Missoula, Montana
Nestled at the confluence of three rivers and seven wilderness areas, Missoula, Montana, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Though visitors can explore an eclectic culinary and shopping scene in downtown, they can also take advantage of kayaking, paddleboarding and tubing right in the heart of town. The city also boasts of 400 acres of urban parkland, 22 miles of trails and more than 20,000 planted trees.
“We like to say that Missoula has an unexpected sophistication that blends town and country,” said Kara Bartlett, group sales manager at Destination Missoula. “We have the space capacity, recreation and entertainment, but within minutes you can be hiking a mountain.”
For those who love a sunset view, it is worth taking the time to “Hike the M,” an undemanding, 30-minute trail from the University of Montana campus up to the summit of Mount Sentinel, which offers a spectacular overlook of the entire valley.
Three full-service properties offer conference space in the city. The Hilton Garden Inn Missoula in downtown provides the most extensive meeting amenities, with 22,000 square feet of function space, an on-site events team and video-conferencing capabilities. Nearby, the Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown comprises 20,000 square feet of meeting space that includes 10 meeting rooms and a spacious outdoor area. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Missoula is on the banks of the Clark River just eight miles from the Missoula International Airport; the hotel offers a scenic backdrop for private banquets and events in a 6,345-square-foot divisible ballroom.
Wilmington, Delaware
A 30-minute drive south of Philadelphia, Wilmington, Delaware, is a choice midway point between New York City and Washington, D.C., and provides easy access for travelers from East Coast cities.
The largest and oldest city in the state, Wilmington presents a broad range of historical and cultural attractions. Visitors can take a ride on the Riverboat Queen, a classic paddle-wheel vessel, or catch a Broadway show at the Delaware Theater Company. At Banks Seafood Kitchen, groups can sample steaming-fresh seafood while enjoying a sweeping view of the Christina River.
“The riverfront is a very inviting place, and the view of the cityscape is exceptional. It really makes you feel like you can relax and enjoy life,” said Lyn Lewis director of communications and public relations at the Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The Chase Center on the Waterfront is the largest meeting facility in Wilmington and offers a beautiful overlook of the river, along with 90,000 square feet of meeting space, a 252-seat auditorium and a connecting passage to the Westin Wilmington Hotel. In 2019, the city plans to open an additional hotel property next to the center.
“It makes it really convenient for people who are staging meetings because it eliminates transportation,” said Lewis.
For those searching for a more luxurious setting, the historic Hotel Du Pont has been a staple of Wilmington since 1913 and serves as a popular venue for exclusive corporate retreats and events. Groups can organize receptions, seminars and other events in a variety of elegant spaces, including the Executive Conference Center, 11 private dining rooms and the Neoclassical Gold Ballroom.
