Do you attend business conferences on a regular basis? Have you come to realize that some events are more valuable than others? Have you come to find that some destinations have more to offer than others?
The more conferences you attend the more you’ll realize these things to be true:
- There are events that help grow your business.
- There are events that do nothing more than suck time and money out of your company.
- Some cities are better suited for business conferences than others.
Regardless of your industry or company goals, it’s safe to assume that you understand the potential benefits of attending conferences and trade shows throughout the year. But there is a problem with this: you only have so much time and money to go around.
With this in mind, you should take your time as you choose which conferences to attend. When doing so, focus most your attention on the potential value of attending. Answer these questions:
- Will you have the opportunity to generate additional business?
- Are others in your space attending the conference?
- How many potential customers will be in attendance?
In short, you want to spend your time at events in which you can network with others in your industry and/or your target audience.
With that out of the way, it’s time to turn your attention to another important detail: the location of the conference.
This may not be the only detail to consider, but it should definitely be at the top of your list. Let’s face it: some destinations have more to offer business travelers than others.
Below, we’ll outline five cool destinations in the United States to attend a conference. If you ever have the opportunity to visit one of these areas for business, don’t hesitate to take advantage:
1. Niagara Falls
You may not consider it a hotbed for business, but the area is home to many conferences in a variety of industries.
For example, many events take place at a Niagara Falls casino hotel. With this, you’re in position to enjoy every last minute of your experience.
When you’ve had enough of the casino, venture out for some sightseeing activities.
2. Anywhere in Hawaii
Most people dream of the day when they’ll touch down on one of the many Hawaiian Islands.
It’s not the most cost effective location for a business conference, but there is no denying the fact that each and every island has something special to offer.
The weather is out of this world, the people are friendly, and there is always something interesting to do. Along with this, it is home to some of the most unique event venues.
If you’re interested in traveling to Hawaii for a conference, take this one bit of advice: plan your trip as far in advance as possible. By doing so, you increase the likelihood of securing affordable air travel and hotel accommodations.
3. New York City
Did you know that nearly 60 million people visit New York City every year?
While many of these people do so for pleasure, others find their way to the Big Apple for business.
New York City is home to every type of event venue imaginable. For this reason, it’s only natural for conference organizers to migrate toward the city when choosing a destination for an upcoming event.
There are many things that make NYC a great place to visit for business. For example, many travelers enjoy the fact that they can find a hotel close to the event venue. Along with this, there are plenty of options for getting around the city. One of my favorite hotels is The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel.
Of course, don’t overlook the fact that you’ll have plenty to see and do during downtime. After all, it is the “city that doesn’t sleep!”
4. Austin, Texas
With each passing year, Austin, Texas continues to grow in popularity among business travelers.
While South by Southwest is the most popular conference taking place in the city, it’s only one of several hundred to consider.
Everyone has their own reasons for wanting to visit Austin, but here are some of the best:
- The people are downright friendly (and there is nothing better than that).
- The food is tasty, not to mention the fact that your options are unlimited.
- It doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
All of these points are important to business travelers, with the third one taking the cake. Flights into and out of Austin are typically affordable. The same holds true for the many hotels in and around the city.
If you’ve never been to Austin, it’s time to search for a conference in the city that fits into your schedule. You won’t be disappointed with your trip.
5. Chicago
The Windy City is home to some of the largest and most well known companies in the United States. It’s also the temporary home of thousands of business conferences every year.
Although your main reason for visiting Chicago is to grow your business, that doesn’t mean you won’t have time for some fun.
Take in a Cubs (or White Sox) game. Search for the best deep dish pizza in your part of town. Hit up one of the local beaches (if you’re visiting during the summer months).
Let’s put it this way: you can easily mix business and pleasure when you visit Chicago.
Final Thoughts
If the time has come to add more business conferences to your schedule, don’t hesitate to seek out events in the five locations detailed above.
By visiting these areas, you can grow your business while also having the time of your life. And that’s exactly what you’re looking for!
Have you attended a conference in one or more of these locations in the past? Which one was your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
