When planners are seeking an endless supply of attractions and event venues in one handy locale, it’s difficult to top what the OC brings to the table for group gatherings. From one of the most popular theme parks in America to seductive stretches of sandy coastline, the region offers a trove of temptation for planners and attendees alike.
"Anaheim and Orange County are a perfect fit for a variety of off-site events," says Elaine Cali, vice president, communications for the Anaheim/OC Visitor and Convention Bureau (VCB), which is in the midst of celebrating its 50th anniversary. "A few of Orange County’s notable options include Bowers Cultural Arts Museum, the quaint cultural arts Muzeo in Anaheim, Discovery Science Center, onboard a yacht in Newport Harbor or a rockin’ event at the House of Blues."
Cali also suggests other possibilities ranging from a concert at the Grove theater of Anaheim to a Western-style event at Knott’s Berry Farm’s Ghost Town, or even a beach-themed party at picturesque Newport Dunes.
"Orange County has a multitude of creative indoor and outdoor event locations to suit a variety of budgets and groups," she says.
Anaheim
Spurred by the presence and popularity of the wildly popular Disneyland Resort, compelling new attractions, including a $1 billion redevelopment currently under way at Disney’s California Adventure Park, have been blossoming in and around Anaheim for years.
"In the past decade Anaheim has undergone a tremendous $5 billion transformation," says the VCB’s Cali. "The Anaheim of today has an ultra-modern, 1.6-million-square-foot convention center surrounded by palm trees, widened boulevards with lush landscaping, underground utilities, resort-style uniform signage, a visitor shuttle system and a walkable resort atmosphere."
Strolling is at its best at the Anaheim GardenWalk, an electrifying retail center that opened in 2008 and offers a wealth of group possibilities. Anaheim 300, for example, is a state-of-the-art bowling center that showcases a private group suite with nine lanes—and a bar exclusively dedicated to your party. Other options range from the spectacular Heat Ultra Lounge, perhaps the city’s most happening nightclub, to dining spots like McCormick & Schmicks Grille and Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine.
And speaking of dining choices, a brand-new dinner experience was unveiled earlier this year that aims to be both dazzling and delicious. Battle of the Dance, on South Harbor Boulevard, blends various styles into a colorful narrative legend dating back to the 16th century. Adding to the spectacle are comedic acts, high-flying acrobatics and even a bit of magic.
Or maybe your group would get a bigger kick out of watching Southern California’s newest pro sports team in action? The Anaheim Bolts have just joined the Professional Arena Soccer League, playing their home matches November through March at the Anaheim Convention Center Arena. For parties of 100 or more, pre-game "field time" is available, giving attendees a chance to enjoy some "futbol" fun of their own.
Those seeking a more traditional venue for a larger group in Anaheim are in luck as well.
"The Palm Court area outside of the Anaheim Convention Center is a natural location for receptions and networking events, and flows into the fountain arena area that has been the location of many an event and large-scale party," says the CVB’s Cali.
The city has a variety of properties with abundant meeting space, including options such as the Anaheim Marriott, the Hilton Anaheim and a pair of Sheratons: the Sheraton Park and Sheraton Anaheim.
Buena Park
With nearby attractions like Disneyland Resort and some of the most captivating coastline in America drawing so many visitors, it would be easy for Buena Park to get overlooked. But planners who investigate Buena Park while in Orange County will be rewarded with memorable group experiences that range from pulse-pounding thrills to some dynamic dining experiences.
"Buena Park is located in the heart of Orange County and best known for its ideal weather, friendly atmosphere and famous attractions," says Sara Copping, director of the Buena Park CVB. "Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, sun worshiper or shopaholic, the OC will provide you with the ultimate experience—and Buena Park is perfectly situated in the center of it all."
If your agenda includes giving your group a thrill, a new ride opening this summer at Knott’s Berry Farm will take theme park excitement to new heights. WindSeeker will elevate riders to over 300 feet before spreading its metallic arms to swing them around in a broad circle at 45 degrees.
Or perhaps your group would be more inspired by a site paying tribute to one of the most memorable meetings in history? Knott’s MarketPlace, adjoining the popular theme park, includes an authentic replica of Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, right down to the fractured Liberty Bell. Living history shows are held daily, and the replica is so spot-on it was used as a stand-in for the real thing in the 2004 blockbuster film National Treasure.
Buena Park is also known for a pair of dazzling dining experiences that will transport groups to another time and place in unforgettable fashion. Medieval Times presents a lively 11th century escapade of jousting, sword-fighting and equestrian skill while guests savor a four-course meal that Friar Tuck himself might’ve cooked. And Pirates Dinner Adventure places diners in their own "ship" led by a colorful captain, as they partake in a soiree of buccaneer battles while enjoying a "Port of Call" feast.
If more refined dining better suits attendees, a sleek new restaurant and lounge—Torch Restaurant—was slated for an April opening at press time. The new establishment will serve a variety of Asian and Indian delicacies and is anticipated to be a center of event dining with its banquet and entertainment venues, plus a cozy alfresco dining section.
The Knott’s Berry Farm Resort hotel is Buena Park’s most substantial meeting property, with over 20,000 square feet of event space that includes two penthouse meeting rooms with sweeping vistas.
Costa Mesa
For anyone wondering what Costa Mesa provides for groups gathering in Orange County, perhaps a better question might be asking what it doesn’t offer.
"Costa Mesa is the OC’s premier shopping, dining and cultural destination. We’re called the ‘Best of Southern California,’" says Mike Hall, chairman of the Costa Mesa Conference and Visitor Bureau and general manager of the Westin South Coast Plaza. "Planners like that there is so much to do here after the meeting has concluded, as attendees can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, award-winning performing and visual arts, and Southern California’s finest cuisine served in many award-winning restaurants."
Hall adds that South Coast Plaza is a perfect pick for attendees seeking world-class shopping opportunities, and that the CVB works hand-in-hand with the destination’s 10 luxury properties to help planners with everything from site selection to event promotion.
Among the possibilities for meetings are the Westin South Coast Plaza and the Hilton Orange County.
Irvine
Location, location, location—which can be as crucial in event-planning as it is in the world of real estate—is a key factor in Irvine’s allure.
"As the center of Orange County, Irvine is within close proximity to John Wayne Airport and the major freeways, along with area beaches and attractions," says Michelle Carlen, director of sales for Destination Irvine. "The convenience of the destination allows for a true Southern California experience."
Of course, location wouldn’t mean much without some compelling venues and attractions, and Irvine delivers in that realm as well. For example, there’s no easier—or more affordable—way to elevate your group’s experience than arranging a free tethered helium balloon ride at the Orange County Great Park, where visitors are lifted to a height of over 400 feet for staggering views and a unique team-building experience. Meanwhile, the former El Toro Marine Corps Air Station has venues for events, including its open-air Festival Site, with more than 200,000 square feet of event space, former runways, picnic lawns, promenades and an airplane hangar.
The Beckman Center of the National Academies of Science and Engineering is one of the destination’s unique off-site venues.
Top properties catering to groups include the Hyatt Regency Irvine, the Irvine Marriott and the Crowne Plaza Irvine.
Coastal Orange County
The communities along Orange County’s dramatic coastline epitomize the essence of Southern California, with endless beaches, palm trees swaying in the breeze and a laid-back yet energizing vibe.
Newport Beach, one of the state’s wealthiest communities, showcases plenty of appeal for groups.
"Newport Beach offers groups a wide variety of accommodations, venues, restaurants and shopping that fits every budget," says Caroline Rustigian-Bruderer, public relations director for Visit Newport Beach. "All of it is set in a spectacular coastal atmosphere with year-round outdoor activities, picturesque landscapes and ocean views, waterfront dining and miles of pristine beaches."
Among tony Newport Beach’s numerous meeting properties are the lavish Resort at Pelican Hill, the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach and the elegant Balboa Bay Club, boasting distinctive event spaces that include its expansive Coconut Grove outdoor terrace.
Laguna Beach’s seaside setting is energized by hip art galleries, trendy boutiques and a lively beach scene perfect for people-watching.
"As a casual, walkable city, Laguna Beach also provides a wide range of team-building opportunities, from outdoor sports to custom-designed art experiences," says Judith Bijlani, executive director of the Laguna Beach Visitors and Conference Bureau. "There are multiple benefits to a small destination for small to midsize groups, and with over 70 dining choices within a few miles of each other, the oceanfront and its great water quality and weather, Laguna Beach makes for an unforgettable experience."
Groups of five to 15 wanting to appreciate Laguna Beach’s abundant artistic elements might consider Laguna Beach Art Tours, specializing in creativity-spurring courses and corporate excursions that range from taking in live glass-blowing demonstrations to Artist Home Tours to Gallery Walks.
Lovely Laguna also hosts some superb properties with meeting space, including the beachfront Montage Laguna Beach, with over 14,000 square feet of event space, and the Surf & Sand Resort, on the heels of upgrades to its pool area, spa and restaurant.
Huntington Beach is famous for its perfect waves, but it also offers some great terra firma options, including the Bolsa Chica State Ecological Preserve, a marshy mecca of bird-watching that extends free one-and-a-half-mile guided tours on the first Saturday of each month. Groups can also consider a new Segway tour through GW Tours, guiding participants downtown, out on the renowned Huntington Pier and even onto the beach for a sandy segue.
"Huntington Beach, also known as ‘Surf City USA’, is the ideal destination for groups of all sizes and its hotel product speaks to every type of meeting," says Christopher Anderson, director of sales for the Huntington Beach Marketing and Visitors Bureau. "Whether a meeting planner is looking for a cutting-edge, high-technology boardroom or a 20,000-square-foot ballroom with ocean views, ‘Surf City’ can not only accommodate those needs but also deliver a very high level of service."
Huntington Beach also provides a pair of ocean-side properties known as the Surf City Conference Collection: the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach and the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort. Together they offer over 140,000 square feet of diverse function space.
In delightful Dana Point, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel has partnered with Jean-Michel Cousteau (son of the legendary Jacques) to offer Ambassadors of the Environment eco excursions. The 15 varied experiences are customizable and examine the unique marine ecosystems of Southern California while stressing the importance of environmental awareness.
In addition to The Ritz-Carlton, Dana Point, other meetings properties in the destination include the St. Regis Monarch Beach and the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, perched on the top of a cliff.
