Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1545782
tions, and cultural experiences. Chabot Space & Science Center provides opportunities for private planetarium events and STEM-focused program- ming, while Jack London Square combines water- front venues, restaurants, and gathering spaces ideal for attendee events. Groups can also charter the his- toric USS Potomac or host creative functions at Children's Fairyland overlooking Lake Merritt. The African American Museum and Library at Oakland preserves the history, arts, and achieve- ments of African Americans throughout Northern California and offers educational programming. Attendees can also explore the Black Panther Party Museum and neighborhoods connected to the city's long tradition of Black activism, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. Additional attractions include Lake Merritt, the Oakland Museum of California, and the vibrant waterfront district. Oakland's food scene reflects the same diversity and creativity found throughout the city. Everett & Jones Barbeque and Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen are longtime favorites, while Burdell, Sobre Mesa, alaMar Dominican Kitchen, Home of Chicken & Waffles, and Mela Bistro showcase Oakland's rich Black and multicultural culinary influences. After hours, attendees can enjoy live music at Yoshi's in Jack London Square, cocktails and dancing at Hello Stranger, events at STARLINE, or perform- ances at the Fox Theater and Paramount Theatre. In Oakland, meetings unfold against a backdrop of cul- ture, creativity, and community—a combination that leaves a lasting impression. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Visit Oakland – 228-896-6699 www.visitoakland.com WICHITA, KS Known as the "Air Capital of the World," Wichita has played a piv- otal role in American aviation for more than a century. Today, that same spirit of innovation helps define a meetings destination that combines affordability, accessibili- ty, and cultural depth in the heart of the country. For planners seek- ing an alternative to higher-cost convention cities, Wichita offers substantial meeting infrastructure, a walkable downtown, and a col- lection of experiences that often surprise first-time visitors. The city's meetings market is anchored by the Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center, located along the Arkansas River in downtown Wichita. The facility offers approximately 205,000 sq. ft. of convention, meeting, and perform- ing arts space, including exhibit halls, ballrooms, the- aters, and breakout rooms capable of accommodat- ing conventions, trade shows, and large-scale gather- ings. A key asset is the 93,000 sq. ft. Bob Brown Expo Hall, complemented by numerous meeting rooms and performance venues that provide flexibility for a wide range of events. Directly connected to Century II, the Hyatt Regency Wichita is the city's primary headquarters hotel. The property offers approximately 303 guest rooms and more than 40,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, creating a seamless experience for conference attendees. Additional lodging options include the Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview Wichita, Hilton Garden Inn Wichita Downtown, Ambassador Hotel Wichita, and AC Hotel Wichita Downtown, all within easy reach of down- town attractions and entertainment districts. Beyond the convention center, Wichita presents planners a strong collection of offsite venues. Exploration Place combines interactive exhibits with riverfront event space and skyline views, an appeal- ing choice for receptions and networking functions. Botanica Wichita provides beautifully landscaped gar- dens ideal for outdoor gatherings, while at Old Cowtown Museum groups immerse themselves in the history of the American West through themed events and private experiences. Groups can also incorporate aviation-focused programming at the Kansas Aviation Museum or the B-29 Doc Hangar, Education & Visitors Center, reinforcing Wichita's unique identity. The Kansas African American Museum preserves and interprets the history and contributions of Wichita Century II Convention Hall & Skyline B M & T ••• July/August 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 39