Owner/Director
Lake of the Woods Camp
Glencoe, Ill.
Describe your event.
The American Camp Association held its national camp conference in downtown Austin at the Hilton Austin this past February. The purpose of this event is for camp professionals from throughout the U.S. to have a chance to network while continuing their education in the field of youth development.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Austin?
Austin has so much to offer and the weather is nice year-round. It’s centrally located, which makes it convenient for travelers who are flying in from all across the country. The airport is near the downtown area and attendees have so many options within walking distance during their free time. In addition, we found that many people were excited to go to Austin because it is a place they had not yet been.
What surprised you the most about Austin?
How terrific the food was and how much live music you really can hear on any night of the week.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most?
The attendees enjoyed the packed program with some terrific keynote speakers. Attendees also enjoyed hearing the University of Texas band play at our conference. They also liked being close to a number of attractions, including the Texas State Capitol complex, the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum and the Governor’s Mansion.
Was anybody particularly helpful?
The Austin CVB was extremely helpful and professional. They actually helped us greet participants as they arrived at the Austin airport. In addition, they helped run our hospitality booth, giving our attendees information on everything from places to dine to sights to see while they were in Austin.
What other types of groups would fit well with the property?
Any group around our size of 1,200 or smaller would fit well at the downtown Hilton. We were able to have about 14 breakout sessions at one time and a large exhibit hall with over 200 exhibitors, and still have plenty of space to set up our bookstore, registration and hospitality booths.
What were some of the unique off-site venues that you used?
We took a few hundred people out for a “Night on the Town.” Attendees were able to choose one of four restaurants that we pre-selected based on food authentic to Texas. We wanted people from other parts of the U.S. to experience some real Texas food such as Tex-Mex and barbecue. After dinner, we all went to Sixth Street to hear live music. Another evening, we took a group of camp professionals out to The Salt Lick for some authentic Texas barbecue.
Did you incorporate any interesting excursions or activities into the agenda?
Most of our planned excursions revolved around food. We did leave time open in the agenda for people to venture out on their own. Attendees took advantage of this time and seemed very interested in exploring sites in the Austin area.
What local suppliers did you utilize?
We used the Durham Transportation bus company for one of our evening events.
How does Austin compare to other cities where you have hosted meetings?
Austin was one of the most fun cities we have been to.
Would you return?
Absolutely!
Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a meeting to Austin?
Be sure to take advantage of the wonderful CVB when planning your event. They are by far one of the best we have worked with!