Who doesn’t love free stuff? When it comes to planning events, the Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) in Wisconsin offer a wealth of complimentary services that can save you hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars. If you’re working with a tight budget, taking full advantage of the freebies, these organizations provide is a smart move. Here’s how Wisconsin CVBs can help you streamline your event planning and deliver a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
River Falls Chamber & Tourism: A Scenic and Charming Destination
Just a short 30-minute drive east of the Twin Cities, River Falls offers a picturesque setting along the Kinnickinnic River. Known for its historic downtown and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls campus, this charming city is perfect for hosting small to mid-sized gatherings.
Free Services Offered:
• Local activity and dining information
• Custom event planning assistance
• Recommendations for lodging and venues
Visit Eau Claire: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Urban Amenities
Located at the crossroads of major highways, Eau Claire is a vibrant city with plenty to offer for event planners. With scenic views, a variety of lodging options, lively music, outdoor adventures, and a rich arts scene, Eau Claire is an event planner's dream.
Free Services Offered:
• Housing arrangements and site inspections
• Venue coordination and vendor referrals
• Registration assistance, welcome letters, name badges, and VIP welcome bags
Explore La Crosse: A City with Scenic Views and Vibrant Culture
La Crosse, nestled along the Mississippi River, is a cultural hub that offers year-round festivals, shopping, wineries, and outdoor activities. With stunning views from Grandad Bluff and a rich history, La Crosse is perfect for combining business with leisure.
Free Services Offered:
• Visitor information and name badges
• Registration assistance and promotional materials
• Coordination of transportation, tours, and media releases
Wisconsin Dells VCB: The Waterpark Capital of the World®
As one of Wisconsin’s most popular tourist destinations, Wisconsin Dells offers everything from waterparks to scenic views and endless recreational activities. With over 8,000 hotel rooms and 90 restaurants, this area has something for everyone.
Free Services Offered:
• Grant application and bid assistance
• Site visits and venue recommendations
• Lodging and room block coordination
• Pre-event mailings and attraction suggestions
Greater Madison CVB: A Vibrant Capital City with a Thriving Scene
Madison, Wisconsin’s capital city, is known for its lively farmers’ markets, scenic views, and a blend of arts, culture, and sports. With over 9,000 lodging rooms and event spaces for up to 10,000 people, Madison offers something for every kind of event.
Free Services Offered:
• Site visits and group lodging assistance
• Vendor referrals and off-site event planning
• Itinerary suggestions, welcome letters, and promotional materials
Manitowoc Area VCB: A Scenic Lakeside Destination
Located along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Manitowoc is known for its stunning parks, beaches, and historic downtown. With a range of accommodations and dining options, Manitowoc provides the perfect setting for a relaxing and productive event.
Free Services Offered:
• Event facility and vendor recommendations
• Itinerary planning assistance
• Welcome packets, goodie bags, and housing coordination
Fox Cities CVB: A Collection of Charming Communities
The Fox Cities, located along Lake Winnebago and the Fox River, is home to 20 vibrant communities with excellent event venues. With over 2,800 guestrooms and 40,000 square feet of event space, Fox Cities is perfect for mid-sized gatherings.
Free Services Offered:
• Planner guides and site tours
• Pre-convention brochures and vendor referrals
• Customized event microsite, visitor information bags, and companion tour planning
Visit Milwaukee CVB: A City Rich in Culture and History
Milwaukee, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is known for its breweries, vibrant arts scene, and historic attractions like the Harley-Davidson Museum. With over 5,000 hotel rooms and multiple event venues, Milwaukee is ideal for a wide range of events.
Free Services Offered:
• Site inspections and meeting planning assistance
• Promotional materials, electronic signage, and street pole banners
• Evening programs, spouse events, and vendor referrals
Visit Lake Geneva: A Scenic Destination with Endless Activities
Located on the stunning Geneva Lake, Lake Geneva offers breathtaking scenery and a wide range of outdoor activities. From zip lining to water sports and golf, Lake Geneva is the perfect setting for a fun, engaging event.
Free Services Offered:
• Lodging and venue recommendations
• RFP submission and proposal coordination
• Assistance with pre- and post-convention activities
Greater Green Bay & the Lakeshore CVB: A Vibrant City with a Sports Twist
Known for its passionate football fans and the Green Bay Packers, Green Bay offers much more, including vineyards, museums, and outdoor activities. With activities ranging from fishing to hiking and cross-country skiing, this area offers a year-round appeal.
Free Services Offered:
• Transportation, registration, and housing assistance
• Activity planning and off-site event coordination
• Speaker and entertainment referrals
Conclusion: The Advantage of Working with Wisconsin CVBs
Wisconsin's Convention and Visitors Bureaus provide a wealth of free services that can enhance your event and help you stay within budget. From venue recommendations and event coordination to transportation assistance and local activity planning, these resources are a valuable asset for event planners. By taking advantage of these freebies, you can ensure that your event runs smoothly and exceeds expectations. For a complete list of Wisconsin Convention and Visitors Bureaus, check out our FREE meetingpages Wisconsin Convention and Visitors Bureaus Directory now!