped into a glass jar from which guests could serve themselves, complementing the charcuterie grazing board and adding to the flavor profile of the locally sourced ingredients.

Live action cooking at Idaho’s Boise Centre;

Below: A gathering on the picturesque wooden bridge at Brasada Ranch

TIME FOR TEA

The Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle is known for its lavish atmosphere and decadent high tea. This season, Fairmont Olympic is infusing a tea theme into its group catering options. Planners can request Tea Noir, a glamorous gala in The Garden Room, or planners’ space of choice. In celebration of the Pacific Northwest’s tea culture and the Fairmont’s special blend of teas with partner Lot 35, Chef Eraj Jayawickreme designs a journey through sweets, savories, and tea. Tea mousse with spiced apple cake, tea-smoked duck breast, and cocktails with a twist of tea can be served while guests learn about tea rituals.

DINE DESIGN

Brasada Ranch wows upon arrival, with the majestic Three Sisters mountains dotting the skyline. The resort and ranch impress as well, setting the bar high for the catering team—who want their presentation to match the beauty of this environment. Champagne flutes adorn a living flora wall ripe for the plucking, reclaimed wood turns into thick s’mores sticks, and a long table is placed onto a wooden bridge with garlands winding down the center to create an ideal atmosphere.

“The wild sense of wonder at each unique venue offers a canvas to create and discover experiential catering and events, fostering a deep sense of connection,” explains Sara Miller, director of sales at Brasada Ranch. “At Brasada Ranch, great food is about relationships between the chefs, local farmers, and servers, who work together to deliver exceptional experiences [for] our guests. We celebrate all these relationships with the curated foods we prepare, among the panoramic setting of the high desert.”

Brasada’s current catering offerings include an Argentinian wood-fired dinner that pairs well with the surrounding countryside. They also customize grazing tables, offer educational whiskey tastings, and have an iron bartender challenge in their team-building portfolio.

WRAPPED IN A BOW

It’s a DIY holiday season at Four Seasons Seattle with experiential craft and foodie parties that can be customizable for year-round gatherings. A Wreath Making and Christmas Appetizer Class begins with designing a garland, then attendees can take notes as Chef Brian Doherty demonstrates how to make chic appetizers. Make Spirits Bright Holiday Cocktail Class shakes up fresh ingredients, a variety of spirits, and bites to please. Groups take home more than a satisfied palate.

Culinary adventure tents at Alderbrook Resort & Spa; Above: Thanksgiving fare at Four Seasons Seattle

PHOTOS: FOUR SEASONS SEATTLE; ALDERBROOK RESORT & SPA

WE ARE SPOKANE and we’re nooooooot what you expect

We are committed to the environment.

In 1974, the rst environmental themed World’s Fair was hosted right here in Spokane. The Garbage Goat (who actually eats trash) was created for this spectacular event and is still in use today, serving as a reminder of Spokane’s long standing commitment to reduce our environmental impact.

Today’s Spokanites have used this history as a foundation for what’s next: a place where warmth, pride and kindness collides with responsible environmental stewardship. Meeting in Spokane’s LEED Silver Certi ed riverfront Convention Center and connected hotels will put you at the center of it all. This includes being within walking distance to killer restaurants and venues, diverse nightlife and breathtaking nature. Everything you expect a city in the Northwest to have...plus meeting here comes with a reduced carbon footprint!

Learn more at VISITSPOKANE.COM/MEETINGS

BY TERESA BERGEN

PHOTOS: LAKE QUINAULT LODGE; OPPOSITE: AMATERRA

astra hotel

New hotels and other venues with meeting spaces, expanded conference centers, and team-building opportunities— from playing laser tag to relaxing in a 12-person rooftop hot tub—are all on the agenda for the new year. Many sites and developers have spent their pandemic downtime plotting out improved meeting spaces and experiences. Here are a few worth looking into for your 2023 events.

BIG SITES ON SEATTLE’S HORIZON

The Seattle Convention Center ’s massive new Summit building opens in January 2023. The expansion will double their capacity, adding 248,450 square feet of exhibit space, a 58,000-square-foot ballroom, and 62 meeting rooms. The project is going for LEED Gold certification with a long list of eco features, including reclaimed wood, plant-based ceiling tiles, and dehydration machines to reduce food waste and turn it into fertilizer.

The Olympic Peninsula will open the Field Arts & Events Hall in Port Angeles in 2023. The 41,000-square-foot waterfront facility with a 500-seat auditorium is within walking distance of the town’s top hotels. “In addition to creating new opportunities for year-round vibrancy and economic growth, the Field Hall campus will transform a vacant property in downtown Port Angeles into a campus full of arts, culture, sciences, and environmental stewardship,” says Nathan West, Port Angeles city manager and a Field Arts & Events Hall board member. “This transformational downtown development will make a long-term positive impact for generations to come.” fieldhallevents.org; seattleconventioncenter.com

FRESH ON THE SCENE

For food and wine enthusiasts, a meeting held at the new Amaterra Winery in Portland, Oregon, is a dream come true. Opened in January 2022, the 12-acre vineyard features a chef-driven restaurant and can accommodate 175 to 300 guests—and the outdoor event lawn offers gorgeous valley views.

Across the river from Portland in Vancouver, Washington, two new hotels are taking advantage of the city’s revitalized Columbia riverfront. The AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront , which opened in June 2022, has 11,500 square feet of meeting space and features striking floor-to-ceiling windows. Hotel Indigo, Vancouver’s first boutique hotel, has 8,551 square feet of adjustable meeting space and 138 guest rooms. Both hotels are a short walk from the Vancouver Convention Centre.

From left: Rainforest Renewal team building at Lake Quinault Lodge; Sip and unwind at Portland’s Amaterra Winery.

Seattle’s new Astra Hotel features 5,000 square feet of meeting space. In keeping with the high-tech reputation of the Astra’s neighborhood, an on-site expert is available for audiovisual needs. A gorgeous rooftop space can host private events and features in-house catering from a professional culinary staff.

Victoria, British Columbia, has some new draws for the meetings crowd— already a darling city home to tea shops and views of colorful gardens. Inspired by Japanese architecture, the Esquimalt Gorge Park Pavilion boasts 6,000 square feet of meeting space on two levels. The second-floor reception hall offers panoramic views of the Gorge Waterway. The Craigflower Community Centre is slated to open in 2023 with 10,000 square feet of event space, a performing arts hall, meeting rooms, and a catering kitchen. As a community center, the space will host an array of events and activities.

For meetings further north, the 146room Aloft Anchorage can accommodate up to 240 people in 3,000 square feet of event space—and its free airport shuttle is a plus for planners. amaterrawines.com; astrahotelseattle.com; craigflowercommunitycentre.com; marriott.com; vancouverwaterfronthotel.com

GET OUT AND GET CURIOUS

In 2023, meetings and events will begin extending beyond conventional places and into some unexpected venues. Issaquah, Washington, will host the Washington Festivals and Events Association in fall 2023 and hold breakout sessions in small businesses and meeting spaces in its historic downtown. “Too many times when we go to conferences we’re locked in a hotel for meetings, and we never get to experience the city that we’re in,” says Bruce Skinner, executive director of Washington Festivals and Events Association. “By

scheduling breakout sessions around town, people get out of the typical hotel meeting room and are able to enjoy the amenities of the host city.”

Participants might find themselves playing laser tag at the new Arena Sports Family Entertainment Center or planning strategy in the Pickering Barn , a venue that was once a part of Issaquah’s largest dairy farm.

Secure your small event by hosting it at the recently opened Museum of North Vancouver, which documents the history of regional indigenous populations. The coolest space is the Streetcar 153 Lobby, where guests can check out the immaculately restored—down to period advertisements—1912 electric streetcar that served North Vancouver until 1947.

For a more casual vibe, host an event at the new CRAFT Victoria Harbour on Vancouver Island. Guests will enjoy an all-season patio, waterfront views, games area, and an outdoor fireplace while they choose between 110 draft beers on tap. arenasports.net/mill-creek; craftbeermarket.ca; issaquahwa.gov; monova.ca

A LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA

Sometimes it’s the special touches that make a meeting memorable. The new Humbird boutique hotel, part of Idaho’s Schweitzer resort, will soon open a rooftop hot tub for 12 people. A full-service spa is also coming to Schweitzer soon.

In Seattle, new restaurant Lakeside South Lake Union offers waterfront private dining and events for groups up to 150, with a new 200-guest banquet facility coming in 2023. To make the evening legendary, pair your group’s dinner with a private charter on one of Waterways Cruises ’ luxurious yachts.

At Alyeska Resort, 40 miles south of Anchorage, guests can alternate between the hot and cold pools in Alaska’s only Nordic spa, while surrounded by the northernmost rainforest.

alyeskaresort.com; discoverslu.com; schweitzer.com; waterwayscruises.com

CRAFT Victoria Harbour has 110 draft beers on tap.

MAKE THE MOST OF WINTER’S SNOWY SCENE

In Wallace, Idaho, you can hold a conference at the Wallace Inn , then shuttle guests in the hotel’s 15-passenger van to Lookout Pass, where the skiable terrain will nearly double in size this winter.

The iconic Lake Quinault Lodge on the Olympic Peninsula has introduced Rainforest Renewal, which is a team-building activity in the lush rainforest surrounding the lodge. Or, attendees can participate in a guided snowshoe trek at nearby Hurricane Ridge

“Walking in nature helps to revitalize our guests,” says Chehale Alexander, an interpretive guide at Lake Quinault Lodge. “Instead of traditional spa treatments, a meditative walk within the dense rainforest or along trails among moss-draped maple trees allows our meeting planners and guests to detox in an environment that is disconnected from the modern world.”

As Pacific Northwesterners know, winter can be challenging. The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver, British Columbia provides remedy in its 2,000-capacity meeting space with light therapy. Light shows—including Canyon Lights—brightened the clouds in winter 2022 and Love Lights will shine in February 2023, showcasing stunning light arrangements among the trees.

Several meeting venues offer excellent guided programs. At Fairmont Chateau Whistler, the Whistler Experience guides lead attendees on local outings like snowshoeing, ice skating, or ski tours.

The Pacific Northwest has much on the horizon for 2023, and many properties encourage groups to take advantage of the snow-filled backdrops and frosty streetscapes for events that will go the extra mile. Whether it’s experiencing a brand-new venue or relaxing in a Nordic spa, attendees are sure to warm up and welcome the new year this winter.

capbridge.com; fairmont.com/whistler; nps.gov; olympicnationalparks.com; thewallaceinn.com

Alyeska Resort’s Nordic spa

WHAT’S IN YOUR WALLET?

The pandemic has enhanced our awareness of safety precautions for physical health and in organizational wellness. With digital wallets, consumers have a contactless way to pay for, or access, their event necessities. They also enhance the overall customer experience through efficient, direct transactions from consumer to vendor or vice versa.

SAFETY and FLEXIBILITY are PRIORITY GROWTH by

the NUMBERS

The attention to safety influences how of consumers worldwide choose to make their transactions.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Financial Assistants, such as Clerkie and SoFi , monitor how your money is spent. Users can use these smart aids to track bills, create effective financial strategies, and receive feedback on monetary goals.

Digital wallets are a way to compartmentalize a range of identification. From state IDs and passports to Social Security cards and medical records, users can create an all-in-one solution to ID management.

of users think that contactless payments using digital wallets are the safest bet for financial exchanges.

Super apps , like WeChat , provide users with access to financial resources beyond facilitating payments. Along with processing transactions, they offer other financial resources including tracking various accounts, loan offers, and investing.

Wearable IDs are most commonly in the form of a smartwatch and, more recently, key fobs. Brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung have created their own means of digitizing on-the-go personal data as a way for users to organize their financials beyond a leather wallet.

BACKGROUND IMAGE: ADOBE STOCK/NABUGU

Destination Vancouver Honored

» THE BRITISH COLUMBIA CHAPTER of the American Marketing Association (BCAMA) recognized Destination Vancouver as the 2022 “Marketer of the Year.” Awarded annually, the accolade applauds the organization for demonstrating strategic and integrated marketing excellence.

Announced on the BCAMA website, Destination Vancouver won this award for their impressive ability to not only boost Vancouver’s tourism economy, but also to collaborate with “partners and the community,” especially within the restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The American Marketing Association was founded in 1937 with the goal of developing and advancing the marketing field, as well as providing a resourceful community for marketing professionals. This is the 50th year the British Columbia Chapter has bestowed the “Marketer of the Year” award.

Destination Vancouver supports the tourism industry by marketing the city as a prime destination for both tourists and event planners, highlighting restaurants, places to stay, and activities—while keeping sustainability at the forefront of its operations.

Stated on Destination Vancouver’s website, their marketing strategy is simple: “powered by people.” “Focusing on people as a marketing strategy and as the theme actually won us the award,” says Candice Gibson, Destination Vancouver’s director of brand and marketing. “It’s our core consumer marketing campaign.”

Destination Vancouver was recognized at the annual Marketer of the Year Gala at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on Nov. 24. —Kate Linggi

bcama.com destinationvancouver.com

PHOTOS: BC CONTENT HUB; (OPPOSITE) BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY

The Vancouver shoreline at dusk

Grants for Events and Festivals

Last August, with help from the Washington State Department of Commerce, the Washington Festivals and Events Association, and ArtsWA, 284 recipients in 36 of the state’s 39 counties received $3.3 million in grant relief (from a $10.6 million award) from the U.S. Economic Development Administration to revive their festivals and events.

Highlighting legacy events—events operating for at least five years prior—this grant will provide the resources to maintain traditions that were temporarily paused from the effects of COVID-19.

“The vast majority of festivals and events, a little more than three quarters, occur in towns with fewer than 250,000 residents. Some of these activities have been around for 20, 30, even 100 years in Washington, and are something Washingtonians look forward to all year long,” says Robb Zerr, senior managing director of the Washington State Department of Commerce.

In addition to supporting the heritage of these local events, this funding will also increase business revenue, preserve the region’s diversity through art and history, create a plethora of activities for visitors, and offer a space for entertainers and artisans to showcase their craft in the community, says Bruce Skinner, executive director of the Washington Festival and Events Association. “Most of [the events and festivals] play a large role in preserving culture,” he adds.

Zerr notes that “[Events and festivals] provide a central gathering place that builds a sense of community. It creates a sense of place and belonging. People just don’t live in a community because it is convenient or affordable. They live there because of the character it has, the values it reflects, and the pride of its citizens. This is reflected in these small festivals and events.”

The recipients will receive anywhere from $178 to $35,000 based on various operational needs and losses documented over the last two years of the pandemic. It is encouraged that the funds go toward infrastructural updates such as security, staging, lighting, and temporary fencing, as well as staff and labor costs.

Any remaining funds from the endeavor will support the development of a tourism academy to train new generations of professionals and a disaster planning app to help businesses navigate future industry disruptions. –Ava Diaz commerce.wa.gov

NEW PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS PURSUING HOSPITALITY DEGREES

» SINCE THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC began, it is no secret that the meeting and events industry has required some creativity and adaptation. As economic circumstances shifted, so did response systems of institutions across the country. Boise State University is making the most of these changes with a new Resort Operations and Hospitality Management Program in partnership with Idaho’s hospitality industry.

Hospitality has always held a key position within Idaho’s economy, largely due to the state’s abundance of ski resorts—but throughout the pandemic, it experienced even more growth. Heading into 2022 as the third largest industry in the state, with an annual revenue close to $2 billion, it was time to create a space for hospitality within Idaho’s education system.

“During COVID-19, a lot of resorts and restaurants found that they did not have sufficient labor to help,” explains Kent Neupert, chair of the Department of Management at Boise State University. “We received a request from the industry to help. There was a need for an advanced training and job upskilling program to prepare students to enter these roles.”

Their solution was a 17-19 credit, online certificate program provided by the College of Business and Economics, designed to combine both educational and hands-on work in hospitality management. The program involves seven courses and can be completed in three academic semesters. The structure includes an orientation course, five business-focused courses, and a final internship for applied learning experience.

“The unique part is that students will [not only] be receiving business training, but also experiential hands-on learning through internships with industry partners,” says Karen Nicholas, a faculty member of the new program.

“If a student wants to work at a spa resort in Sun Valley in the spring and then spend summer in Boise working at a hotel, they can absolutely do that,” Neupert says.

The program offers flexibility with a student’s time, location, and finances. The state of Idaho has also promised tax benefits to any employers sponsoring the program. “With enough employers supporting the program, students could complete the certificate at a minimal cost,” notes Katherine Eriksen, senior program manager. –Emma Enebak

4

We’re All Mad Here

The National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) Tacoma Chapter took a trip down the rabbit hole for their monthly meeting at Farm Fare and Floral last August. In collaboration with the Simple Goodness Sisters, a company that creates natural, fromscratch cocktail (and mocktail) syrups sourced from their own farm, this Mad Hatter-themed Tea Party was a whimsical way to showcase local caterers, event planners, and business owners. About 40 NACE members mingled among free-range farm animals and enjoyed a variety of quirky drinks over an eclectic table-scape for a family-style dinner.

1. Colorful floral arrangements adorn this whimsical tablescape 2. Jon Robert Throne 3. Ashley Lasseigne 4. Guides dressed as hares lead guests 5. Turkeys and other farm animals freely roamed the grounds 6. Deviled eggs were among many decadent treats to eat 7. Emily Hudson

To have your meeting or event photos featured, contact achristensen@greenspring.com

PHOTOS: MIKE ABELLA

CENTRE’D AROUND YOU.

Make an impact with your next event at Boise Centre. Our versatile meeting and event spaces, modern amenities, and expert event planning team is at your service to ensure an unforgettable event experience. Located in the middle of the city’s energetic, walkable downtown Boise Centre is surrounded by local breweries, restaurants, shops, hotels and is minutes from outdoor adventures. boisecentre.com

• Convenient downtown location

• Numerous direct flights and seven minutes from the airport

• Surrounded by restaurants, breweries, and nightlife

• Over 1,300 hotel rooms within walking distance

• Outdoor activities close by including hiking, rafting, biking, and more

A Uniquely Fernie Experience

BY AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

Opening a craft distillery while acquiring an engineering degree was not part of the plan for Jill Rutherford.

Before opening Fernie Distillers, Rutherford spent much of her time traveling from Calgary, Alberta, to the little town of Fernie, British Columbia, to go skiing every weekend with her husband.

“It was our sort of weekend town. [When] we ended up settling down with kids and they went into ski programs, we decided that we needed a reason to make a permanent move to Fernie,” Rutherford says. The couple looked at what the town needed, assessed their skill sets, and collaborated with friends to conceptualize their next move.

“A friend of ours said, half joking, ‘Well, why don’t you open up a distillery?’” she notes. That was about six years ago, and the couple ran with it. Rutherford took an introductory course on opening your own distillery to see if she had enough interest to pursue the idea. She did.

While looking for potential properties to set up shop, Rutherford took to hands-on experiences with other distilleries in British Columbia to learn about the craft. About two years later, Fernie Distillers opened on July 1, 2018. “We never would have thought about it in a million years if our friend hadn’t [said something],” she says.

Offering small-town cozy ambiance, Fernie Distillers is home to a production facility where Rutherford distills and produces vodka, gin, and liqueurs. In addition, the venue features a tasting room where groups of up to 50 can enjoy the flavors of local Fernie and Canadian ingredients. If the tasting flight on their menu is chosen, half of the proceeds will go to local community groups—what Rutherford calls “Community Spirit.” Fernie Distillers also offers group tours that can be catered to various sizes, along with live music once or twice a month from local artists.

“We wanted [the business] to be a uniquely Fernie experience,” Rutherford says.

PHOTO: KYLE HAMILTON

PHOTO: VISIT JACKSON HOLE

ALASKA

The Coolest Chillouts

Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, Alaska, completed the first phase of the state’s only Nordic spa, offering three hot pools, three cold pools, a sauna, a wellness bistro, and massage services, all surrounded by the northernmost rainforest. alyeskaresort.com

Borealis Basecamp

Known for its glass-domed igloo accommodations and aurora-viewing opportunities, and located 25 miles from Fairbanks, Alaska, Borealis Basecamp is now open in both summer and winter. There are five new “cubes” with floor-to-ceiling windows for additional lodging. borealisbasecamp.net

Camp Denali

Now operating as a fly-in lodge through 2023, Camp Denali in Alaska’s Denali National Park & Preserve dates to 1952 and has 19 guest cabins and a main lodge. Camp Denali offers activities led by staff naturalists and schedules guest speakers. campdenali.com

ARIZONA

DESERT SUNSETS PRAIRIE-STYLE

Looking for something a little different to plug your group into? Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former winter home and laboratory of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It offers Sunsets and Sips the second and fourth Thursdays from October through May, and a Wellness Series on the first Saturday and the third Tuesday of every month, featuring activities like yoga, tai chi, meditation, and hiking. A wide variety of spaces is also available to rent. franklloydwright.org

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) ALYESKA RESORT / KRISTIAN IREY; BOREALIS BASECAMP / THE NOMADIC PEOPLE; JOCELYN PRIDE; JEN WILBUR PHOTOS

Nordic Spa, Alyeska Resort Camp Denali

Borealis Basecamp

Sunsets and Sips, Taliesen West

SO MANY WAYS TO MEET, ALL IN ONE MAGNIFICENT PLACE.

Only The Broadmoor offers so many distinct venues and experiences of all sizes and types. From impressive trade shows at Bartolin Hall to executive dinners. From grand reception halls to eclectic lakeside cocktails at sunset. From state-of-the-art meeting rooms to secluded brainstorming sessions at Cloud Camp 3,000 feet above the main campus. You’ll find all of it and more within our over 315,000 square feet of meeting space, connected by a thread of quality, service and meticulous attention to detail. Visit broadmoor.com and contact us today to explore the wonderful possibilities.

MONTANA

NEW VENUES IN KALISPELL

Flathead Field in Kalispell, Montana, is the new home for the city’s Pioneer Baseball League team, the Glacier Range Riders. Opened in June, the venue features 2,500 seats as well as 12 luxury suites and picnic party areas available for games and private events. gorangeriders.com

The 58,000-square-foot Wachholz College Center, completed in fall 2022 at Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell, has a 1,000-seat performance and lecture hall and a multipurpose activity complex. The complex features a fitness center, gymnasium, art gallery, recital hall, and outdoor amphitheater. All spaces are available for meetings and events. fvcc.edu

Elevated Spaces in Elevated Places

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole introduced the results of a major renovation. All suites, guest rooms, and public hallways were fully refreshed with subtle colors and earth elements such as woods and metals. The room and suite renovations include all new furniture, artwork, lighting, wall and floor coverings, private bars, and work areas. fourseasons.com/jacksonhole

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City added 700 guest rooms in Utah’s capital city upon opening in October. Located adjacent to the Salt Palace Convention Center downtown, the 25-story property features 60,000 square feet of meeting space, a broadcast lounge, and four distinct dining venues. hyatt.com

After undergoing a complete renovation, the 179-room Sierra Nevada Resort in Mammoth Lakes, California, relaunched in November. The property features more than 7,800 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space and 10 cabins, as well as 20 new four-bedroom villas that will debut this May. thesierranevadaresort.com

CALIFORNIA

Palisades Tahoe Introduces Base to Base Gondola

Operating for the second season under its new name, Palisades Tahoe is debuting its Base to Base Gondola that connects the two valleys of the resort next to the town of Olympic Valley, California . The launch makes Palisades Tahoe one of the largest ski resorts in North America with 6,000 skiable acres and a full spectrum of lifts, terrain, dining, and meeting venues. Traversing 2.4 miles, the ride takes 16 minutes. palisadestahoe.com

Flathead Field Wachholz College Center

MOUNTAINS

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) GLACIER RANGE RIDERS; DISCOVER KALISPELL; HYATT REGENCY SALT LAKE CITY; FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES JACKSON HOLE; BLAKE KESSLER; (OPPOSITE) TAOS SKI VALLEY

Sustainability at Taos Ski Valley

In tandem with becoming certified carbon neutral by Climate Impact Partners in August, Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico has several sustainability initiatives underway. For example, chairlifts and snowmaking equipment use solar power, the resort is electrifying its fleet of vehicles (including snowmobiles, cars, and a snowcat), a food composter diverts more than 90% of food waste, and single-use plastics have been eliminated. skitaos.com

From top: Taos Ski Valley staff learn about the new food composter; Electric vehicle charging stations outside the resort’s snowmaking headquarters

A Steinway Brought to You

» ESTABLISHED IN 2016 in Portland, Oregon, by classical pianist Hunter Noack, In a Landscape: Classical Music in the Wild replaces the traditional concert hall with America’s stunning vistas. A 9-foot Steinway grand piano is transported on a flatbed trailer to national parks, working ranches, farms, historical sites, and urban greenspaces for concerts by Noack that connect people with the surrounding scenery. The music is transmitted to concertgoers via wireless headphones to address the acoustical challenges of performing in the wild and allow participants to wander around. In a Landscape is available for corporate events. inalandscape.org

PHOTO: ARTHUR HITCHCOCK

Smith Rock, Oregon

ROOM TO INSPIRE

Welcome to Colorado Springs, where our wide-open spaces, 300 days of endless blue skies and stunning natural scenery serve as the backdrop to your meetings and events. Discover unique venues, first-tier amenities and an array of properties. From countless trails and open spaces to delicious local dining, Colorado Springs has everything you need to create a memorable experience for your attendees. Here, you’ll find room to inspire, innovate, connect and re-energize.

Learn more at VisitCOS.com/meet

Your Basecamp To Adventure.

Located on the southside of Idaho Falls, the Mountain America Center will be a game changing amenity for Eastern Idaho. Idaho Falls is the hub of Eastern Idaho. It is the largest metropolitan area between Salt Lake City and the

Canadian border and a major jumping off point for tourism in the Greater Yellowstone area. It is also a growing center of economic activity: since 2000, the population of the Idaho Falls area has grown a whopping thirty-one percent.

FACILITY

• 11,000 sq, ft. banquet and conference space.

• Flexibility to be split into fve separate meeting rooms.

• Accommodate sessions ranging from 500 to 5000 people.

• State-of-the-art HVAC system.

COMMUNITY

• Upwards of 2,800 hotel rooms.

• Family-friendly.

• Scenic River Walk and Falls.

Get Crafty

BY BETH BUEHLER

» WHEN WE sent out an inquiry looking for craft breweries located in the Mountain West that have meeting and event space, our curiosity cup was filled to the brim. Not only are these gathering places delivering creative brews, but they are also renovating historic buildings, occupying former theaters, operating scratch kitchens, and offering live music and events.

According to the Brewers Association in Boulder, Colorado, the top three states in the Mountain West with the highest number of craft breweries are: California (931—No. 1), Washington (437—No. 4), and Colorado (428—No. 5).

CALIFORNIA

Figueroa Mountain Brewing is named after the popular hiking peak that dominates the Santa Ynez Valley of California. On the brewery campus in Buellton (the company’s original taproom), a private mezzanine bar area, large outdoor patio, and stage are available for booking, and a private events concierge can help customize offerings to match clients’ needs. There is a full menu of gastropub fare and delicious beers. figmtnbrew.com

COLORADO

The Bakers’ Brewery in Silverthorne is a scratch kitchen for all menu items, including buns, pretzels, and breads for sandwiches. The semiprivate Brewers’ Corner seats up to 35 and looks down on the brewing operation, and in the summer larger groups can spill over onto the patio/biergarten. Bonuses for groups are live music two nights a week during busy times and three hotels across the street. thebakersbrewery.com

Located downtown in an 1892 stone building, Stronghouse Telluride Brew Pub has a variety of beers on tap and a menu full of comfort food and pub favorites. The entire space is available for event use and can hold up to 50 people seated at tables and 100 for buffet-style or passed appetizers. A covered, heated patio is also available, weather permitting. stronghousebrewpub.com

IDAHO

It is especially easy to toast the end of a day of meetings in Boise, which has two breweries that work well for groups. At

Western Collective Beer’s downtown location, Western Proper, the dining room, parlour, and patio can be rented individually or opt for a buyout of the entire facility. Not only is there great beer and a full bar and food menu, the parlour’s game lounge features mini bowling, Skee-Ball, mini basketball, air hockey, and more. westernproper.com

Lost Grove Brewing is just off the Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile treelined pathway. The patio features an outdoor bar and holds over 200 for large events, while a private room that can fit 40 is ideal for smaller gatherings.

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) WESTERN PROPE / JOSHUA MICHAEL JOHNSON; THE BAKERS’ BREWERY; STRONGHOUSE TELLURIDE BREW PUB; FIGUEROA MOUNTAIN BREWING; FRONTIER BREWING CO.

Tap into the cool vibe of local breweries for refreshing places to meet and celebrate.

Sharing Cinnamon Roll French Toast at Western Proper in Boise, Idaho

Tours are available with patio rentals, and there is plenty of craft beer and handmade pizza, salads, and appetizers to feed hungry appetites. Lost Grove is the first brewery in Idaho to receive B Corp Certification. lostgrovebrewing.com

MONTANA

A Kalispell staple since 2018, Bias Brewing has now moved into a larger space that can accommodate up to 35 guests. A variety of local beer is on tap, including Bias creations, and there is a full menu offered by the on-site Heck’s Kitchen. biasbrewing.com

NEW MEXICO

Rio Bravo Brewing in Albuquerque transformed the 1949 Firestone Co. building into a modern tap room with a large bar, game room, biergarten with a stage, patio, and a large brewing area with glass windows to watch brewers in action. Upstairs, the Barrel Room for meetings and events holds up to 80 seated, while the biergarten can host up to 400. Rio Bravo’s scratch kitchen prepares a full menu, 24 tap handles pour a wide range of beer styles, and craft root beer and cream soda are available. Brewery tours that include a

beer sample served at the end can also be booked. riobravobrewing.com

WYOMING

Frontier Brewing Co. recently moved into downtown Casper’s historic Fox Theater, which provides the venue with great programming opportunities and beyond-thenorm brewery gathering spaces. Groups can buy out the entire facility, rent the Frontier Arena that accommodates up to 87 guests, or book the large auditorium for up to 180. Enjoy small-batch craft beers, bring in your own food, or take advantage of catering options. frontierbrewingcompany.com

Clockwise from top left: The main bar at The Baker’s Brewery; Pouring a draft at Stronghouse Telluride Brew Pub; Figueroa Mountain Brewing in Buellton, California; The tap room at Frontier Brewing Co.

Classic THE CHARM OF Ski Towns

There is no formula for destinations like Sun Valley, Steamboat Springs, and Jackson Hole—simply put, no one can argue with the fact these are mountain classics.

hat defines a classic?

In the case of ski towns, it is typically an equation that begins with mining and ranching communities in the late 19th or early 20th centuries, historic downtowns, ski villages, and outstanding terrain for skiing, snowboarding, and all sorts of outdoor activities. Plus, they are a little hard to get to, which keeps out the masses, and are populated with locals dedicated to protecting their heritage.

Jackson Hole, WYOMING

SAMPLING OF:

Lodging

» Four Seasons

Residences

Ideas

Resort

and

Jackson Hole » Hotel Terra Jackson Hole » Lodge at Jackson Hole » Snow King Resort » Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa » Virginian Lodge » Wort Hotel

Attractions

» The Jackson Center for the Arts » Jackson Hole Mountain Resort » National Museum of Wildlife Art » Mill Island Ranch

» Snow King Mountain » Walk Festival Hall

It is important to know that Jackson Hole refers to not one town but the 42-mile-long valley between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges in northwestern Wyoming.

Jackson was incorporated in 1914 and is the largest town in Jackson Hole, while Teton Village is the area at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and is 12 miles from downtown Jackson.

Because the soil was not ideal for raising crops, homesteaders ranched rather than farmed, and tourism took hold in the area with the establishment of dude ranches. Later, skiing entered the mix when Snow King Mountain in downtown Jackson evolved from the town’s first official ski hill that followed a trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936.

Jackson Hole and the Greater Teton region also offer more than 100 Nordic skiing trails and 40 fat bike trails, all listed along with outfitters, trail conditions, and more at jhnordic.com.

Don’t miss walking under the elk antler arches on each corner of the town square and stopping by the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and Silver Dollar Saloon for music and dancing.

FROM A PLANNER

SMI Travel of Bradenton, Florida, has brought meeting and incentive groups to Jackson Hole since the 1980s. Guests stay in Jackson at hotels that exude the town’s personality and provide easy access to shopping, dining, and nightlife.

“For our smaller groups, we choose the historic Wort Hotel, located right on the town square and with nice meeting space options,” says Ashley Sellmer Nelson, national sales representative for SMI Travel. “For our larger groups, we choose the western elegance of the Rustic Inn. The individual cabins are just perfect for a group, and we like to buy out the Spa Suite building for our VIPs or executives.”

In the second scenario, the lodging at Rustic Inn is paired with the meeting and event space at the Wort.

Jackson Hole also scores big with attendees due to the activities, attractions, and ranching culture. “Not to be missed is the National Museum of Wildlife Art,” Nelson says. “If you are lucky, you might find one of the local photographers home and available for your event. Also, no trip is complete without a visit to the Mill Iron Ranch.”

In winter, SMI Travel groups snowmobile through Yellowstone National Park, ski, tube, dog-sled, and go on wildlife safaris. Summer favorites include whitewater rafting, all-terrain adventures, and fly-fishing.

jacksonhole.com

Left to right: Bird’s-eye view of Jackson; a powder day at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Steamboat Springs,

Legend has it that French fur trappers thought the spring along the Yampa River sounded like a steamboat, resulting in the name Steamboat Springs, founded in 1900. The town remained isolated until the arrival of the railroad in 1908. Ranching and western culture remain especially strong here, and the vibe has expanded to include a tourism infrastructure that also involves skiing, hot springs, and outdoor adventure.

Established in 1915, Howelsen Hill is Colorado’s oldest ski area in continuous use, while the larger Steamboat Resort officially opened in 1963. Both continue to evolve with Howelsen Hill introducing a snow-tubing area and lift this season, while Steamboat Resort is debuting the second phase of its $200 million multiyear transformation that includes Skeeter’s Ice Rink, The Range Food & Drink Hall, and a second gondola featuring a new beginner learning area.

For an additional adrenaline rush this winter, consider Bridgestone Winter Driving School and Steamboat Powdercats,

COLORADO

From a Planner

The Children’s Hospital of Colorado Burn Camps Program has hosted its five-night Winter Burn Camp in Steamboat Springs for more than 10 years. It’s a gathering of more than 30 young burn survivors, ages 13-18, from around the country.

“We continue to partner with The Steamboat Grand, year after year, for a myriad of reasons,” says Alec Rhodes, program director for Winter Burn Camp. “First, the location and access cannot be beat. The proximities to the mountain, rental shops, and ski school make it easy and efficient for a group to maximize the skiing and snowboarding experience. Second, and probably most important, the staff is incredible. Lastly, the meeting rooms are very functional for the size of our group.”

The group books two meeting rooms on the first level of the property—one for meals and the other for meetings—and five to seven condominium-style guest rooms.

“Steamboat is the perfect place for our group to gather. Our folks are coming from all corners of the country,” Rhodes says. “Steamboat provides a unique and memorable experience for everyone.”

one of Colorado’s oldest snowcat skiing operations. To get a taste of the West, attend the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo and stop by F.M. Light & Sons, a fifthgeneration western retailer.

Additional happenings on the what’s-new list is the opening of The Boat Yard food truck venue and The Commons food hall, and the expansion of the beverage scene with Routt Distillery and The Hop House.

A light-filled night at Steamboat Resort

PHOTO: STEAMBOAT RESORT

Ketchum/Sun

Valley, IDAHO

By the early 1880s, Ketchum was a booming mining town, famous for its healing hot springs. When the silver market collapsed in 1890, most of the town’s residents departed and sheep became the area’s leading industry. By 1918, the sheep population reached 2.65 million, making Ketchum second to Sydney, Australia, for sheep exports worldwide.

Two decades later, things began to change in a big way. Austrian Count Felix Schaffgotsch arrived in the valley in early 1936 after being hired by former Union Pacific chair Averell Harriman to scout the western United States. His mission? To find the best place to build a destination ski resort. Harriman purchased the 3,888-acre Brass Ranch near Ketchum, and in less than a year, Sun Valley Lodge was completed, and Union Pacific engineers invented the first chairlifts in the world for the resort. The town of Sun Valley was incorporated in 1947 and quickly became a hideaway for notable celebrities like author Ernest Hemingway, who is buried in neighboring Ketchum

Located less than 2 miles apart, Ketchum encompasses the historic mining town grid and is the primary town for the area, while Sun Valley is made up of the resort village, golf courses, and residential neighborhoods.

From a Planner

TMN Events provides both destination management company services and corporate event planning for regional, national, and international clients visiting Sun Valley and Ketchum.

“Sun Valley Resort has the best and most comprehensive meeting space in the valley, especially for large groups,” says Patrick Moloney, owner of TMN Events based in Boise. “Although Sun Valley is no longer a best-kept American destination secret, it is still one of the most unique and beautiful mountain destinations in the United States.”

The wide variety of available activities and culinary options provides a wealth of options for TMN Events’ groups.

“Obviously, alpine skiing in the winter is the main draw but there is also Nordic skiing, snowshoe excursions, and snowmobiling nearby. Summer activities include golf, fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain biking, local cruiser biking, local tours, and photography classes to name a few,” he says. “Off-site dining is also a draw with many excellent and diverse restaurants in the Ketchum and Sun Valley area.”

Shopping in Sun Valley

PHOTO: SUN VALLEY RESORT / IDARODO MEDIA PHOTO

2023

Casinos & Gaming

Across the United States, casinos furnish planners with one-stop shopping for their meeting and event needs.

PHOTO: ADOBE / STUDIO ROMANTIC

Casinos Do It All

By Todd R. Berger

At the beginning of 1978, casinos could only be found in Nevada—no other state had legal gaming. On May 26, 1978, Resorts Casino Hotel opened in Atlantic City, New Jersey, a year and a half after the state’s voters approved a referendum legalizing gambling in the city to bolster the economy in the area.

A year later, the Seminole Tribe opened the first Native American-owned casino in the United States, the Seminole Classic Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Florida. Initially a bingo hall, it soon expanded to include gaming machines and poker. During the 1980s, as Native American casinos spread, several state governments pursued court cases to try to shut them down. The tribes argued in court that their status as sovereign nations (per an 1831 U.S. Supreme Court decision classifying Native American tribes as “domestic dependent” nations) made them exempt from state laws against gambling. Finally, in

1987, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in California v. Cabazon Band of Mission Indians (480 U.S. 202 [1987]) that gambling on tribal lands did not fall under the legal jurisdiction of the states. The next year, Congress passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which allowed tribes to open casinos on tribal land in states that already permitted legalized gambling. By 1996, 25 states had legal casinos.

Around the same time period, the Mirage opened in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1989. This ground-breaking casino resort was the largest hotel in the world when it opened, commencing the era of casinos making money through nongambling activities, including, at The Mirage, shows featuring white tigers and the magic of Siegfried & Roy, a volcano, and an aquarium. The idea was to make customers feel like they already struck it rich with a Polynesian theme, ostentatious opulence, and free food. Built by Steve Wynn and today owned by Hard Rock International, the Mirage fundamentally changed the Las Vegas Strip.

Within a few years, more spectacular, themed resorts appeared up and down the Strip and nearby, including Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino, and Paris Las Vegas, both owned by Caesars Entertainment.

The latest style of casino resorts, the rise of Native American gaming, and the spread of gambling across the country ushered in a new era of casinos that provided the perfect setting for gatherings and conventions of all varieties.

Today, 44 states (all except Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Utah) have casino gaming resorts that cater to meetings and events. Almost anywhere in the United States you wish to meet, there is likely a casino resort that can fulfill—and exceed—all your event needs.

Agua Caliente Casinos

Cathedral City, Palm Springs, and Rancho Mirage, California

Founded: 2001 (Rancho Mirage), 2003 (Palm Springs), and 2020 (Cathedral City)

Size: 23,500 Capacity: 1,000 aguacalientecasinos.com

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Founded: 2003 Size: 49,000 square feet Capacity: 3,500 borgata.mgmresorts.com

Caesars Entertainment

Founded: 1937 Caesars Entertainment has more than 60 casino resorts in 17 states and 2 million square feet of meeting space across its destinations. Event spaces include the new CAESARS FORUM on the Las Vegas Strip, which has the two largest pillarless ballrooms in the world. caesars.com

Spotlight on Casino Resorts

ilani Ridge eld, Washington

Founded: 2017

Size: 30,000 square feet Capacity: 2,500 ilaniresort.com

e Mirage Las Vegas, Nevada

Founded: 1989 Size: 90,000 square feet Capacity: 8,650

Monarch Casino Resort Spa

Black Hawk, Colorado

Founded: 1997 Size: 5,000 square feet Capacity: 250 monarchblackhawk.com

MotorCity Casino Hotel

Detroit, Michigan

Founded: 1999 Size: 67,500 square feet Capacity: 10,000 motorcitycasino.com

Pechanga Resort Casino Temecula, California

Founded: 2002 Size: 274,500 square feet Capacity: 7,000 pechanga.com

Quechan Casino Resort Winterhaven, California

Founded: 1996 Size: 20,000 square feet Capacity: 2,300 playqcr.com

Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City, New Jersey

Founded: 1978 Size: 64,000 square feet Capacity: 1,350 resortsac.com

Seminole Classic Casino Hollywood Hollywood, Florida

Founded: 1979 Size: 120,000 square feet Capacity: 5,000 seminolehardrockhollywood.com

Sky Ute Casino Resort Ignacio, Colorado

Founded: 2008

Size: 19,000 Capacity: 2,000 skyutecasino.com

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Founded: 1998 Size: 70,000 square feet Capacity: 13,000 soaringeaglecasino.com

We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort Fort McDowell, Arizona

Founded: 2006 Size: 25,000 square feet Capacity: 2,000 wekopacasinoresort.com

Wildhorse Resort & Casino Pendleton, Oregon

Founded: 1995

Size: 11,000 square feet Capacity: 1,000 wildhorseresort.com

MOTORCITY CASINO HOTEL MONARCH CASINO RESORT SPA

PECHANGA RESORT CASINO

The Cash Cow

From slot machines and blackjack tables to horse races and bingo, there are a variety of ways to gamble. As a means of entertainment for some, casinos are an unconventional-yet-effective way to generate immense revenue, some of which is funneled back into society.

Of course, the success of a casino depends on gamblers’ confidence in their luck and their willingness to wager. Apparently, people are indeed increasingly confident in their abilities as, according to the American Gaming Association, gambling revenue has risen 21% since 2019, reaching a lofty record of $53 billion in 2022. Nearly $30 billion of that revenue came from 460 tribal casinos across 28 states. With so much money funneling into casinos, taxes on casino revenue are a primary financial resource supporting state and local programs.

By Ava Diaz

Gaming wasn’t always a catalyst for societal advancement. Following the 1929 stock market crash and the construction of Hoover Dam beginning in 1931, Nevada’s economy was in dire need of economic stimulation. Operating as a small railroad town, Las Vegas was soon gaining traction from the infiltration of construction workers moving to Boulder City, 25 miles down the road, to build the dam. Gambling trips to Las Vegas became routine for workers. With

MGM Resorts International’s New York-New York Hotel & Casino under construction in 1996 in Las Vegas, Nevada PHOTOS:

increased popularity and a sudden cash flow, Nevada’s government legalized gambling in 1931 to quickly generate funding to restabilize the state’s finances. Gambling was much later legalized in select states across the country.

To regulate the gambling cash flow, state and federal governments intervened in both commercial and tribal gaming. For tribal gaming, the U.S. Congress passed the Indian Gaming

Regulatory Act of 1988 to create a legal basis for the operation of casinos (in states that allowed gaming within their borders). The tax revenue from these establishments helped fuel steady employment, provide consistent cash flow for reservations, and create lively regional attractions. Some tribes with state compacts pay fees based on their revenue to state and local governments. As for commercial casinos, many states

implemented taxes based on gross revenue (after winner payouts) to maximize casino money rerouted into state coffers.

To combat a negative backlash over states’ revenue from gambling, 23 out of the 24 commercial gambling states designate a portion of their casino tax revenue to fund research and treatment for gambling addiction, according to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies in Washington, D.C. Many commercial gaming states also use some of their tax revenue to fund public programs and services, including education, economic development, infrastructure, and the fine arts (anywhere from 20% to 90% of state funding goes toward state art agencies in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, and West Virginia).

For tribes with state compacts, the breakdown of contributions awarded to the state varies based on need. The State of Arizona, for example, allocates 88% of its tribal gaming revenue to infrastructure improvement for schools, trauma and emergency care, wildlife conservation, and tourism. The remaining 12% is distributed to community service and public safety programs in cities and counties of the tribes’ choosing. Though the allocation of funds varies from state to state, the influx of money that filters through casinos provides states with a constant stream of revenue.

At casinos, there is fun to be had by all. Gambling, to some extent, can benefit individuals as a means of entertainment and the potential for winnings. Coming full circle, the money spent can work its way back into their lives through improved services and renovations of sites made possible by casino revenue.

Above: Hoover Dam under construction in 1936, before Lake Mead filled. Left: Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino on Fremont Street in 1950

The Green Future of Casinos Is Now

By Todd R. Berger

Thirty miles north of Las Vegas, Nevada, among the Joshua trees and greater roadrunners of the Mojave Desert, 323,000 solar panels covering the equivalent of 484 football fields glisten in the sun. This 100-megawatt solar array provides 90% of the electricity for 13 MGM Resorts International casinos and 36,000 hotel rooms in Las Vegas, including ARIA Resort & Casino, MGM Grand Las Vegas, and Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Away from the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip, the sunshine collected by these panels spotlight a sustainable future for casinos worldwide.

MGM Resorts International solar array outside Las Vegas, Nevada

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Many casino properties are making sustainability a priority. Caesars Entertainment repurposes and recycles just about everything at its casinos, including used soap, towels, and dice. Caesars’ hotels also conserve energy by turning off lights and air conditioning in unoccupied rooms. Visitors to Caesars Palace, Flamingo Las Vegas, and Paris Las Vegas who order a glass of Zinfandel are served a vintage directly from a keg rather than a bottle.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidelines on its website that focus on green initiatives for tribal casinos, and, certainly, many across the country embrace sustainability. Chumash Casino Resort, operated by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians in Santa Barbara County, California, has sharply cut electricity usage in its complexes. The tribe built new facilities in 2004 that included doublewalled insulation, a reflective rooftop, and a wastewater treatment plant that reclaims water; the improvements saved the tribe 18% in energy costs. Similarly, Michigan’s Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel implemented skylights to provide natural light and replace electric lighting as early as 2008, reducing energy use by a stunning 50%.

As MGM Resorts International did outside Las Vegas, many tribal casinos also turn to the sun for energy generation and to efficient lighting for energy conservation. In addition to being the first solar-powered casino in Southern California, Harrah’s Resort Southern California—operated by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians—has a wastewater treatment plant that generates reclaimed water for cleaning and irrigation, and a biodigester that turns food waste into water. At many casinos, tribal or not, much more efficient LED lights are largely replacing incandescent bulbs, not an insignificant trend given casinos’ tendency to use lights on everything from slot machines to video displays.

Some casinos take measures to improve life for other inhabitants of their region. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians in California— with casinos in Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and Cathedral City—partners with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to monitor endangered peninsular bighorn sheep through data collected from high-frequency collars. The Tulalip Tribes in Washington, which run two casinos north of Seattle, operate a salmon hatchery on tribal land that raises and releases 11.5 million juvenile salmon each year.

The tribes—including the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish, and other allied bands—also actively manage the habitat of the Salish Sea (including Puget Sound) to support several species of clams, shrimp, and Dungeness crabs.

The sustainability landscape for casinos has evolved dramatically in the last few decades. Many casinos now measure environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria alongside the financial bottom line. Often, casinos see setting ESG goals as essential to saving money and increasing profit. Those that do embrace sustainability will be able to thrive as society evolves toward a greener future.

Harrah’s Resort Southern California was the first casino in the southern part of the state to use solar power.

FIND THE PERFECT SETTING for your gathering at Agua Caliente Casinos. No ma er which of the three premier properties you choose—Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, or Cathedral City—your event is sure to exceed expectations.

Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage has a variety of venues for your next event, including a 13,000-square-foot conference center that’s perfect for larger groups and a scenic outdoor event lawn, complete with dramatic views of the San Jacinto Mountains. For a more intimate venue, book the private Wine Room at The Steakhouse. Awarded four stars by Forbes Travel Guide, the renowned restaurant o ers gourmet steaks and seafood alongside fine wines.

Agua Caliente Palm Springs, in the heart of downtown, is where luxury meets laid-back. The Cascade Lounge is a swanky venue complete with a stage, dance floor, central bar, and elegant booth seating. The Steakhouse is also available for booking premier group dining.

Agua Caliente Cathedral City is the newest property in Agua Caliente’s collection. The 12,000-square-foot Agave Caliente Terraza is an outdoor entertainment space nestled among stunning skies and picturesque mountain views. Hosting your next corporate or private event there guarantees a unique experience.

BORGATA HOTEL CASINO & SPA in Atlantic City, New Jersey, is a top-of-theline destination to host meetings and events—with an added flare of excitement for everyone who a ends.

As the premier casino resort on the East Coast, Borgata is just a one-to-twohour drive away from Philadelphia or New York City, and the amenities will wow a endees in a variety of ways. Multiple slot machines and table games can be found on the casino floor to appeal to any gamers. The fine-dining outlets spread across the property can be reserved for a team meal a er a day of meetings and are sure to delight everyone’s taste buds. With skilled chefs across the property, catering for an event has never been easier.

Whether something grand or intimate is needed, Borgata’s event planners help select the ideal location and layout for each event. Business meetings, conventions, and trade shows can all be planned in one of the 11 secluded event spaces away from the casino floor that accommodate groups from 10 to 700. Each space is equipped with the latest technology, which is customizable. Borgata is equipped to make executing an event feel like hi ing the jackpot.

With more than 50 first-class properties spread throughout 20 destinations and 120 sales executives across the country, Caesars Entertainment’s vast empire promises not only a wealth of convenient options, but a commitment to provide unparalleled family-style services. From ideating an event to packing up on the last day, Caesars Entertainment ensures an easy, streamlined level of service to top o its continuously evolving collection of cu ing-edge meeting spaces, unforge able resorts, decadent restaurants, and more. Over the past year, Caesars Entertainment has shown concrete proof of its dedication to providing the best of the best, with massive new additions to its Las Vegas properties and beyond.

Part of the company’s latest evolution, CAESARS FORUM utilized its 550,000 square feet of conference space to host the 2022 NFL Dra , welcoming thousands of ecstatic sports fans. For the high-profile event, the FORUM created an enormous stage and stretched its outdoor space to include the nearby LINQ Promenade parking lot, helping to accommodate the massive audience. Located centrally amid 8,500 hotel rooms at Harrah’s Las Vegas, The LINQ, and Flamingo, CAESARS FORUM provides the two largest pillar-less ballrooms in the world, featuring modern design and flexibility.

The mecca of celebrity chef dining, Paris Las Vegas, welcomed a veritable constellation of star-studded restaurants this year. Sushi

legend Nobu Matsuhisa opened a second Las Vegas location of his eponymous Nobu restaurant at the resort. Next door, Bobby Flay debuted his fast-casual concept, Bobby’s Burgers, bringing a decadent take on burgers, milkshakes, and fries for guests on the go. Vanderpump à Paris—part of reality television icon Lisa Vanderpump’s portfolio—brought with it visions of an old Parisian courtyard. At the tail end of the summer, Martha Stewart’s first-ever dining concept, The Bedford, opened its doors.

In addition to huge new meeting spaces and decadent eateries, Caesars Entertainment has not forgo en to update the backbone of any stay: the accommodations. Harrah’s Las Vegas’ rooms and casino floor have undergone extensive renovations. Meanwhile, Bally’s Las Vegas is undergoing a complete transformation, from its exterior to its rooms and casino floor—preparing to reintroduce itself as Horseshoe Las Vegas by the end of 2022.

FROM HOSTING CONFERENCES and intimate meetings to epic concerts and worldclass entertainers, the ilani in Ridgefield, Washington, has the state-of-the-art facilities and expert sta to make any event a success. With 30,000 square feet of multiuse venue space, endless entertainment options, and a Four Diamond hotel coming in 2023, the area’s premier gaming, dining, entertainment, and meeting destination will help bring your event to the next level.

Equipped to accommodate groups and conventions of various sizes, the resort’s Cowlitz Ballroom can host a crowd of 2,500 for a variety of events. For a more intimate meeting space, the 650-square-foot Cedar Boardroom is perfect for private occasions. The Meeting and Entertainment Center is sure to create a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.

The ilani is a unique gaming experience unlike any other in the Pacific Northwest, boasting a 100,000-square-foot gaming floor with nearly 3,000 slots and 75 gaming tables— something for everyone. With the casino nearby and pockets of entertainment throughout the resort, ilani provides a unique dining atmosphere—13 restaurant options encompassing fine dining, casual meals, bars, and quick bites for guests on the go.

Monarch Casino Resort Spa

MONARCH CASINO RESORT SPA in Black Hawk, Colorado, is a world-class destination that brings vibrancy to events of all varieties. The breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains with dramatic canyon views presents a unique experience for visitors. Monarch’s meticulous meeting planners are dedicated to flawless execution from the moment you arrive—whether hosting 3 or 250, the resort o ers easily configurable spaces, featuring state-of-theart amenities, scenic views, comfort, and elegance.

Twenty-three floors above Black Hawk, seek solace at Spa Monarch, a place of relaxation and rejuvenation in the form of unique treatment options and spaces—an escape from everyday life. Experience heart-pounding gaming action in the two-level casino area, featuring over 1,000 slot machines, 40 game tables, a live poker room, and the Sportsbook Lounge. The floor is always open, providing easy access to free-time activities.

Five on-site restaurants o er dining options to satisfy any pale e or occasion. For a contemporary atmosphere, enjoy modern Mexican Latin cuisine at Bistro Mariposa. For a luxurious, upscale dining experience, visit Monarch Chophouse. Twenty-Four 7 and The Bu et are perfect options for casual dining, while Java etc. is the place to grab a Starbucks co ee and a quick bite on the go.

Inspiring

FROM

CUTTING - EDGE PRESENTATIONS

to gala banquets, MotorCity Casino Hotel has the facilities to make the extraordinary happen for you. It’s the only place in Detroit that can o er sophisticated boardrooms, 67,500 square feet of flexible banquet and meeting space, and the state-of-the-art 1,500-seat Sound Board theater.

Guests at MotorCity enjoy luxury accommodations with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property, valet parking, and 24-hour fitness and business centers. Add a spa, great dining options, and live entertainment, and you have an incomparable place for meetings and events. MotorCity boasts award-winning meeting professionals, an acclaimed culinary sta , and a friendly and professional event team that will ensure that your meeting is flawlessly executed.

At MotorCity, you can work hard and play harder. When you step onto the awardwinning gaming floor, you’ll find 2,700 slot machines including the latest multi-line video and 5-reel slots, 59 table games, and a 12-table smoke-free Poker Room. Plus, the spacious, two-story FanDuel Sportsbook boasts eight be ing windows, 67 HDTVs, a sports ticker, 54 self-service IGT PlaySports be ing kiosks, multiple bars, and plenty of plush leather seating.

Don’t just meet—be moved by the high-powered hospitality of MotorCity Casino Hotel.

ESCAPE THE BORED ROOM.

B u s i n e s s m e e t i n g s a r e b u i l t d i f f e r e n t h e r e S p a , d i n i n g , m u s i c , a n d g a m i n g 4 0 0 p e r f e c t l y a p p o i n te d r o o m s a n d ove r 67, 5 0 0 f u l l y r e n ova te d s q u a r e f e e t o f d y n a m i c m e e t i n g s p a c e . I n n ova t i ve , e n te r t a i n i n g , a n d e x c i t i n g . L o u d , p r o u d , a n d l u x u r i o u s D o n’ t j u s t m e e t B e m ove d by t h e h i g h - p owe r e d h o s p i t a l i t y o f M o to r C i t y C a s i n o H o te l M o t o r C i t y C a s in o . c o m

M o t o r C i t y C a s i n o H o t e l a n d M o t o r C i t y C a s i n o H o t e l d e s i g n a r e t r a d e m a r k s o f D e t r o i t E n t e r t a i n m e n t , L . L . C . © 2 0 2 2 D e t r o i t E n t e r t a i n m e n t , L . L . C . A l l r i g h t s r e s e r v e d .

Pechanga Resort Casino

951-770-8551 | pechanga.com

PECHANGA RESORT CASINO is nestled in Temecula’s picturesque Southern California Wine Country, the perfect place to stay and play with 1,090 beautifully appointed guest rooms. Guests are treated to exceptional entertainment, dining, and golf amid 24 hours of gaming excitement. The immense 200,000-plus-square-foot casino features more than 5,400 slots and 130 gaming tables. Encompassing 40,000 square feet is Pechanga’s event center—capable of dividing into five sections for a variety of events.

A world of culinary delights awaits at Pechanga’s award-winning restaurants. Featuring a variety of international cuisines, from fine dining to quick bites for guests on the go, the resort houses eight restaurants and a full-featured food court.

Find relaxation at Spa Pechanga: a two-level, 25,000-square-foot spa featuring 17 treatment rooms, a private pool with cabana massage service, state-of-the-art fitness studio, two indoor hydrotherapy pools, and hair and nail salons. The Cove, Pechanga’s 4.5-acre pool complex, features three main pools including a swim-up bar, floating day beds, and more. The world-class, par-72 golf course, Journey at Pechanga, is ranked one of California’s best, winding through 300 feet of native canyons and ravines.

Meetings & Events On

Quechan Casino Resort

QUECHAN CASINO RESORT is an ideal destination in Winterhaven, California—and is host to casino game favorites, four restaurants, and world-class entertainment. The expansive casino floor is home to a variety of gaming, from trying your hand at blackjack to spinning reels at a slot machine. Quechan Resort Casino has an array of eateries, whether you are seeking a fine-dining experience or a casual sports bar. Close to gaming action and great service, Quechan is the perfect place for hosting meetings and events.

Conveniently located next to Yuma, Arizona, Pipa Event Center is just a quick trip away. The event center is one of the region’s largest venues for weddings, meetings, and special events.

It o ers a full-size stage and auditorium with seating for 2,300 and dedicated space for a dance floor. Boasting over 20,000 square feet of space—divisible into six stately rooms ranging from 2,415 to 3,174 square feet—the auditorium can be reconfigured for business meetings, team-building exercises, training seminars, trade shows, formal presentations, luncheons, dinners, banquets, weddings, and more. The expert sta of planners ensures flawless execution to make the most of all occasions.

SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT is the ultimate place to have a winning time and is home to Michigan’s largest gaming floor. Whether you love playing for triple sevens or pu ing on a mean poker face, all guests can win big with one of the largest collections of slot machines and table games in Michigan—something for everyone. Additionally, guests can continue their hot streak over at the bingo hall.

Ge ing hungry? Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort presents a variety of topnotch, award-winning dining options that will appeal to everyone. Whether seeking a thick, juicy steak at an upscale steakhouse or a casual all-American burger and milkshake, Soaring Eagle has the options to satisfy every pale e.

What’s dinner without a show? When it comes to entertainment, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort has been voted the Best Outdoor Concert Venue in Michigan, and has won countless awards for bringing in top-tier talent to the middle of the state.

YOUR GETAWAY. REIMAGINED.

Escape the world for a while and enjoy endless action and indulgence. Celebrate your winning moments. Taste the good life. Lounge around in plush accommodations. And do it all over again tomorrow. It’s all here at Michigan’s most exciting destination

We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort

SET AMONG the majestic beauty of the Sonoran Desert landscape, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort is the jewel of the Phoenix area, located just moments from Sco sdale and Fountain Hills, Arizona. The resort is a stunning state-of-the-art oasis and the latest chapter in the rich history of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. The casino features a spacious gaming floor with hundreds of slots; table games like blackjack, craps, and roule e; and the WKP Sportsbook powered by Betfred Sports. It’s all part of a spectacular resort getaway with numerous amenities and comforts.

Host to a number of eateries for any occasion, We-Ko-Pa showcases an incredible array of flavors from around the world.

A destination dining experience, Ember is the perfect stop for an upscale restaurant atmosphere. More casual options include WKP Sports Bar and Entertainment, Ahnala, and The Market.

The resort also serves those who love the outdoors. The We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is home to two award-winning courses, and Fort McDowell Adventures o ers guests the chance to tour the desert landscape on horseback, by kayak, or through guided Segway tours.

Business and pleasure come together in the stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Here, you’ll find 25,000 square feet of meeting space that’s flexible to suit gatherings large and small, as well as a 246-room hotel, unforgettable dining, and more. It’s all in the Valley’s finest AAA Four-Diamond Casino Resort.

WILDHORSE RESORT & CASINO sits 4 miles east of Pendleton among the wheat fields and Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon. The resort and casino has two 18-hole golf courses, nine restaurants, a five-screen cineplex, 24 bowling lanes, live music, and multiple indoor-outdoor event spaces with room for 12 to 720 people. It is owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, which includes the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples, and carries on a long tradition of games pertaining to skill and chance from the region’s tribal cultures. The 10-story Tower Hotel has rooms and suites featuring spectacular views of eastern Oregon’s high desert plateaus. Nearby, visitors can tour the world-famous Pendleton Woolen Mills; host events at the Hamley Steakhouse, Western Store, and Saddle Shop; and pick huckleberries or hunt for mushrooms in the Umatilla National Forest. The region also features the Pendleton Round-Up in September, which includes the town’s annual rodeo, as well as brewpubs, wineries, and multiple restaurants and shops along the city’s Main Street.

Sky Ute Casino Resort

UNIQUELY LOCATED amid the diverse Four Corners region of southwest Colorado, Sky Ute Casino Resort is the perfect hub from which to explore the area’s beautiful landscapes. The resort features Las Vegas-style gaming with a familyfriendly atmosphere and easy access to Rolling Thunder Lanes and Arcade and Chimney Rock Playground. Historic downtown Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, and Purgatory Ski Resort are also nearby. The resort features 140 culturally themed rooms and a 25-space RV park, along with on-site dining at Seven Rivers Steak, Seafood, and Spirits—the only authentic steakhouse in southwest Colorado.

PHOTOS: SKY UTE CASINO RESORT

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