As the world continues to open up, some good old Southern hospitality is going to prove the cure for what ailed all of us. No destination has more charm, grace, and versatility than Columbia, South Carolina. The attention to detail that Columbia offers will match what planners are looking for in reuniting attendees under one roof (or a beautiful night sky) after far too long a break. Read on for more about why Columbia is calling your group when it’s ready to reconvene.
Outdoor Meeting Spaces
Filled with parks, trails, and a myriad of outdoor venues, it would be a shame to keep your group cooped up in any circumstance. Now, though, alfresco adds a sense of relief and some needed space that makes it easier for groups to come together.
Retreat to Congaree National Park, Dreher Island State Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, or Harbison State Forest, for a peaceful and relaxing exchange of ideas and rejuvenating activities.
Grand Attractions
Because the Columbia community has worked so diligently to maintain safety, the region’s top venues have remained open. Even better, planners are able to rent them out for a memorable off-site activity allowing attendees to maintain plenty of space while enjoying themselves.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden spreads across 140 acres and is home to 2,000 animals and a truly picturesque botanical garden. Attendees can sip wine with the tigers or have a beer near the bears. The site holds 800 for a reception and includes a theater for 700 attendees and six classrooms should you want to take a group there for the day.
Segra Park is a versatile facility that was built for minor league baseball, but has the capabilities for plenty of other events, including concerts and festivals. Open all year, it is available for business meetings with 300-400 attendees—a bonus if the team likes hot dogs!
Paint a portrait for what’s ahead for your organization with a reception or gala at Columbia Museum of Art. The outdoor plaza at the center of Main Street makes for a terrific backdrop to network, strike deals, and make up for lost face-to-face time. The museum hosts up to 1,400 attendees.
The Classics
Of course, many meetings and events are naturally going to gravitate toward Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, which plays well above its playing weight.
The 23,700 sq. ft. column-free Exhibit Hall is just right for general sessions, tradeshows, large-scale galas, and sporting events. Combine it with the breakout rooms and the ballroom and you’ve got up to 18 breakout spaces. The center also features beautifully open pre function spaces for receptions, registration or vendors, and the landscaped terrace is an ideal backdrop for cocktails, luncheons, or conference breaks.
All the better, the GBAC Star- Star-accredited Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center is within walking distance of 1,700 hotel rooms and 60 restaurant/nightlife options.
With the country still emerging from unusual times, it’s nice to know some things don’t change. Columbia’s warmth shines through as a constant reminder good times are ahead and that the comforts of a welcoming destination are something attendees will never forget. Get back to business, and treat yourself to some old-fashioned charm and hospitality.
