Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/799467
TENNESSEE HAS ALL THE SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY DEEPLY ROOTED IN IT'S HISTORY TO PROVIDE PLANNERS WITH A MEMORABLE AND HOSPITABLE EXPERIENCE ATTENDEES WON'T FORGET BY CYNTHIA MOLUSK With so many historical landmarks and unique meeting venues spread through- out the state, meeting planners won't have trouble finding the right location for just about any event of any size in Tennessee. ••MEMPHIS•• Perched high on a bluff overlooking the mighty and powerful Mississippi River, Memphis marches to the beat of the Blues, of Stax-era Soul, of the count- less neighborhood barbeque shacks and the King's own Graceland. There's no bet- ter place to host your convention or meeting than Memphis. From musical landmarks to upscale restaurants run by some of the country's hottest chefs, from the elegant hotels to the mystical night- clubs on legendary Beale Street, there's just something authentic about Memphis, the "Home of the Blues, and Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll." Located in Downtown Memphis, the Memphis Cook Convention Center boasts a column free Main Exhibit Hall with more than 125,000 sq. ft., 31 meet- ing rooms and an impressive 2,100-seat Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. In a city so influenced by African- Americans, it's no wonder that heritage is strongly embraced and celebrated here. To get started exploring this very histori- cal city, consider booking with A Tour of Possibilities or Heritage Tours, which spe- cializes in exploring the historical and cul- tural places heavily influenced by African- Americans. Memphis International Airport services the area with more than 30 exciting desti- nations to travel to and from. ••CHATTANOGA•• Tucked between the mountains of Southeast Tennessee, along the beautiful Tennessee River, Chattanooga is one of America's most breathtaking destina- tions. But that's just the begin- ning of what the Scenic City has to offer. There's a world of out- door adventure, amazing restau- rants, live events, art and w o r l d - c l a s s attractions wait- ing for you here. The Chattanooga Convention Center, located in the heart of downtown, offers 185,000 sq. ft. There are 21 meeting rooms ranging in size from 812 to 1,800 sq. ft. This city's rich cultures are diverse and multi-generational. Not only will multicul- tural groups find plenty to do at the tradi- tional attractions like Ruby Falls, Rock City and the Tennessee Aquarium, they can explore Chattanooga's African- American Museum and hold functions at Bessie Smith Hall, which is connected to the Museum. Chattanooga's Airport, CHA, is just 10 miles from Downtown and offers direct or 1-stop flights to over 1000 destinations. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Chattanooga CVB (800) 322-3344 www.chattanoogafun.com Chattanooga African American Chamber of Commerce – (423) 265-0021 ••KNOXVILLE•• For the meeting planner seeking a des- tination that will deliver "wow, I had no idea" experiences, Knoxville offers a sur- prisingly real, truly accessible and unex- pectedly sophisticated mix of culture, adventure and cuisine rooted in history and genuine Southern hospitality. First time visitors are typically amazed by all that this city has to offer and meeting planners are consistently impressed with the town's ability to host conventions and events. Knoxville provides the accessibil- ity you need, the venues you want and the overall experience you've been hop- ing to find. The Knoxville Convention Center is the cornerstone of Knoxville's meeting facilities. This beautiful, 500,000-sq. ft. space is located just minutes from Market Square, the heart of Knoxville's vibrant and walkable downtown. This pop- ular area is home to eclectic shopping, fine dining, outdoor concerts and more. A number of Knoxville's finest hotels are also within walking distance. Located just 12 miles from downtown Knoxville, McGhee Tyson Airport is one of the most convenient and accessible regional airports in the nation. WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Visit Knoxville (800) 727-8045 www.visitknoxville.com B M & T ••• November/December 2016 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 56 AREA GUIDES T E N N E S S E E • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Marriott Memphis East 232 Four Points by Sheraton Memphis East 123 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Memphis Cook Convention Center Total Exhibit Space 320,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 31 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Memphis Travel (901_ 543-5300 http://www.memphistravel.com Stax Record's Museum Photo Credit: Memphis CVB