Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1494066
B M & T ••• March /April 2023 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 18 Anaheim From LA to Orange County, a quick drive down the I- 5 means you're never far from the fun. Whether it's your first time in Anaheim or you're rediscovering the area, there are plenty of inspiring escapes that promise a unique and personal experience for conference attendees and leisure travelers alike. With over 1 million square feet of exhibit space, 131 hotels, 280 sunny days per year, and tons of awesome things to see and do, Anaheim is the perfect place for high-impact meetings and events. Your next meeting will be unforgettable, with over 2,700 culinary and entertain- ment hubs at your fingertips right in Orange County. CALIFORNIA Being the third largest state in the Nation has its perks. One quality is that the various cities and geographical-back- drops the state possesses provide meeting planners options for completely different experiences depending on where their group goes. Large metropolises like Los Angeles and San Francisco provide ample meeting space with various ven- ues for big events and trade shows combined with the lights and fast pace of the big city, providing conference attendees with easy access to everything they need. Surrounding cities of Los Angeles include Newport Beach, Hollywood, Pasadena and Palm Springs. Each of these destinations has its own identity and still has the LA feel. One thing all the cities from the Bay Area to Los Angeles have in common is the amazing weather. Probably one of the biggest reasons to bring your group to California is the year round sunshine. A gloomy day comes sparingly in the Sunshine State therefore California provides Planners with a wider window to coordinate an event during pleasant conditions. Another big reason California is a western destination perfect for any event is the amount of recreational activities the state has to offer. Nature seekers will have a blast taking hikes in Northern California amongst the Sequoia Trees. Beach goers can enjoy various SoCal beaches in San Diego and the Venice and Santa Monica areas. Some travelers can enjoy the various spa resorts of Palm Springs. There is some- thing for EVERYONE in California. some of the most unique flora and fauna in the world, giving business and leisure travelers plenty to do during their stay. From the gardens and zoos to the museums and university campus, Tucson's unique beauty shines through its wide range of attrac- tions and vibrant downtown districts. A meeting planner might ask, "Why take my group to Tucson?" It's a simple question with a long answer. You've got a ton of people, or maybe a tad fewer, to bring together. You need a place where it's easy to get them in and out. You need a place with first-rate, well-maintained properties with plenty of space for your events. Great food is a must, some cool attractions would help, and if the weather is good, that's icing on the cake. Tucson's got top-rated destination resorts and full-service meeting properties and a wide range of other event venues to choose from (including new and renovated properties). Long Beach Long Beach is a waterfront playground located right in the heart of Southern California. Here you can experience it all: a deep-sea adventure at the Aquarium of the Pacific, whale watching on the water, shopping in one of the city's many unique districts, a tour of coastal breweries, a vibrant foodie scene, and so much more. Long Beach Convention Center Anaheim Convention Center