TLDR: Securing a memorable conference venue is a huge step in delivering an excellent experience for your attendees. First, make sure it’s not just another hotel. There are more convenient-yet-unique venue options available than you might think! Second, make sure to select a venue that has solo adventure options available for your attendees. To bring it over the top, find a venue that has a signature sight or experience. Do these three things and you’re well on your way to creating an experience your attendees will never forget.

It’s Not Just Another Hotel 

Booking a hotel is a conference go-to for a reason: it’s convenient, often comfortable, and everything you need (lodging, meals, meeting spaces, AV support) are on-site. 

However hotels aren’t the only venues offering top-tier amenities. If you look around a little, you’ll find there are a lot more options than you might think that could host your event. You can get really creative here! 

Do you need comfortable lodging for your attendees, comfortable meeting spaces, quality food close by? Yes and yes! I suggest searching online a little to discover your other options. Odds are, you’ll find something unique, convenient, and a whole lot more memorable than a hotel. 

For example, here at Glorieta Adventure Camps we offer accommodations for groups of up to 2,000 attendees. Among our on-site lodging accommodations are hotel-style buildings and upscale lodges, bringing premium comfort to a non-traditional venue.

Attendees Can Adventure on Their Own 

As great as conference sessions are and as much time as you invest in creating the perfect schedule, oftentimes attendees’ favorite parts of the event are the moments that weren’t planned. 

By hosting your conference or convention in a spot that offers plenty of solo experiences during free time, you’re creating an environment for your attendees to get creative and adventure on their own.

Early morning walks through gardens or nature hikes only boosts energy and creativity before a long day of conference sessions. And even for the attendees opting not to venture out, there’s something about an environment full of potential that sparks imagination during the day and helps get creative juices flowing. 

There’s a Signature Sight or Experience 

Venues that offer a signature attraction or experience are always memorable. Does your venue have a popular landmark, distinct architecture, a signature dining experience?  Novelty experiences help boost morale and increase positive associations with your event. Plus, who doesn’t like to experience something special?

At Glorieta Adventure Camps, our signature experience is the High Five Zipline Adventure. It’s a high-speed zipline featuring views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, deep canyons, and tall pines. It’s a true bucket list adventure that guests rave about for years. Keep fun touches like that in mind in your own search for a venue. 

 

Remember to Have Fun!

No matter where you decide to host your large-scale event, remember to keep fun and adventure close to heart. There are endless possibilities to choose from when adding a unique flair to your conference. Use these tips as a starting point to boost your ideas. 

Here’s to your memorable conference!