SPRING SUMMER 2020 3 properties are breaking the mold for guest ranches MAKEOVERRANCH WARM UP MEETINGS Hot springs inspire productive and relaxing gatherings EVENTSELEVATED Lofty mountainsvenuesrooftopinthe
Group Contact - Eric Lund Ph. 970-586-0500 x 1231 VAILRESORTSMEETINGS.COM | 970.745.0055 EASY FOR YOU. EXTRAORDINARY FOR THEM. Seamless planning, exceptional service and inspiring activities only the mountains can offer. Your guests will make memories that last a lifetime, and you’ll wonder how it all came together so easily. FIND YOUR EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME AT VAIL RESORTS
Kathy SeniorReakDirector of Convention Sales 719.685.7632Kathy@VisitCOS.com ENVISION YOUR MEETING arrayscenery.ofmildmountainColoradoVisitCOS.com/meetingsSpringsisayear-roundmeetingdestinationboastingtemperatures,morethan300daysendlessblueskiesandstunningnaturalDiscoverfirst-tieramenities,anofpropertiesanduniquevenues. TOP 8 REASONS TO SPRINGSCOLORADOCHOOSE It’s Colorado Springs - Conventions that are anything but conventional. Complimentary services - From personalized site visits to attendee items, VCOS offers award-winning guidance. Climate - Mild year-round climate and sunshine create the perfect environment, even in off-season. Fantastic accommodations 14,500 city-wide rooms and 450,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Easy access - The convenient Colorado Springs Airport offers over 65 arrivals and departures daily. One-stop - VCOS is a single source for all your event planning needs during the planning process. Personalization - Enjoy hands-on service through each step of the selection and planning process. Support System - Enlist assistance for services, activities and other event details when the time is right. 0708060504030201We believe in keynote speakers that would rather spark an idea than follow an agenda. Attendees who seek a balance between PowerPoint and play. Conventions that are anything but conventional. We don’t believe in “planners.” We believe in visionaries.
6 Mountain Meetings | SPRING SUMMER 2020 SPA&RESORTRANCHTHUMBDEVIL’SPHOTO: 37 DEVIL’S THUMB RANCH RESORT & SPA contents ON the COVER The Lodge at Brush Creek PHOTO BY DAN HAM In Every Issue 8 EDITOR’S LETTER BY BETH BUEHLER 10 MEETING NOTES What’s new, fun ideas and the latest happenings in the Mountain West, all with the meetings and events industry in mind. 42 PEOPLE PROFILE Learn how to really taste water with sommelier Janet Abbott. BY BETH BUEHLER Departments 22 VENUE REPORT Six rooftop venues that will elevate events like never before. BY KASSIDY TARALA Features 28 FOR THE LOVE OF RANCHES Three couples have poured their passions and resources into properties that are changing the concept of ranch resorts. BY BETH BUEHLER 37 WARM UP MEETINGS Hot springs provide thoughtprovoking atmospheres and are ideal places for people to con nect in relaxed environments. BY BETH BUEHLER
855.696.5804 BROADMOOR.COM 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 our new Exhibit 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 fi nd 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. 1 LAKE AVENUE, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80906
editor’s LETTER Embrace
THINKING ABOUT PLANNING A MEETING OR EVENT IN THE WEST?
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Seriously consider hot springs and ranch resorts, as I can pretty much guarantee the decision will give attendees a true taste of the laid-back and healthy vibe of this part of the United States. It’s why I live here! There are great activities right out the meeting room and lodging doors, so no shuttling people to and fro. And in the case of the three Montana, Wyoming and Colorado ranches we’re spotlighting, there is food being grown and raised on-site, making farm-to-table the real deal. One ranch has even started brew ing and distilling and running a creamery. Mountain towns also score high in deliv ering stunning vistas and outdoor spaces. In this issue, we’re taking a look at roof top venues in Boise, Whitefish, Scottsdale, Steamboat Springs, Ouray and Banff. These elevated spaces are ideal places for a reception, meal or a brainstorming session. One of the parts of my job that I enjoy the most, in addition to visiting amazing places like these, is finding out about what’s new in the communities we cover and the meetings and events industry. While this kind of information is always woven into our feature stories, much of it is presented in the Meeting Notes section, so don’t miss turning to those pages. Feel free to submit your news and story ideas to me if the information is of interest to the meetings and events industry (we focus on corporate, nonprofit and association meet ings and events) and involves towns located in or on the fringe of the mountains in the U.S. Mountain West and western Canada. That’s our bread and butter, mountain meetings. As we head into spring and summer, I look forward to longer days, warmer temperatures, fields of wildflowers and evenings that are meant for lingering over flickering campfires and sitting on the patio sharing good conversation with friends, family and colleagues. Take the time to get outside! Beth beth.buehler@tigeroak.comBuehler the Mountains in
New Ways Brush Creek Ranch SPRING SUMMER 2020 mtn.meetingsmags.com EDITOR BETH BUEHLER MANAGING EDITOR MORGAN HALASKA SENIOR EDITOR MEGAN GOSCH CONTRIBUTING WRITER KASSIDY TARALA DESIGN DIRECTOR COURTNEY NIELSEN ART DIRECTORS TRACI ZELLMANN, TAYLOR KILGORE, OLIVIA CURTI PRODUCTION DIRECTOR DIANNE TALMAGE PROJECT COORDINATOR BRITTNI DYE CIRCULATION DIRECTOR JEREMY WIELAND SUBSCRIPTION MARKETING SPECIALIST JOSH JASKULKA SENIOR ACCOUNTANT LEANNE WARZEKA CREDIT MANAGER APRIL MCCAULEY ACCOUNTANT JASON LAWSON WEB ADVERTISING COORDINATOR ANGELA BEISSEL ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER BOB HADDAD • CA, CO, MT, NM, UT, WY BOB.HADDAD@TIGEROAK.COM REPRINTS For high-quality reprints of 500 or more, call 1.800.637.0334 or email reprints@tigeroak.com For address changes, ordering single copies, cancellations, or general questions about your subscription please contact customer service at 1.800.637.0334 or customerservice@tigeroak.comWriteto Mountain Meetings 900 S. Third St., Minneapolis, MN 55415 Mountain Meetings accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. TIGER OAK MEDIA FOUNDER & CEO R. CRAIG BEDNAR CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER SUSAN ISAY DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT JIM YOUNGER 900 South Third St, Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: 612.548.3180 Fax: 612.548.3181 Mountain Meetings is published twice a year © 2020 Tiger Oak Media. All rights reserved. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
Just ask the armless archer. The world record for longest accurate archery shot by anyone belongs to him. This museum is for Team USA athletes like Matt Stutzman who deserve to have their story shared with the world again and again. YOU DON’T NEED HANDS TO HOLD A WORLD RECORD. COLORADO SPRINGS, CO OPENING 2020 USOPM.ORG
The Ritz-Carlton, Paradise Valley over looking Camelback Mountain is expected to open this summer. The luxury 20-acre property has 215 guest rooms in the form of suites and detached casitas and bungalows. A few highlights include a lobby situated above the rest of the hotel and a water feature that cascades down through the property to a world-class, 16,000-square-foot spa. The hotel also has a pool spanning nearly 400 feet, various indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces, and a grand lawn with mountain views. ritzcarlton.com
PRINCESS UNVEILS GUEST ROOM & POOL UPGRADES
SALTROCK SOUTHWEST
WHAT’S NEW IN ARIZONA
SaltRock Southwest Kitchen at Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona has a new executive chef, Lindsey Dale. She has designed a completely new menu of Southwestern-inspired cuisine featuring light and seasonal dishes and integrat ing fresh ingredients from the Verde Valley. The restaurant’s outdoor patio offers guests unobstructed views of Cleopatra Rock and Snoopy Rock. amararesort.com
THE RITZ-CARLTON, PARADISE VALLEY
FAIRMONT SCOTTSDALE PRINCESS
ARIZONA KITCHEN
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Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Co. has purchased Float Balloon Tours, a Phoenix-based hot air balloon company. Rainbow Ryders’ fleet now features 33 hot air balloons, allowing the company to fly up to 150 passengers per day. rainbowryders.com
meeting NOTES
FAIRMONT SCOTTSDALE
The Block at Pima Center, located along the Loop 101 in the Talking Stick Entertainment District in Scottsdale, has completed the first phase of construc tion. Phase 1 consists of 14,000 square feet of shopping and dining space, which will grow an additional 46,000 square feet when fully completed. The Block is within walking distance to Talking Stick Resort, Salt River Fields baseball stadium, Odysea Aquarium and Topgolf. Two new Hilton Hotels, Tru and Home 2 Suites, also are scheduled to open within The Block.
Arizona’s largest and longest running AAA Five Diamond hotel, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, has wrapped up the renovation of 458 guest rooms and 20 suites that now feature tranquil desert décor with clean, modern lines and furnishings. The rest of the 750 rooms were renovated over the past few years to provide a fresh look and upgraded technology. The Princess Pool, the first of the six pools to open with the resort in 1987, also was trans formed and reopened in September. The pool deck was transformed into a single level, and there is now a water side eatery and communal bar and eight new cabanas that feature syn thetic turf, fans, refrigerators and flatscreen TVs. scottsdaleprincess.com
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For your Next Meeting, Try a Change in Altitude Are you ready to take your meeting from ordinary to extraordinary? Let The Westin Snowmass Resort Sales and Conference Services team design an event for your group that enhances their experience with breath-taking views of Snowmass Mountain from our ski-in, ski-out hotel. Team building opportunities are endless, no matter the season. From skiing, snowboarding, sledding to paintball, biking or activities in the Lost Forest, your group will leave your meeting with a renewed vigor! As an additional incentive mention this and receive Double Marriott BonVoy points for and meetings booked for 2020, 2021, 2022, or 2023. For more info contact the Resort Sales Office at 970 923 8270 or email sales@westinsnowmass.com westinsnowmass.com©2019MarriottInternational, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Westin and their logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates. For full terms and conditions, visit marriott.com/asemw.
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Sonoma County Vineyard Adventures are complimentary, self-guided vineyard walks at various wineries throughout this diverse wine region. Enjoy the only agritourism program of its kind and experience a vineyard up close and personal during any season. Learn about the history of the region, the influ ence of soil types and microclimates, various viticulture tech niques, and sustainable farming practices. sonomavineyardadventures.com
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Sonoma County Serves Up Sustainability
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California’s Sonoma County is dedicated to sustainability and rooted in the land that results in organic wine grapes, pro duce, artisan cheeses and meats and the bountiful Pacific Ocean that offers up freshly caught seafood. Sonoma County stretches from the Pacific Coast in the west to the Mayacamas Mountains in the east and is home to almost 60,000 acres of vineyards and more than 425 wineries. Within the borders are 18 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), and the region became the nation’s first 100 percent certified sustainable wine region in 2019. sonomawinegrape.org/sustainability
CALIFORNIA A New CaliforniaEmergesDestinationintheDesert
Experience the delights of western Sonoma County’s distinc tive handcrafted cheeses by following the California Cheese Trail. In Sonoma County, it winds through about 100 miles of canyons, pastures and oak-covered hills, linking close to 30 farms and creameries. Reserve full tours, cheese tastings and cheese-making classes, and then admire the goats, cows, sheep and water buffalo. cheesetrail.org
DEATH VALLEY
THE OASIS AT DEATH VALLEY
With the growing popularity of Death Valley National Park, a new destina tion marketing organization known as Destination: Death Valley Junction has been created. Ironically, Death Valley Junction, just east of the national park, has a population of fewer than four people but features both natural and man-made places to become immersed in the landscape, 19 bookable lodging properties and various tour options. Stargazing, photography, hiking, explor ing and wildflower viewing are among the most popular activities, and The Oasis at Death Valley, the region’s larg est resort, and the National Park Service have taken measures to greatly minimize area light pollution. Because of this, Death Valley National Park is designated as a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park, the highest level awarded by the International Dark Sky Association. destinationdvj.com
viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/snowmass/meetings_and_events 130 WOOD ROAD SNOWMASS VILLAGE COLORADO SALES DEPARTMENT 970 923 8024 DISTINCTIVE SPACES & LIMITLESS ADVENTURE Surrounded by the splendor of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Viceroy Snowmass offers more than 9,000 square feet of striking indoor and outdoor options for any size event or celebration—all wrapped in nature’s grandeur with year-round activities and unparalleled amenities. www.viceroysnowmass.com 130 WOOD ROAD SNOWMASS VILLAGE COLORADO SALES DEPARTMENT 970 923 8025 Distinctive Spaces & Limitless Adventure Surrounded by the splendor of the majestic Colorado Rockies, Viceroy Snowmass offers more than 9,000 square feet of striking indoor and outdoor options for any size event or celebration–all wrapped in nature’s grandeur with year-round activities and unparalleled amenities. www.viceroysnowmass.com 130 WOOD ROAD SNOWMASS VILLAGE COLORADO SALES DEPARTMENT 970 923 8034
Street Art & Craft Beer Tour by Vancouver Toonie Tours highlights some of the city’s artistic murals while groups make their way between local breweries in one of Vancouver’s hippest neighborhoods, Mount Pleasant. vancouvertoonietours.ca
CANADA
North Vancouver Craft Cycle Tour by Canadian Craft Tours has introduced beer bikes to metro Vancouver, following in the footsteps of cities like Nashville and Portland. On the tour, beer lovers will be pedaling to and from some of the best craft breweries in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale. canadiancrafttours.ca
RUSHTONSUZANNE
Executive Hotels and Resorts has launched Seaside, a new waterfront property located in The Shipyards District of Lower Lonsdale (Lolo), which is North Vancouver’s historic arts and dining neighborhood. The boutique property features 71 guest rooms and suites with views of the Pacific Ocean and North Shore mountains. The architecture firm ZGF worked in collab oration with Executive Hotels’ in-house design team to bring the spirit of the outside indoors, building upon the revival of Wallace Shipyards. This vibrant new 84,000-square-foot com mercial and community gathering space includes a winter ice skating rink and water plaza featuring markets, exhibitions, performances and festivals year-round. Seaside Provisions, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, blurs the lines between restaurant, bar and lounge. Guests may arrive by boat, kayak or paddleboard and tie up to dock and dine. Meanwhile, The Wallace, the hotel’s adjacent event space is the perfect location to host functions for up to 200 guests. VANCOUVER
Sunset & City Lights by Cycle City Vancouver is an evening excursion that shines a spotlight on the city’s twinkling lights, neon signs and stunning sunsets. cyclevancouver.com
seasidehotelvancouver.com; wallacevenue.com THE CYCLEJOSIECITY VANCOUVER SEASIDE HOTEL
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Hotel Buyouts Now Available at The Josie
The Josie, a boutique hotel located at the base of RED Mountain Resort and surrounded by the Kootenay Rockies, is now offer ing hotel takeovers. Located in Rossland, British Columbia, the property features 106 guest rooms and suites, regionally inspired catering and 2,670 square feet of multipurpose meeting space. Whether meeting in the grand ballroom, a private boardroom or on the outdoor terrace, meetings transition easily to hiking trails and other outdoor activities. The Velvet Restaurant and Lounge, outdoor fire pits, a fitness facility and ski concierge services are among the various on-site amenities. thejosie.com
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NEW SEASIDE HOTEL FOR VANCOUVER
New & Notable Vancouver Tours
A diverse array of new tours has been launched in Vancouver. Check out some fun options for groups that involve bikes, sun sets and always craft beer.
It all starts at BOISE.ORG/MEETINGS We know you’re just here on business. But while you’re here, you’re home. You’ll feel it while walking downtown’s clean streets, while floating the river, or taking the five minutes to get from the convention center to your bed for the night. It’s easy to belong in Boise.
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Big Sky Welcomes First Major Hotel
Wilson Hotel Big Sky Residence Inn opened in mid-2019 and is Big Sky’s first major hotel. With a name inspired by Wilson Peak, one of the most promi nent of the Spanish Peaks overlooking Big Sky, the hotel has 129 suites, 3,000 square feet of meeting space and a Town Center location just steps from shops, restaurants and nightlife. It’s also a complimentary shuttle ride away from the ski lifts at Big Sky Resort. In addition, there is a steakhouse-style American restaurant, fitness center, outdoor heat ed pool and whirlpool, game room and lobby bar showcasing local brews on tap and craft cocktails unique to the region.
The Wilson’s brick exterior takes inspi ration from historic architecture found throughout Montana, while its rusticmodern interior evokes a mountain setting and includes a central fire place. Owned by Lone Mountain Land Company and managed by Urgo Hotels & Resorts, the hotel is led by a team of veteran hospitality executives, includ ing General Manager Mandy Hotovy, Assistant General Manager Minsun Robillard and Director of Sales Dan Moller. marriott.com
Surrounded by picturesque mountain landscape and an abundance of world-class recreation, Steamboat Springs, Colorado has everything you need to make your next meeting unforgettable. Experience the renowned hospitality and flexible indoor and outdoor event space at The Steamboat Grand – Where nothing is more important than you! FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT STEAMBOATGRAND.COM/MEETINGS OR CALL 970-871-5553 HOST YOUR NEXT MEETING IN Grand Style
With more than $10 million in improved and updated event, conference and wedding facilities, Taos Ski Valley now offers nearly 50,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space.
Lake Fork Boardroom is a high-tech, 510-square-foot executive meeting space that overlooks Lake Fork River and can host up to 32Inattendees.addition, restaurants including Rhoda’s, Tenderfoot Katie’s, Looking Glass, Martini Tree and Bavarian have indoor and outdoor dining options and can accommodate groups of up to 200. Lodging is available at The Blake at Taos Ski Valley. skitaos.com
NEVADANEWMEXICO
Rio Hondo Learning Center is a colorful and dynamic space with eight different meeting areas ranging in size from 980 to more than 2,000 square feet. This facility is ideal for activities like business meetings, yoga retreats, creative workshops and student groups and can accommodate groups of up to 200.
Phoenix Lodge is a completely redesigned, 6,300-square-foot, midmountain wedding and event venue for up to 250 and features 360-degree mountain views in the Kachina Basin.
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New & Reimagined Event Spaces at Taos Ski Valley
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Meeting Space Renovation at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino in Incline Village has completed a $1 million renovation of two signature meeting and event venues. Lakeside Ballroom with panoramic views of North Lake Tahoe now features floorto-ceiling windows and large sliding doors that open directly to the Lakeside Patio. The ballroom also was outfitted with new carpet and paint, dark wood wall accents and a redesigned ceiling with warm-toned chandeliers. Water Gardens, a natural outdoor event venue filled with running streams and lush floral landscaping, was expanded to provide additional space for larger events and updated with new wood decking and a pergola for unique meetings and breakout sessions. The 422-room Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe has more than 50,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space. hyattregencylaketahoe.com
You’re always trying to take your meetings and conferences to the next level, right? So how does a Rocky Mountain playground with every imaginable amenity sound? In Snowmass, you’ll enjoy 80,000 square feet of flexible meeting space at rock star venues like the Viceroy, Westin, and Limelight. Pair that with endless outdoor activities and nonstop jet service, and you’ll have an event that’s as awe-inspiring as it is productive. explore venues allgosnowmass.comatothers.
meetingoutsideYoursidewantsavenuethat’sabove
UTAH RMC NAMED BEST OF STATE FOR DESTINATION MANAGEMENT
A Colorado-based destination management company with an office in Park City was named Utah’s Best of State 2019 winner for Destination Management in the Hospitality, Travel & Tourism category. RMC has grown and evolved throughout its 30-year history to deliver one-of-a-kind experiences in all types of destinations after getting its start creating exceptional events in the mountains. rmcdmc.com
Getting to Utah’s capital city will be even faster, easier and sleeker with the opening of the first phase of the new Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in September, the first new hub airport to be built in the United States in the 21st century. The $3.6 billion proj ect has two phases, with the South Concourse open ing in 2020 and the North Concourse set to launch in 2024. The expansive, light-filled terminal will offer dramatic views of the towering Wasatch Mountains, great food and cutting-edge retail, making the airport an extension of the overall Salt Lake and Utah experi ence. Plus, the new Utah Transit Authority TRAX sta tion at the South Concourse terminal will make it easy to travel into downtown Salt Lake. slcairport.com
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Salt Lake to Introduce New Airport in 2020
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A new four-story, 91-room Cambria hotel featuring locally inspired design is slated to open in Spokane in 2020. Just min utes from the downtown central busi ness district and Spokane International Airport, the hotel provides easy access to the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, local wineries and the Spokane Valley, which is the location of numerous outdoor activities along the Spokane River. Developed by Brar Hotels Group, LLC, the Cambria also will feature meet ing space, a state-of-the-art fitness cen ter and on-site dining. choicehotels.com/cambria West Vail PropertyRenovatedWelcomes&Rebranded
Highline, a 116-room modern mountain resort, opened its doors in west Vail just in time for the 2019/2020 ski season. An elevated cabin-in-the woods aesthetic flows throughout the property, from the A-frame communal lobby and restaurant to cozy guest rooms and spacious loft suites. The interior features weathered woods, slate and leather accents in a palette of soothing neutrals and region ally inspired art and fixtures. Highlights include 5,755 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space, a heated pool and hot tub, a fitness center and cour tesy shuttle service to Vail Mountain. The hotel’s restaurant, Pivot62, has shareable plates and pizza from a wood-fired oven on the menu, while innovative cocktails fuel après ski at the property’s lobby bar, Handcrafted. Don’t miss out on the warm cookies that greet guests upon arrival!
For more information, visit us at VisitVailValley.com, DiscoverVail.com or contact us at groups@visitvailvalley.com.
SPOKANE’S FIRST CAMBRIA HOTEL TO OPEN IN 2020
COLORADOWASHINGTON
Hosting a professional function in Vail brings new meaning to “the best view in the office,” with our unique offsite venues and extensive selection of charming alpine lodges, condominiums and convention hotels that can accommodate groups of 10-2,000. Enjoy over 350 shops and restaurants through our pedestrian villages with complimentary in-town transportation. With numerous direct flights to the Vail Valley, our central location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains is easily accessible from across the country
e Industry’s Most Powerful Resource Tool 150,000 Resource Listings One-Click RFP Expert Advice Weekly Local and National News City/Destination Profiles meetingsmags.com meetingsmags.com
Rose & Crown
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REPORT
SKYBARCASEY’SSTAFF; IDAHO Zee’s Rooftop; Boise With a mix of views of the capital city of Boise and the expansive foothills, Zee’s Rooftop is the perfect location for groups who don’t want to stray too far from home base but do want the luxuries of being sur rounded by mountains.
BY KASSIDY TARALA WHEN YOU’RE IN THE MOUNTAINS, it’s truly difficult to be bored. From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and climbing, the U.S. Mountain West and western Canada know how to keep things interesting when it comes to outdoor activities. But sometimes, the best way to enjoy the mountains is to sit back and take in the expan siveTakeviews.your meetings to the mountains without the heavy snow gear and winter boots by hosting your next event on a rooftop venue surrounded by breathtaking mountains. From Idaho and Montana to Colorado, Canada and beyond, these six rooftop venues will elevate your events like never before.
With 1,600 square feet of indoor and 1,800 square feet of outdoor space, Zee’s Rooftop can comfortably seat 70 and accommodate up to 270 for a reception.
ELEVATED EVENTS Host a sky-high meeting at one of these rooftop venues in the mountains.
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“Besides the view, we have a great inside/ outside concept with the ability to provide catering, bar services, floral design, coordi nation and rentals,” says Christopher Zahn, chef and owner. Zee’s Rooftop has a lot to boast about, including the fact that it’s the highest res taurant in Boise. Plus, its bar top is made from a single fir tree. Full buyouts of Zee’s Rooftop are avail venue
MTN.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 23 able for weddings, reunions and corpo rate dinners. Also an ideal location for charitable dinners and other nonprofit events, Zee Christopher (the parent com pany of Zee’s Rooftop) has won numerous awards in the last few years, including Boise Chamber Small Business of the Year and Idaho’s Brightest Stars Company of the Year for Philanthropy.
ARIZONA Hotel Valley Ho Sky Line Rooftop; Scottsdale With 3,500 square feet of space and a con venient location on top of Hotel Valley Ho, Sky Line Rooftop is ideal for groups visiting from out of town. The venue, which can accommodate 175 guests for a seated dinner or 250 guests for a reception, has fully customizable A/V and spectacular views of Old Town Scottsdale and iconic Camelback Mountain, combin ing the best of both city and desert. Perfectly positioned for allowing guests to soak in Arizona’s dramatic sunsets to the west, Sky Line Rooftop floats above the top floor of the hotel, which is the pent house level. The building was originally one story but was substructured to support a seven-story tower in the 1950s by architect Edward Varney. In 2008, his vision was completed when the addition of the tower and Sky Line Rooftop was completed. Sky Line Rooftop is a popular venue for one-of-a-kind events like wedding ceremonies, holiday parties, sunset yoga events, cigar dinners and fashion shows. Full buyouts of the hotel are also available.
MONTANA Casey’s SkyBar; Whitefish As the only outdoor rooftop venue available to rent for private events in Whitefish, Casey’s SkyBar is a unique small-town destination for groups meet ing in Montana. The rooftop venue can accommodate groups as large as 85-90, depending on guest requirements, and is configured with an audio system for music using Savant and Pandora. Plus, there are frequently live music performances during the summer months. “We open the SkyBar to the public June 15 through Sept. 15, but the first two weeks in June and the last two weeks in September are also available for private party rentals,” says Jayson Peters, general manager. Casey’s SkyBar is the solo rooftop loca tion in the entire Flathead Valley and offers one-of-a-kind views of Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort and Glacier National Park. The interior of Casey’s is unique, too, with Peters describing it as modern and classy with traditional brick architecture. Full buyouts are available, and the venue also offers a full catering menu for events that choose to occupy the entire venue. Some notable past events Casey’s SkyBar has hosted include socials for the Governor’s Cup and Special Operation Montana.
COLORADO Ouray Brewery; Ouray With a covered rooftop that can seat 120, Ouray Brewery is a great meeting spot for beer lovers and beyond. The expansive rooftop offers 360-degree views of several Zee’s Rooftop Casey’s SkyBar
REPORT
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breathtaking peaks. Plus, getting to Ouray Brewery is easy due to the fact that it’s within walking distance of many hotels, condos, and Airbnb and VRBO locations, making it convenient for groups visiting from out of town. In addition to its impressive rooftop, Ouray Brewery has three on-site bars and, according to owner Erin Eddy, some of the best burgers in the state of Colorado. In the main level bar, guests are invited to feel like kids again in the brewery’s chair swings. If you want to give your guests the option of warming up inside after enjoying the mountain views, Eddy says the entire facil ity is available for buyouts. “We have a very accommodating group of people working for us at the brewery and customers always rave about the great service we provide,” Eddy adds. Salt & Lime; Steamboat Springs Colorado has some great options when you’re craving Mexican food. But what makes a cheesy burrito and mango mar garita even tastier? Enjoying them on a roof venue Hotel Valley Ho Sky Line Rooftop Salt & Lime
Spirited Meetings 14 expertly-appointed venues afford you the perfect space for your needs. Host intimate meetings in a private dining room, deliver stunning presentations in a state-of-the-art theater with seating for 43, or hold more formal affairs in the scenic Upper and Lower Pavilions, with a capacity of 300. Signature Moments Treat your team with a host of unparalleled Corporate Breaks that create unique opportunities for networking and socializing. Enjoy a Whiskey Tasting Break, unwind with a Spa Wellness Break, have some fun with a Pub Trivia Game Night and more. Every meeting deserves memorable moments, and at Shore Lodge, our luxurious setting in the wilds of Western Idaho ensures the opportunities for key takeaways are plentiful. Especially once you break out of the boardroom. Book your next corporate meeting or event at Shore Lodge and strike the perfect balance between inspiration and aspiration. Call 208.630.0231 or visit ShoreLodge.com/meetings
ALBERTA, CANADA Rose & Crown; Banff After a busy day of team-building adventures in Banff, there’s no better way to unwind with a group than at Rose & Crown. The rooftop, which seats 90 guests and includes a full bar with barstools, is traditionally used as a first come, first served bar, though they do consider full patio bookings for a fee.
CROWN&ROSEOF:COURTESYPHOTO Get Connected CASEY’S SKYBAR Whitefish, caseyswhitefish.comMontana406.862.8150 HOTEL VALLEY HO SKY LINE ROOFTOP Scottsdale,hotelvalleyho.comArizona480.376.2600 OURAY BREWERY Ouray, ouraybrewery.comColorado970.325.7388 ROSE & CROWN Banff, Alberta, roseandcrown.caCanada403.762.2121 SALT & LIME Steamboat Springs,suckalime.comColorado970.871.6277 ZEE’S ROOFTOP Boise, zeechristopher.comIdaho208.381.0034 venue REPORT Rose & Crown Rose & Crown
26 Mountain Meetings | SPRING SUMMER 2020 in the mountains! Salt & Lime’s rooftop, which can accommo date up to 75 people, offers views on one side of Mount Werner, Howelsen Hill Ski Area and Hahn’s Peak, with glimpses of the “Sleeping Giant” on the other, making it truly surround ed by nature’s impressive beauty. Other than its incredible views, the restau rant is centrally located in the heart of down town Steamboat Springs, and the menu often rotates with the season and can easily accom modate groups. Among diners’ favorites are the housemade guacamole and the wide variety of tacos, says General Manager Mike Coy. Salt & Lime’s tequila is nothing to sneeze at either. Coy says the restaurant’s margarita was voted Best Margarita for Best of the Boat 2018 and 2019. Come summertime, he says, the rooftop is a popular spot for group events. “The rooftop adds the perfect amount of shade to cool you down with your handcrafted margarita,” Coy says. Because Salt & Lime operates as a restaurant, they often avoid offering full buyouts to groups as their specialty is being a full-service restau rant and open to all guests. “We typically will not close for buyouts during peak seasons, but we are open to con sider hosting events in the slow times during the spring and fall,” Coy says. “We are always open to providing catering for any events offsite, too. Even if it is just as hot ‘n ready meals to-go for your family after a long day of travel or skiing!”
Rose & Crown’s rooftop is open mid-May through early October, but the inside section is open year-round. The busiest tourism season is summer, but Banff experiences heavy confer ence traffic in spring and fall.
“We also feature a private games room and bar area we use regularly for large groups up to 100,” says Vern Iskauskas, operations manager/ partner. “It’s the perfect spot for a casual gettogether or cocktail party.”
In addition to its endless views of Bow Valley, Rose & Crown entertains guests with live music seven nights a week. Plus, groups can find fun team-bonding opportunities in the game room. Add a splash of views and patio time into a group mixer or perhaps consider hosting an open-air meeting at these or one of many amazing mountain rooftop venues.
INSPIRE. EXPLORE. CONNECT. YMCA of the Rockies’ two Colorado mountain locations offer cabins and lodges with meals, meeting space and activities ColoradoConferenceCenters.com800-777-9622included. 2020-MtMeetings-2.indd 1 1/22/20 4:47 PM
BY BETH BUEHLER THREE COUPLES HAVE POURED THEIR PASSIONS AND RESOURCES INTO THREE PROPERTIES THAT ARE CHANGING THE CONCEPT OF RANCH RESORTS. Cattle drive at Brush Creek Ranch
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There is no need to get fancy at these ranches unless you want to. Having an itinerary that oscillates between indoors and outdoors means it’s fairly laid-back all day long, including evenings. It’s a casual and welcoming vibe, especially for groups that often have to dress up for meetings in the office or city. “You can go to Brush Creek Ranch with a pair of jeans, and they will outfit you [for activities]. You don’t need fancy gear to participate; it’s one-stop shop ping,” confirms Amy Laing, owner of Hawthorne Meetings & Incentives based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
ERASE ANY VISION YOU MIGHT HAVE OF A DUDE RANCH, especially the “City Slicker” version. For the purposes of this story, let’s use the name ranch resort and picture a big dose of vision and thousands of acres for both herds and people to roam. It’s a fairly different option, but one with similar friendliness and the Western spirit of a dude ranch. We’ll use three year-round guest ranch resorts as examples: The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana; Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Tabernash, Colorado; and Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming. All three were established by husband-and-wife duos that have brought a love for the land, hands-on involvement and a willingness to invest mightily to make their properties distinct and high quality. Visiting all three ranches over the past year resulted in concluding that six attributes make ranch resorts great options for groups.
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Fly-fishing at Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa Great Angus Hall at The Resort at Paws Up
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On the 6,000 acres at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, there are miles of Nordic skiing, snowshoe ing, biking, hiking and horseback trails. Here, the lodging is in the form of 87 guest rooms in two tasteful lodges and 15 ridgetop cabins that range in size from one to four bedrooms. Two sister properties, Vasquez Creek Inn and Trailhead Inn in Winter Park, were purchased and fully renovated a few years ago to accommodate overflow and provide alternative price points for groups and leisure travelers. Brush Creek Ranch has 30,000 acres for playing, staying and meeting, providing an ideal location for the customer events that Laing has coordinated for clients annually over the past six years. She has watched the ranch grow from just the main lodge to all sorts of venues and activities. “Attendees will do something they haven’t done before at Brush Creek Ranch,” she says. “We hosted a group of Koreans this past September, and when they walked in didn’t really smile or do much. When leaving, they were hiking, smiling and asking to come back next year!”
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SPACE TO ROAM
A taste of the West at The Resort at Paws Up
A corporate incentive group in the technology industry hosted a team retreat last fall at Paws Up. The group enjoyed an array of activities together, with the favorite being a cattle drive, notes Laura Crugnale, director of group sales for the property. “The events manager said, ‘We were able to disappear from the chaos of city life for a few days and be reminded of how beautiful our country is.’”
Most of the venues on the property were utilized for team gatherings, and the last evening featured fireworks and s’mores by the fire pit once dinner concluded at Pomp, one of the onsite restaurants. Another evening, a local band (The Timber Rattlers) performed while the group dined at Great Angus Hall located in The Bull Barn.
Lots of land surrounded by mountains means plenty of privacy, amazing vistas and options to try something new. It’s also awe-inspiring to see cattle, bison and horses grazing in huge pastures. The 37,000 acres at Paws Up ensure that activities like horseback trail rides and RZR Experiences don’t cross paths except during check in at the Wilderness Outpost. A nice bonus is that each of Paws Up’s 26 homes comes with a car, so there is no excuse for being late for an activity, meeting or meal.
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A place to relax at the Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek
Ranch Visionaries
Dave and Nadine Lipson purchased the ranch that became The Resort at Paws Up in 1997 and expanded their land holdings and leases to 37,000 acres. Major improvements to the land and structures began in 1998, including large-scale renovations of the Main House, Diesel House (the original Bunkhouse), Morris House, Bull Barn, Little Barn and sev eral other residences. The largest buildings added are two 7,000-square-foot structures: The Cook Shack and The Saddle Club. After immediately starting and successfully running a Black Angus seed stock operation, the deci sion was made in 2003 to focus on running a commercial cattle operation and opening a first-class luxury resort. Dave passed away in November 2019.
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Bob and Suzanne Fanch bought Diamond Bar T Ranch, encompassing approximately 3,000 acres, in 1999 and acquired the adja cent Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in 2001, which brought the total acreage to around 4,000. The land was once occupied by a dairy farm and Yager’s Devil’s Thumb Ranch, a working and guest ranch until 1972 before transitioning into a cross-country ski area. Since then, they have acquired an addi tional 2,500 surrounding acres to bring the total to 6,500. The couple didn’t want to see the land developed into a master-planned residential and golf course community and have invested substantial capital and hard work to improve the grounds, build new struc tures and take on additional properties in the nearby town of Winter Park.
Bruce and Beth White acquired Brush Creek Ranch in 2008. Mostly retired, Bruce contin ues to serve as chairman and CEO of White Lodging, a company that operates premiumbrand hotels across the country. What started out as a private ranch for the Whites to savor during retirement became too special not to share so the family built The Lodge & Spa, has acquired additional historic ranchlands (add ing the Magee Homestead property in 2010 and French Creek Sportsmen’s Club in 2016), and in 2019 launched The Farm at Brush Creek Ranch and acquired Green Mountain to offer winter activities.
Creekside Dinner Camp at Brush Creek Ranch
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LARGE MENUS OF ACTIVITIES
Offering a broad selection of rec reation options year-round helps planners create ranch itineraries that fit their groups’ tastes and budgets. Definitely plan on spend ing time outside, but all three have nice spas for treating attend ees to a big dose of relaxation and other fun indoor offerings. At Devil’s Thumb there are 35 miles of trails for hiking and moun tain biking and more than 120 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails for winter. Additional offerings include yearround horsemanship and working cattle ranch programs, fly-fishing, zip-lining, stand-up paddleboard ing, yoga and adventure/skills trainingMovementcourses.Strategy, a digital media marketing agency with offices in Los Angeles, Denver and New York City, held its annual retreat with 50 attendees at Devil’s Thumb Ranch. Meetings were held in High Lonesome Lodge; facilities such as the pool, restaurants and game room were utilized; and team-building activi ties like hatchet-throwing, archery and lassoing took place outdoors. Colette Gardner, director of people and culture, organized the gathering and especially liked the team-building activities, beauti ful scenery, top-notch meeting spaces and excellent food. “It’s an awesome location, they worked with our budget, and the staff was very professional and nice throughout all my interactions,” sheNewnotes.to Brush Creek Ranch are all sorts of winter activities through the purchase of nearby Green Mountain and hands-on food and beverage classes, tast ings and tours at The Farm, both mentioned later. Archery and ropes courses, shooting sports, fishing, rafting, horseback riding, ATV tours, yoga and rock climb ing are just a few of the many other outdoor experiences to tapAtinto.Paws Up, try out cow cro quet, take part in a cattle drive and book a Mustang Mindfulness session for something completely different. An aerial adventure park, go-kart racing and archery, sporting clay and paintball cours es add to the wealth of options along with water sports, includ ing excursions to Paws Up Island Lodge at Salmon Lake and Seeley Lake House. With 100 miles of trails on property for hiking, horseback riding and ATV touring and winter pastimes like snow mobiling, snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing, dog sledding, skijoring, ice skating, tubing and sleigh rides, there is no shortage of activities to try.
3 Archery at Devil's Thumb Skijoring at The Resort at Paws Up
The Farm at Brush Creek Ranch, an impressive complex just a few minutes from The Lodge & Spa, began opening last summer and expands the ranch’s ability to offer memo rable culinary and meeting experiences. At The Farm, the 3,900-square-foot Saddle Barn can host groups of up to 250 guests and stands alongside the new Brush Creek Brewery, Brush Creek Distillery, Medicine Bow Creamery, greenhous es and a bakery. Combined with a herd of approximately 200 Wagyu cattle, the culinary program is becoming increas inglyTheself-sufficient.Farmalso has a speakeasy, smaller meeting and private dining spaces, and the ranch’s luxury restaurant, Cheyenne Club. Another bonus is that groups and guests can book cooking classes, beverage tastings, tours of the greenhouses and more. Three primary reasons that Laing and her groups of 18 to 25 people return to Brush Creek are the activities, food and staff. The activities help attendees get to know one another on a more intimate level, and experiences like yurt dinners and meals by the river are sublime, she says. Devil’s Thumb Ranch’s food and beverage approach also focuses on offering organic, sustainable and locally sourced farm-to-table cuisine that features ranch-raised Wagyu beef and honey, as well as fresh produce from the on-site Kendra’s Garden. Heck’s Tavern and The Ranch House provide deli cious dining options for guests, and if your group is small 4 Wagyu beef at Devil's Thumb
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The Farm at Brush Creek Ranch enough consider a private dinner in the wine cellar or grotto. If a trip into nearby Winter Park is desired, small groups can go to Volario’s, a rustic northern Italian restaurant with a fairly large private dining room, at sister property Vasquez CreekPawsInn.Up has two restaurants and dining pavilions at all six glamping camps. The 85-seat Pomp is the resort’s gourmet restaurant and offers continental cuisine with a Western flair, while Tank & Trough has seating for 64 and has a more casual menu and atmosphere for meals and happy hour. A fun option for outdoor dining is stepping aboard an oldfashioned hay wagon for a ride to the banks of the Blackfoot River for a chuck wagon dinner.
What ’ s New For Brush Creek Luxury Ranch Collection, 2019 was a major year with the comple tion of The Farm at Brush Creek Ranch and acquisition of the 600-acre Green Mountain. Ranch owners Bruce and Beth White wanted to transform Brush Creek Ranch into a fullfledged, year-round destination, and Green Mountain provided the solution by offering downhill skiing and snowboarding, crosscountry skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and tubing only 25 minutes from the ranch.
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Currently, snowcats and snowmobiles transport guests for downhill skiing and snowboarding on runs up to one mile long, and there are plans to install four surface lifts in the future. Green Mountain also has more than 20 miles of cross-country skiing and snowmobiling trails, loads of snowshoeing terrain, and four yurts around the mountain for warming up, lunch and après ski.
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Devil’s Thumb and Paws Up have historic barns renovated specifically for meet ings and events that attendees are sure to remember. Devil’s Thumb can host groups of up to 350 utilizing venues such as the Broad Axe Barn, High Lonesome Barn, Axel’s Pavilion, Timber House, Grotto Suraboza and John Ls’ Wine Cellar & Uncorking Room. Accommodations are in the form of two lodges and cabins.
Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa was named an Orvis endorsed fly-fishing lodge last summer. A broad range of fly-fishing gear, talented guides, a sustainable approach to fishing 4 miles of Ranch Creek and 1 mile of the Fraser River, and access to a variety of private waters helped land the designation. In addition, renovations to the pool area were completed in 2019, expanding the swimming deck and adding cabanas, a poolside bar, a fireplace and outdoor games.
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Bob and Suzanne Fanch, owners of the ranch, also were very active in the estab lishment of Headwaters Center, a new non profit special events and education facility in Winter Park. The meeting and event space is on the upper stories and encompasses 4,400 square feet, plus there is a spacious terrace and an additional 5,600 square feet of outdoor space. This summer, The Resort at Paws Up is launching The Green O, an adults-only wood land retreat with 12 design-forward accommo dations (from a Tree Haus elevated 15 feet in the air to a Green Haus with a living roof) built to accommodate a maximum of two adults each. At the center of The Green O is a private restaurant venue, Social Haus. “The Green O was created in response to innumerable requests from guests of Paws Up for year-round, adult-only glamping,” says Laurence Lipson, ranch co-owner and son of founder Dave Lipson. “We wanted to create an adult-only destination with edgy, contem porary architectural designs, where guests could be as one with nature as possible.”
At Paws Up, the Bull Barn is a 10,000-square-foot facility with two conference rooms, a patio and the upper-story Great Angus Hall, while The Bunkhouse (once a hayloft and traditional barn) has been converted into a 24-seat conference center with a lounge. The Lewis & Clark Reception Barn and Lobby features reception space and a 200-seat auditorium, and not far from the ranch’s base camp is The Saddle Club, a 72,000-square-foot equestrian center that has a variety of gathering spaces including a large arena. Lodging options include 28 homes and 36 luxury glamping tents, which are available during warm-weather months. The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek has 10,000 square feet of meeting space and multiple types of guest rooms and cabins for a maximum of 150 guests. Magee Homestead and French Creek Sportsmen’s Club can host up to 27 and 10 guests and feature cabins, on-site chefs and other amenities.
UNIQUE MEETING SPACES & LODGING
5 A luxury glamping tent at Paws Up
MTN.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 35 Get Connected BRUSH CREEK RANCH Saratoga, 307.327.5284brushcreekranch.comWyoming DEVIL’S THUMB RANCH RESORT & SPA Tabernash, 970.726.5632devilsthumbranch.comColorado THE RESORT AT PAWS UP Greenough, 406.244.5200pawsup.comMontana LESS OPPORTUNITIESTIMESBUSYPROVIDE The picturesque locations and unique spaces make the three ranches espe cially popular for weekend weddings and family vacations during the summer and over holidays. Talk to sales team members and see when it’s quieter and less competitive for rooms and space, which translates into savings. Also ask about what activities are available at that time of year and the options are sure to be plentiful. There is a wide variety of great ranches around the U.S. Mountain West, so make sure to check out the options and use these six attributes to find the right fit for your group. 6 Timber House at Devil's Thumb
Doloveyouit? MEETINGSMAGS.COM // 2017 CVBs weigh in on trends and how they best support planners (26) STATUS UPDATE RIVIERA Ocean meets Santa Barbara DINING ON HIGH Take a peek at a winemaker dinner hosted at Meritage Resort & Spa Entertainment and venue options are limitless in Las Vegas (32) Jackpot! + MEETINGSMAGS.COM // WINTER 2018 WATERSIDE VENUES ALONG LAKES AND RIVERS ARE SCENIC SPOTS FOR GROUPS RAISING THE BAR THE NEXT LEVEL OF THE EXPERIENCE ECONOMY IS EMERGING CHANGE DIRECTION Grand County’s beauty and activities chart the course BREAK MINDFULNESSFOR Pushing pause during rechargesmeetingsattendees PLANNERS + VENDORS = ? Pro tips on building and maintaining relationships with vendors ADVENTURE ABOUNDS Explore the vast wilderness of Ketchikan, Alaska MOUNTAIN SAME BUT DIFFERENT Travel to local cities with familiar names MEETINGSMAGS.COM SUMMER 2017 $6.00 Majesty ELEVATE EVENT EXPERIENCES AT THESE 5 MOUNTAIN RESORTS VEGAN AND RESTAURANTSVEGETARIANPACKAFLAVORFULPUNCH MEETINGSMAGS.COM // SPRING 2018 $6.00 BLANK CANVAS Art galleries make for inspiring event spaces PLANNERS GONNA PLAN Wear the shoes of 4 di erentprofessionalsindustry STAY IN STAMFORD This Connecticut town elicits high praise meeting-goersfrom PLEASE Veggies, MEETINGSMAGS.COM O BeatenthePath SMALL BUSINESS OWNERSSUCCESSSHARE (38) CREATIVE EXPRESSION withMinnesotaartsy FEELS LI Find comfort in these small hotels ICEBREAKER NONTRADITIONAL ACTIVITIES BRING PEOPLE CLOSER TOGETHER (45) BY THE WATER DINE LAKESIDE AT FOUR LOCAL VENUES (26) NEWBIES NO MORE CATCH UP WITH FORMER UP-AND-COMING HALL OF FAME HONOREES (38) MEETINGSMAGS.COM // SPRI $6.00 HOTELSHIP DETROIT ROUNDS OUT ITS HOTEL BASE WITH NEW BOUTIQUE HOTELS (32) FRESH POW Area ski slopes make winter easier to bear OUTSIDE THE CITY Traveling to the suburbs means more options for planners MEETINGSMAGS.COM // WINTER 2018 HOLIDAYS EXTENDED Plan seasonal office parties into 2018 Trend FORECAST Flip to page 30 to meet the Impossible Burger, a plant-based patty that replicates meat. See what’s new for 2018 in food,technologydécor,andvenues GATHER IN GALVESTON PRIVATE DINING ABOUNDS IN THIS ISLAND CITYMODERNIZED MOTELS MOTOR COURTS ARE MAKING A COMEBACK MEETINGSMAGS.COM // FALL 2017 HITROADTHE RESTAURANTS OFFERINTERSTATEOFF35GREATEATS&CONVENIENTACCESS (48) In Case Emergencyof Pro tips to prepare you for the worst-case scenario (41) Then keep it coming. MEETINGSMAGS.COM/SUBSCRIBESUBSCRIBEFORFREEand receive quarterly issues chockful of regional content on topics like: » trend reports on F&B, décor, team-building activities and technology » expert advice from top meeting and event professionals » new venue spotlights » people profiles » local and “beyond the border” destinations MEETINGSMAGS.COM FALL 2017 O BeatenthePath SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS SHARE THEIR SUCCESS STORIES (38) CREATIVE EXPRESSION Minnesota abounds with artsy venues (47) FEELS LIKE HOME Find comfort in the little things at these small hotels and inns (28) AMERICA’S RIVIERA mountains in s
An added bonus is the fact that many renovation projects are currently underway to revitalize historic properties. “The hot springs industry is experienc ing a resurgence right now,” Nash notes. “Along with restoration, modern technology is also being incorpo rated. This combination especially appeals to young entrepreneurs who want to connect with their peers in a unique setting.”
RESORTS WITH GEOTHERMALLY HEATED POOLS, SOOTHING SPAS AND DISTINCT LODGING ARE PERFECT VENUES FOR BOTH PRODUCTIVE AND RELAXING GATHERINGS. ho says you can’t have a meeting without some pampering mixed in? Several hot springs resorts in the U.S. Mountain West can accommodate smaller meetings complete with lodging, function space, din ing and soaking. Some even have on-site spas and other standout features like an ice museum or microbrewery to include on an itinerary.
“By nature, these properties provide a thought-pro voking atmosphere and an ideal place for people to reconnect in a more relaxed environment,” says Vicky Nash, who organizes the Hot Springs Connection con ference and recently launched hotspringsofamerica.com.
MTN.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 37 Maple Grove Hot Springs & Retreat Center MEETINGSMAGS.COM // FALL 2017 BeatenthePath SHAREBUSINESSTHEIRSTORIES (38) EXPRESSION Minnesotavenuesabounds(47) KE HOME the little things at hotels and inns (28) MEETINGSMAGS.COM FALL 2017 CVBs weigh in on trends and how they best support planners (26) STATUS UPDATE RIVIERA Ocean meets tylish Santa Barbara DINING ON HIGH Take a peek at a winemaker dinner hosted at Meritage Resort & Spa Entertainment and venue options are limitless in Las Vegas (32) Jackpot!
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Glenwood Springs has been a destination for hot springs aficionados since Glenwood Hot Springs Pool opened in 1888. Since then, the world’s largest min eral hot springs pool has become Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, with the addition of a lodge featuring 107 guest rooms and two meeting rooms that seat 20 to 35, as well as Spa of the Rockies and an athletic club, both located in a beautiful historic bathhouse. There is a warm therapy pool, the large pool that is slightly cooler and the brand new Sopris Splash Zone, which is ideal for when meet ings include families. However, all ages will enjoy the Shoshone Chutes river ride! If your group needs more meeting space, Hotel Colorado is across the street from the pool and next door to Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge. This historic beauty dates back to 1893, and the fairly new own ers recently completed a total renovation of the seven private meeting rooms that total 10,000 square feet of space. Future improvements include all guest rooms and publicNashspaces.selected Glenwood Springs as the location for the first-ever Hot Springs Connection conference in November 2018. “The 95 attendees were geothermal spa experts, so the highlight of this event was the behindthe-scenes tours at the three hot springs facilities in Glenwood Springs, including Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves,” she says.
The Centennial State has its fair share of hot springs as evidenced by the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop, which includes five destinations and 19 hot springs attractions around the state. But we’ll only look at a handful that work well for groups.
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Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
The three-day gathering was based at Morgridge Commons, a downtown meeting space operated by Colorado Mountain College in partnership with Garfield County Public Library District, and lodging was at Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge, Hotel Colorado and Hotel Denver. In 2019, the event was held in California’s Palm Springs area, with the meetings portion based in Indian Wells, and the hot springs tours and two social events held in nearby Desert Hot Springs. At both gather ings, Janet Abbott, a water sommelier and president of the Balneology Association of North America, guided
SPRINGSHOTCASTLERESORT;SPRINGSHOTPRINCETONMOUNTOF:COURTESYPHOTOS RESORTSPRINGSHOTGLENWOOD(OPPOSITE) Get Connected HOTGLENWOODSPRINGS RESORT Glenwood Springs, 970.945.3324hotspringspool.comColorado MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS RESORT Nathrop,
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Maple Grove Hot Springs & Retreat Center is a solarpowered “eco center” that sits on 45 acres, providing plenty of space for a 30-foot retreat yurt and a wide variety of lodging options includ ing yurts, cabins, canvas tent glamping and camping. With four riverside mineral pools and endless wilderness on all sides, Maple Grove Hot Springs can accommodate groups of up to 60 for workshops, train ings and retreats. Don’t expect posh but instead a beautiful setting that is comfortable and comes with all sorts of outdoor options, riverside din ing and a sizable River House patio. 801.943.3324maplegrovesprings.com; attendees through a flight of waters sourced from area springs. See the people profile article on page 42. The Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa Springs also has numer ous smaller hot springs pools of varying temperatures and a lower-temp large pool for swimming and playing. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains along the banks of the San Juan River, the resort also has a conference room, private space for evening socials, a spa and 79 guest rooms and suites. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort near Buena Vista celebrated its 140th anniversary in 2019 by debuting a new Relaxation Pool with an infinity-edge design, built-in seat ing, lounging deck and gorgeous scenery. This pool and the nearby new beer garden are available for private parties and events. There are many more soaking opportunities through out the resort, accommodations in the form of lodge rooms and cabins, and distinct meeting spaces with big views like the 4,800-square-foot Pavilion with glass walls and doors, a small conference center room and a conference cabin. Outdoors, a large lawn and meadow are perfect for events. Hot Springs Princeton Hot Springs Resort 719.395.2447mtprinceton.comColorado &
SPA Pagosa Springs, 800.918.3731pagosahotsprings.comColorado
Today, there are 32 finely appointed rooms that accom modate up to 64 guests, The Stone House and The Barn for meeting and event space, and a lodge that embodies the original Palm House and includes a restaurant and gath ering bar with an outdoor ter race. Additional highlights are a great lawn, hot springs pools with a deck that can be booked for events, and an organic farm and greenhouse. castle hotsprings.com; 928.510.1001
MTN.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 39 Castle
THE SPRINGS RESORT
Remaining pretty much untouched for nearly 40 years after devastating fires, Castle Hot Springs reopened in October 2019 and is nestled in a rugged and remote desert loca tion northwest of the Phoenix/ Scottsdale metro area. Situated in the Bradshaw Mountains, Castle Hot Springs features the hottest nonvolcanic natural spring in the world, resulting in its origins as Arizona's first health resort. In earlier days, the guest register included names like Rockefeller, Pew, Vanderbilt, Astor and Roosevelt.
The five mineral hot springs pools (including four covered by teepees and a 70-foot pool), three indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, a day spa, pub and Snowy Mountain Brewery (Wyoming’s second oldest craft brewery) make Saratoga Hot Springs Resort a great choice for groups. The largest spaces, Platte Room and The Terrace, hold up to 50Reopeningguests. this summer after a long hiatus and the Jackson com munity banding together to make it happen, Astoria Hot Springs and Park will have river pools and a deck that are ideal for poolside events and an event tent for larger groups and weddings. Also look for Johnny Counts Cabin on the Snake River, which is a high-end log cabin with caterer’s kitchen that can accom modate approximately 30 for board retreats, strategic planning and smallWonderinggatherings.ifhot springs are a right fit for your group? Nash says, “Think of the great ideas that could evolve from 20 people soak ing together in a geothermally heated pool!”
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Astoria Hot Springs and Park Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort
quinnshotsprings.com;
Get Connected ASTORIA HOT SPRINGS AND PARK Jackson, 307.739.3942astoriapark.orgWyoming SARATOGA HOT SPRINGS RESORT Saratoga, 307.326.5261saratogahotspringsresort.comWyoming
At Quinn's Hot Springs Resort in Paradise, pools of varying temperatures (and even an ice pool for those who dare) may be the star attractions. But for groups the appeal also lies in the availability of Paradise Hall Event Center, lodges and cabins for accommodations, Quinn’s Tavern and the historic Harwood House Restaurant, which received a 2019 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. “Located in a big mountain setting, Quinn’s Paradise Hall Event Center is the perfect venue to enjoy your next business meeting, conference, retreat or celebration surrounded by panoramic views of the Clark Fork River and Quinn’s Canyon,” says Marketing Director Rachel Nore. “Whether you’re planning a small or large event, our events team will assist you in creating a truly memorable experience.” 406.826.3150 Mountain Meetings
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Saratoga Hot Springs Resort
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Today, there are lodge rooms, cabins, a variety of meeting and event spaces and the incredible Aurora Ice Museum, the world’s largest yearround ice environment. Created from more than 1,000 tons of ice and snow harvested at the resort, the museum was completed in 2005 and stays a cool 25 degrees inside. Parkas are available to use during tours, and appletinis served in ice glasses can be ordered. Don’t miss the amazing activi ties groups can tap into like year-round sled dog experiences with Chena Hot Springs Kennel. chenahotsprings.com; 907.451.8104
One of the most unique hot springs experiences and one of the best places to see the northern lights in the United States is Chena Hot Springs, located 60 miles from Fairbanks. Discovered in 1905, the hot springs became famous for curing crippled prospectors of their aches and pains.
Sometimes hot springs are in the form of mineral springs baths like those at Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. The Spanish mis sion–style property sits atop an ancient ther mal mineral spring that flows from 1,100 feet below the surface and translates into soaking in soothing mineral baths, relaxing by fireplaces and indulging in a treatment, all located in the 40,000-square-foot spa. Indoor meeting and event space exceeds 13,000 feet and reflects wine country’s relaxed, casual elegance.
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The community of Calistoga, with its geo thermal hot springs of mineral water run ning underground, has a renowned history as a place of healing. The spa at Calistoga Ranch pays homage to these healing waters with natural geothermal baths and treatment rooms. For groups, attendees can stay in the 50 freestanding guest lodges and planners can choose from distinct indoor and outdoor meet ing and event spaces, such as the Vineyard Venue and Wine Cave/Founders Room. Solage is the sophisticated-chic sister to the more secluded Calistoga Ranch and features 89 private cottages and Spa Solage, which has updated twists to the renowned Calistoga mud and mineral water therapies on its menu of treatment options. The main meeting and event space is the 3,500-square-foot Solstice with a vaulted ceiling, polished concrete floor ing and sliding window walls that open to ter races and an event lawn.
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Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa Calistoga Ranch Chena Hot Springs Get Connected RANCH Calistoga, 707.254.2800aubergeresorts.com/calistogaranchCalifornia SONOMA MISSION INN & SPA Sonoma, 707.938.9000fairmont.com/sonomaCalifornia Calistoga, 707.226.0800aubergeresorts.com/solageCalifornia
Get Connected JANET ABBOTT, WATER SOMMELIER 512.844.8747finewatersommelier.com people PROFILE OFWONDERSWATER
Another exciting development for water sommeliers is that “we are starting to turn people around to make water part of the meal and to actually taste it,” Abbott says. When introducing water to participants, they could be drinking water that is 10,000-plus years old or only a couple months old. “We are drinking time,” she emphasizes, “and that idea takes water to a new position in our brain and our lives on this planet.”
BY BETH BUEHLER ABBOTTJANETOF:COURTESYPHOTO
Water sommelier Janet Abbott shows people how to really taste the clear liquid we so often take for granted.
T he first time I realized there was such thing as a water sommelier was at the 2019 Hot Springs Connection, a conference held in Indian Wells and Desert Hot Springs, California. I was the room moderator for a panel presented by the Balneology Association of North America and spear headed by the organization’s president, Janet Abbott, a water Abbottsommelier.alsoleda water tasting featuring five California waters from Mission Springs, Palomar Springs, Carlsbad Springs, Castle Rock Springs and Tahoe Artesian Springs. When the 2018 conference was held in Glenwood Springs, she featured Colorado waters from a local spring and the drinking springs in Manitou Springs.
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Raised in western New York south of Niagara Falls, Abbott describes a childhood in an area blessed with water and bountiful springs. “I grew up on beautiful, pristine water,” she says. Abbott began studying with the Fine Water Academy in 2018, created that same year by two wellknown water sommeliers, Michael Mascha and Martin Riese, who were trained in Germany. “The profession lines up closely with a wine sommelier but still adds an element of surprise for people. How do you taste water?” Abbott explains, “You have to understand the story and source, spend time and practice. Soon, your pal ate starts to define tastes and compositions. … Water also has age and vintage.” Abbott prefers to have at least 1.5 hours to provide an over view, tell the story of each water and allow participants to sample the waters “easily and gracefully.” She says, “It is possible to buy water like a fine bottle of wine, and water can be used as an aperitif and digestif.”
AT your FINGERTIPS. SUBSCRIBE for FREE at MEETINGSMAGS.COM --- CALENDAR EVENTS ----- LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS ----- PEOPLE NEWS ----- WEEKLY UPDATES --OUR E-NEWSLETTER MAKE MEETINGSFunAGAIN! RECEIVE PERKS FOR YOUR BRECKENRIDGE MEETINGS! Go online, call, or email for more information. Groups@beaverrun.com970-453-8780BeaverRun.com
In the shadow of Yosemite, great ideas come to light. Tenaya Lodge is located in central California's pristine Sierr a National Forest, just minutes outside the south entrance to Yos emite National Park. With 19,959 square feet of function space, including 14 flexible meeting rooms designed to provide an elevated meeting experience, your events have space to grow. Recently renovated guest rooms, 50 new Explorer Cabins, four seasons of unique outdoor group activities , and a creative conference services tea m , will ensure your meetings are dynamic and memorable. To learn more, call our sales team at 877-635-5807 or visit TenayaLodge.com/meetings
Our team is poised to customize a meeting experience that suits your exact needs.
FROM THE MIS T T R AIL TO SUMMERDALE
