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Typically, Kearney hosts more than 1,350 events a year. Everything from large conferences, to regional sporting events as well as hundreds of smaller professional and educational meetings all host their events in Kearney. The reason is simple. Because Kearney has the best facilities between Denver and Omaha, experienced staff and wonderful volunteers that make sure every event that comes to town is taken care of.
If you’re looking for a host city for your next event, make sure you look at Kearney.
WITH VICKIE MITCHELL
FIVE TOPICS TO TALK ABOUT IN 2025
In recent surveys, as many as 75 percent of meeting organizers said they had not prepared a crisis communication strategy or a contingency option for their event.
As January arrives, meeting professionals ponder what issues audiences will want to hear more about in the new year. I looked at what business experts and futurists were talking about and found that several topics were consistently discussed. They affect any type of organization, from businesses large and small to associations and nonprofit groups.
As you put together agendas for 2025 conferences and conventions, consider including some sessions or speakers that give your attendees insights and ideas about these top-of-mind subjects.
Audiences are eager to learn more about these subjects
Focusing on customer service
“Customers” go far beyond shoppers in the aisles of Target or Walmart. If you run a church youth group, those kids are your customers. If you’re the executive director of an association for corn growers, farmer members are your customers. No matter what we do, we all have customers, and keeping them satisfied is paramount to our success. As with most things though, our growing use of technology has led to changes in how we connect with customers, and that’s created a crowd of experts who can talk to audiences about different aspects of customer service. Look to TED Talks to see speakers like Shep Hyken, who tells companies to look beyond their direct competitors as they set goals for customer service; Jeanne Bliss, who headed customer service for Lands’ End and Microsoft and shares a framework she’s developed to build customer growth; and trainer Myra Golden, who offers solutions to repairing broken customer relationships.
Adding AI to the toolbox
It’s no surprise that artificial intelligence sits atop the hot topic list, and rightly so. AI’s possibilities and problems make it a natural subject for books, lectures, podcasts and articles. For many, AI has become a handy assistant, capable of deftly tackling repetitive tasks. In fact, the Small Business Administration reports that just over half of small businesses use chatbots and virtual assistants for customer service. To find interesting and informed speakers on AI, check out the latest books. (Ethan Mollick’s “Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI” is at the top of 60,000 possibilities on Amazon.) Another strategy? Study the agendas at recent AI-focused conferences like the Artificial Intelligence Summit, hosted by the Artificial Intelligence Innovators Network (more than 1 million leaders in AI), or Convergence AI, held in Dallas last May. Meeting pros who want to improve their understanding of AI’s potential might take a four-hour online course about AI tools offered by Meeting Professionals International (MPI).
Making strides toward sustainability
Organizations of every stripe are becoming more committed to sustainability as they realize that sustainable practices save money and resources and enhance their reputation with customers and clients. So where can you find speakers to talk about these issues? The Sustainability Speakers Agency has a lineup that includes pros who have led sustainability efforts for Google, L’Oréal, IKEA and others, as well as sustainability experts from government and financial institutions, wildlife conservation and agriculture. Another possibility? Bring in leaders from cities known for their sustainability efforts like Portland and Eugene, Oregon; Berkeley, San Jose and Sacramento, California; and Silver Spring, Maryland. The International Society of Sustainability Professionals also offers speakers with lively topics like “How to Turn the Tables on Food Waste” and “Your Empty Wine Bottle Could Help Rebuild Coastlines.” For the meeting planner who wants to personally learn more about planning sustainable events, the Events Industry Council offers a Sustainable Events Professional Certificate course.
Reworking the workplace
Becoming more resilient
People have always had worries, but in the past few years, threats seemed to have piled up: a worldwide pandemic, wars, political upheaval, natural disasters, climate change. It’s no wonder people ask, “How can I become more resilient?” Dr. Amit Sood, a resiliency expert and executive director of the Global Center on Resiliency and Well-being, has found that healthcare workers who were once cynical about the importance of resilience are now on board with the Resilient Option, a framework he developed that improves resilience and builds a positive work culture. If you, too, are interested in helping your audiences learn more, a good place to start might be the National Speakers Association’s directory of Certified Speaking Professionals. Among the CSPs available is Eileen McDargh, whose latest book is “Burnout to Breakthrough: Building Resilience to Refuel, Recharge and Reclaim What Matters.” She also wrote “Your Resiliency GPS, A Guide for Growing Through Life and Work.”
The pandemic changed the workplace, upending the in-the-office, 9-to-5 routine and making the “open office” concept seem like a bad idea. It also proved that staff can work effectively from their homes or other remote locations, especially as Zoom and Teams proved capable of pulling everyone together in a virtual conference space. Speakers can come at this topic from many angles, including what changes are needed to make workspaces healthier and safer; how to design hybrid work models; and advantages and disadvantages of a nontraditional workplace. For thoughts about office design, consider experts on workplace design at university architecture schools like Carnegie Mellon’s Center for Building Performance and Diagnostics. Or check out an industry publication, like Buildings magazine, to find experts who’ve penned articles about workplace innovations. Medical experts can address how workspaces affect health and well-being. Another idea? Have roundtable discussions so attendees can talk about how their workplaces have changed, how it’s affected them and how their workplaces could be improved.
JMEETING LEADERS
JOSHUA BRICKER
BY REBECCA TREON
oshua Bricker was destined for hospitality, but it took a detour through the tech industry for him to realize it.
“I moved to Central Ohio in 1997 and thought working with computers was what I wanted to do, so I went to a technical school, but ultimately that didn’t work out,” he said. “I learned the hard way, I guess you could say.”
Bricker’s first job was at a Columbus-based computer manufacturer repairing laptops.
“I was at a bench with 30 other folks in a basement with no windows with six to 10 laptops to fix, listening to headphones and not really having any interactions with people,” he said. “I’m a people person. A tornado could have gone by, and we never would have known. That type of atmosphere wasn’t for me. I did it for six months.”
He liked variety and problem-solving, so he decided to pursue a degree at Ohio State University in Human Ecology. Bricker describes the field as a type of reverse marketing — investigating things that affect people then designing ads and products to get them interested. As an example, he said, McDonald’s chose to use red with gold arches in its marketing strategy purposefully because it attracts consumers.
“I’ll be honest, I don’t have a rhyme or reason as to the direction I went,” he said. “I don’t remember why I chose that path. It’s been so long! But so many people have a job that’s not in the field they graduated in.”
While at OSU, Bricker worked what he calls “typical college jobs” — waiting tables, bartending at TGI Friday’s and working his way up the chain Dave and Buster’s. He was eventually signed to the latter’s traveling team of hiring managers, visiting new stores and helping new launches get off the ground. While he loved the
fast-paced fun he was having there, he wanted to find something he could plan a future around.
That’s when he found hospitality sales.
Bricker took a job as a sales manager at a local boutique hotel, Woodfin Suites, where he worked closely with what was then the Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau. Bricker got to know the person in charge of sports sales there. When that position became available, Bricker was encouraged to apply for the role, even though he didn’t yet have his bachelor’s degree or tourism experience. Bricker completed several rounds of interviews before being hired in 2002 and has been there ever since. He’s responsible for Visit Dublin’s group, SMERF and sports sales.
“It’s a fantastic experience because you never have the same day twice,” he said. “One day you could be helping a meeting planner find a space for a conference for 300, and then the next you could be helping someone find a unique speaker for their conference. You’re constantly changing roles as you go along. You meet tons of people. I’ve got contacts in every different industry, from facilities to speakers, to restaurants, catering and entertainment, bands, performers. You never know what your client is going to need.”
Bricker also notes that Visit Dublin has shifted to offering a lot of support for locals, too. As a father of two daughters, married for 20 years to his wife, Emily, and a high school football official, he’s invested in the community.
“We want to be a resource for local residents as well, encouraging them to support their local restaurants and businesses,” he said. “We’re still all about travel and tourism and bringing people to our city, but we have a lot more residential focus than we did before.”
“It’s a fantastic experience because you never have the same day twice... You’re constantly changing roles as you go along.”
EXECUTIVE PROFILE
NAME Joshua Bricker
TITLE
Sales Manager
ORGANIZATION
Visit Dublin Ohio
LOCATION
Dublin, Ohio
BIRTHPLACE
Van Wert, Ohio
EDUCATION
Ohio State University
CAREER HISTORY
• Woodfin Suites Hotel, sales manager (2000–2002)
• Visit Dublin, sales manager (2002–present)
TIPS FROM JOSHUA BRICKER
• Always contact the host city bureau. Not only can I send your lead to all our meeting facilities, but I can also help with dining and entertainment options.
• Be creative and open to outside-the-box ideas. When planners contact me, I like to get creative with their meetings and throw in a little “Irish flair.”
• Be the big fish in a small pond. When looking for locations to host your meeting, remember that by choosing a smaller destination, these cities will often go out of their way to help make your event the best it can be.
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JOSHUA BRICKER ENJOYS DOWNTOWN DUBLIN WITH HIS WIFE, DAUGHTERS AND THE FAMILY DOG.
HOW IMPORTANT IS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT?
Shamera Stewart
MEETINGS MANAGER
American Physical Society
Shamera Stewart is a meetings manager at the American Physical Society. Prior to her current position, she held event planning roles at CarMax and Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She graduated from VCU with a bachelor’s degree in marketing in 2016. Shamera has earned CMP and DES certifications and obtained her MBA from Washington State University in 2022. She’s also a member of PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties, Class of 2024, and volunteers for MPI’s Virginia and Potomac chapters.
What is the importance of professional development for young professionals within the events industry?
A: I think it’s very important. Obviously, we ourselves are not nonprofits; we work for a living. Professional development, whether that’s getting certifications, additional degrees, expanding my network and just learning and development in general, played a huge role in my career trajectory. It’s important to the younger generations to have at the top of their minds, along with learning their roles and performing in their jobs. Sometimes society might look down on the self-promotion and wanting to advance in your career, but it’s something that we all should aspire to.
QWhen in their careers should they start pursuing professional development opportunities?
A: I think when you’re first coming in, fresh out of college, it’s fine to just learn your job and learn the industry. I would suggest these individuals, if they haven’t already, join professional organizations like MPI and PCMA. That way, they’re connected to a huge network of other meeting and event professionals. I wish I had joined those when I was younger, but I didn’t join those until three or four years ago. If I would’ve joined right outside of college during my first job, I would’ve been connected to many opportunities for different webinars and mentorship programs through those organizations. And then you’re having these conversations with seasoned professionals, and it helps you start to chart your own path and your own journey.
What advice do you have for young professionals seeking professional certifications?
A:I would suggest when you’re first starting, learn the ins and outs of your job and get involved with organizations. Then once that has happened, I would recommend the CMP. It’s the industry standard, the certification for all meeting professionals. I would likely have gone for it sooner if I knew that my employer at the time would be able to cover it. It’s not a cheap exam, and it is rigorous as well. It’s worth the ask; you’ll find a lot of employers will cover the cost. I would also say use all your resources. MPI and PCMA have different courses and study groups. I took all my resources, including a flash card app, different study groups and modules. I used everything. I wholeheartedly thank MPI Potomac Chapter for having a CMP boot camp.
What advice would you give young professionals about attending conferences?
A:For new meeting and event professionals, definitely look into going to conferences. You’re immersed into this environment where you’re meeting these seasoned professionals who have been through what you’ve been through. And then there’s all the learning and development in the sessions from industry professionals. So, it’s just a big knowledge transfer. And they’re fun, too! You start to make friends in different states and different countries, and they become a network of resources to you down the line. I was nervous to ask about conferences. I’m very blessed that I work for an association that’s forward-thinking with professional development, but I would say make the ask to your employer about sponsoring you to go to these conferences.
How can busy young professionals contribute to their professional development through volunteer work?
A:
Life is generally busy, and there are seasons when we’re busier than others. When you’re prioritizing your professional development, there are benefits that might not net you anything immediately, but you’re planting the seeds. For every organization you join, you’re taking a bigger step forward by getting more involved through volunteering. The people you meet are all industry connections. You’re meeting new people you can form lifelong friendships with, and I’ve had people put in a strong positive word for me based on volunteer roles. Even though it can be a lot of work, it ends up paying off.
Making Sense of Artificial Intelligence
VETERAN PLANNERS BREAK DOWN THE PROS AND CONS OF AI TOOLS
BY RACHEL CRICK
Whether it inspires hopes of futuristic tech advancements or fears of dystopian events straight out of science fiction, artificial intelligence (AI) tends to invoke some extreme emotions.
In recent years, AI has made waves in every industry, and the meetings and events industry is no exception. Many software platforms for event planners tout AI as an integral part of the package. But how can AI newbies differentiate between marketing lingo and genuine benefits? How can they implement AI responsibly around sensitive data? And how can they use it to lighten their load without sacrificing their creativity or individuality?
Here are some insights into AI for event planners from three event tech experts.
KNOW WHERE TO USE IT
Many event planners hesitate to dive into the world of AI because it has so many applications that it’s difficult to know where to begin.
Generative AI, seen in platforms such as ChatGPT and Gemini, is great for boosting creativity and coming up with new ideas. Planners can enter prompts such as “generate a threeday catering menu” or “suggest three cities for a meeting with outdoor recreation opportunities.” This can be enough to jump-start their research.
Generative AI can also be used to create marketing and social media content or to repurpose content from one area, such as a keynote speech, into another area of the program.
However, “the biggest place that AI shouldn’t be is the final draft,” cautioned Nick Borelli, marketing director at Zenus Inc., a firm that develops AI-powered solutions for events, exhibitors and retail brands.
Another extremely helpful application for AI is streamlining and automation. As busy as planners are, anything that helps them save time and manage their day means they’ll spend less time on menial tasks. That can vary from note-taking software that transcribes and summarizes meetings to an AI assistant that schedules calls directly from emails. Planners can even use a chatbot on the event website to field attendee questions.
“AI can handle repetitive tasks, freeing planners to focus on strategic decisions,” said Anca Platon Trifan, senior manager of strategic partnerships and event technology at Meetings and
“AI is about the empowerment of event organizers to go twice as far and not just twice as fast.”
Nick Borelli
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Zenus Inc.
Experience: 25+ years
“For AI to be able to come in and take care of routine activities so we can be strategic thinkers, it’s a huge step in the right direction.”
Incentives Worldwide Inc. and founder of Tree-Fan Events, which provides custom AI solutions.
Borelli also thinks AI will generate meaningful results in measuring event ROI.
“Right now, we say that event goals are very soft and hard to measure, but AI has the ability,” Borelli said. “The more we can gauge that kind of information, the more you can prove tangible value, so you’ll get more funding and more resources.”
For example, Borelli’s company uses AI to measure the emotions of attendees as they visit a booth using facial analysis. It’s this kind of data that could prove extremely valuable to companies when trying to measure things like attendee engagement.
SELECT THE RIGHT TOOLS
Generative AI platforms ChatGPT, Copilot and Gemini are widely known, but there are also event-specific tech platforms with AI capabilities, such as PCMA’s SPARK and Social27’s HiveGPT. For automated scheduling and task management, there are tools like Notion and Asana. For note-taking, there are AI companions to software like Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Trifan herself has even developed custom AI tools with focuses on audiovisual production and wellness.
Vinnu Deshetty
SPEAKER AND INSTRUCTOR
Event ROI Coach
Experience: 30 years
With such an overwhelming arsenal of AI platforms, knowing how to vet and choose the right one is essential for planners.
“Many event tech platforms claim to incorporate AI, so distinguishing genuine AI capabilities from mere marketing hype is crucial,” Trifan said.
Trifan recommends not taking platforms at their word when they make broad claims. Instead, planners should look for tech platforms that use precise, specific language to list the capabilities of their AI technology, such as “providing personalized recommendations.”
Additional red flags to watch for include heavy manual input requirements and lack of customization, both of which indicate limited AI capabilities.
“A lot of platforms will simply integrate with ChatGPT; it’s an easy integration to do,” said Vinnu Deshetty, speaker and instructor at her event coaching company, Event ROI Coach. “But there’s a lot more advanced technology that will create a learning platform.”
Other things to look for are reviews and case studies, whether that means talking to fellow planners for their recommendations or looking at the software itself for demos and testimonials.
Another important thing to consider when it comes to AI is data privacy and security. In the digital
era, planners are the keepers of their attendees’ data, so they should be using it responsibly. That means no entering registration or attendee lists into platforms without knowing how secure they are. The last thing their attendees want is for their personal information to be floating around where it shouldn’t be.
“Find platforms that keep your information private to your organization; it’s worth the investment,” Deshetty said. “All of the professional organizations like MPI and PCMA have great content around security as it pertains to AI.”
MAKE TIME FOR LEARNING
Borelli argues a little bit of upfront investment into AI can end up saving planners time and helping their organizations go further.
“A very valid pushback was, ‘I don’t have time or resources to learn this other technology,’” he said. “But what generative AI is offering event organizers are time and resources themselves, because it’s actually something that gets rid of things on their plate.”
AI does have a learning curve but sticking with it can be incredibly worthwhile, especially for small businesses, which are often operating with fewer people. And it’s not just good for a company or an event; it can also give planners a competitive edge when they’re gunning for a project and even when they’re job hunting.
“On a personal professional development level, AI is here, and it’s only going to keep evolving, so it’s important to keep up with it,” Deshetty said. “If you’re applying for a new job, and you’re up against another candidate, the ability to work with AI may set you apart and put you ahead of another candidate.”
Taking steps to learn more about AI isn’t complicated; many of the tech platforms themselves offer educational tools, such as classes or workshops. There’s also a ton of resources provided by meeting and event planning associations like PCMA and MPI. With AI being such a hot topic, there are frequently lectures and keynotes featuring AI at meetings-oriented conferences like IMEX.
If they want to begin immediately, Deshetty points out planners can go online to ChatGPT and ask it directly for tips on getting started. Better yet, they can determine what facet of their planning business needs the most assistance and type specific prompts like, “I’m looking for way to save time in my daily routine.”
It’s important to note that AI will never fully replace event planners. However, understanding and implementing AI as it develops and becomes more mainstream could be an invaluable tool in a planner’s toolbox.
“AI can be transformative, but it isn’t a replacement for human insight, empathy or cultural understanding.”
Anca Platon Trifan
SENIOR MANAGER OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS, EVENT TECHNOLOGY
Meetings and Incentives Worldwide Inc.
Experience: 19 years
CAPITAL IDEAS
These state capitals make excellent meeting destinations
BY RACHEL CRICK
Capital cities are the keepers of culture in their states.
In addition to containing impressive, domed capitol buildings, historic architecture and a wealth of museums, these cities are the seats of their state governments. They’re easy points of access for state and regional government association meetings. And if planners are hoping to score a welcome or a keynote speech from a high-profile government official, there’s often no better place to find them.
Here are five state capitals that won’t disappoint as meetings destinations.
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
When it comes to state capitals, Santa Fe, New Mexico, has an interesting claim to fame: It’s the oldest capital city, but it’s found in one of the youngest states in the U.S. Though occupied by Indigenous Pueblo groups going back at least 1,000 years, the city of Santa Fe was founded by the Spanish in the early 1600s. New Mexico became a state in 1912. Today, this cultural gem brims with history and art. Centered around a historic and walkable plaza, the city provides visitors with shopping, dining, art galleries and historic sites.
“We often find that Santa Fe is a draw for groups, and they get a larger attendance when they meet in Santa Fe,” said Joanne Hudson, public relations manager for Tourism Santa Fe. “Attendees have always wanted to travel here and bring their spouse and family along.”
The Santa Fe Community Convention Center, opened in 2008, was designed with characteristics of the city’s architecture, such as carved wood beams and tin. With 40,000 square feet of meeting space, including an 18,000-square-foot, column-free ballroom and 10 breakout rooms, the convention center can accommodate meetings of up to 600 attendees. Within a half-mile radius of the convention center, attendees can stay at their choice of over 1,000 hotel rooms. The Eldorado Hotel and Spa, La Fonda on
Above: Santa Fe attracts meeting attendees thanks to its historic ambience and vibrant arts scene.
Courtesy Tourism Santa Fe
the Plaza and Drury Plaza hotels each offer an additional 20,000 to 25,000 square feet of meeting space.
For some interesting off-sites, look no further than two of the city’s most prominent art museums: The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Art. Attendees will also enjoy a train ride on the historic Sky Railway, which comes with onboard entertainment.
santafe.org
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
Baton Rouge is French for “red stick,” which was the first thing French explorers saw upon arriving in 1699 on the site of what is now the Louisiana capital city. This red stick on the bluffs of the Mississippi River was a dividing line between the territories of two Indigenous tribes, but the name stuck, even as Louisiana changed hands from the French to the British to the Spanish and, finally, to the U.S. The city was incorporated in 1817 and has since played a role in the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement. Today, it’s home to the largest historically Black university in the state.
The city’s largest meeting space is Raising Cane’s River Center, which has 200,000-plus square feet, including a 30,000-square-foot arena, a 70,000-squarefoot exhibit hall and a 2,000-seat theater. For offsites, the Burden Museum and Gardens is set on 440 acres and is ideal for enchanting outdoor receptions. There’s also the Louisiana Art and Science Museum; Louisiana’s Old State Capitol building, famous for its distinct architecture; and a number of historic homes and buildings that serve as venues.
Geraldine Bordelon, senior vice president of destination sales for Visit Baton Rouge, said what makes the city a remarkable meeting destination is its variety at an affordable cost.
“It’s ideal for retreats and conventions,” she said. “We have Louisiana State University and Southern University as resources to tap into for speakers, and any sporting event that attendees would like to attend. And we have casino properties if they want to try their hand at gaming. That’s what makes it unique — the ability to try different things.”
visitbatonrouge.com
An aerial view of the Old State Capitol; a crawfish boil; an
Baton Rouge scenes, clockwise from left:
LSU football game
Photos courtesy Visit Baton Rouge
IDEAS
LANSING, MICHIGAN
Lansing, Michigan, is a diverse and thriving community with a large college population from Michigan State University. It was designated the capital in 1847, beating cities like Ann Arbor for the job. Today, this capital city is an accessible choice for regional events due to its central location in the state and in the country.
Located two blocks from the Capitol building and on the banks of the Grand River, Lansing Center offers more than 175,000 square feet of meeting space. The convention center features 72,000 square feet of column-free exhibit space and 20 breakout rooms and is connected to the adjacent 256-room DoubleTree hotel via a skybridge. There’s also a Courtyard by Marriott, with 122 guest rooms and nearly 1,700 square feet of function space.
MSU’s campus has several event spaces perfect for off-sites, like the MSU Horticulture Gardens, an elegant setting for a reception with up to 400 attend-
ees. The Michigan Princess is a riverboat that glides along the Grand River and offers lunch or dinner cruises for up to 250 attendees. Thanks to MSU and the Capitol, planners may have access to local educators, legislators or thought leaders to act as event speakers. Another selling point of Lansing is its extensive range of services offered by its convention and visitors bureau.
“We provide complimentary services,” said Tracy Padot, chief marketing officer at Choose Lansing. “So, if an event planner needed assistance, whether that’s building a micro-site, promotional materials, media assistance, welcome packets or a visitor guide, there’s a whole gamut of things we can do for pre-promotion the year before. We also have over 500 certified tourism ambassadors.” lansing.org
ALBANY, NEW YORK
Albany is actually the second capital of New York state, but that doesn’t make this 400-year-old city
Clockwise from left:
A Lansing rooftop bar; downtown Lansing; Albany Capital Center
Courtesy Discover Albany
Courtesy Choose Lansing
Courtesy Choose Lansing
any less charming. Nestled between the Mohawk and Hudson rivers and at the start of the Erie Canal, this city of about 100,000 is easily accessible by Amtrak and its international airport, making it a great option for events in the Northeast.
“It really represents all of the best parts of the state of New York,” said Jay Cloutier, director of sales and sports commissioner for Discover Albany. “Oftentimes people come here to work for their local legislator and stay because they enjoy the quality of life, but they bring the parts of their hometown to enjoy. It’s that amalgamation of all the really cool people in New York collecting in one place.”
Albany has two convention centers. The Albany Capital Center, opened in 2017, has 52,000 square feet, while the Empire State Plaza Convention Center has 50,000-plus square feet. There are plenty of venues outside of the convention centers and hotels. In downtown, The State Room is a former bank lobby that provides an opulent backdrop for up to 200 attendees. Also downtown, the Albany Institute of
Courtesy Discover Albany
The Egg, a performing arts center in Albany’s Empire State Plaza
History and Art can host a cocktail reception for 100 and includes private guided tours of the museum. Just outside of Albany’s suburbs, Indian Ladder Farms has an outdoor pizza garden and an on-site cidery and hosts events for up to 80 people. albany.org
SALEM, OREGON
Oregon’s capital is in the heart of the Willamette Valley, a region known for its splendid food and wine scene as well as the captivating beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Salem was founded by missionaries in 1842 and became known as an epicenter for outdoor recreation and beautiful vineyards, inspiring the tagline “the most Oregon part of Oregon.”
Salem also promises abundance to meeting and event planners. Salem Convention Center in downtown Salem offers 30,000 square feet of event space across two floors, including two ballrooms measuring 11,400 square feet and 8,750 square feet. The
193-room Grand Hotel in Salem connects to the convention center. Also downtown, within walking distance of the convention center, the Holman Riverfront Park Hotel has 3,200 square feet of chic event space and 127 guest rooms.
The city’s most expansive venue is undoubtedly the Oregon State Fair and Expo Center, which comprises a 185-acre complex of indoor and outdoor venues to hold everything from sporting events to concerts to trade shows. Off-site events can be enjoyed at signature Oregon venues. These include scenic wineries surrounding Salem, such as Willamette Valley Vineyards or Cória Estates. Another unique venue is the B-17 Alliance Museum and Restoration Hangar, the hangar at the Salem Airfield where restoration of a rare B-17 aircraft is underway. Attendees can dance or dine in the hangar and learn about World War II history.
travelsalem.com
Salem scenes, clockwise from left: Willamette Valley Vineyards; a sunset over the city; the Salem Convention Center
Photos courtesy Travel Salem
Located at the crossroads of the northeast, Albany is easily accessible by plane, train, or automobile and is a short jaunt from major metropolitan areas such as Boston, New York City, and Montreal.
There are a variety of convention, special event, sports, and creative venues for your next event. Including the Capital Complex made up of four different venues: The Albany Capital Center, The Empire State Plaza Convention Center, The Egg Performing Arts Center and MVP Arena. Connected via enclosed walkways, these venues combine to make up the largest meeting space in Upstate New York at 159,000 square feet.
Visit albany.org and learn how we can make your next meeting
‘THE CITY OF Firsts’
MBY CYNTHIA BARNES
assachusetts is not short on history — the Pilgrims landed there in 1620 — but even in a state packed with “firsts,” the city of Springfield stands out.
Founded in 1636 atop bluffs on the eastern bank of the Connecticut River near its confluence with three smaller rivers, Springfield was chosen by George Washington as the site of the Continental Army’s arsenal during the Revolutionary War. The Springfield Armory manufactured muskets, rifles and other weapons until its closure in 1968, and Springfield also played pivotal roles in the Civil War, on the Underground Railroad and during World War II.
The city is less than 30 minutes from Hartford, 90 minutes from Boston and three hours from New York City. The beaches of Cape Cod and the islands on the eastern shore of Massachusetts are only a two-and-a-half-hour drive to the east, which is especially alluring during the summer months.
Situated in the fertile Connecticut River Valley and surrounded by mountains, bluffs and hills, Springfield itself has the nation’s largest municipally owned park. Spanning 735 acres, Forest Park boasts a zoo, aquatic gardens and an outdoor amphitheater. It was designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead, who also created New York’s iconic Central Park. Nicknamed “the city of firsts,” Springfield boasts a list of achievements that are almost too numerous to mention. Merriam-Webster published the first American-English dictionary there in 1831. America’s first gas-powered automobile was manufactured there in 1895. Motorcycles came later, in 1901, and British luxury carmaker Rolls-Royce rolled out its American factory in Springfield in 1919.
With plenty of reasonably priced hotels, interesting attractions and a central location, Springfield is ideal for gathering attendees in the New England area.
A TERRACE SPACE AT MGM SPRINGFIELD
SPRINGFIELD MASSACHUSETTS
Bradley International Airport; Amtrak; interstates 90 and 91 MAJOR MEETING SPACES
MassMutual Center, Eastern States Exposition, Mullins Center, MGM Springfield
Naismith
MassMutual Center
MGM Springfield manages the MassMutual Center. The convention, sporting and entertainment center has 900 on-site hotel rooms and is within a five-minute walk of 1,100 more in downtown Springfield. The MMC Arena plays host to the Springfield Thunderbirds AHL hockey team, Disney on Ice and nationally known musicians and comedians. The convention center has more than 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including a 40,000-squarefoot exhibition hall and a 15,000-square-foot ballroom.
Meeting Hotels
Springfield has seven downtown hotels, ranging from locally owned boutiques to national chains, and an assortment of convention and meeting venues for groups of all sizes. The two largest are the recently renovated 266-room Marriott Springfield Downtown and the 325-room Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel. MGM Resorts International brought Vegas-style glitz and excitement to town in 2018 with the opening of the 240-room, boutique-style MGM Springfield. The 2 million-square-foot casino resort complex features a 125,000-square-foot gaming floor, a comedy club, a seven-screen luxury cinema and Top Golf, along with multiple restaurants, shopping and meeting and convention spaces.
All photos courtesy Explore Western Mass THE 240-ROOM MGM SPRINGFIELD OPENED IN 2018 WITH NUMEROUS GAMING, SHOPPING, DINING, ENTERTAINMENT AND MEETING SPACES.
THE MGM SPRINGFIELD GAMING FLOOR
TOWN
Springfield
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
“Hoops City” is where James Naismith invented “basket ball” in 1891, and the striking, globe-shaped Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is not to be missed.
“We like to talk about those things that you can’t find anywhere else except in Western Massachusetts,” said Michele Goldberg, director of marketing and communications for the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“Springfield is the birthplace of basketball, and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has memorabilia from every league in the world on display. Whether you’re a basketball fan or not, there’s something in that building that will definitely make for a very fun day. It’s very interactive. They just did a $30 million renovation, so everything is brand new. It’s a great place to visit and to host dinner or an event.”
Other Museums
Springfield is also home to five Smithsonian-affiliated museums, including the Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts, which includes works by Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent and members of the Hudson River School. It was also the boyhood home of Theodor Geisel — better known as Dr. Seuss. The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum is a sight to behold, and everyone will want a few photos in the whimsical Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, where visitors can come face-to-face with Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat and Dr. Seuss himself.
“Springfield is the birthplace of basketball, and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has memorabilia from every league in the world on display.”
—
Michele Goldberg, Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME
A MOTORCYCLE COLLECTION AT SPRINGFIELD MUSEUMS
HASBRO GAMES ART DISCOVERY CENTER
THE AMAZING WORLD OF DR. SEUSS MUSEUM
YOUR NEW ENGLAND MEETING DESERVES A
First-Class Destination First-Class Destination
As the birthplace of basketball and volleyball, the home of Dr. Seuss, and where Yankee Candle first flickered to life, Western Mass attracts attendees like a moth to a flame. Why? Beyond business, there are spirited adventures to be had at nearby iconic attractions like the Museum of Springfield History, the historic Springfield Armory, MGM Springfield, and more, which make this meeting destination as innovative as it is inspiring.
When you book at the 100,000+ sq. ft. MassMutual Convention Center, you’ll be in the heart of New England. Enjoy unmatched accessibility for attendees, over 5,800 hotel rooms to choose from, and exclusive incentives that will make your meeting extraordinary.
Let’s create something unforgettable together.
explorewesternmass.com/meeting-planner-incentives
New in the Heartland
MULVA CULTURAL CENTER
De Pere, Wisconsin
BY PAULA AVEN GLADYCH
America’s Heartland continues to be a major destination for meeting planners looking for new and interesting places to host their events. Here are five new venues that offer plenty of meeting space and amenities, including three hotels, a cultural center and the College Baseball Hall of Fame.
The Mulva Cultural Center is a 75,000-square-foot cultural destination on the Fox River in De Pere, Wisconsin, that hosts traveling exhibits from around the world. Designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, the center opened in December 2023 and has already taken home an AIA Chicago Lerch Bates People’s Choice Award for best cultural architecture.
The center’s next exhibition, Unofficial Galaxies, will run January 25–April 27 and is one of the largest private collections of Star Wars memorabilia in the world. It includes 142 collected items from the Star Wars universe, including a lifesize Landspeeder, a Princess Leia costume, young Anakin Skywalker’s desk and chair from the film “The Phantom Menace” and a sculpture of Baby Yoda from “The Mandalorian.”
Meeting planners have their pick of choice meeting spots at the center. The 200-seat auditorium can be used for lectures or presentations, while two multipurpose learning spaces can accommodate up to 90 for lectures, meetings or special occasions. The atrium, which includes exhibit space,
THE COLLEGE BASEBALL HALL OF FAME IS TAKING OVER AN EXHIBIT SPACE IN THE MUSEUM AT PRAIRIEFIRE IN OVERLAND PARK.
Courtesy College Baseball Hall of Fame
is two stories high and can host 350 for a cocktail reception or 200 for a plated dinner or buffet. A boardroom can hold 20 and is equipped with state-of-the-art A/V equipment.
The on-site restaurant can seat 100 for lunch or dinner, and the center’s patio works well for cocktail receptions. Groups can also tour the exhibits as part of their events.
mulvacenter.org
THE H HOTEL
Midland, Michigan
The H Hotel, a AAA Four Diamond property in the heart of downtown Midland, Michigan, has been in the city for 31 years but has changed hands many times. Most recently, it was a branded Wyndham Hotels and Resorts property. In October 2023, Wyndham turned over management of the hotel to Charlestowne Hotels. That means, for the first time in its history, the hotel is not associated with any brand.
The hotel’s success is driven by its central downtown location, which places it close to shopping and restaurants, as well as to Dow Diamond baseball stadium, home of the Great Lakes Loons, and The Tridge, a three-legged wooden footbridge that spans the confluence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa rivers in Chippewassee Park.
The hotel has 103 guest rooms, more than 10,000 square feet of indoor meeting space and 15,000 square feet of outdoor green space. The largest space can accommodate up to 300 guests. The H has dedicated event planners to assist groups with every detail of their conference planning, from logistics to on-site coordination, and all its meeting spaces have built-in projection and an on-site A/V technician.
Groups that host events at the hotel can add experiences, such as iron chef competitions or bourbon tastings. The hotel has two on-site restaurants. One Eighteen is a modern American restaurant that offers classic dishes with a contemporary twist, and Café Zinc is a European-inspired café that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Oxygen Lounge features innovative cocktails, light bites, happy hour and an outdoor patio.
thehhotel.com
The center’s next exhibition, Unofficial Galaxies, will run January 25–April 27 and is one of the largest private collections of Star Wars memorabilia in the world. Meeting planners have their pick of choice meeting spots at the center. The 200-seat auditorium can be used for lectures or presentations.
Courtesy Mulva Cultural Center
A BANQUET AT MULVA CULTURAL CENTER
Courtesy The H Hotel
A CAFÉ INSIDE THE H HOTEL
COLLEGE BASEBALL HALL OF FAME
Overland Park, Kansas
The College Baseball Hall of Fame has been in the works for some time. The College Baseball Foundation, which was founded in 2004 in Lubbock, Texas, has always wanted a physical location to celebrate the annual inductees. It ended up choosing Overland Park, Kansas, because of its great central location and strong baseball presence with the nearby Kansas City Royals and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.
The hall of fame is taking over a 9,000-square-foot exhibition space within the Museum at Prairiefire. The facility is being designed by Populous, a Kansas City-based company. It will include a space dedicated to the college hall of famers and their stories. Other galleries will spotlight the winners of several annual awards, including All-Americans across all divisions.
The foundation also wants the space to be fun, engaging and interactive. It will have a theater and batting simulators. The hall of fame is expected to open during the first quarter of 2026. Groups will be able to rent out various spaces throughout the Museum at Prairiefire, especially the Great Hall, which is its main event space. Groups renting space will be able to include entrance to the hall of fame.
mlb.com/college-baseball-hall-of-fame
A RENDERING OF AN EXHIBIT AT THE COLLEGE BASEBALL HALL OF FAME
Fargo meeting spaces
THE WELL HOUSE HAMILTON Hamilton, Ohio
The Well House Hamilton opened in December 2024 in a Hamilton, Ohio, structure that originally was built as a hotel in 1927. It served as a hotel until the 1960s, and then became apartments and most recently a senior living facility. Hilton bought the property in 2022 and spent two years on a renovation project.
The Well House, which has 54 guest rooms and 528 square feet of event space across two meeting rooms, was named in tribute to Hamilton’s history. About 30 yards from the hotel’s
Groups will be able to rent out various spaces throughout the Museum at Prairiefire, especially the Great Hall, which is its main event space. Groups renting space will be able to include entrance to the hall of fame.
Courtesy The Well House Hamilton
LOBBY SPACE AT THE WELL HOUSE HAMILTON
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front door, deep underground, is the original freshwater well that the town’s earliest settlers dug back in the 1790s.
One of the meeting rooms is an executive conference room that seats 10. The Bourbon Room, with dark, rich leathers and soft seating, can serve as a hospitality suite. There is an on-site restaurant, The Lucky Well Irish Pub and Eatery, which has indoor and outdoor seating. The lobby — complete with a water feature — is a place where guests can collaborate and work together, and Hilton has partnered with the Butler County Historical Society to incorporate historical artifacts throughout.
hilton.com
The Well House, which has 54 guest rooms and 528 square feet of event space across two meeting rooms, was named in tribute to Hamilton’s history. About 30 yards from the hotel’s front door, deep underground, is the original freshwater well.
Photos courtesy The Well House Hamilton
TOWNPLACE SUITES WENTZVILLE
Wentzville, Missouri
TownePlace Suites in Wentzville, Missouri, opened as an extended-stay hotel in March 2024. It was built on a bluff overlooking the forest canopy and the Wentzville Bluffs. The hotel has 96 guest rooms and one 456-square-foot executive boardroom that can seat 15 guests.
Every guest room offers beautiful views of the surrounding woods. Stone Summit Steak and Seafood restaurant is within walking distance of the hotel and partners with it for group events. Groups of up to 36 people can rent the restaurant’s private dining room for meetings, banquets or special events. The hotel also features an on-site fitness center with cardio equipment, free weights and other workout machines.
The St. Charles Convention Center is 20 miles from the new hotel, offering 154,000 square feet of flexible event space. The facility can host banquets for up to 2,500 guests or exhibitions with 250 booths.
Just 41 miles from St. Louis, Wentzville is also home to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Hall of Fame, which features 16 indoor and 16 outdoor horseshoe courts and a large museum. TownePlace Suites is the host hotel for several large equestrian events that take place at the National Equestrian Center in nearby Lake St. Louis. The city is also the location of a General Motors assembly plant, which manufactures mid-size trucks and full-size vans. towneplacesuites.marriott.com
MEET SHOP
The St. Charles Convention Center is 20 miles from the new hotel, offering 154,000 square feet of flexible event space. The host banquets for up to 2,500 guests or exhibitions with 250 booths.
Photos courtesy TownPlace Suites Wentzville
Why settle when you can soar? The birthplace of aviation and home to the Wright brothers is your “Wright” choice for meetings and events. In Dayton, Discover the Unexpected—a central location, easy access, affordable state-of-the-art venues like the $45 million renovated Dayton Convention Center and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, world-class attractions ranging from aviation heritage, arts and culture, outdoor recreation, and more. You’ll land the perfect meeting in Dayton. Your group is the big star in Dayton’s sky and will get the attention it deserves. Chart a course for an unforgettable experience, and start planning today.
Heartland Golf Resorts
WISCONSIN DELLS, WISCONSIN
BY PAULA AVEN GLADYCH
America’s Heartland is known for its natural beauty, rugged lakefront coastlines and championship golf courses, making it an excellent destination for groups that want to incorporate the sport into their conferences or events. Here are five world-class golf destinations with a plethora of lodging and meeting venues for groups of any size.
Wisconsin Dells is known for its rugged, glacier-carved sandstone river gorge. It is also a family-friendly resort destination, with water parks and championship golf courses. Meeting planners wanting to incorporate golf into their events have two attractive options: Trappers Turn Golf Club, which is part of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, and Wild Rock Golf Club, the course at Wilderness Resort. Trappers Turn features 27 holes of championship golf. The 12North Short Course, which debuted in 2021, is a par-three course with 12 unique holes that range from 50 to 120 yards. The course is ideal for groups interested in a shorter round of golf. The clubhouse has five meeting rooms and over 10,000 square feet of space. The main dining room is the largest space at 5,000 square feet and can seat 225 for a banquet.
Wild Rock Golf Club at Wilderness Resort features an 18-hole championship golf course built from a former quarry. The Woods Short Course at Wild Rock is a nine-hole course and is perfect for groups that are less experienced but still want to try their hand at the game. The resort’s
Courtesy Branson/Lakes Area CVB
Glacier Canyon Lodge has 56,000 square feet of meeting space for large groups, including banquet space for up to 1,200 guests, while Wild Rock Clubhouse is perfect for smaller gatherings, with a 4,392-square-foot room with a capacity of 120 guests.
The area has four other golf facilities, including Spring Brook Golf Course, Cold Water Canyon Golf Course at Chula Vista Resort, Fairfield Hills Golf Course and Driving Range, and Christmas Mountain Village Golf Course.
wisdells.com
BRANSON AND THE OZARKS, MISSOURI
Set in the Ozark Mountains, Branson, Missouri, is a world-renowned entertainment destination that has also made a name for itself in the world of golf. The area features 10 golf courses and more than 24 hotels with a significant amount of meeting space, making it easy for groups to include golf outings as part of their conferences.
There are two Hilton hotels in very close proximity — one adjacent to the Branson Convention Center and the other at Branson Landing. Between the two, there are over 500 guest rooms and 220,000 square feet of meeting space. The hotels partner with Branson Hills Golf Club when planning group outings. The course is carved into the Ozark Mountains, with natural rock outcroppings, waterfalls and creeks, and offers unique challenges for all skills levels. The clubhouse has a large lounge area with TVs, card tables and a bar that is perfect for private gatherings, and the Magnolia Grille is a sports bar and restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.
Thousand Hills Golf Resort has several lodging options and more than 4,000 square feet of meeting space. The 18-hole public golf course takes players through beautiful hardwood forests, past unique rock formations and over Ozark streams. Big Cedar Lodge has 362 private accommodations, five golf courses (with one more in the works) and over 20,000 square feet of meeting space.
Holiday Hills Resort and Golf Club is managed by Holiday Inn, which also has onsite meeting space. Pointe Royale Condominium Resort and Golf Course has 3,000 square feet of meeting space. explorebranson.com
Trappers Turn features 27 holes of championship golf. The 12North Short Course, which debuted in 2021, is a parthree course with 12 unique holes that range from 50 to 120 yards. The course is ideal for groups interested in a shorter round of golf.
By J. Leute, courtesy WI Dells VCB
TRAPPERS TURN GOLF CLUB IN WISCONSIN DELLS
Courtesy WI Dells VCB
A BALLROOM AT WISCONSIN DELLS’ KALAHARI RESORTS AND CONFERENCE CENTER
Everything good you can imagine is here:
FOR PLANNERS:
» Full in-house Sales, Event, AV Technology, F&B, and Host services
» 225,000 sf of beautifully appointed space
» 18 versatile, fully appointed event spaces and intuitive floor plans
» 4 downtown full service hotels with garage and valet parking
» Boutique shopping; live entertainment; vibrant arts & attractions
» Riverfront parks, trails, and activities for all ages
» Easy drive-to destination; Easy by air via FWA
LITTLE TRAVERSE BAY, MICHIGAN
Little Traverse Bay is on Lake Michigan in the northwestern corner of Michigan’s lower peninsula. Petoskey, the area’s largest town, is not only a sought-after golf destination, but also offers a wide selection of meeting and event venues, from resorts and historic inns to hotels and unique off-site locations.
The area features 120,000 square feet of meeting space and 17 championship golf courses. Village Suites Bay Harbor and the Inn at Bay Harbor are less than three miles from some of Michigan’s best golf courses, and both have event spaces.
Village Suites Bay Harbor sits along five miles of Lake Michigan shoreline between Petoskey and Charlevoix. Elevation, the property’s largest event space, is on the second floor of the lodge building and can host up to 200 guests. The Marina Lawn can accommodate up to 300 with panoramic views of Bay Harbor Lake and Lake Marina. There is also an executive boardroom for 12.
Inn at Bay Harbor features rooms, suites and cottages. It can host groups of up to 180 and is minutes from Bay Harbor Golf Club on Little Traverse Bay. The club features 27 holes of golf. Groups that want to host events there can plan golf, putting or chipping contests. The clubhouse’s main room, Arthur’s 27, can accommodate up to 70 guests. The Preserve Room can host 32 guests and includes a fireplace and access to an outdoor terrace. Both rooms can be combined for larger group events.
petoskeyarea.com
Courtesy Petoskey Area VB
Meagan Drabik Sales Manager
Inn at Bay Harbor features rooms, suites and cottages. It can host groups of up to 180 and is minutes from Bay Harbor Golf Club on Little Traverse Bay. The club features 27 holes of golf.
Courtesy Petoskey Area VB
MICHIGAN’S LITTLE TRAVERSE BAY
WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA
West Lafayette, Indiana, is not only home to Purdue University, but is also a prime golf destination with several courses to choose from. Meeting planners can book events of up to 6,000 people on campus. The majority of the university’s conference spaces are connected to the Union Club Hotel at Purdue University by hallways or an underground tunnel. The hotel has 182 guest rooms and 20,104 square feet of meeting space across seven event rooms. The North and South ballrooms can be combined to host nearly 800 guests.
Attendees can take advantage of the Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex on campus, which features two 18-hole championship courses and a golf training center and can host golf events for groups of up to 400. The complex includes a cozy clubhouse and a world-class practice facility as well as the weather-protected Samuel Voinoff Golf Pavilion, with a fireplace and a stage, with catering provided by Levy/Boilermaker Hospitality Catering.
Coyote Crossing Golf Club is a semi-private, 18-hole golf course close to campus that offers five tees on every hole to challenge players of all levels. The banquet facility there can seat 175 comfortably, and an additional 70 to 100 guests can be added if the bar and grill area and 1,200-square-foot veranda are included. Groups as large as 144 can organize golf outings on the course.
homeofpurdue.com
West Lafayette, Indiana, is not only home to Purdue University, but is also a prime golf destination with several courses to choose from.
Meeting planners can book events of up to 6,000 people on campus.
BIRK BOILERMAKER GOLF COMPLEX IN WEST LAFAYETTE
A MEETING SPACE AT PURDUE UNIVERSITY’S UNION CLUB HOTEL
Photos courtesy Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette
Wheat Penny Bar
BOOK YOUR EVENT IN Springfield, Missouri
Host your next event in Springfield’s best venues, then step out to enjoy local art, craft brews, and the scenic Ozarks! Book now with INCENTIVESPlus for up to a $10 rebate per room night on select new bookings through December 31, 2027— reserve by December 31, 2025, to qualify!
STILLWATER, MINNESOTA
Forty miles east of Minneapolis, the city of Stillwater, Minnesota, is the epitome of small-town charm, with 192 hotel rooms in its quaint downtown district and 475 rooms total. The area has five golf courses: Oak Glen Golf Course, Applewood Hills Golf Course, Loggers Trail, StoneRidge Golf Club and Royal Golf Club.
Oak Glen is a par-72 championship course that is easily walkable and accessible to golfers of all levels. The Exec course is par-29 and a great option for those who want to enjoy a shorter game. The facility can host events and leagues on both courses. The Royal Oak room can host events for up to 400 guests and features a full bar and a permanent dance floor.
Applewood Hills has a great party space that can host up to 175 guests, with outdoor patio seating for 50 and spectacular views of the golf course. Event packages can include nine or 18 holes of golf.
There are four full-service hotels downtown and several off-site venues within walking distance, including the JX Event Venue, Loft 214, the St. Croix Event Center and Stillwater Event Center.
Several wineries and breweries offer tastings and tours, and historic trolley tours familiarize groups to the area. Riverboat cruises offer a unique perspective on the city, and there are several team-building experiences available, such as guided kayaking, hiking, birding, fishing and e-biking excursions, as well as paint-andsip or candle-pouring classes. The Lowell Inn offers fondue parties and a high tea experience.
discoverstillwater.com
Oak Glen is a par-72 championship course that can host events and leagues on both courses. The Royal Oak room can host events for up to 400 guests and features a full bar and a permanent dance floor.
By James Beck, courtesy Discover Stillwater
STILLWATER SCENERY
STILLWATER’S JX EVENT VENUE
Courtesy Discover Stillwater
High-Value Targets
Meeting Guide
BY PAULA AVEN GLADYCH
Meeting planners searching for more affordable event destinations in America’s Heartland should look no further than these five smaller cities. All five include full-service hotels, as well as first-class event venues, fun attractions and beautiful natural surroundings — all at an attractive value.
EVANSTON, ILLINOIS
Evanston, Illinois, is one of the most scenic areas in Chicagoland. The city borders Chicago but sits on Lake Michigan and offers direct city and suburban train service to downtown, which works well for groups that want to host meetings in the area but also experience the delights of the city. Another plus to hosting events in Evanston is its proximity to Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Visitors don’t have to jump on the highway to get to Evanston. As the home of Northwestern University, the area has everything that usually comes with a college town, including several full-service hotels. Graduate by Hilton Evanston is located near Northwestern’s campus and Lake Michigan. It has 119 guest rooms, and its Tea Room, private dining room and restaurant make great meeting spaces for smaller groups.
The Hilton Garden Inn Chicago North Shore/Evanston is within easy walking distance to Lake Michigan and
THE BAHA’I HOUSE OF WORSHIP IN WILMETTE IS ONE OF THE MOST MEMORABLE STRUCTURES ON THE CHICAGO NORTH SHORE NEAR EVANSTON.
Courtesy Chicago’s North Shore CVB
Northwestern. It has 178 guest rooms and 4,492 square feet of meeting space. Its largest space can host 210 for a banquet or 360 for a reception.
Westin Chicago North Shore in nearby Wheeling is the largest hotel in the area with nearly 44,000 square feet of event space. Its largest space can host up to 1,700 guests and 15 breakout rooms are available.
The 385-acre Chicago Botanic Garden is a wonderful place to visit and host events. And attendees will want to visit the architecturally significant temple, Baha’i House of Worship in nearby Wilmette — the only one in North America.
visitchicagonorthshore.com
Westin Chicago North Shore in nearby Wheeling is the largest hotel in the area with nearly 44,000 square feet of event space . Its largest space can host up to 1, 700 guests and 15 breakout rooms are available.
Photos courtesy Chicago’s North Shore CVB
CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN IN THE NORTH SHORE REGION
EVANSTON’S GROSS POINT LIGHTHOUSE
DINING IN DOWNTOWN EVANSTON
DULUTH, MINNESOTA
Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth, Minnesota, is an ideal destination for meeting planners looking for a natural escape full of outdoor activities. The Aerial Lift Bridge at Duluth’s waterfront is the only one of its kind, and visitors come from around the world to watch ships pass beneath it. It is also home to Minnesota Point, the world’s longest freshwater sandbar, stretching over seven miles along Lake Superior’s shoreline.
Duluth is not only rich in maritime history, but also has become a craft brewery and foodie destination. Meeting planners have their pick of unique venues, including Glensheen Mansion, a 39-room mansion on 12 acres of Lake Superior shoreline; the opulent, 1920s-era Greysolon Ballroom with crystal chandeliers, marble floors and intricate woodwork in downtown Duluth; and Great Lakes Aquarium, which allows after-hours meeting groups to explore the exhibits as part of their events.
The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center is a 275,000-square-foot event space with multiple meeting rooms and a grand ballroom. It sits right on the waterfront, allowing attendees to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake.
Clyde Iron Works is a former ironworks factory in Duluth’s Lincoln Park Craft District. It has been turned into two event venues, a brewery, coffee roastery and restaurant.
The city has boutique hotels and traditional flag properties — most with views of the lake — that offer conference spaces up to 11,200 square feet.
visitduluth.com
The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center is a 275,000-square-foot event space that sits right on the waterfront.
The Facilities, The Lodging The Fun ... Just Perfect!
Located along the Ohio River directly adjacent to Ohio and Kentucky, our proximity to Cincinnati means we’re close to big-city amenities with all of the meeting customization and service a smaller location can provide.
Home to Hollywood Casino and the Lawrenceburg Event Center, we’re ideal for small and mid-size meetings and conventions of all types, offering:
✦ Large, customizable meeting and event space
✦ 15 miles to the Cincinnati International Airport
✦ 468 hotel rooms
✦ Walkable Main Street offering casino gaming, destination dining, entertainment options, historic tours, riverfront access, outdoor recreation, trails, winery/brewery properties, and more
Ready to get started? Scan the QR code to the right!
CARMEL, INDIANA
Just outside of Indianapolis, the suburb of Carmel, Indiana, exudes small town charm but has all the amenities of a larger urban center, including three convention hotels: a Renaissance, Hotel Carmichael and The Tallison Hotel.
The Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel has 266 guest rooms and 14,844 square feet of meeting space. Its Carmel Ballroom can host up to 450 guests for a banquet or be divided into six smaller meeting rooms. The hotel also has eight small meeting rooms perfect for breakout sessions. The Tallison Hotel has a 6,136-square-foot ballroom that can host up to 550 for a reception, as well as an additional 1,410 square feet of pre-function space. It also has a boardroom for up to 14 guests. Hotel Carmichael has 122 rooms and suites and features more than 12,000 functional square feet of event space. The Cole Porter Ballroom can host up to 160 for a banquet or 200 for a reception.
The Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts has three venues: the Studio Theater, which can seat 200; the Tarkington, a 500-seat proscenium theater; and the Palladium, a 1,500-seat concert hall. Coxhall Gardens sits on 125 acres in West Carmel and offers several venues, including an outdoor amphitheater for up to 500 guests; Cripe Pavilion, which can host 350 for a banquet and 500 for a standing reception; and Cox Mansion, which can accommodate 80 for a banquet or 100 if the event includes the patio. A third-floor music room can host up to 40 for a sit-down event.
visithamiltoncounty.com
By Amanda Reynolds, courtesy Visit Hamilton Co., IN
SWITCH UP YOUR SCENE
Discover a new frontier for your next event in Greater St. Cloud. Our vibrant area offers a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty, making it the perfect backdrop for unforgettable experiences and your next event.
Unique Venues: From historic theaters to modern convention centers, we have the perfect space to accommodate your event.
World-Class Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels, from cozy bed and breakfasts to connected hotels.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse your attendees in local art, music, and history... all within steps of our convention center!
Outdoor Adventures: Explore scenic parks, bike trails, world acclaimed Gardens, and the Mississippi River.
Complimentary Services: Let us assist you with your event with our complimentary services like name badges, welcome signage, registration assistance and more!
Ready to elevate your next event? Contact us today to learn more about hosting your event in Greater St. Cloud. Info@visitstcloud.com
ALTOONA, IOWA
A little more than 10 miles from Des Moines, Altoona, a city of 22,000 people, is considered the entertainment capital of Iowa. The city attracts 4.5 million visitors a year, driven by Adventureland Resort amusement park, Outlets of Des Moines Altoona, Bass Pro Shop and Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack and Hotel.
The city has 13 hotels with more than 1,200 hotel rooms and is in the process of building another one. Its largest meeting venue is at Prairie Meadows, which has 168 guest rooms and 34,000 square feet of meeting space that can serve up to 2,000 guests. The facility has a fine dining restaurant, a café and year-round entertainment. Smaller groups can host events at the Prairie Meadows Racetrack. Trackside venues include the Pavilion, which can accommodate 120 seated and 180 for a standing reception; the Gazebo, which can host 250 standing; and the Grandstand, which can seat 200. There are several other options for smaller groups or outdoor events. Different food packages are available for groups hosting events during a race.
Terrace Hills Golf Course has a new clubhouse that was designed to seat up to 249 guests. It has its own catering service for special events held there, and groups can add on a game of golf on the 18-hole, par 71 championship course, challenge coworkers to a game of mini-golf or spend time at the driving range. The golf club is just minutes from 12 different hotels.
Adventureland has several meeting spaces, including the Iowa Ballroom, which can accommodate groups of up to 400. Groups meeting at the park can add on one-day park passes that include Adventureland and Adventure Bay Water Park. visitaltoona.com
A little more than 10 miles from Des Moines, Altoona, a city of 22,000 people, is considered the entertainment capital of Iowa.
THE PAVILION AT TERRACE HILLS GOLF COURSE
Photos courtesy Altoona COC
ALTOONA’S PRAIRIE MEADOWS RACETRACK
Room with a view!
CONNECT IN THE FOX CITIES
Start planning for your next meeting or event in the Fox Cities. From riverfront meetings by day to world-class dining at night, the Fox Cities are the perfect place to stage your original event experience.
Looking for a modern, state-of-the-art option with room for a crowd? Check out the Fox Cities Exhibition Center38,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed space built right into the hillside of Downtown Appleton.
C ontact Alison Hutchinson at ahutchinson@foxcities.org to plan your original event.
GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA
Grand Island, Nebraska, is home to the spring migration of sandhill cranes, beautiful large birds that descend on the area in the thousands. Groups meeting in the city can see these creatures in several natural areas, including Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center, Derr Prairie, Gjerloff Prairie and Mormon Island State Recreation Area.
Fonner Park is the largest event facility in Grand Island, hosting meetings, banquets, livestock shows and exhibitions. Recent events included Comic Con, dog shows and a Bigfoot convention. The Heartland Events Center offers 180,000 square feet of multipurpose event space. The Eihusen Arena has 30,000 square feet of floor space and can seat 6,000 guests in permanent seats and 1,500 on the arena floor. The arena can host sporting events, dance competitions, the Nebraska State Fair, Monster Trucks, rodeos and the National 4-H Shooting Competition.
The Bosselman Conference Center, located within the events center, has 8,000 square feet of conference space. Riverside Golf Club also has event space available. Its ballroom can accommodate
ONGOING CONSTRUCTION AT GRAND ISLAND CASINO RESORT
The most significant hotel development is slated to open mid-February, when the Grand Island Casino Resort finishes work on a seven-story building overlooking the Fonner Park thoroughbred racetrack.
up to 500 guests for a reception or seated dinner, and three smaller event spaces are available for more intimate gatherings.
The Comfort Suites, which was completed three years ago, has 79 guest rooms and a small 372-square-foot meeting space. A new Springhill Suites will open in 2025, across from the Stuhr Museum. It will have 129 guest rooms and meeting space for up to 100.
The most significant hotel development is slated to open mid-February, when the Grand Island Casino Resort finishes work on a seven-story building overlooking the Fonner Park thoroughbred racetrack. The new resort will have 160 rooms and feature multiple restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, spa facilities and a casino.
visitgrandisland.com
Your event should make a statement –Memorable. Elevated. Entertaining. From trade shows and corporate meetings to conventions and elegant galas for thousands of people, the John S. Knight Center is the ideal location for your next event.
A DOG SHOW IN GRAND ISLAND
The Perfect Meeting Place
Caesars Southern Indiana is perfect for business meetings, corporate events, banquets & more.
Only 30 minutes from Louisville, KY & two hours from Indianapolis, IN.
