Launched in March 2016, the Pennsylvania Tourism Office’s “Pursue Your Happiness” marketing initiative echoes the call to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” that began with the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia in 1776. The campaign included updating nearly 40 interstate and highway welcome signs with the slogan. The goal was to create “a positive first impression for those entering Pennsylvania from neighboring states.” In Western Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh, people-powered happiness begins with the beloved personality who was everybody’s neighbor.

Delaware may be the second smallest state in the country, but it’s big on flavor. From steamed crab and fresh-caught fish to farm-fresh ice cream and saltwater taffy, there is plenty to tempt the group’s collective palate throughout the state.

The continuing expansion of Boston’s business and tourism infrastructure has profoundly transformed the city’s identity. Greater Boston CVB President and CEO Pat Moscaritolo calls it “a revolution of opportunity,” which for groups is producing a major uprising.

Following are six standout ideas in State College that will positively engage attendees outside the meeting room, including fun teambuilding activities, special event spaces for brainstorming sessions and picturesque receptions, and attractions that range from unique museums to a lively ballpark.

Unexpected group discoveries extend throughout the Harrisburg, Hershey and Lancaster regions.

Arts experiences in Greater Springfield, Mass., and the Berkshires are positively popping off the page, from a museum showcasing the delightful works of Theodor Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, to music venues that will have attendees singing the praises of the meeting long after it’s over.

Within two hours reach of New York City, Harrisburg, Pa., and Philadelphia, and under four hours from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, northeastern Pennsylvania’s storied four-county, four-season Pocono Mountains region is expanding its already abundant group resources.

Maryland was given the nickname “America in Miniature” because it’s blessed with diverse terrain and locales, from Chesapeake Bay to a portion of the Appalachian Trail and from small charming towns to major metro areas. America in Miniature also fits when considering Maryland’s grand array of off-site event venues that represent many of the country’s notable pastimes, including baseball, theater and fine dining. Throughout the state, groups with various interests will find a home away from the host hotel for memorable receptions, banquets and more. Following are eight great ideas.

Unveiled in June 2018, the new 31st-floor Observation Deck atop the CEB Tower in Rosslyn, Va., the tallest building inside the Beltway, is now the highest public space in the metropolitan D.C. area. Designed by Legends, the firm behind projects including One World Observatory in New York City and OUE Skyspace in Los Angeles, the 12,000-square-foot space includes a private event venue for 250, open-air terrace and cafe.

Prominent in Buffalo, New York's nearly $1 billion tourism-driven redevelopment, the F&B scene is now a tastier draw than ever for the Queen City of the Great Lakes. Meanwhile in Niagara, an area rich with agricultural and culinary resources, F&B experiences are naturally one way to go.