Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1517455
pied when meetings let out. Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Moun- tains, Denver and cities of the Rockies are the heart of urban Colorado. This is where the majority of larger scale events are held. The Colorado Convention Center, also located in Denver, serves as the state's largest meeting venue, accom- modating conferences and gatherings of any size. Destinations like Colorado Springs, Aspen, Vail, Snowmass, Steamboat Springs and Breckenridge provide travelers with much more suburban venues and activities. Here you will find ski resorts, antique towns and shops as well as a boatload of outdoor activities fun for the whole family. These destinations create a perfect ambiance for inti- mate gatherings like reunions, weddings and business retreats. Denver Welcome to Denver, where 300 days of sunshine, a thriving cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods and natural beauty com- bine for the world's most spectacular playground. In the "Mile High City" urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure, which makes this destination perfect for groups looking to gather in an environment that accommodates business needs but also embraces its natural surroundings. New features of the expanded Colorado Convention Center include 80,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and ballroom space, plus 35,000 sq. ft. of pre-function space and a jaw-dropping 20,000-sq. ft. outdoor terrace, all located on the roof of the existing building. Both the pre-function and outdoor event spaces have spec- tacular, unobstructed views of the Rocky Mountains and city skyline, allowing attendees to take advantage of Denver's 300 annual days of sunshine. Technology improvements position the CCC as a best-in-class facility, keeping pace with innova- tions and demand. There is no shortage of fun filled activities guests will have access to when work is complete. The Brookings Institution ranks Denver as the fourth most walkable downtown in the nation. You can save on shoe-leather by riding the free shuttle bus on the 16th Street Mall – it makes everything downtown easy to reach. Larimer Square is a trendy block of Victorian buildings is home to chic shopping, dance clubs, a comedy club, outdoor cafes and a dozen of Denver's best restaurants. For 40 years in downtown Denver, it's hip to be at the "Square". Denver has a rich African American heritage, from the jazz greats who played here, to extensive libraries and museums (like the Black American West Museum), to modern dance performances and music festivals. Just blocks from the city center, you'll find the impressive Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library , housing an extensive collection of exhibits and reference materials that trace Black history in the West. HAWAI I Discover a meeting destination like no other—where the vibrancy of these islands meets the professionalism you expect. Hawaii isn't just a venue; it's an invitation to reimagine meet- ings and events in an unparalleled setting. Although Hawaii is made up of 137 Islands, of them, a few are inhabited and provide different experiences for both busi- ness and leisure travelers. Islands like Hilo, Kauai, Hawaii Island, Lanai, Maui and Oahu each have their own flavor and style. From modern conference centers to unique outdoor spaces, find the perfect backdrop for any event, including the crown jewel of Honolulu's meetings' infrastructure – the 1.1-million- sq. ft. Hawaii Convention Center. Beyond the scheduled programs lies a trove of off-the-clock activities waiting to be explored. History whispers through ancient sites, culture thrives in every corner, and the allure of shopping, dining, and recreation captures hearts effortlessly. From leisurely pursuits to adrenaline-pumping adventures, Hawaii caters to every interest. N EVADA Explore the world around you. Indulge your inner foodie. Discover historic towns. Meet local artists. Jump in with both feet. Or just take it easy. Nevada is for doers—no matter what type of adventure you're after. Known for housing the gaming capital of the U.S., Nevada provides groups with the ultimate experience when it comes to meeting in an environment capable of accommodating busi- ness needs but also offering an extensive line of PLAYFUL leisure activities. Each of the state's regions offer some level of gaming in its B M & T ••• March/April 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 25 Denver's Black American West Museum Hawaii Convention Center