Unique Venues Best Of Awards 2021 by uniquevenues22

Contents Best Small-Market Venue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Best Mid-Market Venue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Best Large-Market Venue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Best Virtual Conference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Best High-Tech Venue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Best Earth-Friendly Venue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Best Venue to Film Media Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Best Venue with a Scenic Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Best Venue for a LGBTQ-Friendly Event . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Best Venue for Spiritual/Wellness Gathering. . . . . . . . 21 Best Venue Evolution. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Best Outdoor Event Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Best On-Site Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Best Venue for Day Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Best Venue for Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Best Venue for Life Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Best Venue for Locally Sourced Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Best Venue on or Near Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Best Pandemic Pivot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Unique Venues is excited to announce the winners of the 2021 Unique Venues Best Of awards. Each winning venue in this publication has exuded professionalism, expertise, and adaptability when it comes to providing a unique space for professional planners, couples, families, professionals, and more to utilize. Winning venues in each category were voted on by you, our network of planners, to determine the Best Of the best when it comes to unique spaces for unique events. As we all navigated the changing landscape of the events and hospitality industry, the team at Unique Venues was determined to re-imagine the 2021 winning categories to offer a more realistic representation of the event types that our venues offered in 2021. Some categories are new, like Best Venue on or Near Water or Best Pandemic Pivot, and some categories remain consistent from previous years, like Best Small-Market Venue and Best Venue for Locally Sourced Catering. As you read through this year’s publication, we hope that you become inspired to book one of the featured winning venues or runner up venues for your next meeting, event, or celebration. Our team at Unique Venues is here to help you find a memorable space to be the backdrop to your next gathering. 2022 is going to be a big year for our industry, with more and more individuals and companies planning to meet and gather in-person. We look forward to being your free venue finding resource in 2022.

Best Wishes for a Successful Year,

Chuck Salem, CEO chuck@uniquevenues.com

BEST SMALL-MARKET VENUE

SOU T HER N N E W H A M PSHI R E U N I V E R S I T Y LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 1,200 On-Site Spaces 70 Maximum Overnight 600

Image Courtesy of Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire – Southern New Hampshire University is an exceptional small-market venue to host your next youth camp, corporate retreat, wedding reception, charity or non-profit event, business meeting, expo, or conference. The gorgeous 300-acre campus sits on the bank of the Merrimack River and offers a stunning backdrop as well. Because it's part of New Hampshire’s largest city, with a population of just over 100,000 people, campus guests have easy access to several museums, restaurants, and transportation options. The Manchester-Boston Regional airport is just ten miles from campus and the Boston Logan International Airport is located about 55 miles from campus in Boston, Massachusetts. With a capacity of 1,200, Southern New Hampshire University offers guests 70 different meeting spaces to choose from. SNHU’s breakout rooms are able to accommodate your group of 10 to 500 people. A function room, executive boardroom, and a 218-seat auditorium will help to meet your event's demand. Finally, Southern New Hampshire University is proud to recommend their Dining Center which can be rearranged 3

to fit many different audiences – banquet-style seating for 275, theater-style seating for 400, and space that can be divided to allow for separation. Southern New Hampshire University offers guests state-of-the-art facilities and technology to help make your next event seamless. Each classroom at SNHU is equipped with a computer teaching station, projector, and screen. Most of the other on-campus facilities offer drop down projector screens, computers and multiple lighting settings. The audio/visual staff can also offer teleconferencing services, video recording, and live streaming. If you are nervous about operating the facility’s technology – don’t worry! Tech support is available throughout your event to ensure a flawless meeting or presentation. If you are planning to host an overnight event, Southern New Hampshire University is able to accommodate 600 overnight guests. From May to early August, guests are able to stay in the East Side Suites which offer a gorgeous view of the Merrimack River and the surrounding areas.

Overnight guests can also utilize Tuckerman Hall. Completed in 2013, this building is one of Southern New Hampshire University’s most up-to-date residence halls. If you are hosting your gathering in the summer, guests will appreciate these air-conditioned options. SNHU’s Conference and Events Center will be happy to work with guests who need to rent linens for their stay. Planning an event while the university is in session? No problem! From bed and breakfasts to hotels, the area has 11 different options all located within 10 miles of the campus. From an executive meal to a boxed lunch, Southern New Hampshire University offers guests a variety of delicious options for both food and drink. If you are hosting a larger conference, you can opt for the SNHU Dining Center which offers a wide variety of culinary options ranging from burgers and pizza to exotic international dishes. The university also has a variety of cafés set up around campus if your guests are looking for a quick snack on the go. For more intimate gatherings, Flavours by Sodexo is ready to work with you to create a catering menu that will satisfy every guest’s taste buds. The friendly and professional staff at SNHU will do all they can to make the experience exceptional. Southern New Hampshire University offers guests many unique experiences while on campus. If you are hosting a small get-together or less formal meeting, SNHU is home to the Innovation Lab and Makerspace which is

now playing a key role in encouraging innovation and fostering growth in the community. Some of the available technologies, equipment, and uses for the space include wood and glass engraving, crafting, photography, and 3-D printers. Utilizing the Innovation Lab and the Makerspace provides a great opportunity for team building events through different staff-led projects. Some of the services SNHU offers for their events include: event coordination, security, signage, and skirting and drapery. A sense of security and ease will follow you during your next gathering at the university. If you are looking for help during any part of the day, from event planning to the event hosting process, Southern New Hampshire University staff will be there for you. Located in Manchester, New Hampshire, SNHU is just minutes from Interstate 93 which makes it a convenient location for your out-of-town visitors. Southern New Hampshire University is located in the heart of New England and is just a short drive away from Boston, Portland, and Providence. If your guests are in search of something to do after their event ends, the unique city of Manchester is the place to be. Guests will enjoy Manchester’s arts and culture district which boasts museums such as the Currier Museum of Art and the historic Palace Theatre. When you host your next meeting at SNHU, visitors will not only be treated to a remarkable venue but also to a welcoming city.

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST SMALL-MARKET VENUE AWARD!

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BEAVER HOLLOW CONFERENCE CENTER Java Center, New York

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 300

On-Site Spaces 13

Max Overnight 160

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SHERIDAN CONFERENCE CENTRE & RESIDENCE Oakville, Ontario

Max Capacity 330

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties Youth Retreats/Camps On-Site Spaces 100+

Max Overnight 260

BEST MID-MARKET VENUE

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, BALTIMORE COUNTY LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, BALTIMORE COUNTY (UMBC) Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 3,500 On-Site Spaces 20 Maximum Overnight 2,100

Image Courtesy of University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Baltimore, Maryland – University of Maryland, Baltimore County is the premier location to host your next conference, meeting, youth camp, or wedding reception. Whether your event is large or small, UMBC is excited to cater to your needs and make your next gathering a success. The Event and Conference team is a one-stop shop for scheduling meeting spaces and resources on the UMBC campus. Conveniently located in the Baltimore metro, the university has a wide range and variety of meeting spaces, classrooms, lecture halls, and performance spaces across campus that helps to give it the flexibility to meet your diverse needs. From arenas to conference rooms, and everything in between, UMBC has a space for you! The University of Maryland, Baltimore County is dedicated to delivering high-quality event services and professional customer service to their clients. With a capacity of 3,500, UMBC is ready to do just that. Choose from a variety of meeting spaces including the University Center Ballroom, the University Center Ballroom Lounge, University Center 310 and 312, and The Commons. The University Center Ballroom can accommodate 450 lecture style and 320 banquet style making it a spacious yet elegant space to hold your next gathering. If you are in 5

search of a versatile event space, The Commons is perfect for you. With a choice of six different meeting rooms, the 140,000 square foot space also offers a food court, sit-down restaurant, several performance spaces and a game room for recreation. UMBC readily welcomes multi-day conferences, meetings, or camps. With overnight accommodations of 2,100, guests can enjoy updated residence halls equipped with air conditioning, community rooms, laundry services, on-campus catering, and an athletic center. These dormitories are located just a short walk from all of the event spaces at UMBC. Residence Life is looking forward to helping you make your guests’ stay enjoyable while staying in the numerous apartment-style dorms. Equipped with state-of-the art technology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County will make any dream event into a reality. UMBC Event & Conference Services is certified by the Association of Collegiate Conference and Events Directors - International (ACCED-I) as a "One-Stop Shop.” When you plan your next meeting or conference, you will be assigned an advisor who is your exclusive point-of-contact. You will not have to worry

about working with multiple university departments when you plan with UMBC. Your event advisor will take care of everything and ensure that your gathering goes off without a hitch. Whether you need simple audio/visual services or a more advanced option, The University of Maryland, Baltimore County prides itself on its ability to keep the production in-house while still guaranteeing customer satisfaction. UMBC aims to achieve a consistently high-level service experience for clients through open communication, willingness to serve, and passion for success. UMBC’s dining hall offers a variety of catering services from president-style meals to buffet lunches. Along with the dining services, University of Maryland, Baltimore County is also home to other restaurants such as Dunkin’, Chick-fil-A, and Starbucks. The campus also boasts True Grit’s and Outtakes and The Commons which offer a variety of cuisine such as sushi, made-to-order sandwiches, a fresh salad bar, Italian fare, and Asianinspired delicacies. These options are perfect for your guests to enjoy between meetings or conference sessions.

drive or shuttle from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, making it an easy commute to head home after a fascinating meeting, conference, or social event. Because UMBC is located 20 minutes from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and 45 minutes from Washington, D.C., these well-known cities offer a variety of attractions for guests to enjoy. Guests will love strolling through the shops of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and enjoying a dinner or drink before heading back to campus for the night. Because most of the events occur during the summer, guests can catch a game at Camden Yards, home of the Baltimore Orioles, and take in the beautiful view of the city. Explore historical attractions such as the Washington Monument, the National Gallery of Art, or the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. If your guests are more interested in visiting the more unique towns throughout Maryland, UMBC is just 10 minutes away from Ellicott City and 15 minutes away from Arundel Mills. Both of these cities boast restaurants, bars, boutiques, and museums. These gorgeous cities offer guests an exciting break from their meeting or conference. The possibilities are endless when you host your next event at UMBC.

Located on the corridor of Baltimore and Washington, D.C., UMBC is ready to welcome all of your guests traveling from near or far. UMBC is also only a ten minute

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, BALTIMORE COUNTY ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST MID-MARKET VENUE AWARD!

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FANSHAWE COLLEGE CONFERENCE SERVICES London, Ontario

Max Capacity 600

THE UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND Kingston, Rhode Island

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Family Reunions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties Youth Retreats/Camps On-Site Spaces 150

Max Overnight 1,000

Max Capacity 7,657

On-Site Spaces 102

Max Overnight 5,000

BEST LARGE-MARKET VENUE

U NIVERSI T Y O F M I A M I LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 7,792 On-Site Spaces 50+ Maximum Overnight 3,700

Image Courtesy of University of Miami

Coral Gables, Florida – Sunshine, beaches, and warm weather are some of the perks of holding your next meeting, conference, or event at University of Miami. Even better, the gorgeous campus and passionate staff who will help make your next event a hit. This university is the perfect spot for your next large-market gathering! From its renowned neighborhoods and historical sights to its sandy beaches and top-rated attractions, Miami is the perfect conference destination for planners who hope to give their participants an experience like no other. University of Miami is committed to creating a welcoming environment for educational conferences and camps on campus. Innovation and imagination are cultivated here, and the staff is excited to help you and your guests grow and learn. If you are searching for a memorable event space, University of Miami should be at the top of your list. In addition to enjoying the picturesque scenery, guests have the opportunity to visit UM’s award-winning Lowe Art Museum, take a stroll through the Gifford Arboretum, exercise at the Herbert Wellness Center, or even visit the University’s Richter Library. 7

In 2020, University of Miami received the Unique Venues Best of Award for Best Renovation/Addition. The university added 25 interconnected, eco-friendly buildings that provide housing for 1,115 summer conference attendees and interns. This renovation helped them be a great contender and winner for the Best Large-Market Venue award this year. Guests will enjoy a gorgeous view of Lake Osceola and will be surrounded by a tropical garden. What a stunning place for visitors to enjoy! A capacity of 7,792 makes it a breeze to host your large events at the University of Miami. With 11 event spaces, and options such as the Grand Ballroom and the Senate Room, we do not think you can go wrong, especially if you have a large group! Are you ready to talk dining? University of Miami offers guests a multitude of options for groups whether you are looking for the traditional buffet style in their dining halls, a food court style option, or catered meals. The event staff is happy to work with your budget – big or small. At University of Miami, there are so many delicious options for your guests to choose from. One thing is for sure – guests will not go home hungry!

If you are planning a multi-day conference, expo, or meeting, your guests will have the pleasure of staying in one of University of Miami’s premier residence halls. The university’s overnight capacity is 3,700 – perfect for your next large multi-day event, conference, camp, or retreat. You can work with the staff and choose the right overnight accommodations for your group. From suite/ apartment style to typical residence hall rooms, guests will love the ease and convenience of staying on campus. In order to host a successful event in today’s technology-driven world, planners need to choose venues with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure their event goes off without a hitch. WiFi is available to all University of Miami guests and if your guests are planning on staying overnight, a WiFi upgrade will be awarded at no additional charge. The vast majority of University of Miami’s classroom spaces and event spaces have technology ranging from projectors and screens to more enhanced features such as microphones, document cameras, and podiums. When you talk with an event staff member, they will make sure you have everything you need for your upcoming event.

Miracle Mile shopping district, historical Biltmore Hotel and Venetian Pool, and many other upscale dining and shopping centers to visit. Guests also have the option of traveling to countless celebrated neighborhoods that make up the diverse city of Miami, including Coconut Grove and historic Little Havana, the Design District and Wynwood, Downtown Miami, and Brickell. With its location close enough to the Miami metropolitan area, yet secluded in its own oasis of Coral Gables, the University of Miami is the perfect large-market venue for your next conference experience. Don’t forget your swimsuit! The University of Miami is located near Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. After your event has wrapped, stay a few extra days and take in everything that makes Florida great, including its white sand beaches and sparkling ocean. After a day on the beach, stop by some of the best Miami restaurants such as Glass & Vine or CVI.CHE 105. Whatever you choose will be delicious! Carve some time into your schedule to explore downtown Miami after your next conference, meeting, or event.

Integral to the city’s founding, University of Miami is located in Coral Gables – known as “The City Beautiful” by its residents – in sunny South Florida. One of the first planned cities in the region, Coral Gables offers the

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST LARGE-MARKET VENUE AWARD!

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COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY

MCNAMARA ALUMNI CENTER, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA

Fort Collins, Colorado

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 8,000

On-Site Spaces 75

Max Overnight 5,500

Max Capacity 600

On-Site Spaces 10

Max Overnight 600

BEST VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 7,800 On-Site Spaces 15 Maximum Overnight N/A Computer Image Courtesy of University of Massachusetts Lowell

Lowell, Massachusetts – The 2020 pandemic impacted many industries, especially the hospitality and events industry. Although we are proud of all of our client venues for their versatility and flexibility when in-person gatherings went virtual, the University of Massachusetts Lowell was voted Best Virtual Conference. Voters recognized their exceptional team, advanced technology, and continued adaptability in shifting events to a virtual platform for the safety of guests and attendees. At the beginning of the pandemic, UMass Lowell Hospitality & Event Services made an immediate shift to remote event support. Always thinking one step ahead, the team purchased use of the Hopin platform, anticipating the need for digital event spaces that pushed the limits of what other platforms could do. The team quickly went to work, meeting with the developers, spending extra hours honing skills, developing synergy in the virtual space, and creating standards and practices for a brand new type of event. What emerged only a few weeks later was a team of eight individuals across two departments who became a self-sufficient, full-scale virtual conference management team. Talk about making the best of every opportunity! 9

In 2020, UMass Lowell helped bring the Virtual UVAMC Conference to other event professionals seeking clarity in a time of uncertainty, setting a standard for what running virtual event operations could look like. With the shift to meeting virtually, the UVAMC Conference was able to reach more people than previous years. This helped set the stage for fully virtual or hybrid events during the next year and into the future. This new platform not only helped the Unique Venues team host their conference, but it also aided the university as they transitioned into a new hybrid school year. The team gave UMass Lowell students the chance to learn about campus organizations at multiple Engagement Fairs throughout the year. A cappella groups held concerts, departments showcased research, and external partners were able to virtually network. UMass Lowell's use of the Hopin platform set the stage early for other organizations and universities across the country to adopt the platform and understand what it meant to support a virtual conference or event.

UMass Lowell successfully found a way in a physically distanced time during the pandemic to prioritize personal relationships through the multi-layer support of its virtual events. The team at UMass Lowell is excited to help you find a happy medium among fully virtual, hybrid, and fully in-person events. Filled with history and culture, University of Massachusetts Lowell is a gorgeous campus to have your next in-person or hybrid event. The Hospitality and Event Services team is ready to work with you and your budget to make your next meeting, conference, or party a success! The university has an event capacity of 7,800 guests spread over 13 different facilities. If you are searching for gathering space that can accommodate your group of 25 or 1,000, the Tsongas Center is the perfect space for you. The Tsongas Center offers four unique event spaces – the Talon Club, the Center Club Room, the Lowell Bank Pavilion and the arena’s floor. These spaces can be arranged to fit the needs of your next event. You can even rent one of these facilities to use during the next UMass Lowell basketball game! One of the most scenic spots on campus to host an event is the Bellegarde Boathouse. Located on the banks of the Merrimack, the deck facility at UMass Lowell’s Bellegarde Boathouse provides some of the region’s most spectacular waterfront views. What a stunning backdrop for your next meeting, wedding reception, or corporate party!

The choices for food and beverage are endless at UMass Lowell. Guests can enjoy world-class options at one of the university’s dining halls. If you need a catered meal, the catering team will be happy to work with your budget to create a delicious meal everyone will enjoy. After a day of meetings and presentations, make sure to stop by 50 Warren Lounge to sample some of their classic cuisine. Unwind with a cocktail in their fireside lounge, or dine in the canal-facing restaurant! Located in historic Lowell, MA, UMass Lowell is in close proximity to Manchester and Boston. After your event, guests will have endless options of places to visit, eat, or drink. UMass Lowell Inn & Conference Center is within walking distance to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium, Merrimack Repertory Theatre, Lowell National Historic Park, Boarding House Park, and a wealth of historical attractions. If guests are feeling up for a drive, suggest that they take a trip to one of the other nearby towns or even states. Many great attractions are just a short drive away from UMass Lowell!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS LOWELL ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VIRTUAL CONFERENCE AWARD!

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UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA - VANCOUVER Vancouver, British Columbia

Max Capacity 2,200

On-Site Spaces 200

Max Overnight 5,000

BEST HIGH-TECH VENUE U N I V E R S I TY O F NO R TH CA ROL INA WIL MIN GTON LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA WILMINGTON Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 5,000 On-Site Spaces 20 Maximum Overnight 3,500

Image Courtesy of University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, North Carolina – In today’s technologydriven world, event planners tend to lean toward the meeting spaces that offer the fastest internet, newest updates, and latest technology. This is all in an effort to ensure that the event will run smoothly and efficiently. At UNC Wilmington, not only will you see it as a state-ofthe-art high-tech venue, but it also offers a wonderful event space for your next meeting, conference, or adult social gathering. When hosting your next gathering at UNC Wilmington, you will be pleased to find out that each meeting facility is equipped with some of the world’s most advanced technology. Microphones, LCD projectors, projector screens, laptops, and custom lighting will be at your disposal during your meeting or presentation as well. If you are unfamiliar with any of the technology, a dedicated staff member will be happy to assist with anything you need. Live events are welcomed and encouraged at UNC Wilmington. Guests will enjoy full-range sound and vibrant lighting during their performance.

During the 2019-2020 academic year, the Burney Center, one of UNC Wilmington’s most recognized event spaces, underwent an extensive audio/visual and technology upgrade. It was one of the first ballroom spaces in the country to install the Extron NAV Pro AV over IP system (AVoIP). The AVoIP system provides distribution and switching of ultra-low latency, ultra-high-definition video and audio signals over an Ethernet network. The upgrade also includes a networked wireless microphone system, five ultra-high-definition projectors and screens, as well as sixteen moving head LED light fixtures. This state-of-the-art digital audio/visual system provides a visually stunning experience and exceptional sound quality for guests. Hosting a virtual or hybrid event is easy with the video conferencing tools at UNC Wilmington. Meeting rooms and classrooms are outfitted with the latest video conferencing equipment from Logitech. Guests will enjoy collaborating and interacting with both on-site and remote team members. UNC Wilmington’s classrooms also offer user-friendly smart room technology. Easily connect your personal devices for your presentation notes or video conferencing needs.

With a maximum capacity of 5,000 and many meeting spaces to choose from, UNC Wilmington is the perfect choice for your next meeting, conference, retreat, competition, or wedding reception. The picturesque campus is filled with facilities both large and small. Home to 170 events per year, the 1,000-seat Sarah Graham Kenan Auditorium is recognized as an esteemed location for local and national performers. Guests will be amazed with the beautiful interior of this unique gathering space. Next, the Trask Coliseum is a multi-purpose event space perfect for your next large conference, competition, or presentation. Equipped with a full-range cinema sound system and a dual-line array speaker system, The Lumina Theater will create an experience similar to attending the movies for your guests. Get ready to pop the popcorn at UNC Wilmington! The university is able to accommodate 3,500 overnight guests in its spacious residence halls. UNC Wilmington offers both suite- or apartment-style accommodations as well as traditional residence halls. The apartment-style housing has room for two to six guests and features a full kitchen, living room, single bedrooms, and washer and dryer unit. This living space offers an in-ground pool and an outdoor area for guests. The eight-person suite offers four bedrooms, two study areas, and one shared bathroom. Both the suite- and apartment-style housing are located just a short walk from many of the meeting and event facilities. Your guests will enjoy the convenience of spending the night on campus and being close to their activities for the next day.

UNC Wilmington is proud to offer guests awardwinning cuisine options for every type of gathering. Schedule lunch at Wagoner Dining Hall and allow your guests to eat to their heart’s content. Guests will be able to sample many different food options and understand why UNC Wilmington has such a strong reputation for its food. The university’s catering services are also available to help create custom-inspired menus for your meeting, presentation, reception, or conference. You and your guests are the main priority at UNC Wilmington, so the staff is happy to do anything they can to help host a successful event. Guests will be pleased to learn more about all of the unique experiences the city of Wilmington has to offer for after their event ends. History buffs will enjoy learning more about Wilmington’s past and visiting one of the several historic sites including the USS North Carolina battleship from World War II. Hollywood enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn more about the many film locations in Wilmington by visiting the sites of famous movies such as Safe Haven, The Choice, and A Walk to Remember. How fun is that? Finally, the university is just a short drive from three beaches – Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Cure Beach. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, umbrella, and swimsuit the next time you visit Wilmington!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA WILMINGTON ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST HIGH-TECH VENUE AWARD!

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Baltimore, Maryland

Irving, Texas

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, BALTIMORE COUNTY (UMBC)

THE PAVILION AT TOYOTA MUSIC FACTORY

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 3,500

On-Site Spaces 20

Max Overnight 2,100

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats

Max Capacity 8,000

On-Site Spaces 7

Max Overnight N/A

BEST EARTH-FRIENDLY VENUE

COLORAD O ST A T E UNI V E R S I T Y LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

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COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 8,000 On-Site Spaces 75 Maximum Overnight 5,500

Image Courtesy of Colorado State University

Fort Collins, Colorado – Guests will be ecstatic to learn that they have the breathtaking Rocky Mountains and rolling Great Plains as the background for their next event. Colorado State University, a repeat winner of the Best Earth-Friendly Venue, is proud to offer guests an extraordinary experience for their next conference, presentation, meeting, youth camp, or wedding reception. AASHE recently awarded Colorado State University a Platinum rating for a record third time under its Sustainability Tracking Assessment & Rating System (STARS), an independent program that measures comprehensive sustainability efforts at 990 universities around the world. CSU earned the best score in the United States at 88.14 points. Just look at all their amazing earthfriendly and sustainable features: · 23 LEED-certified buildings with dedicated venue space · Campus-wide single stream recycling · CSU Housing & Dining has purchased renewable energy credits to offset 100% of all of its spaces · Bee Campus USA Certified in 2018 · Campus-wide water refill stations · Compostable to-go containers and flatware 13

· Platinum Bike-Friendly University, with 10+ miles of on-campus trails dedicated to biking, scooting, longboarding, and walking · 18 Solar arrays on campus · Green cleaning program throughout all housing & dining buildings With an overall capacity of 8,000 people, Colorado State University is ready to fulfill both large and small event needs. The campus is home to 31 versatile meeting facilities. The Cherokee Park Ballroom, Grand Ballroom, and North Ballroom can be reserved for your more elegant gatherings. Each venue has its own unique features and can be rearranged as needed. If you are planning an outdoor event, the Pavilion Outdoor Amphitheater offers beautiful scenery and a breath of fresh air for your guests. This outdoor space, filled with a grassy lawn and stone seating, also includes a large projector, HDMI hookup, and house sound. Larger gatherings can be held in one of the Durrell Center’s classrooms or one of the premier meeting rooms in Canvas Stadium.

The various venues at Colorado State University offer guests a stunning backdrop for all of their photos during the meeting or conference. Guests will enjoy taking a walk around campus during their lunch or dinner break. Your event hosts might even move some of the meetings outside in the inviting Colorado sunshine. Whenever you plan your next gathering at Colorado State University, your out-of-town guests will feel exhilarated by the welcoming campus. Colorado State University is overflowing with overnight accommodations for guests. With an overnight capacity of 5,500, the university is proud of its updated residence halls. Pinon Hall and Alpine Hall are CSU's newest residence hall communities that offer overnight accommodations. These halls offer a mix of traditionalstyle and suite-style bedrooms with private and shared bathrooms. Guests will also enjoy easy access to off-campus shopping and restaurants. Colorado State University offers state-of-the-art audio/visual services and a team who is ready to help planners understand how it all works. High-speed internet is available throughout the campus and in all of the residence halls and meeting spaces, ensuring a seamless event. An added bonus is the extensive use of SMART technology located all over campus.

The five residence hall dining centers offer madeto-order entrées and snacks for students and guests to enjoy. These locations are home to six different stations – Italian, Mexican, American, Chinese, wood-fired pizza, and a Mongolian grill. CSU's dining services team is also willing to work with you to create a catered meal, boxed lunches, or outdoor cookouts. The dining options are endless at Colorado State University. You will love the ease of planning a menu, and guests will enjoy the amazing food selections. Guests are encouraged to bring family members and make their visit memorable. Fort Collins is home to major recreation areas such as Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Red Feather Lakes, and the Cache La Poudre River. Out-of-town visitors will enjoy the college town feeling and active community as well as the affordable foothills the town boasts. An added bonus to hosting your next gathering at Colorado State University is that the city experiences over 300 days of sunshine per year, which will help create the perfect opportunity for recreational activities such as boating, hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting, camping, and wildlife watching. Did you know that Fort Collins is referred to as the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado? With 21 craft breweries, guests can take themselves on their own brewery tour. You do not want to miss out on this exceptional Colorado venue!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST EARTH-FRIENDLY VENUE AWARD!

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Boston, Massachusetts

Washington, D.C.

BOSTON UNIVERSITY

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties Youth Retreats/Camps Max Capacity 6,150

On-Site Spaces 300

Max Overnight 2,500

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 400

On-Site Spaces 60+

Max Overnight 1,000

BEST VENUE TO FILM MEDIA CONTENT

SAINT EL I ZA B E T H UNI V E R S I T Y LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

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SAINT ELIZABETH UNIVERSITY Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 550 On-Site Spaces 20+ Maximum Overnight 300 - Summer Only

Image Courtesy of Saint Elizabeth University

Morristown, New Jersey – If you are looking for an eye-catching change of scenery for your next event, Saint Elizabeth University is the venue for you. Overflowing with a rich history, this beautiful 200-acre campus mixes modern facilities with historic, cherished spaces. These amazing features are what helped Saint Elizabeth University win the Best Venue to Film Media Content. Are you ready to learn more? 3…2…1…Action! The campus is such a great fit for media production that the university was also awarded the Unique Venues 2020 winner for Best Venue to Film a Movie or TV Show. With plenty of private, quiet spaces, film crews can easily set up equipment and film with little interruption. Actors and production crew have plenty of room for their trailers, with ample parking on the campus. Whether you are in need of a venue offering spaces to film or just a truly wonderful venue in New Jersey, Saint Elizabeth University should be first on your list. Producers and directors will be excited to learn about Saint Elizabeth’s breathtaking outdoor Greek Theatre. This unique find provides guests with a scenic background for photos or videos and offers a creative twist to every 15

production it is featured in. Viewers of the film will fall in love with the magical garden and want to visit it on their next trip to New Jersey. Did you know that the campus has been successfully used to film Apple TV’s Little America and Aaron Sorkin’s The Trial of the Chicago 7? This well-known recognition would offer guests a conversation starter and definitely merit a tour of campus to look at all the different sites. Filming on a location that has already been utilized creates a link among staff members for the passing of tips and suggestions from one team to another. Saint Elizabeth University ranges in venue spaces from an authentic 1910 lecture hall to state-of-the-art physician assistant labs to the stunning outdoor Greek Theatre. The university staff is excited to work with you to make your production a success. On-site technical support and advanced equipment will be at your fingertips as soon as you set foot on campus. The Information Systems office will work with you to ensure that your technical needs for the venue are met.

The university’s close proximity to New York City is a huge benefit for media productions. World-class talent and crew are right outside the campus gates. Lodging and overnight accommodations can be found in local hotels or right on campus. In the summer, Saint Elizabeth University can accommodate 300 guests overnight. All of your staff and crew can stay in one place while you produce your next great film. Talk about convenience! Are you not planning on filming a media production the next time you book a space at Saint Elizabeth University? Don’t worry, the campus has you covered with multiple meeting and event spaces, so your next event is sure to be a success. The Annunciation Center is home to multiple facilities such as Dolan Performance Hall and other flexible meeting spaces that can be configured in different ways to accommodate your event. As mentioned before, outdoor events can take place in the outdoor Greek Theatre. This replica of the Theatre of Dionysus in Athens, Greece seats 1,200 people on its stone seats and 130 on the grass floor in front of the stage, providing a unique event space for your next media production or outdoor concert. Saint Elizabeth’s NCAA main gymnasium or Luing Gymnasium can be the site for your next exhibition or conference. There are numerous facilities to choose from on campus.

Saint Elizabeth University is happy to offer guests a catering connection through Parkhurst Dining. A catering representative will be happy to work with you to meet all of your guests’ requests and needs. Whether you choose full course meals or buffet-style, the dining services staff at Saint Elizabeth University is ready to make any event’s meal a delicious success! Traveling guests will be happy to hear that Saint Elizabeth University is located just down the road from Newark Liberty International Airport. Take an Uber, rent a car, or take a ride on the Midtown Direct train which will drop you off at the university’s main campus gates. Nestled in the suburbs of New York City, Saint Elizabeth University is conveniently located near routes 24, 80, 78, 287, the NJ Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway. Guests will have easy access to the campus, local attractions, and New York City! Delectable Morristown restaurants include Rod’s Steak and Seafood Grille, Chef Fredy’s Table, and The Committed Pig. After dinner, guests can check out a show at the Mayo Performing Arts Center or Morristown Game Vault. Of course, guests also have the option of catching a ride into the city that never sleeps to do some exploring.

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO SAINT ELIZABETH UNIVERSITY ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE TO FILM MEDIA CONTENT AWARD!

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CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, NORTHRIDGE

ST. JOHN'S UNIVERSITY - QUEENS Queens, New York

Northridge, California

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties Youth Retreats/Camps

Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 800

On-Site Spaces 10

Max Overnight 1,300

Max Capacity 10,000

On-Site Spaces 200+

Max Overnight 3,500

BEST VENUE WITH A SCENIC BACKGROUND

THE RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

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THE RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY Corporate Social Events Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Maximum Capacity 3,500 On-Site Spaces 8 Maximum Overnight N/A

Image Courtesy of The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

Simi Valley, California – Whether it is a dinner underneath Air Force One or a cocktail reception on the Ruwe Terrace overlooking the hills of Ventura County, there is no better event space or photo opportunity than the many options at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. The Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California rests on a majestic hill overlooking the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Southern California’s scenic mountains and valleys. Located on a 300-acre site, The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library offers guests a magnificent background for every event. While guests are sipping cocktails or enjoying a delicious dinner, they will be dazzled by the stunning backdrop and will be compelled to take a picture to remember the night. This is the perfect destination for your next corporate event or fundraising gala! The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library has numerous venue spaces to choose from for your next event. With rooms and outdoor venues capable of hosting anything from intimate meetings for ten to gala dinners for up to 1,500 guests, The Library offers a diverse selection of memorable settings. Tours of The Library, Air Force 17

One Pavilion, and some of the special exhibits may be included in the price of your event, so be sure to inquire upon booking! Guests will love the exclusive opportunity to tour the treasured exhibits at this event space. The Air Force One Pavilion offers guests a sleek and modern meeting space. Guests will eat dinner and socialize next to the very airplane that flew President Reagan over 660,000 miles. During his time in office, he flew to 26 foreign countries and 46 U.S. states. The Air Force One Pavilion is an absolute must-see. Just imagine having your professional event pictures with Air Force One in the background! Another stunning event location is the historic and elegant Main Library that offers guests a breathtaking view of Southern California. It is a fabulous event space any time during the year. Take in the views of the picturesque Pacific Ocean and lush gardens of The Reagan Library while you converse and network at your next gala or corporate event.

If your event occurs during the day, The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library has you covered with two delicious options for upscale lunches. The Air Force One White House Luncheon is available for groups of 40 or more and the Air Force One Barbeque Buffet is available for groups of 30 or more. Both the Air Force One White House Luncheon and Air Force One Barbeque Buffet take place under the wings of Air Force One and include a tour of The Library, Air Force One Pavilion, and the option of a self-guided tour of the venue’s exhibits. This is the perfect combination of work and play – guests can enjoy an afternoon history lesson after the meeting or presentation concludes! The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library’s catering department will work with you to create an amazing menu for both your large and small events. West Wing Events employs some of the industry’s top talent and has created exceptional, internationally influenced cuisine that delights every one of its customers. After your event is finished, guests will enjoy some of the other exhibits found at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Visit a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office, first added into the White House in 1909 by President William Howard Taft. The actual Oval Office has found its home within the West Wing overlooking the Rose Garden. This tour is sure to make you feel presidential!

One of the more recently unveiled exhibits in The Reagan Library is the F-117 Nighthawk. The aircraft entered service in May 1984 during President Reagan’s administration and was the world’s first operational stealth aircraft. Its triangular design helped to reflect radar waves and was only operational at night. The F-117 Nighthawk exhibit was unveiled in December 2019 and is now a staple of The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. When guests are finished exploring everything The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library has to offer, they can visit the city of Simi Valley. Guests will be able to explore the Strathearn Historical Park and Museum which is home to one of the area’s most extensive and well-preserved collections of historical items and original buildings. If you have any Tony Hawk fans at your party, they will be excited to visit the Skateboarding Hall of Fame and Museum. The museum highlights the biggest contributors to the sport and showcases the sport’s development through the years. Finally, Dr. Conkey’s Candy & Coffee is the perfect pit stop for tourists that need a burst of energy. Equal parts espresso bar and candy shop, this famous business will satisfy every candy fanatic and coffee lover attending an event at The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO THE RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE WITH A SCENIC BACKGROUND AWARD!

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Vallejo, California

Providence, Rhode Island

THE LIGHTHOUSE AT GLEN COVE MARINA

RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Max Capacity 150

On-Site Spaces 2

Max Overnight 8

Corporate Social Events Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 550

On-Site Spaces 45

Max Overnight 200

BE S T V E NUE F O R A LG B TQ -FRIENDL Y EV EN T

HA M P SH IRE CO L L E G E | E VE N T S E RVICE S & S UMME R PROGRA MS LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

HAMPSHIRE COLLEGE

Event Services & Summer Programs Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 850 On-Site Spaces 50 Maximum Overnight 600

Image Courtesy of Hampshire College | Event Services & Summer Programs

Amherst, Massachusetts - The Red Barn at Hampshire College takes pride in providing all of their guests the best experience possible. The staff at Hampshire College Event Services & Summer Programs ensures that each visitor receives a safe, inclusive space where they are free to express themselves and create the meeting, presentation, or wedding of their dreams. Hampshire College offers inclusive events for many occasions, but some of their favorite events to host are wedding ceremonies and receptions. From intimate private winter ceremonies to vintage cars being brought onto the property for timeless photos, The Red Barn at Hampshire College is excited to offer a space to showcase your love to your family and friends. Hampshire College staff members are more than ready to help make your big day memorable.

This charming 800-acre campus is located in the scenic Pioneer Valley. Guests will be impressed by the gorgeous views across the university. Whether your group is large or small, Hampshire College offers a variety of beautifully designed meeting, banquet, and conference spaces available year-round. From athletic events to galas, you won’t be disappointed when you choose Hampshire College as your next venue to host a LGBTQ-friendly event.

Visitors and planners will agree that The Red Barn at Hampshire College is one of the most popular event spaces on campus. Built in 1820 and converted in the 1970s to a space to hold functions, The Red Barn blends rustic charm and productive meeting space into one location. Spacious, versatile, and technologically modern, The Red Barn is an event space unique to the college and the surrounding area. Whether you choose to host an outdoor or indoor gathering, guests will fall in love with the scenic views of Mount Holyoke Range. The Red Barn’s deck and picnic grove provide an ideal setting for group outings and picnics. The Red Barn at Hampshire College is the perfect space for meetings, wedding receptions, or outdoor lunches! Hampshire College is also home to multiple other meeting and event spaces on its campus. If you need somewhere to host your next performance or concert, look no further than the Mainstage and Studio Theatres. These versatile performance spaces are equipped with significant lighting and sound capabilities, costume and scene shops, and dressing rooms. The Robert Crown Center is ready to host your next trade show, large presentation, expo, or banquet. This spacious facility can accommodate 850 people and boasts a 25-yard swimming pool, indoor basketball court,

climbing wall, exercise machines, and game-room/lounge space. The adjoining Bridge Café can be used for breakout space, social gatherings, or dining.

weddings, or presentations, the helpful staff at Hampshire College will love to work with you to find the best meal for your guests.

Team building activities, youth camps, and outdoor picnics are easily executed at Hampshire College. With the campus’ numerous outdoor facilities, guests will enjoy spending time in the great outdoors. These spaces include the baseball field, outdoor tennis courts, soccer fields, and more.

This Amherst campus has full-service audio/visual and media support with equipment and services including internet access, video projectors, screens, podiums, flip charts, easels, microphones, sound systems, and video conferencing. The IT Department and Media Services Team is on standby during your event to answer questions. If you are planning to use a classroom for your presentation or meeting, all classrooms are fully equipped with media technology. The staff at Hampshire College Event Services & Summer Programs is ready to make your next event a breeze.

Hampshire College also offers overnight accommodations for guests staying for multi-day camps, conferences, or competitions. The residence halls on campus can accommodate up to 600 overnight guests. Visitors can choose from traditional residence halls or apartment-style spaces. Either way, guests will enjoy the easy accessibility that staying on campus offers. The professional culinary staff at Hampshire College is committed to providing unique catering options that are fresh, innovative, and sustainably sourced. From boxed lunches or buffets to upscale lunches, the experienced culinary staff will happily tailor a menu specific to your group. They will satisfy everyone’s taste buds and have them asking for seconds…or even thirds! Daily meal plans are available for summer programs, youth camps, and adult conferences during summer months. For meetings,

After your event ends, guests will be pleased to discover that Amherst is overflowing with attractions to enjoy. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art and the Emily Dickinson Museum will offer guests a nice break before heading back to their meeting or conference. Located near campus, Atkins Farm Country Market is a favorite local apple orchard that also offers many of New England’s favorite foods. Sports fanatics should take time to visit the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame which honors the exceptional basketball players, coaches, referees, executives, and other major game contributors. There is so much to do after your event ends in Amherst, MA!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO HAMPSHIRE COLLEGE | EVENT SERVICES & SUMMER PROGRAMS ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE FOR A LGBTQ-FRIENDLY EVENT

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Las Vegas, Nevada

Dedham, Massachusetts

THE BEACON CENTER

THE ENDICOTT ESTATE

On-Site Spaces 2

Max Overnight N/A

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions

Max Capacity 500

On-Site Spaces 11

Max Overnight N/A

BEST VENUE FOR SPIRITUAL/WELLNESS GATHERING

BEAVER H O L LO W CO N FE R E N C E C E N T E R LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

BEAVER HOLLOW CONFERENCE CENTER Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 300 On-Site Spaces 13 Maximum Overnight 160

Image Courtesy of Beaver Hollow Conference Center

Java Center, New York – When you need a break from reality, visit Beaver Hollow Conference Center and rejuvenate your mind and body. Beaver Hollow has set the industry standard for well-rounded health, wellness, and spiritual gatherings. This venue is an exceptional facility to choose when you are planning a corporate retreat or conference. Your team members will love the versatility of Beaver Hollow Conference Center and will enjoy the added amenities and activities while they visit. Corporations, organizations, and planners from around the world choose Beaver Hollow Conference Center as their retreat destination. Nestled in the woods of Java Center, New York, this facility offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience centered around health and wellness. Look no further than this facility for a transformational weekend! Did you know that Beaver Hollow Conference Center is a Biggest Loser resort? The Biggest Loser Resort Niagara is located on a portion of this private 300-acre plot. The Beaver Hollow Conference Center provides individuals with an emotionally safe place to transform and evolve their lives. The facility offers a team of certified trainers and experts to facilitate the health, wellness, mindfulness, 21

and stress management goals for your group. The staff at this venue is ready to transform the lives of their guests. Beaver Hollow Conference Center will help facilitate team building activities during your visit. Challenge yourself and your peers with the region's largest rope course. Attend presentations or meetings as a group in one of the venue’s state-of-the-art meeting facilities. Take in a breath of fresh air as you hike through the expansive, naturally beautiful property. A few more unique features of Beaver Hollow Conference Center include a swimming pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, row boats, fishing, butterfly garden, koi pond, a basketball court, and a tennis court. Beaver Hollow’s amenities and meeting spaces will help you reconnect with yourself and with the members of your group. After your meeting, presentation, or conference, visit the indoor Health Aquatic Center which features a heated saltwater pool, locker rooms, a large hot tub, and a sauna. What a perfect place to relax and unwind. Guests will also have access to the advanced gym and aerobics center located next door. After a stress-free workout, spend the rest of the evening roasting s’mores and chatting with friends at one of the outdoor bonfire areas.

Beaver Hollow Conference Center boasts numerous meeting spaces and the staff is ready to help you choose the perfect one for your group. With a capacity of 300 guests, Beaver Hollow is able to accommodate small to mid-size groups. A majority of the event spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art technology – projectors, audio/visual features, WiFi, flexible lighting, and so much more. Other meeting rooms offer a quiet, intimate space better suited for personal gatherings. If you are planning your event for the summer, spring, or fall, outdoor pavilions and other facilities will be available for you to choose from. Luxurious overnight accommodations are available on-site for your guests during their stay. The overnight capacity for Beaver Hollow Conference Center is 160 guests. Visitors will be able to choose from spacious single or double rooms that include complimentary highspeed internet, cable TV, terrycloth robes, a hair dryer, and an iron. VIP groups will have the option to spend the night in the Chairmans Villas that offer leather couches, a fireplace, a private bar and bedrooms, and all standard accommodations. Spending the night at Beaver Hollow will be equally as relaxing as the day!

on-site conference coordinators, on-site team building facilitators, special entertainment, recreation director, executive chef, and so much more. Now, let’s talk food and drink. Beaver Hollow Conference Center offers six dining spaces for your group to enjoy. Guests will love the gourmet farm-totable cuisine served at every meal. The chefs invite you to customize your selections to meet your groups' needs for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and of course, snacks! After your relaxing conference or retreat comes to an end, be sure to stick around just a little longer to visit some of Java Center’s local attractions. Visit the “Grand Canyon of the East” at Letchworth State Park and explore one the many hiking trails. Travel to downtown Buffalo and experience world-class restaurants, unique boutiques, and hidden architectural gems. Finally, if you have never visited Niagara Falls or want to visit again, now is the perfect opportunity. You will be awestruck as you visit this extraordinary natural wonder. Relaxation and fun don’t have to end when your conference or retreat does at Beaver Hollow Conference Center!

The team at Beaver Hollow Conference Center is ready to make your next spiritual/wellness gathering a success! Here are just a few of the complimentary services included with your reservation: courtesy shuttle service,

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO BEAVER HOLLOW CONFERENCE CENTER ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE FOR SPIRITUAL/WELLNESS GATHERING AWARD!

B E S T V E NUE E VO LUTI O N

I NFI NI T Y PA R K E VE N T C E N TE R LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

We make awe-inspiring easy.

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

INFINITY PARK EVENT CENTER

INFINIT Y PARK

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties

EVENT CENTER

Maximum Capacity 6,000 On-Site Spaces 5 Maximum Overnight N/A

Images Courtesy of Infinity Park Event Center

Glendale, Colorado – Since 2008, Infinity Park Event Center has been serving Colorado as a gathering space for more formal events such as adult or corporate social events. The Infinity Park Event Center wanted to update their branding to reflect the success they've had hosting events. After many years with a formal look, Infinity Park Event Center updated their marketing to highlight their vibrant, fun, and friendly atmosphere. Well, they definitely accomplished their goal! With a bright new color palette and a modified voice and tone, the event staff at Infinity Park Event Center created a more welcoming and engaging environment for their guests to enjoy. The updated brand feels more relatable to the staff and guests alike – open to hosting great celebrations like weddings, parties, proms, life events, non-profit fundraisers, and corporate events. After creating a new logo, Infinity Park also created new sales and marketing materials and launched a new website to complete the venue’s rebranding. What a remarkable transformation for Infinity Park Event Center! 23

We encourage you to check out this unique space when you are searching for a Colorado venue to host your wedding, fundraiser, or party because Infinity Park Event Center offers both indoor and outdoor facilities to help make your next event incredible. This venue holds a capacity of 6,000 guests, but can also host smaller gatherings and can accommodate your event to make the space feel intimate. The five meeting spaces can be rearranged in any way to fit your party’s needs. Infinity Park Event Center is home to a gorgeous 8,600 square foot ballroom. The International Ballroom is an elegant space that is perfect for weddings, fundraising galas, or proms. With high ceilings and 360 degrees of crystal clear screens, every seat is the best seat in the house. Bring your event vision to life with fully customizable digital screens. Team building picnics, wine festivals, and weddings are the perfect events held in the outdoor Festival Plaza. With ample room for food trucks or festival booths, this gated space will allow guests to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine.

If you are planning to host a concert or large festival, Infinity Park’s Rugby Field is also a great option. This event space offers seating for 3,500 guests and allows the use of the jumbo screen. The Sports Plaza is another alternative for outdoor concerts but on a much smaller scale. Home to dinners, small festivals, and other forms of entertainment, it provides guests with a more intimate gathering space. The staff is ready to help you choose the best location for your event at Infinity Park Event Center. Infinity Park Event Center has an extensive list of local hotel partners in the area and they've even negotiated discounted rates with these hotels! The staff at Infinity Park Event Center cares about you having a magnificent time at your event and are happy to take care of all the details so you can fully enjoy your big day. There are so many food optioins at Infinity Park Event Center. As mentioned previously, the staff wants you to have the best day, so they let you choose the details – even the caterer! Infinity Park Event Center has a list of recommended local caterers, or you can bring in your favorite company to serve the feast. Your event representative is ready to answer all of your questions about the food and beverages at your next gathering.

Premier in-house event production services can be easily added to your package when you choose Infinity Park Event Center. The production staff is ready to help impress your guests and make your event stand out. Infinity's inventory – tables, chairs, the dance floor, a stage – will be arranged to create a stand-out space. A dedicated event manager will be with you every step of the way to ensure your event goes off without a hitch. Get ready to communicate your theme and deliver your message in dramatic fashion at Infinity Park Event Center. If your guests are hoping to make a weekend out of their visit to Glendale, CO, they can visit some of these local attractions! The shopaholics will love Cherry Creek Shopping Center – home to over 160 stores and restaurants. From designer brands to small-town boutiques, there is something for everyone at this shopping center. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking or biking the Cherry Creek Trail. The trail runs 40 miles from Douglas County to Confluence Park in Downtown Denver, but don’t worry – we don’t expect you to hike or bike the whole trail in one day! That’s why you are spending the weekend, right? Whenever you visit Infinity Park Event Center, you are sure to be excited about all the local experiences to enjoy after your event.

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO INFINITY PARK EVENT CENTER ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE EVOLUTION AWARD!

RUNNER UP

ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

RUNNER UP

SAINT ELIZABETH UNIVERSITY Morristown, New Jersey

Springfield, Illinois

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions

Max Capacity 500

On-Site Spaces 9

Max Overnight N/A

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 550

On-Site Spaces 20+

Max Overnight 300 - Summer Only

BEST OUTDOOR EVENT SPACE

T HE LIGHT H O USE A T GLE N C O V E MA R I N A LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

THE LIGHTHOUSE AT GLEN COVE MARINA Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Maximum Capacity 150 On-Site Spaces 2 Maximum Overnight 8

Image Courtesy of The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina

Vallejo, California – Sunshine and good times are what you will find at The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina. Located in Vallejo, California, this stunning venue is a great find for all of your outdoor events. The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina is nestled among rolling hills and sits on a magnificent waterfront. This venue houses a historic lighthouse that was built in 1910 and moved to its current location in the 1950s. Enjoy your next outdoor meeting, adult social event, wedding reception, or corporate event at The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina! Renovated to include a combination of modern conveniences and historic charm, The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina offers a gorgeous backdrop for your events. The venue is home to an east lawn and a west lawn - great for outdoor seating and mingling - connected by a patio deck overlooking the Glen Cove Marina yachts. What a spectacular space! If you are searching for a venue packed with history, The Lighthouse at the Glen Cove Marina should be your go-to space. The first time the lighthouse guided sailors home was in 1910, and it continued to be in-use until 1951 when it was replaced with an automated beacon and fog signal. Over the next couple of years, the new 25

owners spent time renovating the lighthouse and building to maintain its historic charm while offering updated modern-day conveniences. The lighthouse still serves as a prominent landmark and serves a dual-purpose for this popular outdoor California venue. Intimate gatherings are a great option at The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina. The venue holds a capacity of 150 attendees and offers two separate meeting spaces. When you choose The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina, guests will be welcomed to stay overnight at the historic inn. A popular outdoor wedding venue – The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina offers a variety of packages for your dream wedding day. The venue’s staff is ready to help you choose the perfect package for your reception. If you are planning on tying the knot in a more intimate setting, The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina has elopement packages, too. All of the wedding packages include use of both beautifully landscaped lawns, the waterside patio, and the banquet room. You will have so many options to customize your wedding at this gorgeous venue. Brides and grooms agree – this venue is absolutely magical!

The fully equipped banquet room or the waterfront lawns at The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina are great choices for businesses or companies searching for a place to hold a weekday meeting. Choose this venue space for your next meeting, luncheon, workshop, retreat, or holiday event. Graduation parties, anniversaries, birthday celebrations, and bridal showers are just a few of the special events The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina has had the pleasure of hosting throughout the years. It’s a popular gathering space for families and friends because of the waterfront landscape and elegant meeting spaces. Socialize with your guests on the outdoor patio or share a meal in the banquet room. Either way, we know you will love this sophisticated space! The event staff at The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina is ready to create a memorable event for you and your guests. This tight-knit group is passionate about planning and producing amazing parties. You will be glad you chose to work with this staff at this beautiful outdoor venue!

Are your guests ready to experience the surrounding areas after their event? In Solano County, there is so much to do! Take a trip on the Suisun Valley Loop and visit Wooden Valley Winery, Vezer Family Vineyards, and Vino Godfather Winery. After your event at The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina, find even more Instagram-worthy backdrops at one of these beautiful wineries. Channel your inner child and visit Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to visit the Jelly Belly Candy Company to snack on some delicious jelly beans. Guests will also enjoy the Suisun City’s Waterfront District which boasts boutiques, bars, and restaurants. Walk along the shore and admire the rows of boats and yachts floating in the gorgeous blue water. These are just a few of the great attractions found in Solano County. If you want to learn more about Solano County, host an event at The Lighthouse at Glen Cove Marina and find out more!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LIGHTHOUSE AT GLEN COVE MARINA ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST OUTDOOR EVENT SPACE AWARD!

RUNNER UP

RONALD REAGAN BUILDING AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTER

RUNNER UP

ST. JOHN'S UNIVERSITY, QUEENS Queens, New York

Washington, D.C.

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions

Max Capacity 5,000

On-Site Spaces 22

Max Overnight N/A

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties Youth Retreats/Camps Max Capacity 10,000

On-Site Spaces 200+

Max Overnight 3,500

BEST ON-SITE ACCOMMODATIONS

CARLETON UNIVERSITY, CONFERENCE SERVICES LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

CARLETON UNIVERSITY, CONFERENCE SERVICES Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 1,500 On-Site Spaces 50 Maximum Overnight 3,000

Image Courtesy of Carleton University, Conference Services

Ottawa, Ontario – If you are hosting a multi-day conference, expo, or competition in Ottawa, Ontario, Carleton University should be your first choice for an event space. The university’s residence accommodations are exceptional for those attending a conference in one of the meeting spaces, groups traveling to visit the country's capital, or individuals looking for a unique space close to outdoor recreation spots. From mid-May to mid-August, 3,000 guest rooms are available for overnight accommodations. All of the residence hall rooms are air-conditioned – perfect for summer conferences and retreats. Guests will have the option between traditional rooms or suites. Traditional rooms consist of a spacious open concept and include two single beds and a bathroom shared with the guests in the adjoining room. The suites at Carleton University consist of two bedrooms, a private bathroom, fridge, and microwave. Both are great options for visitors seeking a venue with on-site accommodations. One of Ottawa’s largest hotels, Carleton University boasts more than 2,500 beds on campus in the summer. The university is happy to welcome groups for conferences, sports teams, school groups, tours, language camps, and 27

international visitors. On-site group accommodations are a great way for your guests to connect while they are attending your event! Single guest accommodations are also available during the summer months, and visitors are welcome to learn more about these reservations by contacting the campus. During their stay, guests will have access to Carleton University's state-of-the-art athletics facilities – the gym, swimming pool, indoor track, and so much more. Walk around campus and discover some of the students’ favorite study spots and hangout areas. Guests will enjoy the convenience of utilizing the on-site amenities and will love exploring everything the campus has to offer. Not sure about what event space at Carleton University would best fit your group’s needs? No problem! The professional event team will listen to the details of your gathering and budget, and help choose a meeting space that will best suit you. With top-notch on-site accommodations, the team might even suggest hosting a multi-day event and inviting guests to stay the night. It’s a great option at this fantastic university!

Carleton University recently constructed or renovated a majority of their conference rooms. These meeting spaces are part of state-of-the-art buildings that feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a touch of modern flare, and can accommodate up to 300 guests. The university’s classrooms and lecture halls have a capacity of 10 to 400 people. These gathering spaces are perfect for either large or small meetings. With 4,000 square feet of exhibit space and over 30,000 square feet of combined meeting space, Carleton University is a great option for your next event in Canada. The campus offers teleconferencing equipment and easyto-access internet connectivity. Full service audio/visual production is also available if your meeting requires it. Your guests will love the exciting culinary experience offered at Carleton University. Working with the university’s exclusive in-house catering provider, you can customize a delicious menu that will satisfy all of your guests’ taste buds. From full course meals to hors d’oeuvres, Carleton University’s catering will impress both you and your guests! When planning an event, guests also have the option to enjoy the caf, the university’s allyou-can-eat dining hall.

Allow the knowledgeable professionals to coordinate the details of your event – technology needs, overnight accommodations, dining, meeting space, and parking. Just a short drive takes you downtown to the Parliament buildings, museums, restaurants, and theatres located in Ottawa, Ontario. If your guests are staying for multi-day conferences, meetings, or retreats, suggest they check out everything the surrounding area has to offer. Visit the historic Rideau Canal as it snakes its way through the center of Ottawa. Learn about its history and importance to the city while taking in the tremendous view. Next, guests can explore one of the oldest and largest public markets – the ByWard Market. Purchase some souvenirs to remember your time spent in Ottawa or enjoy a fresh meal at one of the many vendors. Finally, take a break from the city and visit the scenic Gatineau Park. Hiking and biking trails will lead you on a memorable tour of the gorgeous park and in the winter, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe! Ottawa, Ontario is not only home to a superior university; it is also home to a variety of local attractions.

The professional conference planning team is ready to make your next event a success. This friendly group will help before, during, and after your big day or days.

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO CARLETON UNIVERSITY, CONFERENCE SERVICES ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST ON-SITE ACCOMMODATIONS AWARD!

RUNNER UP

FANSHAWE COLLEGE CONFERENCE SERVICES London, Ontario

Max Capacity 600

Max Overnight 1,000

BE S T V E NUE F O R D A Y ME E TINGS U NIVERS ITY OF GE ORGIA CE NT E R F O R C O NTINUING E DUCA TION & H O T E L LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

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UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CENTER FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION & HOTEL Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Family Reunions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Maximum Capacity 600 On-Site Spaces 33 Maximum Overnight 200+

Image Courtesy of University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel

Athens, Georgia – The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, also known as the Georgia Center, is a multi-purpose facility perfect for your next daytime meeting, conference, or presentation. Recently, the Georgia Center has acquired new equipment to produce successful virtual, hybrid, or fully in-person day meetings. These technological advancements are key success factors for this extraordinary Georgia venue. The Georgia Center also takes pride in its professionally trained staff who are ready to work with event planners to coordinate a successful event. Located directly on campus, the Georgia Center shares many of the same resources as the University of Georgia. If you are searching for a venue to host your next day meeting, look no further than the Georgia Center. This world-class conference center boasts over 38,000 square feet of meeting, exhibit, and banquet space. A majority of this space is home to a flexible ballroom, large meeting rooms, an auditorium, conference rooms, a computer lab, boardrooms, and private dining rooms. Talk about versatility! Working with the staff 29

at the Georgia Center will be an integral element in the planning process to ensure you have the perfect space for your gathering. The rest of the event space is home to communal areas that are perfect for exhibits or vendor space. Planners of conferences or expos love to utilize this space. These open areas are also used as spaces for refreshment breaks to encourage networking and connecting with the people around you. The Georgia Center is so popular for day meetings that they even created their own package for planners to select! Instead of charging for room rentals and audio/ visual fees, the Georgia Center created the Day Meeting Package that ties all expenses into one easy bundle. This provides planners the assurance of appropriate space and servicing at a set per-person daily fee. The audio/visual package in each meeting space includes a projector, screen, and a microphone. High-speed WiFi is complimentary for the guests and available in all gathering spaces. The Day Meeting Package also offers beverage service and refreshment breaks. How convenient is that?

Event planners will enjoy working with the experienced professionals at the Georgia Center because the staff is passionate about helping you create an event customized to your needs. If you are looking for a unique experience for your guests, ask about having a breakout session for attendees at the State Botanical Gardens, located on the University of Georgia’s campus. Whether your event is virtual, hybrid, or fully in-person, the Georgia Center is ready to help create an unforgettable experience for your guests. The uniqueness of the Georgia Center is that it also doubles as a hotel – perfect for on-site accommodations for your guests. The Georgia heat will stand no chance as your guests enjoy air-conditioned rooms and suites. Attendees will love the convenience of staying overnight on campus and having all of the meeting spaces right outside of their hotel door. If you plan on utilizing the on-campus catering services, guests will only be steps away from a delicious meal during their stay. After their meeting or conference takes a lunch break or concludes at the end of the day, they will travel to the banquet area of the property to enjoy their meal. Connecting with other attendees is highly encouraged while eating at one of the eight-person round tables in the facility.

Guests can also enjoy one of the 20 restaurants located within a mile of the Georgia Center. If your guests love food and trying new cuisine, Athens is the city for them! Located 60 miles from Atlanta, the Georgia Center is a reasonable day’s commute for a meeting, presentation, or conference in Athens. For out-oftown guests, a commercial shuttle service is offered to transport attendees from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to the Georgia Center numerous times a day. After your event ends, make sure to stick around and take in all of the local attractions in Athens. If you are lucky, you might have the opportunity to catch an SEC football game at Sanford Stadium or a basketball game at Stegeman Coliseum. Off-campus, meeting attendees will find a variety of local attractions. Downtown Athens is filled with antique shops, restaurants, and boutiques – a little something for everyone! Art lovers will enjoy exploring the Athens Institute for Contemporary Art. Lastly, enjoy a performance at either Morton Theatre or Georgia Theatre. We are confident that whatever you do after the meeting or event ends, it will be a fulfilling experience in Athens, Georgia!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CENTER FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION & HOTEL ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE FOR DAY MEETINGS AWARD!

RUNNER UP

Washington, D.C.

Coral Gables, Florida

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 400

On-Site Spaces 60+

Max Overnight 1,000

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 7,792

On-Site Spaces 50+

Max Overnight 3,700

BEST VENUE FOR WEDDINGS

ROYAL O A K M USI C T H E A TR E LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

ROYAL OAK MUSIC THEATRE Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Family Reunions Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Maximum Capacity 2,000 On-Site Spaces 1 Maximum Overnight N/A

Image Courtesy of Royal Oak Music Theatre

Royal Oak, Michigan – Built in 1928, the Royal Oak Music Theatre boasts historic charm and architecture everywhere you look. As your guests enter the venue, they will be transported back in time. The stunning interior will be a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding day. With a large domed ceiling and curved walls, the sounds of your big day will wash over guests and create an intimate gathering space. The Royal Oak Music Theatre is an elegant option for your wedding ceremony and reception. Guaranteed to take people’s breath away, Royal Oak Music Theatre offers an extraordinary event space and dedicated staff who are ready to transform your dreams into reality. Imagine pulling up to the theatre and seeing your names brightly lit on the marquee – inviting guests into your once-in-a-lifetime wedding. Inside the beautifully appointed lobby, guests can enjoy a cocktail and conversation as they watch the montage of your lives unfolding in the digital poster cases. This venue is sure to make a lasting impression on your family and friends.

After the cocktail and hors d'oeuvre reception to kick off the party, guests will be welcomed into the main auditorium to witness your first introduction as a married couple on stage. The energy is almost tangible as you cut the cake, listen to touching speeches, and dance your first dance. Guests will not be able to get enough of this breathtaking event space and memorable wedding reception. From intimate gatherings to large-scale events, Royal Oak Music Theatre is an exceptional venue outside Detroit, MI. The atmosphere created by the dedicated staff as well as the interior and exterior space is unmatched. This facility will spark imagination and inspire creativity during your next meeting, conference, presentation, or corporate event. You will have more than enough room to accommodate all of your guests in this spectacular space. For a seated dinner, Royal Oak Music Theatre requests a maximum of 325 guests – the perfect size for a wedding on the larger side. Wedding attendees will dance the night away in this historic venue.

If you are not planning a wedding or an event that requires a seated dinner, Royal Oak Music Theatre has a capacity of 1,050 guests seated theatre-style. Depending on the set-up, Royal Oak Music Theatre can have an overall capacity of 2,000. The experienced venue staff will love to work with you to figure out the right configuration for your event. Corporate and special events are among the other gatherings welcomed at Royal Oak Music Theatre. Take advantage of all the included amenities this venue has to offer – a built-in stage, state-of-the-art lighting and sound, multiple bar areas, a customizable marquee, TV monitors, podium, VIP area, tables, and chairs. Royal Oak Music Theatre also owns multiple event spaces just outside downtown Detroit that would be great options for smaller events, breakout areas, or VIP client and employee entertainment. The passionate staff at Royal Oak Music Theatre will offer a list of its preferred caterers for your event. These caterers will work with you to determine which package of theirs will best suit your events' needs. Take a look at this gorgeous venue for yourself – set up a virtual tour with the event services team or take a spin on the 360 degree virtual photos on their website!

Surrounding the Royal Oak Music Theatre are numerous hotels for your guests looking for overnight accommodations. Attendees can party all night at your wedding and then recover at one of the many great hotels in Royal Oak or Detroit. You just had the wedding of your dreams at Royal Oak Music Theatre – now what? The surrounding area of this extraordinary venue boasts many local attractions to keep the excitement going. If shopping is your preferred activity, Royal Oak, MI is home to vintage boutiques, art galleries, and record stores. Afterward, visit one of the many restaurants – Diamonds Steak & Seafood, Lily’s Seafood Grill & Brewery, or the Jolly Pumpkin. Located just 20 minutes away from Royal Oak is the city of Detroit. Art lovers can visit the Detroit Institute of Arts or the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit. Walk along the Detroit Riverfront and admire the gorgeous view. As you stroll along, you may notice bikers, hikers, walking tours, yoga classes, pop-up concerts, and so much more! Finally, Detroit is home to delicious food and drink options. Try one of the local favorites such as Cliff Bell’s, Joe Muer Seafood, Dime Store, or The Rattlesnake Club. Detroit is filled with exciting attractions for you to enjoy all year long!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO ROYAL OAK MUSIC THEATRE ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE FOR WEDDINGS AWARD!

RUNNER UP

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK

ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY Victoria, British Columbia

College Park, Maryland

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions

Max Capacity 14,000

On-Site Spaces 100

Max Overnight 5,000

Max Capacity 250

On-Site Spaces 4

Max Overnight N/A

BE S T V E NUE F O R LI F E E VE NTS

V EHI C L E VA U L T LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

VEHICLE VAULT Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 1,000 On-Site Spaces 5 Maximum Overnight N/A Image Courtesy of Vehicle Vault

Parker, Colorado – Vehicle Vault is not your average car museum. Guests will be surrounded by a showroom collection of classic and exotic vehicles that offer a unique and stunning backdrop! Vehicle Vault is a superior option for all of your life events – graduations, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, celebrations of life, fundraisers, and so much more. Hosting an event at Vehicle Vault is promised to be a one-of-a-kind experience! The story behind Vehicle Vault is the genesis of a father/daughter duo indulging their automobile enthusiast and collector dream back in 2010. Vehicle Vault is one family’s personal automobile collection shared in a community gathering place. Open to the public since 2014, Vehicle Vault is home to a showroom collection of over 50 classic and exotic vehicles with model years ranging from 1906 to 2018. Along with being a spectacular venue for different events, Vehicle Vault is open for the public to explore when it is not being rented.

Guests will experience an unparalleled ambiance as they dine and mingle among an impressive collection of cars. As the event continues throughout the day or night, attendees will enjoy a tour through the decades and cruise down memory lane. Vehicle Vault’s indoor and outdoor spaces emote high energy, encourage great photos, and impress guests from across the country. Planning your next event is a breeze with the Vehicle Vault team. The detail-oriented staff works in tandem with clients and their vendors to personalize each event experience. Vehicle Vault’s event staff takes pride in the role they play every time they help plan memorable moments for their clients. Vehicle Vault offers five meeting spaces for planners to explore. A standing reception allows the largest capacity at 1,000 guests. Seated receptions are more common for the events held at Vehicle Vault and can hold a capacity of 500 attendees. The passionate staff at Vehicle Vault is excited to work with you to find the best set-up for your next gathering!

The indoor space at Vehicle Vault includes the Gallery Floor, the overlooking Mezzanine, and a grand boardroom. These meeting spaces are a wonderful option for a graduation party, wedding, bridal shower, or non-profit fundraiser. Guests will also love the outdoor space which boasts a two-tiered outdoor plaza facing the magnificent Colorado sunsets. Vehicle Vault is a dazzling venue both inside and out! Although Vehicle Vault does not have on-site catering, the staff will be happy to point you in the right direction toward local caterers. When your event takes place at Vehicle Vault, a dedicated service area will be at your caterers' disposal. Built-in flat screen monitors, an on-site projector, a viewing screen, and various audio equipment can be added into your package. WiFi is available throughout the venue at no extra cost and Vehicle Vault’s event staff will ensure you have whatever technology you need. Their goal is to create a special experience for you and your guests to remember for years to come! Vehicle Vault is also home to many public events for the community. One great example is its monthly gathering of auto enthusiasts – Espresso & Exhaust. If you are passionate about automobiles, come hang with your friends on the second Saturday of every month to enjoy this great experience!

While Vehicle Vault is a local attraction itself, here are some exciting experiences for guests to enjoy after your event ends in Parker, CO. Downtown Parker is full of coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants for guests to explore. Walk along Cherry Creek, which flows through town, and visit some of the favorite local spots such as Downhill Brewing. Guests can also stroll through the LoDo Historic District – a vibrant neighborhood full of brewpubs, rooftop cafés, and live music hot-spots. Vehicle Vault found its home in a unique city and definitely fits right in! Located only 20 minutes away, Denver is also another great option for guests to enjoy. When touring the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, you will be amazed at the variety of interactive exhibits throughout the museum. Some of the permanent exhibits include Egyptian mummies, the history of space exploration, and a dedicated prehistoric area. How fun! During your stay in Colorado, you might even have enough time to catch a performance at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre and take in the jaw-dropping views of the Rocky Mountains during the next show you attend. Parker and Denver are full of attractions for your guests to enjoy after their event at Vehicle Vault ends!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO VEHICLE VAULT ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE FOR LIFE EVENTS AWARD!

RUNNER UP

THE BEACON CENTER Las Vegas, Nevada

On-Site Spaces 2

Max Overnight N/A

BE S T V E NUE F O R LO CA LLY SOURCED CATERIN G

U NIVERSI T Y O F M A R YLA N D , C O L L E G E P A R K LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Parties Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 14,000 On-Site Spaces 100 Maximum Overnight 5,000 Image Courtesy of University of Maryland, College Park

College Park, Maryland – Let’s eat! Food is always an important element of any great event. At University of Maryland, College Park, you can always count on the food being outstanding. UMCP serves delicious, locally sourced meals to all of their attendees. Whether planning a wedding reception, corporate meeting, conference, seminar, or youth program at the University of Maryland, College Park, guests are guaranteed to have mouthwatering options at every meal. Local sourcing is a main element of how UMCP does business. By choosing local, they are providing healthier options for guests, students, and faculty as well as supporting the College Park community. Good Tidings Catering is the university’s on-campus catering service and is using these locally sourced ingredients in the meals they prepare. The first local source they partner with is Terp Farm – a joint venture of the Department of Dining Services and the College of Agriculture. Terp Farm is an organic farm and teaching lab where students receive hands-on experience not otherwise available on campus. Mixed lettuces, fresh heirloom tomatoes, root vegetables, herbs, gourds, and beans come from Terp Farm for use 35

in catered offerings, the Green Tidings food truck, and dining hall special events. This is a wonderful initiative created by University of Maryland, College Park and not only offers fresh produce to the campus, but also a great learning opportunity for students! The second local source that the University of Maryland, College Park employs are the raised beds in front of the Adele H. Stamp Student Union. These gardens provide herbs that Good Tidings Catering chefs add to gourmet creations that could be served to campus officials and visiting dignitaries. Certified campus chefs take pride in caring for these plants. While they’re gardening, chefs educate passing students about different uses for fresh herbs. University of Maryland, College Park prides itself on building connections between students and faculty, and this is an awesome example of how they are doing just that. Finally, University of Maryland, College Park has created sustainability efforts to implement all over campus, especially for dining services. Good Tidings Catering and Goodies 2 Go deliveries work with the Facilities Department to provide waste-free events as often as possible. Procurement processes favor

sustainable ingredients for cooking. For example, vegetables served at events, in cafés, and dining halls are purchased fresh, then either roasted, steamed, sautéed, or simmered. Finally, the vegetables are seasoned and served. It is easier and more delicious when the caterers are using fresh produce for their meals. In 2014, UMCP committed to sustainability – pledging to source 20 percent of food from sustainable sources by 2020. Can you believe that the university reached this goal by 2016? They continue to seek new ways to raise the bar and recently signed the Cool Food Pledge, an initiative that involves working with institutions around the world to lower the carbon footprint of the food that global organizations serve. University of Maryland, College Park offers 100 meeting and event spaces for planners to utilize. A campus favorite is the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center which boasts gorgeous stained-glass and stunning details throughout the space. This is a great option for a wedding reception, fundraising gala, or a sophisticated social event. The Adele H. Stamp Student Union is home to two beautiful ballrooms and 13 other meeting rooms. The campus is full of facilities that will make your event unforgettable. Whether your group is big or small, University of Maryland, College Park has the perfect space for you.

During the summer months, various overnight accommodations are available for event attendees. Choose from standard residence halls, suites, or apartments. These rooms are spacious and offer guests a place to call home for a few days during their event. Complete in-house audio/visual support is available during your event to ensure it goes off without a hitch. Microphones, projectors, screens, and LCD projectors are found in almost every meeting room. If your event requires the use of computers, you can work with the event staff to book a computer lab rental. Finally, the University of Maryland, College Park provides wireless internet access campus wide. The technological features at UMCP will ensure a great event! So, we know you will enjoy delicious food during your event at University of Maryland, College Park, but what will you do for fun after your event ends? College Park, MD is full of exciting local attractions. If you are staying on campus, catch a men’s or women’s basketball game at the XFINITY Center or check out the TerpZone. Offcampus attractions include visiting one of the nearby cities – Washington, D.C., Baltimore, or Annapolis. Book an event at University of Maryland, College Park today and you won’t be disappointed!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE FOR LOCALLY SOURCED CATERING AWARD!

RUNNER UP

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Berkeley, California

DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY

DAVID BROWER CENTER Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

On-Site Spaces 200

Max Overnight 2,000

Max Capacity 250

On-Site Spaces 5

Max Overnight N/A

BEST VENUE ON OR NEAR WATER

RHODE I SLA N D SCH O O L O F D E S I G N LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN Corporate Social Events Family Reunions Professional Meetings/Trainings/ Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Youth Retreats/Camps Maximum Capacity 550 On-Site Spaces 45 Maximum Overnight 200

Image Courtesy of Rhode Island School of Design

Providence, Rhode Island – If you are searching for both city and river views, the Rhode Island School of Design is a spectacular venue to host your next conference, meeting, wedding, social event, or retreat. At Rhode Island School of Design, you’ll be just minutes away from 400 miles of pristine Rhode Island coastline. Located in the heart of downtown Providence, Rhode Island School of Design offers an interactive and unique space for your next event. The uniquely beautiful campus, coupled with New England’s exciting city life, creates an experience guests will remember for many years to come. Rhode Island School of Design is one of the best venues on or near the water in the U.S.! Depending on your meeting space configuration, capacity for your event at RISD will vary. A wedding, corporate event, or any other seated event holds a capacity of 120 attendees – the perfect size for an intimate gathering with family, friends, or colleagues. Presentations, lectures, or classroom-style configurations offer a capacity of 100 guests. Finally, a standing reception such as a cocktail and hors d'oeuvre-only event for a 37

fundraiser or adult social party allows a capacity of 350 attendees. The dedicated event and conference staff at Rhode Island School of Design is excited to work with you and find out which type of reception would best fit your event’s needs. Weddings, corporate events, and fundraising galas have found a spectacular home in Rhode Island School of Design’s Grand Gallery, RISD Museum. This intimate gathering room offers a space perfect for cocktail receptions, seated dinners, or gallery space. After your event, guests will step outside and be welcomed by the gorgeous campus. If you’re hoping to hold your event outdoors, make sure you consider the Tillinghast Place. This beautiful 35-acre waterfront property creates an amazing space for wedding receptions, adult social parties, or corporate events. Guests will enjoy the flexibility of the event space and all of the included amenities at Rhode Island School of Design. Multi-day events are always welcome at RISD. Guests can choose from a wide variety of residence halls during the summer months. Some are traditional rooms while others are suite-style. Either way, guests will love being

able to sleep for a few extra minutes because of the convenient overnight accommodations - or maybe they will wake up early and take a walk around the city! The Rhode Island School of Design has full-service catering, numerous dining halls, and quick-stop options that guests will have easy access to. The in-house catering provided by RISD is phenomenal. If guests have any restrictions or you want to customize your event menu, the catering staff will be happy to work with you to create a memorable meal. RISD Caters is a full-service catering and event coordination division, specifically catering meals on the campus of the Rhode Island School of Design. Whether your event is at the Tillinghast Place or the Grand Gallery, RISD Caters is ready to serve you a delicious meal your guests are guaranteed to enjoy. For quick options between meetings, stop at Watermark[et]. This on-campus convenience store offers a variety of to-go options such as grab-and-go salads made with seasonal, locally grown vegetables. A unique space to enjoy some breakfast or lunch is Carr Haus Café, which is a student run coffee shop. The café offers bagels, sandwiches, coffee, tea, and pastries while also allowing guests the opportunity to enjoy student artwork at the Carr Haus Student Gallery.

All RISD classrooms offer modern amenities to meet your technical needs – laptops, microphones, projectors and screens, and custom lighting, to name a few. During your event, WiFi is also available. The university’s meeting spaces are well-equipped for hybrid events as well. And if you’re having any technical difficulties, the university staff can find a solution. Did your event end and now you’re looking for local attractions to enjoy before you head home? Providence, RI is filled with many options! While you’re downtown, make sure you stop by WaterFire – an award-winning sculpture by Barnaby Evans. This work of art is a symbol of the city’s cherished renaissance. It is a must-see when visiting Providence! Next, visit the country’s third oldest zoo. The Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village is an exciting attraction for audiences both young and old. We would be remiss if we did not mention things to do near the Providence River waterfront. Stroll along the water and take a ride down the river on a Venetian gondola offered by the popular La Gondola Providence. Peruse plentiful shops, vintage furniture and antique stores, or eat at one of many local restaurants along the river. If you stay at Rhode Island School of Design, you will understand why it was voted Best Venue On or Near Water.

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST VENUE ON OR NEAR WATER AWARD!

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CARLETON UNIVERSITY CONFERENCE SERVICES

ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY Victoria, British Columbia

Ottawa, Ontario

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Leisure Travel Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 1,500

On-Site Spaces 50

Max Overnight 3,000

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Ceremonies Wedding Receptions

Max Capacity 250

On-Site Spaces 4

Max Overnight N/A

BE S T PA ND E M I C PI VO T U NIVERS ITY OF GE ORGIA CE NT E R F O R C O NTINUING E DUCA TION & H O T E L LEARN MORE | SUBMIT RFP

BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT

Image Courtesy of University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel

Athens, Georgia – The recent pandemic has hit the events and hospitality industry with exceptional force. At Unique Venues, we are proud of all of our partner venues for quickly adapting and creating a new approach to conducting business. The story behind the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel’s pandemic pivot is special and has helped shape the Center into the amazingly versatile facility it is today. Follow along as we recap what helped them survive and thrive during a pandemic that affected almost every single industry in the world. Almost two years ago, the COVID-19 pandemic rocked everyone’s world. When the pandemic forced the University of Georgia to shut down and shift to remote learning, the Georgia Center, staffed by about 150 student workers and 130 full- and part-time professional staff, not only had to close its doors to the public but also lost more than half its workforce. This seemed to be a common theme throughout the events industry. As the demand for conferences, hotel rooms, banquets, and restaurant dining plummeted, the continuing education part of the Georgia Center’s business kicked 39

into high gear. Since their first remote learning courses were established in July 2020, the Center has grown to offer more than 600 online courses in a variety of formats. On top of running a successful online course program, the Georgia Center’s sales and events staff was fielding calls from clients who needed to cancel or reschedule upcoming events. The Center also reached out to all hotel guests that had reservations and event planners whose events had not been canceled, to inform them that the Georgia Center would reopen when it was deemed safe. This is a great example of how the Georgia Center was proactive and not reactive when navigating a difficult situation. The Georgia Center’s food and beverage staff stepped into the roles of moderator, technical support, and course builder. They were also trained on a host of other tasks to assist the continuing education and instructional design staff. This is truly a great example of their team-first mentality.

One of the Georgia Center’s key revenue sources is hosting two sessions of in-person Advanced Placement Summer Institute courses. The APSI programs are designed to provide high school teachers with the content and resources needed to lead successful AP courses and ensure that their students are prepared for the exams. With the help of the Center’s staff, they exceeded their expectations for 2020 and enrolled 452 teachers virtually – 14% more participants than in 2019 – during the scheduled two weeks of summer programming. This same team from the continuing education, sales, events, food and beverage, and hotel departments successfully transitioned 27 camp programs to an online format for the first time in the 20 years since they began offering summer camps. Once classes began in August it became apparent that there were many students who would be unable to safely return home to isolate or quarantine after being exposed to the virus. The hotel pivoted once again to house those students in a safe and comfortable space where they could have their needs met for the required quarantine period. Staff from every division was involved in creating the new routines and processes needed to ensure safe check-in and departures, ordering and delivery of meals, and much more to guarantee quality care for these students. In order to ensure these students’ comfort,

the Georgia Center’s housekeeping staff modified their already well-developed processes for touch-free delivery of toiletries and linens in order to accommodate the longer stays these students faced. As restrictions began to lift in Georgia, the Georgia Center received inquiries to host parents for graduation and attendees for larger in-person conferences. The timetable to turn the hotel was very short – the last quarantining students moved out at the end of April and the Center’s first conference group came at the start of May. This meant the housekeeping staff had to pull out all the stops to thoroughly clean, prep, and disinfect all of the rooms and still leave a 24-hour “sitting” period per their protocols before those rooms became occupied again. As you have probably guessed, the Georgia Center’s dedicated staff successfully pulled off this feat. The Georgia Center is well-equipped to dive head first into this new normal – hopefully without too many pivots in the near future. The staff is optimistic about their success, thanks to the strides they have made as an organization and the brilliant work navigating around obstacles. What an inspiring story to come out of an unconventional time. We applaud the Georgia Center’s “can do” attitude!

ONCE AGAIN, CONGRATULATIONS TO UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA CENTER FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION & HOTEL ON WINNING THE

UNIQUE VENUES 2021 BEST PANDEMIC PIVOT AWARD!

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ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

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MARITIME CONFERENCE CENTER Linthicum Heights, Maryland

Springfield, Illinois

Adult Social Events Corporate Social Events Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Wedding Receptions

Max Capacity 500

On-Site Spaces 9

Max Overnight N/A

Corporate Social Events Expos/Competitions Professional Meetings/Trainings Conferences/Retreats Youth Retreats/Camps

Max Capacity 500

On-Site Spaces 55

Max Overnight 400

WEDDI

FIND THE PERFECT UNIQUE SPACE TO HOST YOUR WEDDING

because every couple deserves a wedding venue as unique as their love story

Unique Venues Best Of Awards 2021

Articles inside

Best Venue for Locally Sourced Catering

Best Venue for a LGBTQ-Friendly Event

Best Venue for Day Meetings

Best Venue for Life Events

Best Virtual Conference

Best Venue for Weddings

Best Venue for Spiritual/Wellness Gathering

Best On-Site Accommodations

Best Small-Market Venue