Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1515188
A PLETHORA OF MEETING EXPERIENCES AWAIT YOU IN DELAWARE 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 com- bination 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, character, and wide range of possibilities creating multiple options of settings that satisfy your client's 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 Brandy- wine Valley is a region geographically close to Philadelphia, but one that's a world apart in terms of what it offers meeting planners. For smaller meetings – gatherings of 500 or fewer delegates – there's no better location in the Mid- Atlantic; hotels and other venues deliv- er one-of-a-kind experiences and expert guest service, and the fact that Delaware is tax-free, on almost every- thing that matters to you, offers a unique appeal. Greater Wilmington's signature blend of history, culture and gardens provides an amazing array of unique venues with state-of-the-art meeting facilities and world-class attractions that are ideal for your small- to mid-sized events. For larger gatherings the 90,000- square foot Chase Center and attached Westin hotel in Wilmington's exciting riverfront district or the University of Delaware's Clayton Hall in the inspiring college town of Newark provide both space and location. For more intimate spaces select from a number of historic du Pont family locations or hold memorable after-hours events at venues such as the Delaware Art Museum, Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, Hagley Museum and Library, the Queen Wilmington, or the Grand Opera House. When time permits conference guests are encouraged to explore Wilmington's unique, tranquil environment. There is indeed a lot of history in these parts - a history that still lives on the cobblestone streets of historic Old New Castle, on the decks of the faithfully replicated Kalmar Nyckel and on the ramparts of Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island. The Delaware History Museum will teach much about the history of Delaware and its people. The Hagley Museum and Library highlights Delaware and DuPont's vitally important role in the industrial rev- olution, while Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is a virtual time cap- sule, a peek into the lives those du Ponts once lived and the legacy that con- tinues. • • DOVER • • Dover is a place where casual dining, unique spots, lively events, and history come together to offer a quaint, yet dis- covery-filled experience. Meeting Planners and leisure travelers alike will have a field day coordinating unique gatherings personalized for the specific occasion. Weddings, family reunions and company retreats are gatherings Dover creates the perfect environment for. Visitors can travel through the quiet countryside, explore historic sites, and chase the chills and thrills of central Delaware attractions and entertainment. Head off the beaten path to find some truly unique Delaware experiences. Grab a bite to eat in downtown Dover and then, get out your walking shoes to visit central Delaware's part of the First State Heritage Park. Stop by the First State Heritage Park for tours of the Old State House, Legislative Hall, the Delaware Public Archives, the Johnson Victrola Museum, and the Biggs Museum of American Art. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Delaware Endless Discoveries (866) 284-7483 www.visitdelaware.com 50 B M & T ••• January/February 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com Chase Center banquet room • • • 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 Riverfront 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/meetings.com AREA GUIDES D E L AWA R E photo credit: Greater Wilmington CVB