Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/16726
OAKLAND, CA Oakland is one of this country’s best-kept secrets as a fami- ly-friendly tourist destination and a hubbub of meeting and con- vention activity. Few places offer the combination of a great meeting locale and a family-friendly tourist destination. Start with the Oakland Zoo, simply put it’s one of the best in the country. There are cultural exhibits in the education center and a “rides area” featuring a carousel and of course a rollercoaster. Other places to take kids include: Children’s Fairyland: the Chabot Space Science Center, which houses the largest public telescope in the United States; and the Museum of Children’s Art. One of the more popular areas of Oakland is Jack London Square. There’s dining, entertainment such as live jazz and shopping. Since you are already on the waterfront why not take a ferry ride in San Francisco Bay? If you are a history buff, check out the African American Museum and Library. And if you are a sports fan, Oakland is the only city in California with a team in the three major sports. Oakland is also a great jump- ing off point for tours to California’s wine country, Silicon Valley, Lake Tahoe and Monterey. On the meetings and convention front, the Oakland Convention Center and Oakland Marriott City Center are downtown and just 10 minutes from the airport. Right outside its doors is Chinatown, Old Oakland, Preservation Park and a short walk from the waterfront and the aforementioned Jack London Square. The convention center has 48,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and Mother and kids view model of Mars Photo Credit: Oakland CVB the adjoining Marriott offers another 25,000 sq. ft. and 483 guest rooms. Meeting planners call the Oakland CVB at (510) 839-9000 or write to info@oaklandcvb.com and ask them about their Hometown Host Program. It’s a great tool for planning family reunions, military veterans gatherings and other group events. So many points of view to make your meeting a success. See for yourself how easy and simple we can make meeting in Norfolk. In fact, you’ll find the value you receive as attractive as the many amenities you and your attendees will discover when you book a meeting in Norfolk, the heart of the Virginia waterfront. visitnorfolktoday.com | 1-800-368-3097 Black Meetings & Tourism July/August 2010: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 45