DESTINATION ST. CHARLES
WHERE OLD MEETS NEW
ST. CHARLES OUTGREW “CHARMING” YEARS AGO. Today, “it’s a lively urban oasis where old meets new,” says Alyssa Feulner of the city’s historic landmarks, new buildings, lovely riverwalk and eclectic dining, shopping and entertainment scene. Even better are the many ways visitors can experience the city like a local, adds Feulner, who heads up marketing for the St. Charles Business Alliance, which is helping planners tap into the town’s unique vibe. As such, you’ll find groups touring the city’s five microbreweries, enjoying the Fox River, listening to live music in the plaza, and strolling through large-scale art installations in the park, among other must-dos.
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Just as plentiful are options for private dining, high-tech meetings and places to stay. And did we mention St. Charles is a 45-minute, hassle-free drive from O’Hare International Airport and has more than 1,000 free downtown parking spaces? MEET “Our facilities and venues come in all shapes and sizes,” says Michelle Cianferri, the
The Power of Two
Earlier this year, the Greater St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Downtown St. Charles Partnership merged to become the St. Charles Business Alliance. In addition to promoting the city as a meeting and leisure destination and organizing parades and festivals, the new organization will help connect planners and visitors with local activities and experiences.
Alliance’s tourism development manager, of the many meeting spots available to planners. Large groups are drawn to the all-inclusive
P H OTO S : S T U F OTO G P H OTO G R A P H Y; (O P P O S I T E ) M I C H A E L N OVO P H OTO G R A P H Y; P H E A S A N T R U N R E S O R T
Far more than ‘charming,’ St. Charles is a lively, urban river city with plenty to engage meeting attendees. B Y A N N E N A G R O
| FALL 2019
8/28/2019 9:42:48 AM
