Know Your Place — 10 Best Trade Show Spaces in Iowa

As any planner knows, there are a million things to consider when choosing a venue for a trade show. Location, size, accessibility, floor plans, traffic flow, and much, much more. If you’re in the midst of the madness of planning a trade show, stop stressing. We’ve found 10 of the best trade show spaces in Iowa just for you.

1. Iowa State Center, Ames

Located just southeast of Iowa State University’s central campus, the Center consists of multiple venues including Stephens Auditorium, Scheman Building, and Fisher Theater. The Scheman Building includes a 450-seat auditorium, spacious exhibit space, ample, free parking, and full-service catering. Professional coordination services and technology support and service help you plan the perfect event.

2. University of Iowa—Iowa Hawkeye Event Space, Iowa City

The Carver Hawkeye Arena is one of the 25 largest University-owned facilities in the country. Within the Arena, the Feller Club Room holds up to 300 while the Hadley Club Room holds up to 100. The Kinnick Stadium Press Box holds multiple spaces, including the McCord Indoor Club, Mediacom Outdoor Club, the University of Iowa President’s Suite, and the University of Iowa Athletic Director’s Suite. University Catering is the exclusive caterer for the Event Space.

3. Mid-America Center, Council Bluffs

Just five minutes from downtown Omaha, Nebraska, the Mid-America Center is an iconic landmark along the upper Mississippi River valley. It has a maximum capacity of 9000 and features nearly 64,000 square feet of exhibit space. Local shopping, dining, casino gaming, and over 4000 hotel rooms are located within three miles of the Center.

4. Grand River Center, Dubuque

Perched on the shores of the Mississippi River, the Grand River Center’s River Room accommodates 160 and has floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the river. The River View North Concourse and patio connects to the Grand Ballroom which accommodates 550, while the Exhibit Hall comfortably fits 500. In-house catering, AV rental, and superior service are the hallmarks of the Grand River Center.

5. Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf & Waterfront Convention Center

Pair a great space with the excitement of a casino and you’ve got a winning combination. The Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf & Waterfront Convention Center offer 40,000 square feet of event space, multiple dining options, comfortable rooms and suites, and of course, exciting gaming and entertainment.  

6. Iowa Events Center, Des Moines

The Iowa Events Center offers some of the most memorable event spaces, including Hy-Vee Hall and Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center. The Center has 150,000 square feet of continuous exhibit space and connects with the 330-room Hilton Hotel. Spectra Food Services and Hospitality provides catering and Markey’s Rental & Staging is the in-house preferred vendor for AV equipment and services.

7. US Cellular Center, Cedar Rapids

One of Iowa’s premiere venues, the US Cellular Center is located in downtown Cedar Rapids.  With capacity for up to 10,000, advanced AV capabilities, internet access, onsite catering, and free parking the center is the ideal spot for a memorable event.

8. Sioux City Convention Center, Sioux City

The Sioux City Convention Center welcomes guests to its 54,000 square foot event venue with three spacious exhibit halls, a spectacular greenhouse-like atrium, and 2000 square feet of registration/reception space. All spaces are equipped for high quality AV presentations and high-speed WiFi is available throughout the facility.

9. HyVee Conference Center, Des Moines

Part of the HyVee Conference Center, The Ron Pearson Center can host up to 2000 attendees in an architecturally stunning facility. On-site executive chef and culinary team offer amazing cuisine. State-of-the-art AV specialists handle all your technical needs.

10. RiverCenter, Davenport

Located downtown Davenport along the stunning Mississippi River, the River Center is adjacent to the historic Adler Theater, Hotel Blackhawk, and Radisson Quad City Plaza. Personalized event coordination services help you with every detail. The two column-free exhibit halls offer premium exhibit space in one of the largest markets west of Chicago.