MEETINGS WITH A SIDE OF VITAMIN SEA

From corporate retreats to big time concerts to antique car shows, and everything in between, it’s no wonder year after year meeting and event planners choose the Wildwoods Convention Center!

• 75K square foot exhibit arena, a 12K square foot Ballroom and 10-Meeting Rooms

• 380 – 10’ x 10’ exhibit booth space or seating for up to 7,500

• Modern amenities / State-of-the-art communication systems

• Full in-house Catering/Concession services

• Adjacent to the world-famous Wildwoods Boardwalk and 5 miles of FREE white sand beaches

• On-site parking for over 700 vehicles

• 30K square feet of pre-function space

• Free Wi-Fi for attendees

To schedule your next meeting or event, 800-992-9732 | WildwoodsCC.com

Byrne Plaza in downtown Wildwood hosts events throughout the summer, including: farmer’s markets; concerts and stage performances; arts and craft shows; specialty wine, craft beer and unique food events; health and fitness expos; and private events, too.

Summer in the Wildwoods also means fireworks every Friday night, visible from almost anywhere on the boardwalk and throughout the island.

The National Marbles Tournament, a Wildwoods tradition since 1922, celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2023 - attracting “Mibsters” (boys and girls ages 8 to 14) from across the country to play more than 1,200 games of marbles. Grand prize winners receive a trophy, commemorative plaque, official tournament watch, a $2,000 college scholarship, and will have their names inducted into the Marbles Hall of Fame.

Wildlife is abundant in the Wildwoods, too, and nature-lovers can witness shore birds as well as lots of local marine life. Nearby, Cape May Point also is full of local wildlife and nature walks. Additionally, the Cape May County Park and Zoo is a short drive away.

Southern Delaware Beaches

Rehoboth Beach, known as “The Nation’s Summer Capital,” offers plenty of summer activities to explore and enjoy. Just a mile away is Hyatt Place Dewey Beach, where guests can visit the Lighthouse Bar Restaurant with its open-air concept overlooking Rehoboth Bay. “Indulge in our casual coastal fare and sip on a famous Lighthouse Dewey Crush,” urges Ashlee Martinelli, regional director of sales and marketing for the Hyatt Place Dewey Beach in Dewey Beach, DE.

“The Hyatt Place Dewey Beach sits on the Rehoboth Bay and Bay Beach, perfect for summer water activities,” Martinelli continues. “Travelers can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis, as well as book a parasail or banana boat ride. Directly across the street from the hotel, you can visit the Oceanside beach and take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean.”

The famous Jolley Trolley has a stop at the Hyatt Place Dewey Beach, which will take travelers to downtown Rehoboth Beach where they can enjoy shopping and sampling boardwalk fare.

“The Hyatt Place Dewey Beach encourages a fun environment,” declares Martinelli. “From a calming sunrise beach yoga to a heart-pumping outdoor spin class, we can start off the day with a wellness component. Next, you can host a lively sunset boat cruise on the Rehoboth Bay with your team... End the day sitting by a beach bonfire complete with custom s'mores kits. Our team can facilitate these and other opportunities.”

Dewey Beach and the surrounding area play host to many summer events that enhance the travelers’ experience, too. On the Fridays of each of the major summer holiday weekends, Hyatt hosts a 40-year tra ditional event called “Taco Toss” that includes live music, Lighthouse tacos, and those Lighthouse Dewey Crushes while enjoying Southern Delaware sunsets.

OCEAN CITY, MD

Ocean City is known for its pristine beaches and three-mile boardwalk that features nearly endless entertainment options and free weekly events. Want to experience spectacular views while out on the Atlantic Ocean? Check out kayak, paddleboard, or boating rentals by the hour or the day. Just minutes away is Assateague Island National Seashore with its hiking trails, boardwalks, and beach, as well.

“Ocean City hosts an abundance of events and activities during the sum mer,” notes Kim Mueller, director of sales, Town of Ocean City Maryland. “Kick off the summer at the Cruisin’

Ocean City car show in May to see over 3,000 hotrods, customs, classics, and trucks. Or, look to the skies for the OC Air Show to see the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flying over the beach and boardwalk in June.”

The summer fun continues with the OC Beach Dance Party and Sunset Party Park Nights hosted weekly with live music and food vendors from July through August. Lastly, the annual Marlin Fest is a top activity for groups and families. Watch the weigh-ins of the Marlin Open with food and drink, entertainment, vendors, and a variety of beach activities.

“What better way to celebrate summer in September than with the 2023 Ocean’s Calling Festival,” asserts Mueller. “The three-day music festival features artists such as Jack Johnson, Alanis Morissette, John Mayer, and The Lumineers - all performing on the iconic boardwalk for the first time this year.”

POCONO MOUNTAINS, PA

Camelback Resort is a popular Pocono Mountains escape offering year-round fun and excitement, and this year Camelbeach – Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor waterpark – is celebrating its 25th anniversary. “Our guests love to come summer after summer because there are activities for every generation, adventure skills, and comfort level,” asserts Angela Lustig, director of sales for Camelback Resort in Tannersville, PA. “Our guests never run out of things to do inside or outside. And our season passes allow for multiple visits all summer long.”

The staff at Camelback Resort are happy to help plan group activities where everyone works together while having a fun and memorable time, from splashing around at one of the property’s waterparks as part of a private after-hours event to maneuvering through Tree Top Adventures and ropes courses to throwing axes and driving UTVs through the forest.

For a more lowkey experience, try wine and spirit tastings, enjoy outdoor barbecues, s’mores making, or charcuterie workshops. These activities are perfect for winding down after an adrenaline-fueled day.

“Keeping up our reputation for providing thrills, chills, challenges, and excitement all while celebrating Camelbeach’s 25th anniversary, on June 16th we are debuting the new Rival Racer water slide, created for two sliders to race to the finish line of a 400-foot slide with a vertical drop of 54-feet of eight twisting, closed individual chutes," says Lustig. "And on the weekend of May 27, two new Sky Flyer 4,000-foot ziplines – the longest in the state – open at Camelback Mountain Adventures.”

Another exciting Pocono Mountains resort, Kalahari Resorts and Conventions is home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, and summer is the perfect time to stay and enjoy the indoor and outdoor slides and pools. Stay in one of the fully-appointed rooms or suites to enjoy the waterpark and other resort amenities, as admission to the waterpark is included for all registered guests.

There is something for everyone in the waterpark, from extreme slides for the thrill seeker to little slides and pool areas for children. The waterpark also features FlowRider, where one can learn to surf, a Wave Pool Experience, a Lazy River, and an adult swim-up bar. Guests also can rent private cabanas to create their own oasis in the waterpark.

Kalahari has many scenic trails around the resort for groups to hike and take in nature, as well. The resort also features Gorilla Grove Adventure Park, where adventurous groups can test their skills on six different aerial ropes courses ranging from beginner to expert. The adventure park also features zip lines, laser tag and mini golf.

Eleven on-site dining outlets include signature restaurants, a buffet experience, and quick-bite options. The resort’s four signature dining experiences give guests a variety of options from which to choose, including Double Cut steakhouse, and Cinco Niños - a modern Mexican and tequila bar that features the largest tequila and mezcal menu in the Poconos.

Spa Kalahari and Salon boasts many amenities, such as body treatments, luxurious massages, skin care, and nail care services. The spa also includes a hy- drotherapy treatment area with a jacuzzi, dry sauna, and an herbal-infused steam room, as well as a Halotherapy Salt room to detoxify the body from the inside out.

CHESTER COUNTY & BRANDYWINE VALLEY, PA

Chester County is in the heart of America’s Garden Capital, as Greater Philadelphia offers over 35 public gardens within 30-miles, including Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square. A world-class horticultural treasure, Longwood is situated on more than 1,000acres and features 20 outdoor gardens, a conservatory, and the most significant fountain collection in North America. The majestic Main Fountain Garden features a mix of grand architecture, horti- cultural artistry, and soaring fountains. Enjoy the Festival of Fountains now through September 24th, where water dances and soars up to 175-feet in the air with daily shows. Illuminated Fountain Performances take place Thursday through Saturday evenings.

Other gardens in the region include Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library in Wilmington, DE with antique collections indoors and a 60-acre garden outside - a narrated garden tram ride is a great way to experience them. Nearby, Nemours Estate is a 77-room mansion with antiques, famous works of art, and tapestries. The grounds include some of the finest examples of French-style gardens in the U.S., which host Nemours’ Summer Third Thursdays with live music, beer, wine, and food trucks.

Explore the valley along the water and make dinner an adventure with Canoe and Dine at Northbrook Canoe. On select summer evenings, take a leisurely paddle down the Brandywine River, then enjoy a catered picnic dinner under the stars, plus live music, a bonfire, and s’mores.

Summer is the season for festivals and fairs, too, with the Devon Horse Show and Country Fair - one of the nation’s leading equestrian events – from May 25 to June 3. The Country Fair offers food, shops, and special event days.

Celebrate Independence Day at the Philly Balloon and Music Festival in Chester County, July 2-3 at Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show Grounds. The Chester County skies will come alive with over 20 balloons launching daily, tethered balloon rides, a beer garden, and familyfriendly adventures. On July 3rd there will be fireworks, as well.

The annual Blobfest is a quirky festival that pays homage to the 1950s cult classic film – The Blob. For over two-decades, cult movie geeks have flocked to the historic Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville, which served as a backdrop for scenes in the iconic sci-fi classic. Blobfest is a campy, family-friendly weekend-long street party featuring a costume contest, live re-enactments from the movie, and an amateur filmmaking competition from July 14-16.

Kennett Square is known as the Mushroom Capital, supplying over 60 percent of the nation’s mushroom crop and is home to the annual Mushroom Festivalvoted one of the 10 best festivals in the state. The event, celebrated for 37 years, takes place each September on the weekend after Labor Day. Celebrate mushrooms with great food, music, rides, and entertainment.

The Creamery of Kennett Square has opened a new event space - The Retreat at the Creamery, a blend of business and pleasure, games and relaxation, comfort and style.

Nearby Chaddsford Winery has a new VIP Festival Pass, which includes an exclusive hour-long behind-thescenes experience and a unique glimpse into the wines and highlights of the winery. Festival dates include: May 27-28, July 1-2, and September 2-3.

Outdoor brew events pop up all around the Brandywine Valley at a variety of locations. ChesLen Preserve partners with East Branch Brewing Company for Pints on the Preserve in the Lenfest Center Pavilion on June 10 and July 8. Levante Brewing pours outdoors at two locales on summer weekends: Highland Orchards beginning May 27, and Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show Grounds starting June 2. Historic Sugartown hosts three Pop Up Summer Biergartens (June 15, July 27, and August 24) with brews by Locust Lane Craft Brewery and wines by Chaddsford Winery. Food trucks will cook up delicious fare while music fills the air.

NORRISTOWN, PA

Less than half an hour outside of Philadelphia, Elmwood Park Zoo offers a convenient and wild adventure this summer for the whole family.

“Our facility houses over 300 animals across our campus, with unique attractions and experiences offered daily,” says James Sheard, assistant director of guest experience, Elmwood Park Zoo. “From hand-feeding our giraffes to getting face-to-face with our new alpacas, you are always in for a wild adventure when visiting.”

Elmwood Park Zoo offers fun experiences for the whole family, with high ropes and zipline courses, including the high-adventure Expedition Elk course that is 30feet off the ground as part of a two-hour zipline tour. The zoo also features daily giraffe feedings providing visitors with the opportunity to get up close to these gentle giants. Zoo Brew and Oasis beverage stands boast a full selection of cool beverages for both adults and kids, and Twisted Cones serves up ice cream and water ice.

“Our new Dog Days offer the opportunity to bring your favorite four-legged family members to the zoo,” notes Sheard. “These days do require pre-registration, which can be completed on our website in advance.”

“Back by popular demand, we will see the return of our Breakfast with the Giraffes this summer, offering more dates than ever before,” Sheard continues. “Take advantage of early access into the zoo, a unique giraffe feeding experience, and a full breakfast spread before the zoo opens to the public.”

Zoo Snooze overnight campouts provide an inside look into what happens after the zoo gates close, with fun games, special animal programs, and more.

“Make this summer one to remember with a wild adventure at the Elmwood Park Zoo," Sheard exclaims.

GLEN MILLS, PA

“With a rich history, delicious food, and quality wine, the Inn at Grace Winery is a perfect escape from the city,” declares Rachel Rougeaux-Testerman, assistant general manager, Inn at Grace Winery.

Dating back to 1734, the property's microclimate and limestone soil make exceptional white and red wines. Its tasting room is in the property’s remodeled barn, which is over 250-years-old.

“Enjoy options such as a glass of our estate Chardonnay, our locally sourced Rosé, or our bold flagship red blend, 1734,” urges Rougeaux-Testerman. “Each wine is its own wholly unique experience and is enjoyed with our fantastic food options created by our executive chef.”

In addition to opportunities for tastings and tours, the Inn at Grace Winery offers several workshops, as well.

These are just some of the destinations and venues offering opportunities to enjoy summer fun in the region. Individuals and groups alike will find plenty to see and do both close to home and a short drive away.