< PreviousThe Greatest Arena on Earth BY MAURA KELLER L as Vegas has been playing “host” to meetings, conventions, trade shows and exhibitions for a myriad of industries for decades. And although this long-standing history has helped Las Vegas earn the titles as “The entertain- ment capital of the World” and “The Greatest Arena on Earth,” the venues that dot this great city are sculptural masterpieces for attendees with an eye for the exquisite and extraordinary. And while this city is about gambling, there is so much more than meets the eye. From exceptional entertainment to world-renowned golf courses to celebrity-infused dining, Las Vegas offers planners visions for an event into reality and unforgettable gatherings for attendees. There are endless meeting spaces in Las Vegas, and many are a truly stunning work of art — each with its unique charm and character. The more reason why today’s meeting planners are free to exercise creativity as they offer attendees the opportunity to explore the Eiffel Tower, canals with singing gondo- liers, an Egyptian pyramid and the State of Liberty — all in one community. For Pamela Dory, CDS, meeting professional and vice president of global accounts at ConferenceDirect, one of the key reasons Las Vegas is top of mind for many meet- | DESTINATION UPDATE | themeetingmagazines.com 40 APRIL 2024 | INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT LAS VEGASing and event planners is quite simple: Selecting Las Vegas as a destination for meetings and events results in proven attendance. “Las Vegas combines business efficacy with an exhila- rating backdrop,” Dory says. “After intense sessions, attendees can unwind by exploring an amazing show, world-class dining, hitting the casino floor or just people watching. Attendees associate successful meetings with positive emotions, reinforcing their commitment to your organization.” Magaly Buitrago, partner and managing director at 5A Incentive Planners, agrees that Las Vegas offers something for everyone and is truly a draw for so many corporate pro- fessionals, including those within the financial and insurance sectors. 5A Incentive Planners specializes in corporate group travel with a focus on curated executive meetings. “Las Vegas remains an exceptional destination for our client base due to its unparalleled amenities and infra- structure,” Buitrago says. “With world-class convention centers, luxurious accommodations, a myriad of entertain- ment options, and many of the finest dining outlets in the world, it ensures we remain able to deliver seamless and memorable events.” PHOTO BY SAM MORRIS / COURTESY OF LVCVA COURTESY OF PAMELA DORY INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT | APRIL 2024themeetingmagazines.com 41 For planners who want to show their attendees some real R&R, there is nothing better than Las Vegas, which offers non-stop entertainment and activities. (Bottom): Attendees unwind at HxGN Live Global event.HERE, YOUR EVENTS ARE CARED FOR AND CARE-FREE With our expert staff providing world-class service, a good time is guaranteed for you and your attendees. Book your next event at a venue that cares for your needs. Visit MGMResorts.com. Grand Patio, Bellagio Resort & Casino Buitrago works extensively in North America, so Las Vegas continues to offer 5A Incentive Planners and their clients an ever-changing atmosphere to create unforgettable and engaging experiences which enhance guest satisfac- tion every time. FONTAINEBLEAU LAS VEGAS With a coveted location adjacent to the Las Vegas Conven- tion Center, boasting the industry’s most advanced meeting technology, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is the ideal setting for any event, with an infinite combination of space types and configurations, with an all-in-one business destination design that makes it easy to navigate and windows in many meeting rooms that reinforce a continuous connection to nature. “We had heard so many good things about the potential opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Within weeks, we were under contract for what should probably be considered a ‘drop in’ meeting,” says John DeLeon, meeting planner and vice president of sales and operations for MTI Events. “We operated mid-January and were impressed how well the team at Fontainebleau had come together. Operating at Fontainebleau felt like they had been doing this as a team for years. Our attendees raved about their program going next level. Fast forward 30 days and we were under contract with Fontainebleau again for a July program four times the size of January.” Fontainebleau Las Vegas impresses with more than 550,000 sf of flexible meeting and event space across five levels, including a ballroom spanning more than 105,000 sf – one of the largest in Las Vegas. This includes a three-level, 90,000-sf theater with gener- ous pre-function space capable of hosting business functions to entertainment, nearly 62,000 sf of additional space that can be used to create up to 57 breakout rooms, three execu- tive boardrooms overlooking almost 25,000 sf of an outdoor hospitality garden that, like much of Fontainebleau Las Vegas, provides a seamless connection to the natural beauty that surrounds the city. With six dedicated freight elevators, the conference center offers unrivaled flexibility and ease for planners to bring their meetings and conventions to life — whether they are preparing for large gatherings or intimate conversations. RESORTS WORLD Resorts World Las Vegas, which features a $4.3 billion integrated resort experience, brings three of Hilton’s premium brands including Hil- ton Hotels & Resorts, LXR Hotels & Resorts and Conrad Hotels & Resorts to Las Vegas. When the hotel opened in the summer of 2021, Las Vegas was the first city in the U.S. to have all three of Hilton luxury brands. themeetingmagazines.com 42 APRIL 2024 | INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT John DeLeon Meeting Planner and Vice President of Sales and Operations, MTI Events Operating at Fontainebleau felt like they had been doing this as a team for years. Our attendees raved about their program going next level. PHOTOS COURTESY OF RESORTS WORLD LAS VEGAS Resorts World’s 5.5-acre complex boasts luxury amenities, including the largest elevated pool deck in the city, a casino, state-of-the art theater, nightclubs and more. It’s also where you can jump into a Tesla and take a quick trip to the convention center via the underground Vegas Loop. HERE, YOUR EVENTS ARE CARED FOR AND CARE-FREE With our expert staff providing world-class service, a good time is guaranteed for you and your attendees. Book your next event at a venue that cares for your needs. Visit MGMResorts.com. Grand Patio, Bellagio Resort & CasinoThe 3,500-room resort includes a gaming floor, nightclubs, a wellness spa and fitness center, diverse culinary experiences and more premier facilities. It features a 5,000-capacity state-of-the-art theater, 350,000 sf of meeting and convention space, a grand ballroom, and a 220,000-sf pool complex with seven unique pool experiences. While Resorts World is situated across 50 acres of land, the meeting space is less than 30 seconds from the elevator banks, the check-in desks are within view of the guest elevators and attendees can even access group dining options without stepping foot in the casino. Resorts World’s advanced technology and digital enhancements have also been a huge appeal for meeting planners and attendees who enjoy the venue’s meeting space that accommodates groups. MGM RESORTS MGM Resorts boasts The Park, a vibrant outdoor dining and entertainment district that celebrates the beauty of the surrounding desert landscape and offers visitors a new way to experience the Las Vegas Strip. The Park serves as a gateway to the 20,000-seat T-Mobile Arena and is a social gathering space where guests can experience iconic art and playful entertainment. The T-Mobile Arena also offers a wealth of event spaces for rent, ideal for small and larger gatherings. MGM Resort’s robust convention spaces at Mandalay Bay and the MGM Grand are a draw for many groups, as are the many luxury spaces throughout the Bellagio, ARIA, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Vdara, and Park MGM. These spaces allow planners to host large events while also offering an elevated experi- ence to attendees. Bellagio recently unveiled its stunning Spa Tower reno- vations, investing $100 million in reinvigorated guest rooms and suites with an enhanced sophisticated look via custom furnishings and bespoke art inspired by the natural vibrancy of Lake Como. MGM Grand also recently under- went a refresh of their Studio Tower, reflecting a retro des- ert feel with the mid-century modern design and decor aesthetic of their 700 rooms. In addition, MGM Resorts’ New York-New York Hotel & Casino recently completed a $63 million expansive remodel of guest rooms and suites, drawing inspiration from the spirit and energy that is synonymous with New York City and Las Vegas. In 2022, MGM Resorts acquired The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The luxury resort has a 100,000-sf casino, a 40,000- sf concert venue, a more than 60,000 sf rooftop nightclub/ dayclub, three distinct pool experiences, world-class cuisine, an eclectic mix of boutiques and breathtaking views of The Strip. Planners will find more than 240,000 sf of vertically integrated meeting and event space available for their needs. CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT When planners think of Las Vegas, they often think of Caesars Entertainment, which offers a wealth of gaming resort options. The company’s CAESARS FORUM, with its 550,000 sf of space, including the 100,000 sf outdoor FORUM PLACE and two pillarless ballrooms, each of which can accommodate up to 10,000 attendees. Harrah’s Las themeetingmagazines.com 44 APRIL 2024 | INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT PHOTO BY MARK MEDIANA / DREX AGENCY COURTESY OF CAESARS ENTERTAINENT (Top): The vibrant FORUM PLAZA, outside of CAESARS FORUM, is a great place for outdoor events, while inside, they have the two largest pillarless ballrooms. (Bottom): Opened at the end of last year, Fontainebleau Las Vegas teems with old school elegance, plenty of meeting space and state-of-the-art meeting technology.Vegas, which is connected to CAESARS FORUM, is another preeminent casino resort gem, offering over 25,000 sf of meeting and event spaces. And as one of the most-sought-after casino resorts, Caesars Palace boasts a two-story conference center, com- plete with two pillarless 51,000 sf ballrooms. This venue also offers memorable gaming and meeting space experience. Its 300,000 sf of meeting space is comfortably set apart from the casino area, yet remains within easy reach of attendees. The large range of flexible venues at Caesars Place offers countless configuration options to suit groups of all sizes. In addition to traditional meeting venues within Caesars, the site’s 4,100- seat Colosseum boasts one of the world’s largest LED screens, a perfect location for presentations that really “wow.” An additional Caesars Entertainment property that has enticed meeting planners for years is the Flamingo Las Vegas, with over 73,000 sf of meeting and event space. THE VENETIAN When it’s time for meeting attendees to relax and unwind, they can head to The Venetian Resort, which is undergoing a dramatic transformation after 20 years of pro- viding meeting and event attendees memorable experiences in Las Vegas. The $1 billion renovation will touch all aspects of the attendee experience — from renovated pool decks to a full convention center renovation to revamped suites, food and entertainment offerings. The convention center renovation will include improve- ments to the state-of-the-art technology throughout the center, enhancing the ability for attendees to truly engage in all aspects of an event or convention. For meeting planners looking for a streamlined expo experience, the Venetian Expo boasts over one million sf of expo space and provides the latest in digital sponsorship experiences that attendees have come to expect from Las Vegas venues. Other event spaces range from small, intimate meeting rooms to large-scale ballrooms to unique spaces, such as nightclubs, lounges and theatres. ARIA RESORT & CASINO ARIA Resort & Casino has long been consid- ered one of North America’s premier destina- tions for meetings and events, with stunning, naturally lit spaces and unconventional venues. The abundance of native plants and a relax- ing desert ambiance create a calming environment, while continuing to be a bustling center-Strip destina- tion as planners flow into the AAA Five Diamond resort. themeetingmagazines.com 46 APRIL 2024 | INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT Pamela Dory, CDS Meeting Professional and Vice President of Global Accounts, ConferenceDirect After intense sessions, attendees can unwind by exploring an amazing show, world-class dining, hitting the casino floor or just people watching. COURTESY OF THE VENETIAN COURTESY OF CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT COURTESY OF CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT (Left): Connected to CAESARS FORUM, Harrah’s Las Vegas features a casino, pool and cuisine by celebrity chefs. (Above): The Venetian also has a convention center, high-end dining and more than 160 signature stores in its Grand Canal Shoppes. ARIA Resort & Casino offers stunning views and 500,000 sf of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting space, including seven ballrooms. After meetings, planners can enjoy gourmet cuisine from all over the world and step out onto The Strip to take advantage of everything that Las Vegas has to offer. STATION CASINOS Station Casinos completed an addition to its portfolio at the end of last year with Durango Casino & Resort. Built in the Southwest Las Vegas area just 10 miles from the Strip, the new property features a boutique gaming and resort experience with amenities that will appeal to today’s meeting attendees. Some of the highlights of the resort include 83,000 sf of casino space, including an open floorplan seamlessly blend- ing indoor and outdoor socializing spaces; 200 guest rooms and suites, and 25,000 sf of meeting and event space, with 15,000 sf of ballroom space. Outdoors, they have an event lawn and intimate patio spaces. When not in meetings, attendees can relax at the cabana- filled pool area or eat and drink at one of the 15 bars and restaurants available. LATEST & GREATEST IN LAS VEGAS Las Vegas has always been, and still is, a city that is constantly evolving. This has been the case over the last few years as casino resorts, arenas, exhibition centers and convention centers have been built or renovated to engage and delight attendees who have come to expect high-tech and contemporary experiences. Recently, the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) kicked off a $600 million renovation of the facility’s legacy campus. The renovation includes enhancing the facility’s contemporary design, architecture and attendee experience of the 1.4 million-sf West Hall, which opened in 2021. The renovation project is expected to last through 2025 but is designed to cause minimal disruption to the convention center experience. Because the celebrity chefs, entertain- ment options and unique Las Vegas experiences are con- stantly changing, it’s important that planners frequently visit the Las Vegas Conventions & Visitors Authority web site (LVCVA.com) for up-to-date information about new resorts, renovations, entertainment options and more to make a gathering as memorable as possible. In the end, when selecting Las Vegas, meeting planners and attendees have more access to celebrity performances, world-renowned chefs, as well as indoor and outdoor activi- ties. This accessibility along the Las Vegas strip takes away from many of the logistical challenges of transportation for attendees. In addition, the diversification of restaurants and entertainment within the city allows both planners and attendees a vast amount of options for every interest level. To make the most of their event planning experience, meeting planners who have selected Las Vegas as the destination of choice should begin orchestrating the event as far as possible in advance to avoid major conventions or events that drive up the prices of hotels and event venues. Las Vegas has so much to offer that it can be overwhelm- ing when considering all of the group event options. That’s why planners can also turn to experienced hotel teams and destination management companies to help find the best options for their group, no matter how big or small their company’s vision is. I & FMM themeetingmagazines.com 48 APRIL 2024 | INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT LUXU R Y HAS JOINED THE M EETING Meetings, conventions, and conferences without equal. This is how The Venetian Resort Las Vegas takes care of business. PHOTO BY JOE BUGLEWICZ / LVCVA PHOTO BY SAM MORRIS / LVCVA (Above): Classic casinos got a new lease on life on Fremont Street after six-blocks were converted into a dynamic pedestrian mall. (Left): Standing at over 360 ft. tall, Sphere at The Venetian is the world’s largest spherical structure and one-of-a-kind entertainment destination.LUXU R Y HAS JOINED THE M EETING Meetings, conventions, and conferences without equal. This is how The Venetian Resort Las Vegas takes care of business.Next >