Spice Up Ordinary Events with Local Attractions
By Anna Michalson
Meeting and conference season never stops, and finding a location that is both entertaining and convenient can be a challenge. Destination marketing organizations are excellent resources for not only finding the right meeting venue but also learning what local attractions and activities will bring in attendees and make an event more engaging. There are many destinations throughout the Northwest perfect for small- to medium-sized events that offer off-site attractions to spice up any event. Here are a few of of the many examples of beautiful and diverse Northwest destinations equipped with extracurricular options for a fun and memorable event.
Pendleton, Oregon
Pendleton is a rural town in Northeast Oregon’s Umatilla County that has a unique Old West character and offers an array of amazing activities and excursions to add onto any convention or meeting. As a meeting venue, Pendleton Convention Center will surely suit all of your needs and exceed your expectations.
As far as activities go, Pendleton offers a plethora. Start off by visiting the famous Pendleton Woolen Mills, where you and your group can tour the famous makers of Pendleton blankets and watch the process with their own eyes. In the early 20th century, Pendleton was home to a population of Chinese laborers who were made to live in an underground district that was also home to saloons and bordellos. Today, groups can tour this historic underground city for a glimpse of this storied past. Another excursion is the Whiskey and Rocks Farm Loop, a drive through the countryside with stops at wineries, creameries, chocolatiers, farms and more.
For more information on Pendleton Convention Center and tourist attractions, visit travelpendelton.com.
Port Angels, Washington
Located on the Strait of Juan de Fuca on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Angeles offers water and mountain views all in one spot with several conference spaces to choose from. Port Angeles has a new Waterfront Center that includes state-of-the-art conference space in its Field Arts and Events Hall. The Red Lion Hotel, located on the waterfront, is a popular choice among conference planners for its flexible facilities and guest rooms.
After your conference, consider taking your group on a day hike at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park, a spot known for its spectacular views and alpine scenery. Or advise attendees to bring their passports for a ferry excursion across the Strait of Juan de Fuca for an afternoon in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia.
For more information on Port Angeles conference centers and tourist activities, visit visitportangeles.com.
Chelan, Washington
This conference destination offers scenic views, a climate that perfectly matches each season, and several activities to keep your attendees happily occupied.
Campbell’s Resort has meeting and conference space available, and its convenient location puts you in the center of the town’s action, while also providing overnight lodging for conference goers.
For a special day, a cruise on Lady of the Lake is a scenic tour that heads up the lake, year-round. Another option is wine tasting at local wineries in the area.
For more information, go to visitchelancounty.com.
Kalispell, Montana
Kalispell, Montana, is another great option for a conference. With a wide array of activities and natural sights to see, there is something for everyone in this beautiful area.
For your conference, the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce is available to suggest meeting spaces, lodging, and activities that can accommodate most group sizes.
When it comes to activities, Kalispell has quite an expansive list. Consider taking your group on guided ATV tours or a river rafting excursion. Or take a cruise on scenic Flathead Lake. During the winter months, your group may be interested in a guided dog-sledding tour. The Conrad Museum and Mansion is also a great option if you are looking for indoor activities; here, you can get a feel for the life of wealthy pioneers during the late 1800s.
For more information visit discoverkalispell.com.
