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B M & T ••• March/April 2022 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 28 ARIZONA Arizona, offers the engaging versatilities of desert, pine forests, canyons, mountain ranges, lakes and valleys. Group and leisure travelers alike enjoy this state's vast natural beauty, engaging in everything from hiking and moun- tain biking, to downhill skiing or viewing the desert sky. The most famous state attractions include the Grand Canyon, the Petrified Forest, the Painted Desert, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Fort Apache, and the reconstructed London Bridge at Lake Havasu City. However, the stunning desert setting of Arizona stands in rugged and delightful contrast to its sophisticated urban lifestyle. This Southwest state is well known as a premier meetings destina- tion due to its pleasant year-round climate, urban flair and enticing value- added options and packages designed to maximize any budget. Meeting facilities of all sizes can be found in Arizona, from the award winning High Country Convention Center and Hotel in Flagstaff, to the centrally positioned Centers in Tucson and Mesa and the famous Tempe Market Place. PHOENIX With more than 69,000 guest rooms at over 500 hotels and resorts, there's more than enough room to meet in Greater Phoenix. As one of the top resort destinations in America, Greater Phoenix is also home to over 40 full-service hotels adorning this lush desert landscape. And, with new projects on the horizon, this city's portfolio of conference-friendly accom- modations is on the rise. Whether you're planning for a group of a few or a larger delegation, Greater Phoenix has an incredible spectrum of accommodation styles and special events venues that boast sophisticated meeting facilities, impeccable service and plenty of room for meeting as well as exploring, pampering and unwinding. So, when it's time to book your next meeting or conference, here are nine new reasons to consider Greater Phoenix. The centerpiece of downtown Phoenix, the Phoenix Convention Center offers nearly 1,000,000-sq.-ft. of meeting and prime exhibition space, including three exhibition halls, two 45,000-plus-sq.-ft. ballrooms and an IACC certified Executive Conference Center. Recently awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification as one of the worlds "greenest," most energy efficient buildings, the new Phoenix Convention Center offers four new levels of versatile, state-of-the-art event space. Located steps from the surrounding convention hotels and the new METRO Light Rail, the Phoenix Convention Center is convenient to restaurants, theaters, pro sports, shopping and the Sky Harbor International Airport. For information and a calendar of events, visit our website. When the workday is done, Phoenix has an inviting array of activities beckoning you, everything from enjoying serene desert gardens, exploring one- on-a-kind museums, and feasting on award-winning dining options at local eateries. TUCSON For decades, this area has been a go-to destination for travelers seeking rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation amidst the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Coming in from the cold, soaking up the sun, and just feeling better is what it's all about when you come to Tucson. Just look at the wide array of top resort brands that have raised their flags here or the premier destination spas that have contributed to making this little corner of the world a global capital for wellness. But Tucson has also earned itself a reputation as a top convention des- tination, anchored by the Tucson Convention Center. With over 205,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, the facility has the size and flexibility to accommo- date every type of meeting, convention, trade show, or banquet event you may be planning. Couple that with their VenueShield classification the Tucson Convention Center has a Back to Business Plan for you. The Center offers the largest ballroom in Pima County! In addition to this meeting space, the Tucson Convention Center has three modifiable show facilities that are appropriate for sporting events, ice shows, theatrical performances, and concerts. Groups love that they can forgo the rental car here. Downtown is walkable, and the Sun Link Streetcar lets attendees explore the vibrant commercial and his- toric residential districts just a little farther. Downtown hotels range from quirky to contemporary and will keep you close to all of the after-hours action happening at local bars, restaurants, and con- Downtown Phoenix JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa