Six Stellar Reasons to Host Your Next Event in Vancouver, Washington

If you’re looking to host an event that will leave a lasting impression, consider Vancouver, Washington. This thriving city, nestled in the Pacific Northwest, is more than just an attractive destination. It’s a business and cultural hub offering a variety of facilities and amenities that make it the perfect choice for meetings and conferences.

A mere 15 minutes from a major international airport, Vancouver combines convenience with the ability to create unique events attendees can’t experience elsewhere.

Here are the top six reasons you should plan your next event in Vancouver.

1. Exceptional Venues

Vancouver boasts a plethora of exceptional venues to suit every type of event.

• The city is home to Hilton Vancouver Washington, one of the greenest hotels in America. The Heritage Ballroom, the hotel’s largest meeting space at nearly 14,000 square feet, holds 1,100 attendees for a reception. With direct access off Interstate 5 and located five minutes from the Amtrak station and 15 minutes from the airport, the property is easy to get to.
• The Heathman Lodge, which incorporates the region’s natural beauty into its rustic design, is an excellent choice for smaller, more intimate meetings and corporate retreats.
• Hotel Indigo Vancouver is a scenic boutique hotel ideal for corporate gatherings, including board meetings and retreats. The Edgewater Ballroom boasts a view that overlooks the Columbia River and the Vancouver Waterfront. Be sure to take advantage of on-site steakhouse El Gaucho for catering needs.
• Another sleek option for smaller groups is AC Hotel Marriott Vancouver Waterfront, featuring 4,000 square feet of meeting space. Top-of-the-line fitness equipment and a spa are among the amenities attendees will enjoy.
• For the most flexibility in Vancouver, consider Clark County Event Center. With 100,000 square feet of event space, the center is popular for trade shows, conventions, meetings, and special events.

2. Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Hosting your conference in Vancouver means immersing your attendees in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The city is surrounded by rivers, forests, and mountains that offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. From a morning jog along the Columbia River waterfront to a team-building hike in the Columbia River Gorge, the natural splendor of Vancouver provides a backdrop that invigorates and inspires, stimulating creativity and thought-provoking conversations.

These attractions also make for excellent tour stops on pre- and/or post-event FAM trips. Find itinerary ideas here.

3. Ease of Access and Transportation

Vancouver’s accessibility for all is another major advantage. Just a 15-minute drive from one of America’s best airports, it’s a convenient location for domestic and international delegates. Once in the city, attendees will appreciate the ease of getting around, thanks to Vancouver’s comprehensive public transportation system, walkable downtown, and bike-friendly paths. Interstate 5, the major north-south artery for the West Coast, is a great option for those within driving distance. Public transportation and shuttle services make getting around town a breeze upon arrival.

4. Rich History and Culture

Vancouver is steeped in history and culture, providing a dynamic and enlightening backdrop to any event. Hosting your conference here gives attendees the chance to explore sites like Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and the Pearson Air Museum. Special permits can be easily acquired to host in outdoor and indoor venues, and the National Park Service can arrange group tours so attendees can learn more about their home away from home for the days they are in town.

Furthermore, the city’s thriving arts scene, with institutions like the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and galleries showcasing local and international art, offers enriching experiences that extend beyond the meeting room. Don’t miss the First Friday Art Walk, where galleries stay open late and you can find live music.

A short ride up Interstate-5 is ilani Resort, one of the Pacific Northwest’s top entertainment and gaming venues. Located on the Cowlitz Reservation, ilani’s on-site casino sports about 3,000 slots and 75 gaming tables, as well as 18 different restaurants, bars, and retail outlets, Cowlitz Ballroom hosts a variety of national entertainment acts, inkling music and comedy, and restaurants like Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse often have free music. The resort features several festivals throughout the year, so check the calendar of events before finalizing your itinerary.

5. Beer and Wine

With a multitude of craft breweries and wineries, this city has become a destination for beer and wine enthusiasts alike. Beer lovers can explore the numerous microbreweries scattered throughout Vancouver, offering a wide range of styles and flavors, from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing sours. Many of these breweries also feature inviting taprooms where patrons can enjoy a pint while soaking in the lively atmosphere. On the other hand, wine enthusiasts can indulge in the region’s flourishing wine industry, with vineyards and wineries producing exceptional varietals—including eight tasting rooms within a few blocks of one another along the waterfront.

Rent out a venue for a private party, or attendees can explore on their own. Self-guided tours and free mobile-friendly passes are available to get a true taste of the region’s sips.

6. Sustainable Practices

Vancouver’s commitment to sustainability is an undeniable asset when planning an eco-friendly event. The city is a leader in green initiatives, with numerous LEED-certified buildings, including the aforementioned Hilton Vancouver Washington. Other green efforts include AC Hotel Marriott offering guest room recycling to cut down on waste and The Heathman Lodge providing six electric car chargers in their parking lot—an amenity that should only increase in popularity given eco-friendly car trends.

Businesses will appreciate the opportunity to align their brand with these values, while attendees will enjoy the sustainable practices evident throughout the city—from farm-to-table dining options to citywide recycling and composting programs.