< PreviousResorts World Las Vegas also offer beautiful and unique event spaces for any size meeting or convention. Meeting attendees will delight in Caesars Palace. The meeting space is comfortably set apart from the casino area, yet remains easily accessible for attendees. In addition to tra- ditional meeting venues within Caesars, the site’s Colosseum boasts one of the world’s largest LED screens, which is a per- fect location for presentations that need to be “over-the-top.” Other Las Vegas gaming resort favorites include the Trop- icana Las Vegas and the Venetian Las Vegas, both of which offer all-encompassing meeting, convention and enter- tainment amenities. On the Boardwalk The Atlantic City gaming resort experience is unique with its boardwalk, popular outlet shopping and amusement atmo- sphere. Hosting an event at a gaming resort in Atlantic City enables attendees, after a long day in meetings, an opportunity to unwind either in the casino or outside on the boardwalk. Resorts Casino Hotel welcomes attendees to experience the latest in audiovisual technology in a multifaceted confer- ence center at this world-class gaming resort. Wayne Feret, meeting planner and general manager at Linde Gas & Equipment Inc. in Danbury, Connecticut, plans corpo- rate meetings and events at Resorts Casino Hotel annually. In the beginning of the year, Feret said that he usually schedules a regional meeting with approximately 150 people in attendance, and then, during the year, he will schedule smaller meetings with 20 to 30 people. “The ‘Kickoff’ meeting starts the year for my team as we roll out the yearly strategy,” he said. “Each year, the meeting starts off with a reception that is usually held somewhere in the Resorts Casino hotel. We bring in our own entertainment and enjoy the hotel.” Feret said that casino resorts such as this one in Atlantic City, are appealing because of the proximity of the meeting rooms and small breakout rooms. “It is hard to get lost,” he said. “The restaurants are on the same floor as the meeting rooms so breakfast and lunch and breaks are easy to take. I also like the location of the hotel relative to Atlantic City. It is easy to get cabs and or Uber rides to take us around the city. Another feature is being on Courtesy PhotoCourtesy Photo ARIA Resort & Casino Resorts World Las Vegas Venetian Las Vegas Courtesy Photo 20 August 2023 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.comthe boardwalk and close to other casinos.” He said his company will be hosting a small meeting later this summer, a small winter year-end meeting and then next year’s “kickoff” meeting – all at Resorts Casino Hotel. “My advice for meeting planners is to visit the hotel and work with the marketing team to put together an event to meet your needs and budget,” Feret said. New Jersey’s Atlantic City also plays host to world-class lodging, meeting space and gaming at Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, the Tropicana Atlantic City, Bally’s Atlantic City Casino Resort, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City – each offering a unique experience for meeting attendees. Caesars has made its mark on the Atlantic City landscape, providing a wealth of meeting and event venue options at its Las Vegas-style resort destinations through the Atlantic City region. In addition to Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, the company’s other two properties – Harrah’s Resort Atlan- tic City and Tropicana Atlantic City – have become favorites among meeting planners thanks to their wealth of amenities and experience, including nightlife, shopping, celebrity chefs and entertainment. From Intimate to Large Scale The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, featuring 150,000 sf of meeting space, is another favorite among cor- porate meeting planners. The casino’s venues are available to amplify programs and are designed to accommodate groups of all sizes, from board meetings to large-scale events. As a casino resort destination, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City also offers nontraditional venues available for roundtables, discussions and appointments. While Connecticut is not often associated with casino resorts, Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, with 275,000 sf of indoor meeting space, provides the ideal locale that many corporate meeting planners envision. With a wealth of indoor and outdoor meeting, exhibition and confer- ence spaces, Mohegan Sun Casino, Hotel and Entertainment Complex is a one-stop meeting and event venue that’s sure to please. Live entertainment, golf, gaming and private din- ing experiences are just some of the amenities that corporate meeting planners have come to rely on with Mohegan Sun. In Pennsylvania, the resort offers over 100,000 sf of meeting and conference space. For smaller gatherings and events, the Valley Forge Casino Resort boasts several ballrooms of various sizes and meeting rooms, all perfect spots to get down to busi- ness. Live events at The Venue at Valley Forge Casino Resort are also an ideal way for attendees to connect with others in a fun, welcoming environment. Also in Pennsylvania is the Mount Airy Casino Resort in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, which features more than 20,000 sf of event space. From a full-service spa to hik- ing trails, to plenty of gaming activities, Mount Airy is a great fit for corporate groups looking to get away. According to Dawn Brown, CMP, manager of meetings and conventions at B. Braun Medical Inc in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, hosting events at gaming resorts has evolved over the years and have gained some traction with non-gam- ing revenue, especially with digital and remote gambling options. Integrated resorts have transformed into world- class entertainment destinations for non-gambling activities. “Gaming resorts provide unique, integrated venue options with world-class facilities for functions of any size that include guest rooms, meeting and event space, fine-dining restaurants, entertainment, high-end shopping and luxury spas,” Brown said. “Considering an area like Las Vegas as a destination might eliminate or minimize the need for trans- portation. Gaming hotels are able to offer better value for planners since they receive revenue from gaming, as well as guest rooms and food and beverage.” Brown also enjoys having all options under one roof. Hosting an event in Las Vegas also seems to be cost-effective with great flight options, as well as the meeting spaces and services they offer. “If it makes sense for the goals and objectives of your event to host it at a gaming resort, then go for it,” Brown said. “Everything is at your fingertips.” C&IT Courtesy Photo Tropicana Las Vegas TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | August 2023 21 Considering an area like Las Vegas as a destination might eliminate or minimize the need for transportation. DAWN BROWN, CMP Manager of Meetings and Conventions, B. Braun Medical B each destinations, with their calming vibe and stunning settings, have long been a favorite for corporate meetings and incentive programs, their appeal being magnified during the cur- rent challenging times. Thinking about opting for a beach destina- tion for your next meeting or event? Here are some options of venues that might be a perfect fit. Open Air Resort in Maui Situated on Wailea Beach, the open-air resort Four Sea- sons Resort Maui at Wailea offers all the beauty and charm of Maui, as well as gorgeous weather throughout the year. The five-star resort implemented the Lead with Care program, ensuring that attendee and employee health and safety remain their top priority. A collaboration with Topgolf at the resort added a Swing Suite, which groups can rent to provide an immersive social experience for their attendees, including a comfortable lounge to play, and enjoy food and beverage service. There are three golf courses about five minutes from the resort as well. The property has 40,202 sf of meeting space, includ- ing the 5,200 sf Oceanfront Lawn and the 6,930 sf Four Seasons Ballroom. Debbie Weil-Manuma, president of PRA Business Events in Honolulu, has brought more than 100 programs to the resort during her 42 years as a planner. In addition to opening up some new spaces in recent years, she said that the venue also “added filtration systems and other antivirus products to the hotel rooms, in a very attractive, nonclinical way.” Stellar Service on Sand Key This upscale property, located in one of Florida’s most enchanting locales, is renowned for a vibrant nautical theme. Michelle Malloy, CMP, CAE, senior director of meet- ings and member services for the Washington, D.C.-based National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, has hosted meetings on the property multiple times per year. “The rooms are spacious, comfortable, practical and they all have a view of the water,” Malloy said. “The food outlets have great options and nice ambiance, and the hotel offers the perfect location for business, just across the street from the beach and is adjacent to restaurants and shopping. Who needs anything else?” Kim Watson, events director for Phillies Phantasy Camp in Clearwater, Florida, who has planned events at the prop- erty since 2011, said that location is one of the reasons she takes her groups to this venue. “The location is phenomenal, with incredible views from every room.” Watson said. “Most properties don’t have staff that will bend over back- ward to be partners for a successful event, but this property Sand BY DAN JOHNSON Beach Destinations Perfect For Your Next Meeting Sun & DepositPhotos.com 22 August 2023 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com SITE SELECTIONdoes,” Courtney Swilley, vice president for Florida Association of Rehabilitation Facili- ties, who has planned events for 25 years, said. This stellar service can be seen in the variety of new protocols and elevated practices it has implemented as part of Marriott Internation- al’s family of brands to address the pandemic. A few years ago, they had an event that they had to cancel and the planner’s help proved invaluable. “We were working with their planner on things such as sanitizer stations and buffet serving, and you could tell that safety for the guests was at the top of the list, which, as a planner, is worth its weight in gold,” Swilley said. Groups can utilize the 11,729 sf of meeting space, which includes the 3,300-sf Sand Key Ballroom. Other highlights are multiple din- ing options, including Waterco- lour Grillhouse, serving fresh sea- food and prime cuts of beef. They also have an outdoor pool with a 35 ft. waterslide and Antonio’s Salon & Day Spa, featuring a wide array of massage and beauty treatments. The Hammock’s Extra Mile The Hammock Beach Golf & Spa resort in Palm Coast, Florida, just south of St. Augustine, has also been going the extra mile to ensure safety and up-to-date technology for groups and in the event of possible future safety concerns, this resort is prepared. Walter Ejnes, CHCP, president of Continuing Education Company, Inc. in Palm Coast, Florida, has worked as a meet- ing planner for 15 years, plans 12 meetings per year at beach hotels and resorts, including three at the Hammock Beach Golf & Spa Resort in Palm Coast. “Beach properties are extremely attractive to our meet- ing attendees due to the amenities they provide,” Ejnes said. “For those who do not live near the coast, attending a confer- ence at a tropical beach resort provides a unique getaway to relax and unwind. The tranquility of a beach’s natural set- ting, coupled with tropical sea breezes and the warmth of the sun, have a way of making meeting attendees forget all about their worries, and the hustle and bustle of their everyday life. Besides the beach, many coastal properties have amazing pools, golf and tennis, and other water activities” Their company held four confer- ences at Hammock Beach in recent years, Ejnes said. “Our confer- ence participants appreciated the safe atmosphere at the resort, which is a result of its size and the location of its various ame- nities. Attendees are able to spread out whether at one of the resort’s many pools or on the uncrowded beach.” As for technological features, the very high demands needed for internet connection and bandwidth because of the conference live-stream- ing requirements were more than ample according to Ejnes. “Hammock Beach resort’s highly trained IT team is always proactive to ensure that we have the technology that we need to have a successful meeting,” Ejnes said. The property offers more than 50,000 sf of meeting space, including a 4,500 sf ballroom. “The unique feature that Hammock Beach has to offer is the multitude of accommodations; it’s rarely seen at beach resorts,” Ejnes said. “Our medical conference attendees appreciate these options, whether they are traveling solo or with friends and family.” Hammock Beach has upgraded its Wi-Fi throughout the property and changed all guest room locks in recent years. There was also a renovation of three restaurants, includ- ing Delfinos Italian Chophouse, Stix Authentic Sushi and Loggerheads Sports Pub. Other top attractions include the Atlantic Grille, an award-winning restaurant overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, a 10,000 sf Spa at Hammock Beach, offering massages and signature treatments. Other features include a Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Course, which is a golf course that winds along pristine wetlands and sparkling lakes, and a Tom Watson-designed C o u r t e s y P h o t o Right: Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa has a total of 50,000 sf of meeting space. Below: Enjoying an event at Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites. Courtesy Photo TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | August 2023 23Conservatory Course, highlighted by babbling brooks and field stone work. Hilton Boasts Largest Beachfront The largest beachfront resort in northwest Florida is Hil- ton Sandestin Beach Golf & Spa Resort which sits on a pri- vate beach of pure white sand along the Emerald Coast. The resort offers 60,000 sf of indoor and outdoor function space. They enhanced their meeting space in the past few years, which coincided with the rooms being renovated. They also redesigned their main restaurant’s kitchen and added more features to enable their culinary team to work more effi- ciently and have more time to be creative. The renovations are slated to be complete next year. Hilton Sandestin has also renovated its traditional theater into a media center. It is a fully immersive, technologically enhanced space for meeting planners to utilize, featuring the latest video and audio components. Outdoor space and three large ballrooms with flex- ible air walls and extensive space have given the resort a distinct advantage as the industry adjusts to new needs and standards. The property enhanced its safety efforts by implement- ing Hilton’s EventReady with the CleanStay program. The on-property Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood is a AAA Four Dia- mond restaurant that serves fresh seafood dishes and steaks rated USDA Prime Black Dia- mond, the highest designation the U.S. government gives. The restaurant is set in elegance giving an upscale vibe to the dining experience. The 14,000 sf Serenity by the Sea Spa offers facials, massages, body treatments inspired by the coastal location incorporating elements, such as seawater pearls and sea salts. Nevada Mountain Resort Nestled into the Sierra Nevada mountains, the 26-acre Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino, located in Incline Village, Nevada, provides a less conventional beach experience than most other waterfront properties. Not only do groups have access to a pris- tine, private beach, but they also have direct access to the premier outdoor experiences available in North Lake Tahoe, from skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, to exploring some of the most scenic hiking trails in the area. The Tahoe Adventures program provides groups with expert-led guided activities and excursions, such as hikes, tours and meditation sessions. Other available activities at the resort include gambling at the 24-hour casino, cata- maran and yacht cruises, fishing trips, bicycling, kayaking and other water sports. Be aware that they are doing some renovations and access to the lake will not be available until next spring. The resort also added a virtual studio to provide state- of-the-art wellness experiences. The studio features Lulule- mon’s Mirror technology, which provides real-time feedback and motivation from certified trainers. In addition to guest rooms and suites, the resort provides 24 cottages with fireplaces and alpine-style decor, and 50,000 sf of indoor and outdoor meeting space, including the 5,813 sf Lakeside Ballroom and 7,326-square-foot Regency Ballroom. In line with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts’ Global Care & Cleanli- ness Commitment, Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe has made guest safety and wellness a top priority. The property has received the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s STAR facility accreditation. Pacific Bluffs at Laguna Beach Set on a coastal bluff above the Pacific Ocean, Montage Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, California, spans 30 acres and features two outdoor pool decks, the 20,000 sf Spa Montage and three signature restaurants with spectacular views of the Southern California coast. Two years ago, Montage International partnered with Adventure IO, a proprietary mobile platform offering Left: The Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa is the largest beachfront resort in the northwest. Below: Networking at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino, which has 50,000 sf of meeting space and offers beach access. C o u r t e s y P h o t o Courtesy Photo 24 August 2023 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.comexclusive adventure experiences led by professional athletes and local experts. Offered at the Laguna Beach property, Montage and Pendry Excursions with Adventure IO invites groups to experience locally inspired day trips and outdoor pursuits, such as learning to fly above water on a new elec- tric hydrofoil, receiving surf and skimboarding instruction, enjoying a hiking and photography excursion and sailing to Catalina Island aboard a 100-foot luxury Azimut motor yacht. The 26,000 sf of indoor meeting space includes a 7,500 sf grand ballroom and a 3,200 sf gallery ballroom. Out- door meeting space totals 17,900 sf and includes four lawns, each providing 2,600 to 5,500 sf. Meeting on the Reef Normally reserved for members, Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida, also offers opportunities for groups to experience its unique way of life. Located on a private peninsula on the northernmost tip of Key Largo, this property is per- haps best known for its two 18-hole championship golf courses. The sce- nic Hammock Course, partially situ- ated in a wildlife sanctuary of man- grove and tropical hardwood ham- mocks, contains many rare and endangered species of plants. The Dolphin Course, which is under- going some renovations, features fairways winding past tamarind, mahogany trees, coconut palms and other exotic landscaping. Ocean Reef Club provides many other amenities, includ- ing an 8,000 sf spa, fishing, diving, snorkeling, tennis and a host of other recreational activities. The rental fleet includes sailboats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Dining options include the Islander & Sushi Bar, featuring fresh Florida Keys seafood. The Cooking School at Carysfort Kitchen, provides the opportunity for groups to arrange for cooking demonstrations and hands-on cooking classes that include team-building activities. The property provides 30,000 sf of meeting space, including the 7,350 sf Town Hall Ballroom and the 5,688 sf Carysfort Ballroom. New West Beach Conference Center Kiawah Island Golf Resort, a luxury property, located approximately 30 miles from Charleston International Air- port in South Carolina, has been busy adding attractive new features that enhance attendees experience. The recently opened West Beach Conference Center provides 23,000 sf of pre-event and meeting space, anchored by the 10,000 sf Carolina Ballroom. After hosting the 2021 PGA Championship, four-bed- room, two-story cottages were added at The Ocean Course, one of five courses on the island, overlooking the driving range and Atlantic Ocean. These are ideal for hosting highly customizable, small executive or board retreats, or premier incentive programs for top producers. The property features 90,000 sf of meeting space, more than a dozen dining options, immersive nature experiences, two outdoor swimming pools, an indoor pool, a fitness center and a spa featuring signature treatments and services. Alexandra Marini Concolino, director, Head of National Event Strategy for Bern- stein Private Wealth Management, also has worked as a meeting planner for 15 years and has brought attendees to several beach properties including The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina. “There is a built-in ambiance and entertainment factor at beach properties,” she said. “You get a destination feel even if the venue is in your backyard. There’s a calming effect where you feel like you’re on vacation, even if you’re there to attend a conference. From a planning perspective, our meet- ing at the property was a dream because everything was on-site, including conference space, res- taurants, rooming, transportation and activities.” The Sanctuary partners with professionals at the Medical University of South Carolina to guide its actions to ensure the well-being of guests and employees. The commitment includes increasing and moni- toring policies regarding overall cleanliness, frequency of cleaning and food safety throughout the resort. Five-Star Rated Resort The only resort in the world to receive four Forbes Five- Star ratings 13 years in a row, Sea Island Resort is located 88 miles south of Savannah, Georgia, and 80 miles north of Jack- sonville, Florida. It features 390 guest rooms, divided among several lodging sites, including The Cloister, a 265-room, Mediterranean-style oasis that offers a 7,855 sf ballroom in its 87,000 sf of indoor and outdoor meeting space. A distinctly different experience is available at The Lodge at Sea Island, an English-style manor that offers 40 guest rooms, a state-of-the-art Golf Performance Center, an 18-hole putting course, an oceanfront pool and a pool house. Both The Cloister Hotel and The Lodge at Sea Island have won Forbes Five Star awards, along with The Spa at Sea Island and the Georgian Room, a restaurant that has achieved the award. C&IT Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina features 90,000 sf of total meeting and event space. The resort is conveniently located approximately 30 miles from the Charleston International airport. C o u r t e s y P h o t o TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | August 2023 25G listening chandeliers, stunning architectural elements, exposed brick walls and awe- inspiring murals are just some of the facets of historic venues that both corporate event planners and attendees are drawn to. For Andria Marcus, membership engage- ment manager and events planner at California Independent School Business Officers Association (Cal-ISBOA), historic venues are excellent options for meetings and events given their unique ambiance, cultural and historical value, and memorable setting. “The distinctive charm, architectural details and cultural significance of these venues create an atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on attendees,” Marcus said. “Hosting an event at a historic venue allows participants to immerse them- selves in the rich history and heritage associated with the location, adding a sense of prestige and cultural significance.” The unique surroundings of a historic venue also serve as conversation starters and icebreakers among attendees, fostering networking and creating a more engaging environ- ment. With versatile spaces and iconic photo opportunities, historic venues provide a memorable and impactful back- drop for a wide range of meetings and events. For Kastina Morrison, event planner and owner of Kas- tina & Co., historic venues give something special to an event, such as extra character and ambiance you could not have cre- ated on your own. Attendees always seem to be intrigued by the story and his- tory they are walking into, according to Morrison, who said, “It keeps that history alive and supports a structure that may have been torn down if not saved, preserved and used today.” One of Morrison’s favorite historic places to host cor- porate events was ARIA in Minneapolis. Before it sold last year, is was one of the best historic venues in the nation. As Morrison explains, ARIA was the country’s first “self-storage facility” with four stories. The large part of the warehouse eventually became a theater in the 1980s; the theater had cat- walks for lighting and balcony seating created by blowing out three levels and creating a big open space. “There’s been nothing like it since,” Morrison said. “To be able to hang floral installations and rig lighting from a fourth- story catwalk inside an old warehouse was magic. Our clients would select this venue because of the historic charm, the uniqueness of the space, the exposed brick, the cool old gears left, and the stories to them. Unlike some historic buildings, you couldn’t damage this space since it was made out of con- crete and brick.” Marcus went on to say that planners gravitate toward historic venues because they offer a unique and captivating setting that can elevate the overall experience for attendees. “The charm, character and architectural details of these venues create an atmosphere that is distinct from traditional spaces, making the event more memorable and special,” Marcus said. “Historic venues often have cultural and historical significance, providing an opportunity Historic Rendezvous BY MAURA KELLER Venues with Charm & Character 26 August 2023 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com SITE SELECTIONto immerse participants in the heritage and story of the location.” As Marcus pointrf out, this adds a layer of distinc- tion and interest to the event, making it more engaging and enriching. Hosting an event at a historic venue can enhance event promotion, attendee participation and social media visibility. “The blend of charm, cultural value and memo- rable ambiance makes historic venues an entic- ing choice for planners looking to create a truly remarkable event experience,” Marcus said. Recently, Cal-ISBOA hosted its annual conference and meeting at Beacon Grand in San Francisco. As a state organiza- tion, Cal-ISBOA strives to accommodate members located throughout Califor- nia, hosting the annual conference in one of the main hubs, and when possible, San Francisco or Los Angeles. “This year, we had record-breaking atten- dance, in part because of the beautiful location we selected and the accessibility of the area for so many of our members,” Marcus said. Their event usually begins, he said, “with a board meeting, followed by the pre-conference human resources workshop, the celebratory kick-off dinner, and ends with the annual conference and meeting.” After visiting other modern venues, it was clear to Mar- cus that conference attendees prefer participating in a unique experience. “Many of our members attend conferences on a regular basis, so providing them with a memorable experience was paramount,” Marcus said. “Several of the board members shared fond memories of visiting San Francisco as children and staying at this very hotel.” For Christy Gandy, vice president of operations, Florida Ports Council, hosting an event at a historical location with rich history means that the event doesn’t just have a venue, but the venue itself creates an experi- ence for attendees. “This gives me, as the planner, the oppor- tunity to create an environment that boosts the excitement of my attendees before, during, and after the event,” Gandy said. The Florida Ports Council hosts its annual board of directors’ meeting every year in a port city. They had not hosted a meeting in Key West, Florida, since 2004 and decided it was time to go back. “I selected the Casa Marina because of its historical charm,” Gandy said. “I knew this venue would encourage inspiration as it provides an environment where people can listen and engage with both the discussion subjects and the history of the loca- tion,” Gandy said. Listed in the National Register for Historic Places, Casa Marina is a century-old historic landmark exuding Key West Photo by Gina & Ryan Photography Left: With nearly half a million sf overall, the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois, can fit your meeting needs. Above: Castle Green, a nationally registered historical monument in Los Angeles, has a 6,400 sf ballroom and an outdoor garden that seats 500. Courtesy Photo TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | August 2023 27 The blend of charm, cultural value, and memorable ambiance makes historic venues enticing... elegance and in proximity to the vibrant Duval Street and rich history of Old Town. “When considering a historic venue as the location for your event, remember, although it may be embedded with history and the past, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t modern and technologically functional,” Gandy said. “Most historic ven- ues have features that can enhance and celebrate the historic nature of the locaion.” Debbie Schroder, director of meetings and events at Copart, also believes historical venues leave a lasting impres- sion on the attendees. “It’s always fun to hear stories of the past and see the places where they unfolded,” Shroder said. She held a customer advisory board meeting at historic Casa Marina where they hosted key customers and their spouses. They chose the venue because it’s iconic in Key West and has such historical significance. Other factors included its location on the water and being within walking distance of so many popular spots in Key West. Casa Marina, which is currently undergoing renova- tions, has more than 11,000 sf of indoor meeting space, plus plenty of outdoor terraces and beach options. They plan to reopen in the fall. Plenty of Options The U.S. is teeming with historic venues for corporate and incentive travel events. From centuries-old hotels to historic museums, to legendary landmarks, there are simply a wealth of historic venues from which to choose. In New Orleans, the Hotel Monteleone has been fam- ily-owned and operated since 1886. Located in the historic French Quarter, this hotel is an official literary landmark, inspiring some of the country’s best authors, making it an excellent option for small and mid-sized events. It has more than 26,000 sf of meeting space available. In Pasadena, California, Castle Green is one of the old- est historic landmarks in the Los Angeles area, offering a rich history and impressive architecture with modern amenities. A Nationally Reg- istered Historic Monument, Castle Green was built in 1898. It operates today as a luxurious venue with a 6,400 sf ballroom that can seat up to 200 attendees and an outdoor garden that can accommo- date 500 attendees. A Midwest favorite, The Field Museum in Chicago, estab- lished in 1893, is a historic natural history museum sure to impress attendees and accommodate events big and small. Events can be held indoors or outdoors in their terraces, field hall, atrium, theater and elsewhere. The museum provides an attractive backdrop for any event, from their incredible exhibits to their view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. They have more than 32,000 sf of meeting and event space available. What better way to celebrate the South than hosting an event in a renovated mill in the heart of Greensboro, North Car- olina. Opened in 1898, Revolution Mill was originally the first flannel mill in the South. After it closed in 1984, it sat vacant for the next two decades. Today, it has been completely reno- vated and offers numerous meeting and event spaces, as well as outdoor performance areas, apartments, offices and a small museum celebrating the historical significance of the mill. Since 1928, St. Pete Beach, Florida, has been home to The Don CeSar, the iconic “Pink Palace” that is a member of the National Trust’s Historic Hotels of America. This historic beachfront resort has undergone a full-property renovation, completed last spring, and offers more than 38,000 sf of meet- ing and event space, including terraces, verandas, and out- door garden spaces. It’s In the Details When hosting an event at a historic venue Marcus recom- mends meeting and event planners need to make sure the staff is on their side. In addition, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the limitations and capabilities of the venue. “Historic venues often have specific restrictions and guidelines due to their age and preservation needs,” he said. Courtesy Photos The Beacon Grand is a San Francisco luxury hotel that boasts 17,000 sf of event space in downtown Union Square. 28 August 2023 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com“Being aware of these factors, such as sound limitations or decoration rules, is essential for successful event planning.” Additionally, it is important to assess the logistics by conducting a site visit. Understanding the layout, avail- able spaces and potential challenges will help in designing the event flow and making necessary arrangements. It is equally important to consider attendees’ needs, ensuring the venue has suitable facilities and addresses factors like accessibility and transportation. Having a contingency plan is crucial to handle unforeseen circumstances and ensure a smooth event execution. Again, with the venue’s team behind them, planners can leverage the unique charm and historical value of the venue to create a memorable and successful event,” Marcus said. Morrison added that hosting an event at a historic venue comes with its fair share of challenges. The biggest issues can be the structures heating and cooling systems and whether or not it’s ADA compliant. “If you think about it, really all the utilities of a historic build- ing can be an issue in keeping up with what we expect now to be available,” Morrison said. “Power can be hard; whether that’s not enough power for the caterer’s equipment or the band pulls too much. Old mansions don’t have the big ballrooms we typi- cally need these days for an event of 150 attendees and more.” Considering ADA-compliant issues, there often isn’t an elevator in historic spaces. If there an elevator, it’s a very tiny one with not enough room for attendees or servers with large trays of food to get up. Ramps that help a space be wheel- chair accessible aren’t built-in like they are today. And host- ing events at historic homes can be the trickiest considering ADA accessibility, as they don’t necessarily have to be up to current commercial code as private residences. That’s why Morrison recommends planners who are con- sidering historic venues check the utilities and understand the accessibility needs of the attendees. Planners should con- sider the following questions: • Does the historic venue have the power you need for your event, especially for catering and enter- tainment vendors? • Does it have heating and cooling that will be suffi- cient in keeping the attendees comfortable? • Can those on the attendee list access the building? • Do you have anyone in a wheelchair that would need accommodations? Challenges aside, Jessica Barrett, founder at Bigger Pic- ture Solutions, an event venue consulting firm, agrees that historic venues can add an element of interest and surprise to your event just simply from the storytelling aspect. “Attendees love to hear about what a building was used for in the past, who owned it or how it’s changed over the years, Barrett said. “It gives them something interesting to talk about amongst each other and to take back with them as a part of the overall experience.” However, Barrett added, the important things to think of when hosting at a historic venue might be a few more limita- tions than you’d find at a newer building. As she explains, the load in for vendors can be more challenging, doorways may not be as generous, and they may be more valuable with what can be done from a decor perspective in order to preserve the space. “In historic spaces, there are often elements that simply cannot be replaced and are a huge part of the appeal, but keep- ing them fresh requires some additional vigilance or rules,” Barrett said. “Ask for the venue’s assistance in creating any floor plans to make sure whatever you are dreaming of can be accomplished in real life, and always double check measure- ments to make sure they are all correct to scale and will fit.” This includes making sure elements, from AV equipment to F&B ware, will fit through doorways and staircases if necessary. Also, make sure to ask about power; not just that there’s an outlet to plug into but how many are on each circuit. “Blowing a fuse mid event is never fun,” Barrett said. “Ask the venue operators about interesting details of the space beforehand to see if there are ways you can incorporate that into the event’s overall theme or branding.” C&IT Photo by Coppersmith Photography The Gatherings at Station 10, a historic firehouse in St Paul, Minnesota, offers a perfect venue for small groups with 5,000 sf of event space. TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | August 2023 29 Most historic venues have features that can enhance and celebrate the historic nature of the location. CHRISTY GANDY Vice President of Operations Florida Ports CouncilNext >