The life of an event planner is anything but slow. People in this industry spend months out the year away from home in various cities across the map. Some convention centers are better than others while some specific venues have lots of fun activities to do nearby that you want to remember for the next time you have an event nearby. We wanted to explore some major convention centers and share the must-visit places nearby. In this event planner’s travel guide, we'll take you on a virtual tour of some of the country's most frequented convention centers and share some insider tips on the nearby spots that will make both you and any attendees' experience even more memorable.
The Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas is probably the perfect place to start this journey. Las Vegas is known for its world-class convention facilities. Venues like this offer large exhibition spaces, state-of-the-art technology, and a wide range of amenities to accommodate events of all sizes. You’ve probably been to this city once or twice for a conference before, so you’ll know that there’s always something new to see or do.
If you’ve been there then this one is a no-brainer, but one of the coolest restaurants around is STK. From a great atmosphere to a live DJ for the Vegas vibes, STK has it all. It’s in a great spot inside of the cosmopolitan, so after you’re done eating you could try your luck at the tables or catch a show at the Bellagio Hotel fountain next door.
You’ve probably been to a Top Golf before, but boy do we love hanging out here for a game or two before we actually get our night started. It’s good times with plenty of drinks and food! It’s also pretty cheap to play a round and fun for all who play including those who have never played golf. This is also a perfect spot for larger groups to be able to hangout and not break the bank.
The Barbershop speakeasy is a great place to have a good night. Semi-hidden behind a barbershop in the Cosmopolitan hotel, you’ll find a very active nightlife with live rock music, dancing, and drinks. Don’t worry about not seeing the entrance, there’s always a line, so it’s pretty obvious.
Crossing over to the Los Angeles convention center, we find ourselves in the enthralling city of Los Angeles. The LA convention center is not only a very popular convention center but also surrounded by lots of cool spots. Right off the bat, we should mention that whenever in LA, be prepared to rent a car or use that company card for ubering and scootering.
Formerly known as The Staples Center, Crypto.com Arena is a world-class entertainment venue that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, sports, and live performances. Check their schedule to see if there are any exciting events happening during your visit. Watching a live show or cheering for your favorite teams can be a thrilling and memorable experience.
LA Live is an exciting entertainment compound located near the convention center. It offers a range of nightlife options, including bars, restaurants, and clubs. Your group can enjoy live music, dancing, or relaxing with a drink and the LA vibes.
There’s tons of great food in the city but it can be hard to narrow down which place to go after a long day of walking around the convention center. Pine & Crane is an Asian Fusion spot that is a great place to hit up when you’re in LA and it’s not a crazy fancy place that you need to get dressed up for, but it will quench your appetite with yummy goodness.
Talk about party central. The Miami Beach Convention Center is a huge and very beautiful event space for all types of trade shows and conferences. Because you’ll be located in Miami Beach, there’s an endless amount of fun things to do near the convention center. For this stop, make sure you bring a lot of water because from intense heat and strong drinks, you’ll need to double your intake of water to make sure you stay afloat for your conference.
Miami Beach is synonymous with the trendy South Beach, a strip of sand that stretches for miles. A leisurely stroll along Ocean Drive will expose you to a vivid collection of Art Deco buildings, lively cafes, and vibrant shops. Embrace the Miami vibe and indulge in people-watching or grab a refreshing drink at one of the many chic beachfront bars.
Just a quick Uber ride down the street, Wynwood Walls is a street art installation experience for those looking for a change of pace and a cool Miami vibe. It’s right next to a great restaurant called Bakan with great tacos and even better drinks, which makes it a win win!
When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, Miami offers plenty of options to reconnect with nature. Take a short drive to Everglades National Park for an unforgettable airboat tour through the swamps or relax on the white sandy beaches of Key Biscayne. For a truly unique experience, venture out to the Venetian Pool, a stunning historical landmark that will transport you to a Mediterranean oasis.
As event planners, it's crucial to choose convention centers that not only meet your professional requirements but also provide an exciting experience for your attendees. If you happen to be visiting the major convention centers mentioned in this travel guide, you will not only be in good hands but also your guests will have an opportunity to explore some incredible destinations. Remember, these nearby attractions are like the icing on the cake, enhancing the overall experience and making your event one to remember. So, don't miss the chance to add a little adventure to your next meeting or conference. Happy planning and happy travels!
While these convention centers and nearby attractions are worth exploring, it's in no way an exact guide you must follow. Part of the fun when visiting new places is exploring and discovering new places. Let us know if you go to any of these places or if you want us to write about any other convention centers!
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