Americans spend billions of dollars on meetings because they are well worth the effort. Meetings encourage company innovation, teamwork, project planning, employee morale, and a break from routine that inspires excitement and creativity; benefits that digital exchanges alone can’t bring.
Bruce MacMillan, president and CEO of Meeting Professionals International, explains the value of face-to-face time perfectly on that organization’s website: “…there is no more powerful…force than…human connection and live interaction.”
And Virginia’s prime location at the point where the Mid-Atlantic ends and the South begins means your options for meeting spaces—places where innovation happens—abound. Whether your group wants urban thrill, sandy beaches, misty mountains or lush meadows, from Alexandria to Richmond and Roanoke to Newport News, Virginia has a whole menu of choices that will get you out of the boardroom. A different setting—especially when it offers excellent accommodations and first-rate leisure activities such as golf, hiking or even whitewater rafting—can put the world, and your business, in a different perspective. A literal change of view might prompt a mental change of view.
The point is to indulge in your wanderlust and take a little risk. Challenge and delight your employees with a meeting space they have probably never seen before. Have some fun, and then get down to business.
ADVERTISER LISTINGS
20 F St. NW • We are pleased to introduce a new D.C. state-of-the art conference and events facility. Located on Capitol Hill, the 20 F Street NW Conference Center has all the amenities you’ll need for your next training session, corporate dinner or special events reception. Looking for a venue with a view? 20 F’s rooftop terrace provides a unique site for your special event. With spectacular views of the Washington Monument and Capitol Dome, you and your guests will share an experience to be remembered for a lifetime. events@20FStreetCC.com or 20FStreetCC.com
Boar’s Head • Two hours from D.C. and one hour from Richmond, this four-Diamond 573-acre resort offers 170 rooms and suites, and is within minutes of the University of Virginia grounds. Balloon rides embark out our front door. Relish private wine tours. Also available at this Top 50 U.S. Tennis Resort are spa services, award-winning Audubon-certified golf, a sports and fitness center boasting 26 indoor and outdoor tennis courts and 22,000 square feet of event space perfect for meetings and weddings. Great packages available! (800) 476-1988 or BoarsHeadInn.com
Craddock Terry Hotel • What was once a turn-of-the-century shoe factory is now a boutique luxury hotel in Central Virginia showcasing chic, whimsical shoe-themed décor and amenities. Nestled along the James River, Craddock Terry is only hours away from Washington, D.C. and Charlotte, offering luxurious accommodations, two restaurants, a brewery on site, and nearby shopping, hiking trails, tubing and kayaking. Come experience this award-winning hotel recognized for its ambiance, exceptional customer service and ideal romantic getaways. (434) 455-1500 or CraddockTerryHotel.com
Fredericksburg Conference Center • Conveniently located mid-way between D.C. and Richmond off I-95 Exit 130B has the space and location for a trade show, consumer show, reception, banquet, meetings, prom or convention. It can be divided to accommodate multiple shows simultaneously. The adjoining hotel complex has three hotels with 400-plus rooms. Please call Laurie Liddy at (540) 548-5555, extension 100, or visit FredericksburgExpoCenter.com for more info.
Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center • Located on the downtown Norfolk waterfront, the Half Moone is Hampton Roads’ most impressive event space. With panoramic views of the Elizabeth River and Norfolk’s beautiful skyline, this extraordinary facility is unequaled. It’s a special day. Celebrate every moment! (757) 664-1030 or (757) 664-1006 or HalfMoone.org
The Hermitage Museum & Gardens • Located on the shore of the Lafayette River in Norfolk, is the ideal location for your outdoor wedding and reception. The elegance of the gardens and beauty of the waterfront views will ensure your special day will be a memorable one. From small “family only” receptions to large affairs, our dedicated staff will work with you through every step to ensure all your expectations are met. (757) 423-2052 or THFM.org
The Jefferson • Those who meet at The Jefferson today enjoy the timeless elegance of more than 26,000 square feet of unique meeting space combined with modern communications technology and complemented by unsurpassed conference services. The Jefferson offers an experience that cannot be duplicated. Each detail of a meeting or special event is executed with a warm and genuine regard for the ultimate pleasure of the guest and the planner. (804) 788-8000 or JeffersonHotel.com
Keswick Hall • Reserve at Keswick Hall and rest assured your group will receive world-class service and the finest facilities. Recently voted “Best Small Hotel in America,” Keswick Hall promises hassle free planning and luxurious accommodations. Enjoy meeting spaces with an abundance of natural light, an Arnold Palmer designed golf course, full service spa and a host of resort activities. (434) 923 4370 or Keswick.com
Kingsmill Resort • Framed by the serenity of the James River, Kingsmill Resort is a relaxed setting, ideal for your next meeting or event. Featuring 16,000 square feet of IACC-certified meeting space with 16 conference rooms, plus more than 10,000 square feet of flexible ballroom space, Kingsmill is uniquely designed to accommodate nearly any occasion. Groups will enjoy 425 spacious guestrooms and suites, multiple dining options, a European-style spa, 63 holes of golf and more. (800) 982-2892 or Kingsmill.com
Norfolk CVB • Situated in the heart of the mid-Atlantic coastal region, Norfolk, Virginia is known for its scenic waterways, recreational activities, historic sites, moderate climate, and diverse cultural and entertainment opportunities. The streets of Norfolk read like a culinary map of the world, with plenty of tastes from various countries, including Virginia’s beloved, hometown fare. This spring, Norfolk will begin offering food tours with Coastal Food Tours of Virginia where visitors will enjoy behind-the-scenes experiences at restaurants, culinary events, pub-crawls and much more! (800) 368-3097 or VisitNorfolktoday.com
Orange County, Virginia • Intimate, romantic , unforgettable. Orange County is the perfect destination for your perfect wedding. Our luxurious B & Bs, unique venues, exceptional catering, award-winning wineries, and stunning scenery will exceed your dreams and create memories that will last a lifetime. (877) 222-8072 or VisitOrangeVirginia.com
Shenandoah Caverns • Shenandoah Caverns includes several unique options for your wedding, party and event. Just South of Woodstock, Virginia and one mile off Exit 269 on I81. For an intimate group or seating for up to 400. Marry along the natural backdrop of these famous caverns or use our American Celebration on Parade-offering over 40,000 feet of exhibition space and banquet area that seats 250. Contact Judith Ruby at the Yellow Barn, yelobarn@shentel.net or (540) 477-2432; or Debi Wine americel@shentel.net, (540) 477-4300.
Wisp Resort • Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains near Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake lies Wisp Resort, a four- season premiere destination among the Mid-Atlantic region. Wisp specializes in creating a productive, successful and memorable group experience with over 17,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, 168 guest rooms and extensive banquet and catering services. From top-notch skiing to world-class golf, the plethora of outdoor recreation will truly exceed each group’s expectations and adventure limits! The only question is: Which season will your group visit? (301) 387-4000 or WispResort.com
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Comment FeedNorfolk Food Tours
Nathan more than 2 years ago