Group Travel Trends by Lenora Kruk-Mullanaphy


Corporate and group market segments have a host of options when it comes to meeting in the Mid-Atlantic region. From the sand and surf that beckons visitors to the beachfront to the history and culture of the city and suburbs to the lush greenery and mountains that comprise scenic settings, there’s something for every taste, budget and itinerary.


The professionals in these destinations have their fingers on the pulse of what attracts these groups. They’ve shared the current trends driving planners to choose these locations and what activities are popular with attendees while there.


Beachfront Destinations


Ocean City, Maryland is so close to many Mid-Atlantic metro areas; it’s a natural getaway.


“The rural resort atmosphere and re- gional area are within a reasonable travel time for so many visitors and meeting attendees in the Mid-Atlantic,” said Larry Noccolino, executive direc- tor of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, MD. “While leisure groups are a bit smaller in some cases, they’re more discerning about what they visit and see. They re- ally want something the average trav- eler won’t experience or an insider’s view of the area.”


With 10 miles of beautiful, free and award-winning beach on the Atlantic shoreline and the excitement of the boardwalk, it’s the perfect respite after a day filled with meetings and confer- ences. If it’s action attendees seek, they’ll find it. If some quiet time is needed, a morning cup of coffee along the shore is just outside the door.


“Organized tour groups find the Har- riet Tubman Visitor Center in nearby


4­ 2 July­z August­2019


Dorchester County to be of special in- terest,” said Regina S. Brittingham, convention sales manager for the Roland E. Powell Convention Center. “This important historical and cultural facility has become incredibly popular since it opened in 2017, and it’s a real asset to add to group spousal tours, reunions and more.”


From water activities to fishing charter trips to foodie tours, attendees are sure to find a variety of activities after business or for creating an extended “staycation” with their families.


Urban Locales


Groups meeting in Baltimore are in- creasingly looking for ways to inte- grate authentic experiences of the city in their planning.


“Whether it’s pointing attendees to lo- cally sourced and sustainable restau- rant options in our downtown neighborhoods or finding ways to work with local artisans, innovators and tastemakers as part of their pro- gramming, we’re seeing renewed inter- est in experiences that go beyond the walls of our hotels and convention


center,” said Visit Baltimore’s presi- dent and CEO, Al Hutchinson.


Hutchinson added that Baltimore has experienced one of the largest millen- nial booms in the country, and the resurgence is visible in its eclectic neighborhoods that boast new food venues, breweries and boutiques, which are “popping up around every corner.”


Planners find the destination’s value and convenience attractive. The Inner Harbor, first-class hotels, an award- winning culinary scene, cultural attrac- tions and a variety of local shopping within the “convention campus” are easily navigable by foot, free Charm City Circulator buses and water taxis.


Baltimore’s waterfront and easily ac- cessible East Coast location is a huge draw for groups. The city’s reputation for fresh seafood, particularly the renowned Maryland blue crabs, and its culinary scene has transformed Baltimore into a destination with high- end and inventive eateries opening their doors in charming neighbor- hoods. Attendees will find themselves in a haven for all types of cuisine, earning the city top ratings in Yelp,


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