Dallas has a hugely attractive meeting offer, from its connectivity and accommodation, through to exciting activities for delegates Perhaps the first important consideration for overseas travellers when making a destination choice for meetings and events is the connectivity. Dallas can claim to be America’s most connected city, with 900+ daily, direct flights from two international airports. Second on the planner’s list is usually accommodation, and here the Dallas area has more than 15,000 hotel rooms within the walkable downtown city core, representing all the nation’s top brands. Additionally, the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex leads the nation in terms of hotels in the construction pipeline, with a record high of 184 projects and more than 21,500 rooms at the close of the second quarter in 2023. Everything may be bigger in Texas, but the CVB, Visit Dallas, says companies can expect their bill not to be, with the cost of doing business in Dallas 7% lower than the national average. Additionally, because Texas is a ‘right to work’ state, event production costs are lower, allowing companies to focus their budget on attendee engagement and experience. With more than 20 entertainment districts offering walkable access to music, shopping, arts, and global cuisine, event attendees are usually keen to spend an extra day or two exploring the city. During the first seven months of 2023, the CVB reports its meeting sales leads generated were 6% above 2019 levels for the same period. New hotels opening recently that have great event spaces include the JW Marriott Dallas Arts District. The 267-room hotel has over 20,000sq.ft. of flexible meeting space and its Harwood Ballroom, at 7,870sq.ft, features a contemporary ‘knife’s edge’ ceiling detail for lighting, while the Hotel Swexan fuses its Swiss heritage with Texan hospitality (as denoted by its moniker). After hours, be sure to check out Dallas’ most iconic attractions. Reunion Tower is an observation tower that provides a bird’s eye view of the city. History buffs won’t want to miss a trip to Dealey Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum to learn about the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. And, did you know Dallas is the Official Home of the Frozen Margarita? The Margarita Mile is a free, self-guided tour of the best margaritas. Delegates can sign up for a mobile-exclusive digital pass, check in at participating restaurants, enjoy craft margaritas, and earn cool prizes along the way. Head over to Deep Ellum, Dallas’ live music hub, one of the most historically significant neighbourhoods. Enjoy Texas barbecue at Terry Black’s or Pecan Lodge and then take a stroll through Blues Alley, a street lined with murals paying tribute to the neighbourhood’s long history with blues musicians, all painted by local artists. Cate Banfield, chief operating officer at Toronto-based corporate event production and management company Wynford, says the city’s sprawling layout necessitates organising efficient transportation for attendees, “but its flourishing business culture, predictable seasonal weather, amazing music scene and Texan charm can yield substantial rewards for well-designed incentive programmes”. She picks out these highlights of activity options:
- Ranch Retreat: A luxury ranch experience just outside the city, with horseback riding, outdoor activities, and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
- Cowboy Experience: Immerse participants in Texan culture with line dancing lessons, rodeo events, and a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards.
- Private Golf Getaway: Organise a golf retreat at a world-class golf resort, featuring championship courses and personalised coaching.
- Western Art and Culture Tour: Explore Dallas’ arts and cultural scene, including visits to the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, and local galleries.
- VIP Dallas Cowboys Game Day: Treat your team to a VIP game day experience at AT&T Stadium, complete with premium seats and exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities.
More information can be found at: www.visitdallas.com/meetings-events
