Searching for a destination that meets the demands of first-class guest rooms, top-notch food and beverage and state-of-the-art meeting space at affordable rates isn’t as difficult as it might sound.
Planners will find that some of the prime destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region are a perfect fit for meetings but don’t break the bank. With the added bonus of culture, history and the beach and boardwalk, there’s no shortage of locations to make meetings memorable while staying within budget.
The Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland touts 1,200 free parking spaces and a non-union facility that many “big city” venues can’t boast. For any con- ference, convention or event, planners will find the space they need here, from 25 meeting rooms to the 24,600-square foot Bayfront Ballroom. Three exhibit halls are ideal for a convention, trade show or event.
The property’s Performing Arts Center seats 1,200 guests for everything from PowerPoint presentations and large semi- nars to concerts and theatrical productions. In addition, the Performing Arts Center offers state-of-the-art sound and light- ing equipment, a box office and a concession area.
After meetings, Ocean City’s pristine 10-miles of world-class beaches and nearly three miles of boardwalk provide plenty to do and see.
For championship golf courses, nature walks, boating, fishing, water sports, restaurants, nightlife and shopping, it’s no won- der planners choose Ocean City, Maryland. Groups that have called the convention center home include: the Maryland State Firemen’s Association, the Maryland Municipal League, and the Maryland Association of Counties.
“These groups have hosted their main events in Ocean City, not only for the service and convenience, but the fact that attendees can bring their families and surround work time around vacation time,” said Larry Noccolino, executive direc- tor of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.
Another affordable destination for meetings is Montgomery County, Maryland. Located on the northern border of Washington, DC, it includes the towns and urban districts of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Pike and Rose, Silver Spring, Rockville and Gaithersburg.
A bustling county with a mix of commerce and exceptional quality of life, Montgomery County is home to 18 federal
26 May z June 2017
agencies and companies, like Marriott International, Choice Hotels International, Ritz Carlton, and Lockheed Martin.
“Because Montgomery County is a suburban destination, the costs for accommodations, meals and transportation are lower than in a first-tier city,” said president and CEO of Visit Montgomery County, Maryland, Kelly Groff, CDME. “Hotels and parking fees are priced lower in a suburban destination than a major metropolitan city.”
Another part of the allure for planners is the county’s inven- tory of 10,000 hotel rooms and nearly 50 hotel choices. Planners also will find unique venues that cater to meetings and events.
Major renovations have just been completed at the Hilton Washington, DC/Rockville Hotel and Executive Meeting Center, the Bethesda Marriott, and the Hyatt Bethesda. A new Canopy by Hilton is slated to open at the new Pike and Rose District this year.
The area also boasts the William F. Bolger Center in Potomac, which is situated on an 83-acre campus with 75 meeting rooms and two ballrooms that can accommodate up to 500 guests. With the convenience of more than 400 guestrooms, the venue offers a variety of activities for atten- dees, such as nature trails, multiple sport courts, and 43- acres of award-winning gardens. The property also houses a fitness center with 24-hour access and an indoor, heated Olympic-size swimming pool.
The American Film Institute (AFI) Silver Theatre and Cultural Center is another local venue that is ideal for pri- vate parties and receptions. A cutting-edge, moving image exhibition, education and cultural center, it is anchored by the restoration of architect John Eberson’s historic 1938 Silver Theatre. The property also features 32,000-square feet of new construction that includes two stadium theatres, office and meeting space, and reception and exhibit areas.
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