Wow attendees with these grand and impressive event venues and experiences
Transforming a meeting or event into an unforgettable experience goes beyond crafting seamless schedules and delivering engaging content—it calls for venues and activities that leave a lasting impression. It means venues that deliver more than just a place to gather and off-the-beaten-path excursions. From luxurious hotels and architecturally stunning convention centers to immersive excursions that ignite the imagination, these venues and experiences are designed to inspire, delight, and create lasting memories, ensuring your event makes an impact long after it’s over.
HOTELS
Grand Bohemian Charlotte, An Autograph Collection Hotel
Charlotte, N.C.
Nestled in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, Grand Bohemian Charlotte, An Autograph Collection Hotel offers an unparalleled blend of artistry, luxury, and Latin-inspired charm. This luxurious high-rise hotel’s distinctive flair is evident from the moment you step into the lobby, where curated artwork and bold colors set the tone for an unforgettable experience.
In addition to elevated dining options serving globally inspired cuisine, an indulgent onsite spa, and a rooftop bar boasting panoramic views of The Queen City skyline, the Grand Bohemian also includes opportunities for groups to meet in chic style. More than 16,000 square feet of function space is housed in the boutique hotel, including six unique meeting spaces and versatile outdoor event space. The 3,912-square-foot Palace Ballroom is reminiscent of the iconic Paz Palace in Buenos Aires while the 4,400-square-foot Queen Terrace speaks to the city’s nickname, with its incredible views of the city and eye-catching mural by artist Nikki Zarrabi. Other standout spaces include the Bohemian Garden, which is meticulously landscaped to give the feel of a European garden, and the Minoto private dining room, a bohemian-inspired space situated inside the property’s fine-dining restaurant, Mico.
Angad Arts Hotel
St. Louis
There’s plenty to be in awe about with the historic Angad Arts Hotel, which once housed the Missouri Theatre in the 1920s. In addition to its convenient location in the Grand Central Arts District in midtown St. Louis, Angad features unique culinary offerings and a rooftop bar with some of the city’s best views. What sets Angad apart is how it weaves art into the hotel experience itself, incorporating color psychology and art into practically every aspect of the hotel.
Angad is the first hotel in the world where guests can select their room based on the emotion of color concept—blue, meaning freedom; red, symbolizing empowerment; yellow, representing curiosity; and green, for rejuvenation. Permanent art commissions are on display in all guest rooms and many other public spaces of the property. In addition, the hotel hosts seven exhibition openings every year, each of which highlight artists from within a 200-mile radius of the hotel. Connected to a particular piece of art on display? The artwork is also available for purchase as another way of supporting the local art community.
Beyond its immersive art experience, Angad also serves as a distinctive venue for meetings and events, offering more than 8,000 square feet of versatile space. Whether it’s a corporate retreat in the library with sweeping skyline views, a reception on the rooftop terrace, or an elegant gathering in the private ballroom, each setting is infused with creativity.
Threefoot Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio
Meridian, Miss.
A cherished landmark in Meridian, Threefoot Hotel, A Tribute Portfolio seamlessly blends the elegance of the golden age with the comforts of modern luxury. Housed in the historic 1929 Art Deco Threefoot Building—the tallest structure in East Mississippi—the hotel pays homage to its rich past while offering an elevated experience for today’s guests. Original Art Deco mosaic work serves as a reminder of its storied history while every inch of the property, from lavish guest rooms to its Boxcar rooftop bar celebrating the city’s railroad heritage, exudes sophistication and charm.
For meetings and events, Threefoot Hotel delivers beautifully designed spaces tailored for both intimate gatherings and grand occasions. The 1,000-square-foot Dreifuss Room provides a refined setting, while 6:01 Local, the onsite restaurant, offers a welcoming space for networking over thoughtfully crafted cuisine. Whether hosting a corporate retreat or a social affair, this boutique hotel ensures an unforgettable experience steeped in style and history.
Ambassador Hotel
Oklahoma City
A blend of timeless luxury and modern convenience, Ambassador Hotel is a standout destination in Oklahoma City’s vibrant midtown district. Housed in a restored Art Deco building, this boutique hotel seamlessly fuses classic elegance with contemporary comfort, making it an iconic part of the city’s landscape.
Ambassador Hotel offers a collection of stylish, well-appointed spaces designed to impress. The 928-square-foot Heritage Room, perched on the seventh floor, provides sweeping views of the city, while the 416-square-foot Mesta Room is strategically laid out for intimate board meetings and private luncheons. For an open-air experience, the terrace delivers a dynamic outdoor setting with a city skyline backdrop, perfect for elevated receptions, cocktail hours, and al fresco celebrations.
When not participating in a meeting or event, guests can experience all the midtown district has to offer just steps from the Ambassador, or they can take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary car service within a three-mile radius.
Omni La Mansión del Rio
San Antonio, Texas
Since opening in 1968, La Mansión del Rio has been a hallmark of charm, hospitality, and natural beauty. Now part of the Omni collection since 2006, this 338-room retreat offers a serene escape in the heart of San Antonio’s vibrant River Walk. With its elegant Spanish colonial architecture, cypress-lined pathways, and the storied Selena Bridge, the hotel seamlessly blends history and luxury, creating an oasis amid the energy of downtown.
Guests at Omni La Mansión del Rio can indulge in three onsite dining experiences, each curated by executive chef Robert Cantu, to celebrate the flavors of South Texas, Latin, and French influences. For ultimate relaxation before or after an event, the full-service Mokara Spa—located just across the river and San Antonio’s only Forbes Four Star spa—is available to all guests. For those planning a meeting or event, Omni La Mansión del Rio offers 16 naturally lit meeting spaces and four ballrooms, including the Iberian Ballroom, which hosts up to 500 guests—all steps from the city’s most iconic landmarks, lively, and scenic River Walk attractions.
CONVENTION CENTERS
Statehouse Convention Center
Little Rock, Ark.
With 220,000 square feet of space in the heart of downtown Little Rock, Statehouse Convention Center is a premier venue for hosting meetings and events. Its prime location and state-of-the-art design make it a sought-after destination for conferences, conventions, and gatherings of all sizes.
Designed for versatility, the convention center spans three levels and offers a variety of spaces to accommodate any event. The Wally Allen Ballroom boasts 18,362 square feet and is complemented by a pre-function area overlooking Riverfront Park and the Arkansas River. Governor’s halls I-IV provide 82,892 square feet of flexible exhibition space, while seven additional meeting rooms, three registration rooms, and a small conference room ensure event planners have everything they need to create a seamless experience.
Adding to its appeal is the center’s unbeatable convenience. Connected to Little Rock Marriott and within walking distance of several top hotels, attendees can transition effortlessly between events, activities, and accommodations. Plus, with the airport just five miles away, travel to and from the venue is a breeze, cementing Statehouse Convention Center as a standout choice for any event.
Ocean Center
Daytona Beach, Fla.
When it comes to hosting meetings and events that truly impress, Ocean Center delivers in every way. Located just steps from the world-famous sands of Daytona Beach, this premier venue pairs stunning coastal views with state-of-the-art facilities, making it an exceptional choice for conventions, trade shows, and more.
Ocean Center boasts an impressive 93,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 42,000-square-foot arena with seating for 8,400, a 14,000-square-foot ballroom, and 32 versatile meeting rooms. Whether for a large-scale convention or an intimate gathering, this venue offers the flexibility and resources to meet any need.
Beyond the space itself, Ocean Center is in close proximity to more than 1,500 guest rooms, delicious dining, and Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB). In addition, its commitment and exceptional service shine through, as the dedicated team goes above and beyond to ensure every event is seamless and memorable. The recent “Ocean Center Reimagined” initiative, featuring $50 million in renovations, further enhances the guest experience with modern upgrades, from new seating to a state-of-the-art kitchen.
Baltimore Convention Center
Baltimore
Baltimore Convention Center was designed to be the epicenter of meetings and events in the city, and more than 40 years after its debut (and nearly 30 years after an expansion), it continues to deliver.
With 300,000 square feet of contiguous exhibition space, approximately 85,000 square feet of meeting space, including 50 meeting rooms, and a versatile 36,672-square-foot ballroom, the convention center offers the flexibility to host gatherings of virtually any size and scope. Whether a large-scale convention, an industry trade show, or an intimate corporate meeting, Baltimore Convention Center is built to accommodate.
Beyond its impressive footprint, the convention center is located at the heart of it all. Inner Harbor, Camden Yards, vibrant neighborhoods, and 8,000 hotel rooms (2,300 within one block) are just steps away. Plus, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and Amtrak’s Penn Station offer easy accessibility for attendees.
Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center
Columbia, S.C.
Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center is a premier destination for meetings and events, offering a seamless blend of state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant downtown setting. Since opening in 2004, the venue has hosted more than 8,000 events and welcomed nearly four million visitors—a testament to its reputation as a top-tier gathering place.
Spanning approximately 142,500 square feet, the convention center is designed to accommodate events of all sizes. Its 16,700-square-foot ballroom, expansive 23,700-square-foot column-free exhibit hall, and 18,560 square feet of flexible meeting space—divisible into 19 unique rooms—ensure every event finds its perfect fit.
Beyond the venue, guests can immerse themselves in Columbia’s dynamic downtown entertainment district, just steps from the convention center. With restaurants, live music venues, art galleries, and shopping within easy reach—not to mention more than 2,000 hotel rooms within a one-mile radius—attendees can transition effortlessly between business and leisure, making every event a truly memorable experience.
Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas
Irving, Texas
Irving is renowned for its walkable entertainment district, and at the very heart of it stands the Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas. The LEED® Silver certified venue is a striking architectural landmark, featuring a futuristic design and high-end finishes easily setting it apart. The convention center offers 275,000 total square feet spread over 40 acres, including a 50,000-square-foot column-free exhibit hall, 20,000-square-foot ballroom, 10,000-square-foot pre-function space, and 20,000 square feet of breakout meeting space.
Beyond the venue, attendees can effortlessly immerse themselves in all there is within Las Colinas, a 12,000-acre master-planned urban hub and entertainment district. From enjoying a leisurely gondola ride at Mandalay Canal to paddleboarding in Lake Carolyn to experiencing its many parks or the petting zoo, Irving offers countless ways for guests to unwind and create memorable experiences outside of event hours.
VENUES
Montaluce Winery & Restaurant
Dahlonega, Ga.
When looking for a venue combining luxury, exclusivity, and a spectacular setting, look no further than Montaluce Winery & Restaurant.
Nestled in the rolling hills of north Georgia’s wine country, Montaluce offers a breathtaking escape seemingly worlds away yet easily accessible. With its Tuscan-inspired architecture, vineyard views, and refined yet welcoming ambiance, this venue delivers an elegant and unforgettable event experience.
From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, Montaluce provides a variety of stunning spaces. The expansive outdoor terrace overlooks lush vineyards, offering a picturesque backdrop for cocktail receptions and networking events. Inside, elegantly designed dining rooms blend rustic charm with modern luxury, creating an atmosphere perfect for corporate dinners, retreats, and private celebrations.
Beyond the venue, Montaluce invites attendees to engage in immersive experiences to elevate any event. Wine tastings, vineyard tours, and guided hikes add a unique touch, allowing guests to savor not only the flavors of the region but also its natural beauty.
Castle & Key
Frankfort, Ky.
For meeting and event space beyond the ordinary, Castle & Key features a touch of bourbon-infused fun. This revitalized 19th-century distillery blends Gilded Age grandeur with modern sophistication, offering an unforgettable setting transcending the typical conference room.
From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, Castle & Key’s stunning event spaces provide a one-of-a-kind backdrop. The beautifully restored Shooking Building offers a picturesque, industrial-chic atmosphere, while the Springhouse provides a unique setting surrounded by lush greenery and flowing water. For those seeking a breathtaking outdoor experience, the Sunken Garden, a historic botanical retreat, creates a picture-perfect setting beneath towering stone walls.
In addition to lovely indoor and outdoor spaces, the distillery offers exclusive experiences to set any event apart. Bourbon tastings, private tours, and curated cocktail experiences immerse guests in the artistry of Kentucky’s legendary spirits industry.
Hunter Museum of American Art
Chattanooga, Tenn.
Inspire attendees with the beauty of all things art at the Hunter Museum of American Art.
Perched on a bluff high above the Tennessee River, the Hunter Museum of American Art is an immersive experience where art, history, and breathtaking scenery come together. With a collection of 3,000 works spanning paintings, sculptures, drawings, and new media, the museum captures the creativity, spirit, and evolving story of America. Whether attendees explore the galleries before, after, or even during an event, each exhibit offers a new perspective and an unforgettable backdrop.
The museum offers a variety of event spaces ideal for everything from cocktail dinners to corporate events. The 2,400-square-foot Grand Foyer Lobby can accommodate 350 guests for cocktail receptions, and the 1,400-square-foot Auditorium can host corporate events or meetings with up to 100 guests when seated. The 24 Hour Terrace, Paley Terrace, and River Terrace each take full advantage of the venue’s sweeping
views of water and historic Walnut Street Bridge while also offering 1,600, 1,200, 8,000 square feet, respectively.
National Archives Museum
Washington, D.C.
Few venues offer the prestige and significance of the National Archives Museum, a historic venue in Washington, D.C., where history is written on the walls.
Housing the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and many other renowned aspects of American history, the museum also features event spaces as awe-inspiring as the artifacts. The 290-seat William G. McGowan Theater is outfitted for impactful presentations and thought-provoking discussions. The Rotunda Galleries and main Rotunda, featuring the iconic Faulkner Murals on its curved walls, provide an extraordinary atmosphere for receptions, where guests can sip cocktails in the glow of the nation’s founding documents. Named after four of our nation’s founding fathers, The Presidential Conference Center comprises four separate rooms to accommodate lectures, meetings, conferences, or more intimate engagements. Whatever the space chosen, attendees will appreciate how the National Archives Museum brings the past and future together.
West Virginia Botanic Garden
Morgantown, W.Va.
Set on 85 acres of natural beauty in Morgantown, the West Virginia Botanic Garden at Tibbs Run Preserve offers an inspiring and serene backdrop for meetings and events. With lush landscapes, scenic walking trails, and tranquil water features, the venue offers a refreshing change from traditional conference spaces and fosters creativity, relaxation, and connection.
The outdoor Celebration Garden provides a picturesque open-air setting, perfect for hosting gatherings surrounded by vibrant flowers and towering trees. For those seeking an indoor space with an immersive nature experience, the Terrace at Tibbs Run features floor-to-ceiling windows, offering incredible views of the gardens’ expansive property while allowing natural light to enhance any event.
Beyond its natural beauty, the garden inspires and engages attendees. During breaks, guests can enjoy brainstorming sessions in the fresh air, peaceful strolls along woodland trails, or simply taking in the tranquil setting.
Sazerac House
New Orleans
Sazerac House offers groups an opportunity to sip, savor, and step into the rich history of New Orleans’ cocktail culture.
Nestled on the edge of the historic French Quarter, this interactive museum and distillery shares the story of America’s original cocktail, the Sazerac, and offers guests a hands-on taste of the city’s spirited traditions. Visitors can explore three floors of engaging exhibits, historic artifacts, and live whiskey-making demonstrations and learn how the Sazerac cocktail evolved from a 19th-century apothecary creation to an iconic drink. Along the way, they’ll also have the opportunity to sample a variety of Sazerac brands, from rye whiskey to bitters, and discover the craftsmanship behind each pour.
Beyond the tastings, the beautifully restored 1860s building sets the stage for a unique and sophisticated group outing. Whether shaking up their own cocktails in an interactive seminar or exploring the distillery’s behind-the-scenes magic, guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the artistry of New Orleans’ cocktail scene.
Foxfire Adventure Park
Sevierville, Tenn.
For groups craving adrenaline-pumping adventure in a breathtakingly beautiful environment, Foxfire Adventure Park in the Great Smoky Mountains delivers an experience soaring beyond expectations.
Foxfire Adventure Park is home to some of the fastest, longest, and most exhilarating zipline courses in the country. The Goliath zipline tour boasts five of the fastest and longest ziplines in the nation, moving guests at speeds up to 60 miles per hour over a half-mile-long line 500 feet above the ground. The Waterfall Canopy zipline tour is a seven-line course through a tree canopy and over a waterfall.
The adventure continues with other fun challenges and activities. Groups can test their endurance on a 60-foot rock wall, take a self-guided nature hike, or cross the Bridge to Prosperity, one of the longest swinging suspension bridges in the country.
Lawless Forge
Sterling, Va.
For a group excursion that’s as hands-on as it is unforgettable, Lawless Forge delivers a one-of-a-kind blacksmithing experience. Here, attendees trade conference rooms for coal forges, swapping spreadsheets for steel as they hammer, shape, and create their own custom metalwork.
Whether it’s a teambuilding activity, an off-agenda adventure, or a unique bonding experience, Lawless Forge allows groups to step into the world of traditional blacksmithing. With no prior experience required, expert instructors guide participants through the process of heating, bending, and forging their own keepsakes, such as a custom bottle opener, cooking utensil, or decorative flower bouquet. The best part? Attendees walk away not only with a handcrafted memento but with the satisfaction of learning a new skill in an engaging and interactive way.
Beyond the Basics
How Venues are Evolving to Meet Attendee Demands
Now, perhaps more than ever, meeting attendees have increasingly high expectations; they want more than standard meeting spaces and basic amenities. They expect unique, immersive environments designed to stimulate creativity and engagement and personalized experiences tailored to their individual preferences and goals. This trend is driving convention centers and venues to integrate innovative features and continually enhance their offerings.
The Charleston Place is a prime example, having recently transformed its meeting spaces to offer the most event space in Charleston, S.C.—including the iconic Riviera Theater, a 1930s Art Deco masterpiece. “At The Charleston Place, we pride ourselves on offering a truly exceptional setting for events and getaways,” says Alex Gregory, executive vice president of sales and marketing. “With 40,000 square feet of versatile venues, paired with our world-class service, renowned dining, and prime location in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, we create experiences as memorable as the city itself.”
Columbia (S.C.) Metropolitan Convention Center seeks to meet the ultra-high standard of attendee expectations through personal touches, such as custom menus, creative décor, and enhanced technology, creating an event experience unique to the client, according to Cheryl Swanson, vice president and general manager. “The staff at Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center invests time to understand the client’s vision, the event’s purpose, and the attendees’ needs, reinforcing the trust to deliver an exclusive and memorable experience,” she says.
In Daytona Beach, Fla., the convention center’s convenient beachfront setting provides a breathtaking background, yet the venue remains committed to enhancing its offerings. As part of Ocean Center’s 40th anniversary, the “Ocean City Reimagined” initiative is pumping $50 million into renovations and enhancements to enhance the guest experience. Planned upgrades include a brand-new arena floor with comfortable seating, upgraded lighting, carpet replacement, renovated restrooms and signage, new landscaping and exterior painting, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. “We take pride in delivering best-in-class service, ensuring every guest, exhibitor, and performer has an unforgettable experience,” says Lynn Flanders, general manager of Ocean Center. “The Ocean Center team is committed to going beyond—every single day, every single event.”
