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B M & T ••• May/June 2023 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 68 AREA GUIDES D E L E WA R E PLANNERS WILL FIND EVERYTHING THEY NEED FOR A SUCCESSFUL MEETING IN THE FIRST STATE B Y B U C K S A M U E L S Moments of excitement, joy and relax- ation await in Delaware. Whether it's in the softness of a countryside vineyard, in a blossom-scented path along grand estates or being whisked away to a sun- splashed beach oasis, you can find a combination of excellent meeting space for your next function coupled with unique leisure experiences that spark a renewed sense of adventure. Delaware has three distinctly different regions, each with its own style, charac- ter, and wide range of possibilities creat- ing multiple options of settings that satis- fy the clients meeting needs. The state is made up of two distinct geologic regions. The northernmost part of Delaware is within the Piedmont region, while the rest of Delaware lies within the Coastal Plain region. • • • WILMINGTON • • • Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley are just a short dis- tance from all points in the Mid-Atlantic region and minutes off the I-95 corridor. While the city is close to so many – ideal for a quick weekend getaway – you will feel as if you have been transported to a different land. The rolling hills and magnif- icent estates of Chateau country recall the French countryside. The colonial ham- lets, of Old New Castle and Historic Odessa, untouched by time, give you the feeling of an English country village. Meeting here for events small and inti- mate to large conferences will be enhanced with the gorgeous backdrop of the Wilmington area giving guests the most memorable experience. Meeting Planners wont have a prob- lem finding corporate meeting rooms wired for videoconferences, theaters with stadium seating as well as catering staffs that can handle any taste and crowd. No matter what you need for your conference, the city has the accommodations to fit your desires. Chase Center on the Riverfront is Wilming- ton's largest venue for meetings, trade shows, conventions and cele- brations, offering 92,000 sq. ft. of dedicated exhibit space. The venue is equipped with two beautifully appointed ballrooms, meeting rooms and a fixed seat auditori- um combined with delicious culinary cre- ations and impeccable service. The Westin Hotel adjoins to the facility for convenience allowing conference atten- dees quick access to meetings and breakout activities. When time permits conference guests are encouraged to explore Wilmington's unique, tranquil environment. Some trav- elers might be looking for quiet, a respite from those other five days in the week, recharging their batteries with hours spent wandering in gardens or biking through a state park. Some go looking for energy and noise and people inside crowded rock n' roll halls and lively cock- tail bars. What ever your leisurely goals are the city has you covered. • • • DOVER • • • Event planners looking for a more quaint and intimate setting for weddings, family reunions and small staff retreats can look to Dover, providing a perfect geographical backdrop for these occa- sions. The city, located in Kent County, is more than just a home for music festivals and racecars — it is a place filled with his- tory and culture. Bally's Dover Casino Resort serves as an option for holding your next event, boasting an 18,000 sq. ft. ballroom, 13 meeting rooms and 500 guest rooms making it easy for attendees to get to meetings efficiently. The venue offers activities and services that will enhance guests stay as well as making the plan- ning process smooth. Conference attendees and leisure travelers alike can enjoy shopping in country stores and local malls or tak- ing a walk in one of the many public parks. Finish the night with some gam- bling or beer tasting at one of Dover's local craft breweries. From museums to farms to dining and more, the nation's first capital has so many pos- sibilities for an amazing event and/or vacation. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Kent County Tourism Corporation – (302) 734-4888 www.visitdelawarevillages.com • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Hilton Wilmington/Christiana 266 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Wilmington 244 Sheraton Suites Wilmington Downtown 223 Hotel DUPONT 217 The Westin Wilmington 180 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Chase Center On The Riverfornt Total Space 92,000 sq. ft. Largest Hall 22,000 sq. ft. Largest Ballroom 12,800 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 20 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Greater Wilmington CVB – (800) 489-6664 www.visitwilmingtonde.com/meetings Downtown Wilmington photo credit:Greater Wilmington CVB