Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

The meetings and events industry is big business. That’s why many venues, including hotels, resorts and convention centers, are being built or upgraded with today’s discerning meeting planners and attendees in mind. In fact, every few months new and renovated venues are introduced throughout the U.S., capturing the attention of planning professionals looking for the ideal spot that will leave a lasting impact on attendees.

Tropical Oasis

The sugar-white sand beach of a Sarasota barrier island is the new home to the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, which is ideal for planners looking to provide a respite of sorts for meeting attendees. The largest development on the island in over 50 years, the hotel was the only St. Regis to launch in the country last year. Boasting over 18 acres, this beachside resort includes a private beach, several pools and cabanas and an expansive spa. Celebrating the diverse natural elements and environment of the region, the resort also features a one-of-a-kind saltwater lagoon wildlife experience with stingrays, tortoises and tropical fish. For group events, the resort also offers more than 34,000 sf of meeting and event space.

Another tropical gem, the Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas, has been a longstanding favorite among meeting planners looking for an exotic locale that is still relatively close to the continental United States. It also boasts 500,000 sf of space for meetings and events. The resort underwent a major renovation in 2024, including upgrades to restaurants, the casino and, specifically, guestrooms at the resort’s hotel, The Royal — which were dramatically transformed to reflect the soothing seas and offer a calming atmosphere in which attendees can unwind.

Upgraded and Unparalleled

Event planners seeking an exciting and versatile venue will find the Walt Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort an ideal choice. Nestled in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL, this iconic hotel offers a prime location with a wealth of upgraded amenities that cater to every need for any meeting or event.

The resort’s aesthetic and functionality have been enhanced by recent renovations — and there are more to come. All of the Swan’s guestrooms have been remodeled, and those at the Dolphin are to be completed next. The hotel’s 333,000 sf of meeting space is being revamped to create a new modern appearance. A standout feature for planners is the enhanced state-of-the-art event technology being integrated throughout the resort. This includes high-speed internet access and cutting-edge AV capabilities, ensuring seamless presentations and connectivity. It’s all part of ensuring a more cohesive and comfortable experience for both event attendees and organizers.

Additionally, with world-class dining options, luxurious accommodations and proximity to Disney parks, the resort provides a unique blend of business and leisure, making it the perfect place for a memorable event. Whether it’s a conference with thousands of attendees or a smaller, more intimate gathering, the Walt Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort will deliver an unforgettable experience every time.

The Wigwam

Having undergone a property-wide refresh, The Wigwam Resort in Litchfield Park, AZ, is the epitome of “all things Southwestern.” Renovations included the addition of more than 100,000 sf of flexible meeting space, including 65,000 sf for outdoor events — a much-appreciated amenity, considering the resort’s beautiful surroundings. The Wigwam’s flexible conference space can accommodate up to 1,000 people and also features onsite certified audiovisual specialists and state-of-the-art equipment.

For event attendees looking for a way to relax and unwind at the resort, there are three award-winning golf courses, two of which were designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones, Sr. In addition, the grounds of The Wigwam include 440 acres, offering ample space to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

“We first chose The Wigwam for our event after conducting a site visit. As soon as I walked into the beautiful historic lobby, I knew my group would feel absolutely at home there, and I was right,” says Kristen Kelly, meeting planner and sales operation analyst at IMA Financial Group. “The team is so thoughtful about every detail of our meetings, exceptionally accommodating — as our requirements would change throughout the planning process — and overall, a joy to work with from contract through event completion. And as an added benefit, the food is always excellent. The historic details on the property make you feel like you’re in a very special place, and my team always looks forward to returning to The Wigwam year after year.”

Mountain Escapes

For Amanda Crocker, CMP, manager of special events and community affairs at Pinnacol Assurance in Denver, CO, it was a simple decision to select the Garden of the Gods Resort in Colorado Springs, CO, for her company’s recent event. That’s because the popular wellness retreat happens to be surrounded by nature, situated at the foot of Pikes Peak, which is one of the most beautiful places in the U.S.

“They have everything we need to hold a successful program,” Crocker says. “Both business and pleasure can be achieved while at Garden of the Gods. I have found the property to be very comfortable, accommodating and you’re never without a great view. The views are simply amazing — whether you’re at your room and head outside on your patio or balcony, eating outside at one of the onsite restaurants or at the infinity pool. The staff, from sales to banquets, are really superior. It’s great when one Colorado company can support another, and vice versa.”

Another new addition to the Colorado Springs meeting landscape is Hotel Polaris. Located at the U.S. Air Force Academy, the facility opened at the end of 2024 with 375 guestrooms and 26,000 sf of meeting space. In addition, the Flying Horse Resort & Club has added more rooms — bringing its inventory to 102 — and meeting space, along with a new high-end restaurant.

Also, tucked into the Rocky Mountains, the new Grand Hyatt Deer Valley in Park City, UT, is sure to please both attendees and planners alike. With 387 guestrooms, suites and private residences, the resort hotel offers easy access to the ski amenities of the surrounding area. And when it comes time to gather as a group, the hotel offers more than 30,000 sf of versatile event space.

Omni Resorts

According to John Rio, event manager at Weaver, most meeting planners are slightly nervous about contracting with a property that hasn’t even opened yet, because there are so many unknowns. But he decided to do exactly that when he chose the Omni PGA Frisco Resort before it had even opened its doors — and he says he’s glad he did.

“It brings me great pleasure to share that, from the first hard hat site tour with our sales manager to now one of three completed events, the Omni … overdelivered on their original vision that was brought to life by the amazing events staff on property,” Rio says. “[We received] excellent service from all front-of-house associates, who made our planning team’s job easy and allowed us to execute a flawless event. Our staff cannot wait for our next two events in the coming years.”

Since launching operations in May 2023, the Omni PGA Frisco Resort in Frisco, TX has proven to be the ideal draw for meeting planners in search of a state-of-the-art facility for their next event. With nearly 34,000 sf of total ballroom space and an indoor/outdoor pavilion, as well as 19 meeting rooms ideal for smaller-scale gatherings, the facility offers ample space for groups of all sizes. Its nine outdoor event areas also boast incredible scenic backdrops, while bringing the hotel’s total amount of available meeting space to over 127,000 sf.

“We also offer 13 unique culinary venues,” says Gus Tejeda, the hotel’s director of sales and marketing. “In addition to two championship golf courses, attendees can enjoy a 10-hole lighted par-3 short course and a lighted two-acre putting course, which … players of all ages and abilities [can] enjoy.”

Tejeda adds that meeting planners are excited about the resort’s 500 guestrooms and suites. And the Omni’s 10 private four-bedroom ranch-house villas are ideal for C-suite executives or golf groups. “The resort is located in the center of country, which means attendees do not have more than a three-hour flight. This is a true destination resort featuring a wide array of amenities.” Tejeda says.

For planners looking to treat their attendees to an Omni-branded escape in the Allegheny Mountains, the renovated Omni Homestead Resort & Spa in Hot Springs, VA, is a perfect choice. Since expanding its preeminent meeting and event spaces as part of a 2023 property-wide renovation, the Omni Homestead now offers a wealth of benefits for planners to consider.

Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the resort now includes a 4,000-sf indoor/outdoor event pavilion, which pays tribute to the location’s original design while delivering state-of-the-art amenities and breathtaking mountain views. The resort’s 76,000 sf of event space also received a refreshing facelift, with updated interior design elements and advanced functionality.

In Florida, opening later this year, Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel will offer event attendees a 29-story, 801-room-and-suite property with direct access to the newly expanded Broward County Convention Center and adjacency to Port Everglades cruise terminal. Designed to support business and leisure travelers, the hotel features over 120,000 sf of functional meeting space, including a 30,816-sf grand ballroom, a 15,000-sf junior ballroom and 27 breakout rooms. Pre-function spaces offer floor-to-ceiling windows with waterfront views.

Omni Fort Lauderdale is less than five miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). The property also connects to a six-acre event plaza featuring three additional restaurants, high-end retail, an amphitheater, a marina with charter boat docking and a scenic waterfront promenade.

Las Vegas Gems

The Fontainebleau is the newest addition to the wealth of event spaces dotting the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel’s impressive meeting venue is situated within its own campus-like area, allowing attendees to keep their business and entertainment experiences separate when staying at the resort. With over 550,000 sf of customizable indoor and outdoor meeting and convention space throughout the resort, planners can select from a series of ballrooms, boardrooms, theatre-style spaces and breakout rooms for their events.

When it’s time to relax and unwind, attendees can try their hand at the gaming activities in the Fontainebleau’s 150,000-sf casino. They can also explore the many restaurants, shops, spas, fitness centers, pools and entertainment venues found throughout the massive resort.

Warm & Welcoming

In 2024, Orlando, FL, welcomed the Evermore to its vast array of meeting and event venues. Offering impressive luxury resort accommodations — including stunning flats, beach villas and houses with anywhere from five to 11 bedrooms — the Evermore can accommodate groups of all sizes. Many of the resort’s meeting and event spaces offer a more intimate feel for meetings, and each event space exudes a different aesthetic that celebrates the beautiful environment of the resort. While the meeting center offers a variety of spaces to gather, the resort’s boathouse offers stunning views of the Evermore Bay, lawn and wraparound deck.

Florida is also home to the Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor resort, one of the newest hotels in the area. Located on the state’s Gulf Coast, the hotel is ideal for groups seeking warm environs, as well as state-of-the-art meeting and event amenities. It has 60,000 sf of event space, including indoor and outdoor event areas, many of which have sweeping views of Charlotte Harbor and can be configured into dimensions to suit every group’s needs. Attendees can also revel in the resort’s many recreational activities, including private sailboat charters, a championship golf experience and ultra-lux spa and pool areas, as well as a rooftop lounge and pool oasis.

At the southernmost point of the continental United States is the luxurious Casa Marina Key West, built in 1920. Now part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, it reopened in 2024 after a $79 million makeover. Exuding the character of old Key West, the historic resort was the playground of legends and luminaries such as Ernest Hemingway and Rita Hayworth, and now it has begun its next chapter. Nestled within the largest private beachfront in Old Town, Casa Marina is just minutes from the vibrant, eclectic Duval Street. With over 11,000 sf of indoor event space, plus outdoor space, including 5,000 sf of oceanfront event lawn, this famed landmark destination provides exceptional service to ensure that your next gathering will be a memorable success.

On Florida’s west coast, in Clearwater Beach, the Opal Sol opened on Valentine’s Day of this year. It features over 57,000 sf of meeting and event space. The resort also offers rooms ranging from studios to three-bedroom suites. Event attendees here will enjoy direct access to the white sand beach, three pools and full-service luxury pampering at the Opal Spa.

To the southeast, Fort Lauderdale just celebrated the reopening of the legendary Pier Sixty-Six resort in January. After renovation, the historic hotel now features more than 40,000 sf of large conference spaces and more intimate areas for smaller-scale meetings, as well as outdoor venues to give event attendees a chance to bask in the stunning scenery of South Florida. In addition to waterfront accommodations, multiple onsite eateries and recreation opportunities aplenty, visitors can also enjoy marina access, boating, golf and team-building activities.

Having earned the prestigious designation as one of the Cvent Top Meeting Hotels in North America, the new InterContinental Miami was renovated in 2024 and can accommodate up to 2,000 attendees throughout its 135,000 sf of indoor and outdoor meeting space. With over 35 meeting rooms, as well as ballrooms, there is ample space for trade shows, conferences, board meetings and corporate gatherings. Attendees can also explore the hotel’s rooftop pool, expansive spa and state-of-the-art tech lounge.

East Coast Charm

Farmington, PA, is home to the idyllic Nemacolin resort, a luxury locale that boasts five distinct lodging options. It offers a unique meeting and accommodation experience with amenities and accommodations for small or large groups — everything from private butlers to an expansive estate for 22, as well as a contemporary lecture hall, an elegant ballroom and a stunning plaza deck offering sunset views. One of its main hotels, The Chateau, underwent an expansive renovation before reopening last summer.

It’s clear that meeting and event planners are finding amazing new and renovated venues all over the U.S. — places they can rely on to host one-of-a-kind gatherings that attendees will never forget.   I&FMM