Exceeding Expectations – Iowa Event Venues that Add Value

With so many venue options for Iowa meetings and events, how come hotels remain the most popular? Simply stated: they have it all.

Hotels are the package deal that meeting and event planners can’t get enough of. The Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection is a classic example. Davenport’s premier hotel is the pinnacle of luxury, offering modern amenities and a rich décor to discriminating guests since 1915.

Let’s take a look at all of the elements that make hotels ideal venues for meetings and events.

Dedicated Spaces

Ballrooms, meeting rooms and the like – at hotels these spaces are generally dedicated to meetings and events only. The benefit to planners is the spaces are generally available any time and are private.

Further, hotels generally offer multiple meeting and event spaces, or guest suites that can function as meeting space, so there can be many flexible options for various configurations, breakout sessions and staging areas.

With hotels like Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, opening June 2021, the possibilities can be endless. Gather in their restored Grand Ballroom with over 7,000 square feet featuring flexible layouts for up to 500 guests. A favorite among presidents and celebrities including Elvis and Johnny Cash, this Des Moines restored hotel is listing with the National Register of Historic Places.

And if atmosphere is an essential part of your event, choosing a hotel doesn’t mean you have to skimp. For example, the Surety Hotel Des Moines (opening soon) will hold unique events with classic conviviality, in the Mulbery Street Tavern that will bring guests an elevated dining experience based on traditional fare in a rich and vibrant setting.

Essential Amenities

Food is an important part of every event and the convenience of onsite catering is a definite perk to working with a full-service hotel. Having the kitchen and all essentials at hand definitely allows for some peace of mind for the event planner.

At luxury hotels like Hotel Julien and the Merrill Hotel & Conference Center, a Tribute Portfolio in Muscatine, the catering can be a highlight of your event with unique cuisine that is as much a feast for the eyes as the taste buds. With meals perfectly prepared on location guests are never disappointed.

Technology in many cases is as important as food, and the majority of hotels now offer AV systems and the staff to support them, as well as wired and wireless Internet for your guests. Again, not having to worry about coordinating these services separately can be a wonderful benefit to the planner and help the event flow more seamlessly.

The Rhythm City Casino Resort & Event Center, Riverside Casino & Golf Resort and Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resort are perfect examples. The casino resorts pride themselves on state-of-the art meeting facilities with a full-range of AV equipment that is customizable to any number of configurations and needs, large and small. with the extra bonus of natural light in most meeting rooms. With built in casino gaming, sports betting, multiple on-site dining options and an event centers offering endless entertainment.

Also, typically hotels staff an event coordinator to make sure all aspects of the meeting or event flow well. When planning an event, it never hurts to have an experienced partner to manage the details.

No Shuttle Required

Of course, the most obvious – and arguably the most important – benefit of hotels is the option for onsite lodging. How else can you meet, eat and sleep without requiring a shuttle service? The one-stop shop aspect of hotels can save money and help keep your event flowing smoothly.  Not to mention the safety aspect of staying off the road after an evening of merriment.

Many hotels offer a full range of entertainment and dining options onsite, so the hotel and destination become one. Case in point: Bridges Bay Resort sits right on the shores of Lake Okoboji, so the lake becomes part of the experience for your guests. Lake cruises provide an excellent entertainment option without ever having to leave the hotel.

But if your particular event can’t be held within a hotel property, many popular attractions are now connected to hotels so you get the best of both worlds. For example, CR Events Live! is adjoined to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex hotel, providing endless options for both the planner and guest.

When planning an Iowa meeting or event, site selection clearly tops the list of critical decisions. The theme, the entertainment – and almost everything else – often stem from the chosen venue. So, what are Iowa facilities doing to stand apart and earn your business? They are offering a host of extras that will make your guests’ experience more pleasurable and your job easier.