Off-Sites Abound
Central and west Texas are filled with unique off-site venues for groups. Following are some of the most interesting options.
Abilene
Abilene's cultural pride and joy is The Paramount (325.676.9620), located in the city's downtown district. The majestic theater opened in 1930 and was restored to its original splendor in 1986. The theater holds about 1,200 guests and is a popular place for off-site group gatherings.
Amarillo
Groups in the mood to experience cowboy culture can head over to River Breaks Ranch (806.374.0357), located near Palo Duro Canyon State Park. The ranch offers event space for up to 200 people. Groups can also take covered wagon rides through the canyon, try their hands at roping and partake in a campfire sing-along.
El Paso
El Paso's Plaza Theatre (915.534.0600) has been a cultural icon in the city since opening as a film house in 1930. The theater recently underwent a $39 million restoration and now welcomes groups for a variety of off-site events. The theater has more than 2,000 seats, as well as a sky garden that can accommodate 250 people for events.
Lubbock
Located on 28 acres in downtown Lubbock's parkland is the American Wind Power Center (806.747.8734), a museum dedicated to wind mill history from 1868 to the present day. The facility was established in 1993 and offers exhibits on a wide selection of wind turbines and has a private room that can accommodate up to 300 people.
Midland
Built in 1929, the event-ready Yucca Theatre (432.682.4111) sports Gothic exterior architecture and an interior that resembles a cavern. All seating is around circular tables. The theater can accommodate about 370 people.
Odessa
Located among acres of greenery and alongside a scenic pond, The Willows Event Center (432.563.9500) is a popular spot for Odessa-bound groups looking for something different. The serene location offers 3,000 square feet of indoor meeting space and 4,000 square feet of outdoor patio space for groups.
Wichita Falls
Located on 18 acres, the River Bend Nature Center (940.767.0843) offers indoor and outdoor space for meetings, receptions and gala dinners. Its 7,000-square-foot indoor pavilion can accommodate up to 500 people and its outdoor terrace can host up to 300 delegates. The center also offers a 7,000-square-foot conservatory.
