As the world emerges from the pandemic and with a greater emphasis on health and safety measures, in-person conferences are once again on the rise. Conferences are a platform for networking, learning, and sharing knowledge and can be critical in achieving organizational objectives. Choosing the right venue is an important step in ensuring the success of your conference. In this article, we will discuss the importance of choosing the right venue for your conference and list some of the most popular venues for in-person conferences in 2022, as well as some up-and-coming venues, to watch out for in 2023.
First and foremost, the venue sets the tone for your event. It is the first thing that attendees will see when they arrive, and it will be the backdrop for all of your conference activities. The right venue can enhance your conference theme and message, while the wrong venue can detract from it. When choosing a venue, consider the size, style, and atmosphere of the space and how it aligns with your conference goals and objectives.
Secondly, the venue can impact attendance. If your venue is too far away, too expensive, or too small, attendees may choose to skip your event altogether. On the other hand, a well-chosen venue can attract attendees and create a buzz around your conference. It is important to consider the location and accessibility of the venue, as well as the amenities and accommodations it offers.
Another important consideration when choosing a venue is the level of support it provides. A good venue will have an experienced event team that can help you plan and execute your conference. This can include providing technical support, catering services, and assistance with logistics. The right venue can help streamline your conference planning process and ensure that your event runs smoothly.
In addition, the venue can impact the success of your conference from a financial standpoint. The cost of the venue will likely be one of the largest expenses for your conference, and it is important to choose a venue that fits within your budget. A well-chosen venue can also help you maximize revenue by providing opportunities for sponsorships and exhibitors.
Finally, the right venue can leave a lasting impression on your attendees. A memorable venue can create a positive association with your conference and make it more likely that attendees will return for future events. Consider the overall experience that your venue provides, including the quality of the food, the cleanliness of the space, and the level of service provided by the staff.
Most Popular Venues for 2022
McCormick Place – Chicago, Illinois: McCormick Place is the largest convention center in North America, with over 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space. It’s a popular venue for trade shows, conventions, and other large-scale events.
Orange County Convention Center – Orlando, Florida: With over 7 million square feet of space, the Orange County Convention Center is one of the largest convention centers in the world. It’s a popular venue for conferences and events of all sizes, and it’s located in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district.
Las Vegas Convention Center – Las Vegas, Nevada: The Las Vegas Convention Center is a popular venue for trade shows, conventions, and other large-scale events. It’s located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip and offers over 3.2 million square feet of exhibit space.
Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Colorado: The Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center is one of the largest non-gaming hotels in the United States and is located just outside of Denver. It offers more than 500,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space, making it an ideal location for conferences of all sizes.
Hyatt Regency Chicago, Illinois: Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, the Hyatt Regency Chicago boasts over 240,000 square feet of meeting space. With a prime location, luxurious accommodations, and state-of-the-art technology, this venue is perfect for hosting a medium-sized conference.
JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE, California: The JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE is a popular venue for conferences in Southern California. It features more than 100,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 25,000-square-foot ballroom, and is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.
The Westin Boston Waterfront, Massachusetts: The Westin Boston Waterfront is a popular venue for conferences in the Northeast. It features more than 90,000 square feet of meeting space, including a 15,000-square-foot ballroom, and is located just steps from the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Tennessee: The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is located in Nashville and features more than 750,000 square feet of meeting space. With 19 restaurants, multiple pools, and a full-service spa, it’s a popular choice for medium-sized conferences.
Up-and-Coming Venues for 2023
Moscone Center – San Francisco, California: The Moscone Center is currently undergoing a major expansion that will increase its exhibit space to over 504,000 square feet. The new facility is set to open in early 2023, making it an exciting new venue for conferences and events.
Music City Center – Nashville, Tennessee: The Music City Center is a LEED-certified convention center located in the heart of Nashville. It offers over 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space and is a popular venue for conferences and events in the healthcare and technology industries.
Austin Convention Center – Austin, Texas: The Austin Convention Center is located in the heart of downtown Austin and offers over 370,000 square feet of exhibit space. It’s a popular venue for conferences and events in the technology, healthcare, and music industries.
Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, Nevada: The Caesars Forum is a new conference center located on the Las Vegas Strip. With over 550,000 square feet of meeting space, it can accommodate events of all sizes. It features state-of-the-art technology and eco-friendly design, making it a popular choice for events in 2023.
The Exchange, Boston, Massachusetts: The Exchange is a brand-new event space in the heart of Boston. With over 70,000 square feet of meeting space, it’s perfect for medium-sized conferences. The venue features a modern design and state-of-the-art technology, making it an up-and-coming choice for events in 2023.
The Hutton Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee: The Hutton Hotel is a newly renovated boutique hotel in Nashville, with over 13,000 square feet of event space. With a focus on sustainability and wellness, it’s an up-and-coming choice for events in 2023.
The Conrad Washington, D.C.: The
Conrad Washington, D.C. is a luxury hotel in the heart of the nation’s capital. With over 30,000 square feet of event space, including a grand ballroom and multiple meeting rooms, it
In conclusion, the importance of choosing the right venue for your conference cannot be overstated. It impacts attendance, the success of your event, and the overall experience for your attendees. When selecting a venue, consider the size, style, location, support, and cost of the space and how it aligns with your conference goals and objectives. With careful consideration and planning, you can choose a venue that will enhance your conference and leave a lasting impression on your attendees.
