It’s no secret that events held in iconic or unconventional venues have the power to inspire attendees. Stepping away from traditional meeting spaces helps boost creativity and spark innovation. And many such venues have storied histories and engage the senses, transforming gatherings into unforgettable experiences. Such novelty also breaks barriers, encouraging attendees to network, share ideas, and make meaningful connections.
Companies that choose an unconventional venue not only demonstrate a commitment to ingenuity but also to spreading their message and prioritizing attendee happiness. Plus, the optics from social media coverage at such gatherings can magnify impact far beyond the event’s duration. As a bonus, some spaces also allow attendees “behind the curtains” during private events, offering a glimpse of another world or culture they might never have access to if they walked in the facility’s door during public hours.
Excellent examples might be found at venues typically used for sporting events, such as Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, with its iconic Twin Spires and lush grounds that create an unforgettable experience for private-event attendees. Home of the famous Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs provides exceptional event-day options meeting planners will cheer about. “As a historic venue, we take pride in blending timeless charm with modern innovation,” says Sarah Contardo, Churchill Downs vice president of sales and strategy. “While our architecture and atmosphere reflect Louisville’s rich heritage, we’re equally committed to providing state-of-the-art technology and sustainable practices.”
Venues at the racetrack make ideal settings for gatherings of all sizes. The sheer scope of Churchill Downs means events might be hosted on both race days and non-race days. Not to be missed are private-event perks, such as dedicated buglers to mark important announcements or entrances; group bourbon tastings; mock wagering activities; and workshops during which attendees make their own derby hat, fedora, or fascinator.
At Fluor Field in Greenville, South Carolina—home of the Greenville Drive, a High-A affiliate of the MLB’s Boston Red Sox—planners might rent one of its five flexible event spaces or buy out the entire ballpark. Built in 2006, Fluor Field is a scaled-down model of the Red Sox’s stadium, Boston’s historic Fenway Park. Planners can take advantage of Fluor Field’s dedicated event manager, along with two full-service catering kitchens, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, and on-staff tech teams, among other perks.
“Unlike traditional ballrooms or conference spaces that can feel tedious or repetitive, Fluor Field offers a unique and engaging setting,” says Sara Carlton, director of events for West End Events, the event-management branch of the stadium. “Indoor venues overlook the ballpark, allowing us to display your company’s logo on the center-field jumbotron and create a memorable, interactive experience for your team. We can incorporate activities like kickball, batting practice, cornhole tournaments, or Wiffle ball to make the day more dynamic. At the same time, we can completely transform our concourse into an elegant space for black-tie events, galas, or dinners.”
In Florida, the Daytona International Speedway, home of the Daytona 500 NASCAR Cup Series race, turns events into high-octane experiences. The renovated facility features over 120,000 square feet of meeting space and 75 luxury trackside suites that can be tailored to each event’s style and scale. Imagine the thrills your attendees will have with a hands-on-the-wheel, feet-on-the-pedals experience driving an actual NASCAR race car on the famous track, a bookable option at the speedway. Planners also can design cocktail receptions overlooking the 2 1/2-mile racetrack or organize break-out sessions in exclusive hospitality suites. Banquets and other dining events can be accommodated at one of the Daytona International Speedway’s six lounges and suites, including the exclusive Daytona 500 Club, while most types of large gatherings can be staged on the expansive infield.
Events Pop at Museums
Art, architecture, and imagination converge for expressive private events at The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida, which celebrates Spanish artist Salvador Dalí. The museum’s facade, known as the “Enigma,” is an impressive geodesic dome wrapped around a concrete-block building, setting the stage for the experiences that await inside. “What makes [the museum] unique is it’s inspired by Salvador Dalí himself—a world-renowned Spanish surrealist whose work and vision shaped the design of the building,” says Cristina Martin, CEO of Florida-based Udream Events, the company that manages the museum venues. “Elements like the glass Enigma structure aren’t just beautiful, they’re a nod to Dalí’s creativity and sense of wonder. Hosting an intimate dinner in The Avant-garden overlooking Tampa Bay or planning a gala with the Enigma as a backdrop feels surreal and unforgettable. Attendees here are surrounded by world-class art and striking architecture, which sets a tone that is inspiring, creative, and truly unlike anything else.”
The Dalí Museum offers many distinctive event spaces, including private access to its galleries, where attendees can view the most comprehensive collection of Dalí’s art outside of Spain. Its Innovation Labs are programs that blend Dalí’s art and philosophy with cutting-edge research on creativity, problem solving, and organizational management, and can be tailored for training and team building.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina, immerses groups in the history of stock-car racing in the South and how competition fuels progress, innovation, and motivation. With 76,781 square feet of event space, it hosts groups of all sizes, from as few as 10 to as many as 2,400 people. “For planners looking to dial up the energy, the [hall of fame] is equipped to support live bands and DJs, making it perfect for high-impact events,” says Ned Blair, director of sales for Visit Charlotte, the city’s convention and tourism bureau. “Attendees also might enjoy the outdoor plaza for pre- or postevent parties set against the backdrop of Charlotte’s skyline. And with 90% of NASCAR race teams based in the Charlotte region, our industry relations team can even help coordinate special guest appearances to add unforgettable star power to your event.” In addition, attendees can browse among iconic race cars, take private exhibit tours, face off with several racing simulators, or change tires and fill up gas tanks during a “Pit Crew Challenge” at the “Inside NASCAR” exhibit located across the third and fourth floors.
Floats, Goats & Boats
Infuse events with carnival magic at Mardi Gras World in New Orleans. The place where Mardi Gras floats are created, Mardi Gras World also is a year-round venue that celebrates the artistry, color, and spectacle that makes New Orleans famous. “At Mardi Gras World, imagination and celebration come together in perfect harmony,” says Meg Baird, owner of NOLA DMC, a New Orleans destination management company. “From the moment attendees arrive, they are enveloped in the essence of New Orleans. The stunning views of the Mississippi River, towering parade floats, and dreamlike ambience create a unique and unforgettable experience.” Mardi Gras World includes a number of separate spaces that comprise the River City Venues complex and accommodate various event types, from large-scale festivals to intimate gatherings.
The wonders of wildlife inspire exceptional meeting venues at Zoo Atlanta. The zoo provides a wide array of venues perfect for corporate gatherings, association meetings, receptions, or business galas, and it also is available for complete buyouts. From
its lush outdoor settings surrounded by natural habitats to elegant indoor event spaces, Zoo Atlanta allows planners to craft memorable experiences. Groups can mingle among exotic animals, enjoy guided tours, or take part in behind-the-scenes encounters the general public cannot access.
“All our events are special,” says Krystine Bullington, senior sales and marketing manager at Zoo Atlanta. “From proms, graduations, weddings, showers, and mitzvahs to conferences, fundraisers, holi-day parties, and picnics, we strive to deliver the most memorable event experiences for clients.” Among the many event spaces scattered throughout the zoo, Savanna Hall is a historic neoclassical building revitalized to feature more than 25,000 square feet of event space, including the Michael and Thalia Carlos Ballroom, which boasts a capacity of 550 attendees seated or 620 standing, as well as sweeping views of Zoo Atlanta’s African Savanna habitat.
For groups looking to set sail, SunQuest Cruises in Destin, Florida, offers views of the Florida Panhandle’s beautiful white-sand beaches. “There is nothing better than getting your guests out on the water,” says Kristi Oliver, director of sales for SunQuest Cruises. “If you’re in town for an industry conference, getting attendees out of the conference room and onto the yacht makes the perfect finale for their business trip.” The company has two yachts for private-event charters, and its 125-foot flagship, Solaris, is best equipped for meetings, dinners, and cocktail cruises. Solaris can host as many as 149 people across three decks with indoor and outdoor spaces, and the indoor dining rooms offer panoramic views of Choctawhatchee Bay. Meeting planners work with SunQuest’s event coordinators, who assist with menus and catering, event production, and customizing every detail. Solaris is docked at the Baytowne Marina, part of Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, making it extra convenient for attendees of events held at the resort.
churchilldowns.com
thedali.org
daytonainternationalspeedway.com
mardigrasworld.com
milb.com/greenville
nascarhall.com/rent-the-hall
sunquestcruises.com
zooatlanta.org/plan-an-event
