When you think of the perfect meeting place, Waco should be one of the first destinations you consider with small-town sophistication, delightful outdoor activities, and breathtaking views. This hidden gem in Texas is quickly becoming a hotspot for hosting meetings of all sizes and should be added to your shortlist of destinations for your next business meeting.
Located in the heart of Texas, Waco is a vibrant city surrounded by scenic beauty. Waco is the hub of Texas’s four most populated metropolitan areas: Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. Aside from being a convenient drive-to destination for event attendees in every direction, Waco offers convenient nonstop air service to and from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). When landing at Waco Regional Airport, you’ll enjoy the quick 10-minute drive downtown to partake in the local fare and bask in the beauty of the riverfront.
Once you arrive, you’ll notice that this up-and-coming meeting destination is nestled along the Brazos River, which boasts not only easy access from downtown meeting venues but also offers access to a variety of outdoor activities just minutes away. Many meeting planners and attendees spend a few extra days before or after conventions to enjoy the panoramic views from the Cameron Park limestone cliffs, spend some time at the Silos, or visit one of the city’s world-class museums.
When your attendees have a break between sessions or simply need to stretch their legs while enjoying their morning coffee, they will be delighted to find that there are miles of trails easily accessible from downtown lodging and meeting spaces. The Waco Riverwalk includes approximately seven miles of multi-use, lighted trail that loops along both banks of the Brazos River. Meeting attendees can walk or jog down the trail for a quick view of its natural beauty and numerous statues and landmarks along the way.
It’s not all business when planning a meeting here, but the creative and comfortable environment will help provide inspiration for all meeting-goers. Waco amenities are second-to-none with offerings like over 3,000 hotel rooms and more than 200,000 square feet of meeting space that range from modern convention centers and stadiums to relaxing hotels.
In addition to the meeting spaces that planners and attendees are accustomed to experiencing, Waco offers many unique meeting locations. Within minutes of Waco’s downtown hotels, you can rent meeting space at Waco Hippodrome Theatre, Cameron Park Zoo, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Mayborn Museum Complex, Art Center of Waco, or John Knox Center at Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum overlooking the Brazos River.
After a successful day of gatherings, your group can take part in a multitude of activities. The burgeoning dining and cocktail scene throughout Waco provides a variety of options for both large and small spaces to hold private meetings over meals. Waco offers an unparalleled variety of cuisine offerings that are sure to please your whole group.
If you’re looking for more play and less work, be sure to check out local wineries and distilleries such as Valley Mills Vineyard, Country Spring Vineyard & Wine Garden, and Balcones Distilling. If you prefer the hoppier side of beverages, stop by Bare Arms Brewing, Freight Bar, Southern Roots Brewing Co., Waco Ale Company, or Brotherwell Brewing.
Your attendees will enjoy strolling charming downtown shops and boutiques. Here, you’ll find the perfect souvenirs to bring home including home goods from Magnolia, hand-thrown pottery from Gather, a story from Fabled Bookshop, gifts from Spice Village, and more. Or, for the outdoor enthusiasts, climb Jacob’s Ladder in Cameron Park, kayak or SUP the Brazos, catch the big waves at Waco Surf, or horseback the Brazo Bluffs.
With something for truly everyone’s tastes and interests, it’s easy to see why Waco, Texas should be on your shortlist of meeting destinations. Choose Waco for your next event and see for yourself why this Central Texas location will provide a productive and relaxing setting for your meeting objectives.
