Destination

Miami and Fort Lauderdale Invest in Culture

Since the 1980s, Miami has experienced a magical transformation from cultural wasteland to global destination for contemporary art. Greater Fort Lauderdale also enchants with the arts and entertainment, investing more than $200 million in new metro-area cultural facilities since the 1990s. With both destinations also investing in convention center expansions and headquarter hotels, this cultural vibrancy further enhances group appeal.

Chicago Suburbs: Arts Event Venues and Group Workshops

The suburban communities surrounding Chicago, which boasts one of the most vibrant arts scenes in the country, are also cultural hotbeds. Groups seeking inspiration can partake in myriad experiences that incorporate the performing and visual arts. Following are some ideas for arts-filled outings throughout the Chicago suburbs.

Super Bowl LIII Brings Big Meetings Upgrades to Atlanta

Nothing says a destination has hit the big time like hosting the biggest game in the world, the Super Bowl, and the spotlight will be focused on Atlanta when the 53rd edition of the greatest show on the globe plays at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday, February 3, 2019.  While the hometown Atlanta Falcons are out of the running, Super Bowl LIII and all of its companion events will result in “The ATL” sparkling for the world to see, both for visitors and in high-definition on all manner of screens throughout the world.

Cultural Venues in Hollywood, Pasadena and the Valleys

With its impressive array of film studios, performing arts centers, theaters, museums and distinctive architecture, Los Angeles plays a starring role on the world stage of art and culture. For planners seeking group-friendly venues with an artistic or entertainment-oriented vibe, the city can deliver on these as well or better than any other destination, according to Darren Green, senior VP of sales for the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board.

After Hurricane Florence, the Coastal Carolinas Are Riding a Wave of Optimism

In September 2018, Hurricane Florence deluged parts of the Carolinas. Hardest hit was North Carolina, with an estimated $17 billion in crop, infrastructure and other losses. Florence went easier on South Carolina, which reportedly saw some $607 million in damages. Experiencing varying impacts, from minimal to destructive, the region’s coastal destinations have made significant recovery efforts.

Asheville, N.C., Is an Artistic Mountain Meetings Magnet

Meeting and event planners could be hard-pressed to find  a destination that offers as many arts and activity options as Asheville, N.C., in such a tight package. A center of arts and culture, the Blue Ridge Mountains town located a couple hours’ drive from Charlotte, N.C., also boasts a bounty of culinary and brewery options, all set in one of the most scenic areas in the U.S.