Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1533069
50 B M & T ••• March/April 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com WA S H I N G T O N D C AREA GUIDES WAHINGTON DC OFFERS THE PERFECT BLEND OF WORLD CLASS MEETING FACILITIES, ICONIC HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS AND TOP-OF-THE- LINE ACCOMMODATIONS B Y T E N N I L L E S H A N N O N Washington, DC, isn't just the heart- beat of American politics—it's an unparal- leled destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern sophistica- tion. Whether walking the National Mall, indulging in global cuisines, or exploring state-of-the-art meeting spaces, DC is a dynamic city with something for every- one. For event planners, the city offers historic venues, cutting-edge convention centers, and a lively dining scene, making it an exceptional hub for business and leisure. Few cities captivate with the energy and elegance of Washington, DC. Home to the National Mall, where monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument rise in timeless splendor, this city tells a story at every cor- ner. Beyond the landmarks, its versatile meeting spaces set it apart. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center, for instance, offers 703,000 square feet of flexible exhibit space, a stunning grand lobby, and over 150 meeting rooms. Within its two levels and five exhibit halls is a 473,000-square-foot exhibit hall that can be subdivided into three rooms, 198,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, and a 52,000-square-foot ball- room. The Connected Campus initiative shows planners how to use non-tradition- al spaces to expand the footprint of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and create a diversified meeting layout showcasing the authentic DC. Six distinct venues offer 19 bookable meeting and event spaces that can accommodate groups of all sizes in the heart of Washington, DC. Stay at The Wharf Intercontinental or The Conrad Washington, DC, both merging contemporary luxury with impeccable service. At The Wharf, waterfront views elevate every meeting experience, while The Conrad boasts chic rooftop terraces perfect for net- working under the stars. For dining, DC's global influence shines through. Michelin-starred restaurants like The Dabney celebrate mid-Atlantic fla- vors, while Old Ebbitt Grill offers timeless charm with a historic twist. Food halls such as Union Market pro- vide a more casual yet vibrant culinary experience. Don't miss The National Museum of African American History and Culture, a crown jewel of DC's cultural scene and an enriching group activity. Events like the Cherry Blossom Festival and Passport DC attract millions annually, making springtime magical. Meanwhile, winter brings the extravagance of the Downtown Holiday Market and the National Christmas Tree Lighting, making every season in DC fantastic. The connection between African Americans and DC has always existed – from Benjamin Banneker, the son of a freed enslaved man, placing the District's boundary stones to the "Godfather of Go-Go" Chuck Brown inventing a new form of funk music. Recount the days of "Black Broadway" on a U Street walking tour, pay homage to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by visiting his memorial and attending the March on Washington's 60th edition, reflect on the challenges and triumphs of African Americans at the National Mall's newest Smithsonian museum and experience the city's cultural diversity no matter where you are. Destination DC President/CEO Elliott Ferguson and his team stand ready to help you make this your most successful event yet There are three major airports in the Washington, DC region: Ronald R e a g a n W a s h i n g t o n National Airport (airport code: DCA), Wash-ing- ton Dulles Inter- national Airport (airport code: IAD) and Baltimore/-Wash- ington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (airport code: BWI). • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Marriott Marquis Washington D.C 1,175 Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center 245 Capitol Hill Hotel 153 Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill 836 The Warf Intercontinental 278 The Conrad Washington 360 Grand Hyatt Washington 897 Hilton Washington D.C. National Mall The Warf 367 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Walter E, Washington Convention Center Total Meeting Space 703,000 sq.ft. Largest Hall 473,000 sq. ft. Largest Ballroom 52,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 77 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Washington DC – (202) 789-7000 www.washington.org/meetings Naional Musuem of African American History, Washington DC photo credit: Walter E Washington CC Elliott Ferguson