view of the santa barbara city, ocean, and mountains

Madison ShepherdJun 21, 2024 12:17:42 PM21 min read

The 15 Best Cities for Small Conferences and events

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Looking for the best city to host your smaller conference?

Consider hosting your smaller conference in a city that provides unique and high-end experiences that large cities can't match.

In a smaller city, you can navigate a smaller venue more easily, creating a more personal and connected atmosphere without overwhelming your attendees.

Explore our list of Tier 2 cities for your next conference for cost-effective options that don't compromise on quality.

These cities have excellent event venues, activities, and dining options, all at a lower cost than a Tier 1 city.

Short Summary

Here is our list of the top 15 cities to consider hosting your next small conference at:

San Antonio, TX
Nashville, TN
Scottsdale, AZ
Santa Barbara, CA
Fort Worth, TX
Portland, OR
Indianapolis, IN
Kansas City, KS
Milwaukee, WI
Pittsburg, PA
Boulder, CO
Santa Fe, NM
Louisville, KY
Tampa, FL
Bend, OR

aerial view of san Antonio, texas

1. San Antonio, Texas

One of the friendliest cities in the nation, San Antonio combines southern hospitality with Texas charm, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all your attendees.

This unique destination offers outstanding accommodation options, with over 45,000 guest rooms in the city, with nearly 14,000 located downtown and 6,500 within walking distance of the convention center.

Situated in south-central Texas, San Antonio is easily accessible for groups traveling from both coasts.

The San Antonio International Airport, located only eight miles from downtown, has recently expanded its non-stop service by 50%, making travel even more convenient.

With 300 days of sunshine a year, San Antonio offers a fun and social atmosphere for attendees to enjoy outdoor activities outside the conference.

What convention centers are in San Antonio, TX?

Located along the world-famous River Walk, the Henry B. González Convention Center (HBGCC) has the capacity, technology, and adaptability to accommodate any event.

It features 514,000 square feet of continuous exhibit space, 86,500 square feet of column-free multipurpose space, over 70 meeting rooms, and two ballrooms, including the largest in Texas.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in San Antonio, TX?

San Antonio offers a wide range of accommodations, from upscale downtown hotels and charming boutique inns to expansive Hill Country resorts. This variety in style, location, and affordability makes the city an ideal meeting destination for groups of all sizes.

Some of our favorite hotels include:

What's the main airport for flying into San Antonio, TX?

The main airport for flying into San Antonio, TX is the San Antonio International Airport (SAT), located about 8 miles north of downtown.

downtown view of Nashville, Tennessee

2. Nashville, Tennessee

Beyond its musical roots, Nashville serves as an exceptional city to host your upcoming small conference.

With its upscale venues, trendy hotels, and diverse entertainment options, Nashville provides a variety of experiences that attendees will enjoy throughout your conference. Some event planners see Nashville as a similar pick to Las Vegas, with its fun attractions and activities for attendees to partake in.

Nashville's event industry is well-established and experienced in handling a wide range of events and conferences. The city has a robust network of professionals, including experienced caterers, audiovisual technicians, and decorators, all known for their extensive event expertise.

What convention centers are in Nashville, TN?

Nashville, Tennessee has several convention centers, catering to different event needs and capacities:

Music City Center: This is Nashville's primary convention center, located in the heart of downtown, offering over 2.1 million square feet of exhibit and meeting space.
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center: While technically not in downtown Nashville (it's in the nearby suburb of Opryland), this massive resort complex includes a convention center with over 700,000 square feet of event space.
Nashville Convention Center: Though it's not as popular as the Music City Center, this convention center offers around 118,000 square feet of exhibit space.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Nashville, TN?

Nashville, TN, has tons of hotels and venues for hosting conferences of all sizes. Some of our favorites include:

What's the main airport for flying into Nashville, TN?

The main airport for flying into Nashville, TN is the Nashville International Airport (BNA).

3. Scottsdale, Arizona

Located just outside of Phoenix, Scottsdale is known for being one of the nation's safest, cleanest, and most vibrant cities, making it an excellent choice for hosting your next small conference.

Scottsdale is only a short 15-minute drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which offers nonstop flights to over 135 cities worldwide on 18 major carriers.

With its lush Sonoran Desert backdrop and more than 330 days of sunshine each year, Scottsdale provides an ideal setting for planning outdoor events and activities.

Post-conference, your group can enjoy a variety of recreational options, including horseback riding, off-road tours, golf, water sports, and hot-air ballooning. Additionally, there are over 225 miles of scenic trails for hiking and mountain biking at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

What convention centers are in Scottsdale, AZ?

Scottsdale does not have a large convention center like some other cities, but it does offer several hotels and resorts with conference and event facilities.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Scottsdale, AZ?

There are more than 13,500 guest rooms across 70+ hotels and resorts for event planners to choose from in Scottdale, AZ.

Here are some of our favorites:

What's the main airport for flying into Scottsdale, AZ?

The closest major airport to Scottsdale is the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The airport is located only 7 miles west of downtown Scottsdale.

corporate event venue in Santa Barbara, California

4. Santa Barbara, California

With its mild Mediterranean climate, averaging 60-80 degrees Farenheit year-round, Santa Barbara is a destination your attendees will love. Similar to San Diego, the city's beautiful landscapes, pleasant weather, and lively atmosphere make it a great location for events throughout the year.

The downtown area is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, allowing attendees to enjoy the charm of a small town while benefiting from the services and conveniences of a big city. Visitors can bike, walk, or take a water taxi to their next destination.

The downtown is filled with exciting restaurants, shopping, theaters, and nightlife. Meanwhile, the surrounding parks and beaches provide many outdoor adventure opportunities.

While Santa Barbara offers a small town with big-city amenities, it's important to note that the city is on the pricier side.

What convention centers are in Santa Barbara, CA?

Santa Barbara, CA, does not have a large, standalone convention center like some major cities. However, several hotels and venues in the area offer conference and event facilities that can accommodate large gatherings.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Santa Barbara, CA?

There are tons of hotels in Santa Barbara that can host smaller conferences and corporate meetings. Here are some of our favorite options:

What's the main airport for flying into Santa Barbara, CA?

The main airport for flying into Santa Barbara, CA, is the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA). It is located approximately 7 miles west of downtown Santa Barbara and offers a range of domestic flights with several major airlines.

You also have the option of flying in and out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) which is about 100 miles southeast of Santa Barbara.

aerial view of fort worth, texas

5. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth, located in the heart of Texas, is a bustling city that offers a range of opportunities for businesses to host meetings, conferences, and corporate events.

With a rich history and a thriving economy, Fort Worth has become a popular destination for businesses of all sizes and industries.

Businesses in Fort Worth can easily find conference rooms, meeting spaces, and event venues with fun Western charm. The city's proximity to DFW Airport ensures convenient access for attendees from across the country.

Fort Worth's downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, offering activities such as exploring the historic Stockyards, enjoying golf outings, or strolling through Sundance Square.

Additionally, the city features a convenient trolley service, providing easy transportation across the city.

What convention centers are in Fort Worth, TX?

The Fort Worth Convention Center is located 30 minutes from the DFW International Airport and has over 250,000 sq. ft. of total exhibit space and 38 breakout rooms.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Fort Worth, TX?

Fort Worth, TX, offers a range of hotels that are well-suited for event planners managing conferences and corporate events:

What's the main airport for flying into Fort Worth, TX?

The main airport for flying into Fort Worth, TX, is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Located approximately 25 miles northeast of downtown Fort Worth, DFW.

aerial view of portland, oregon

6. Portland, Oregon

Located in the Pacific Northwest, Portland offers the convenience of a walkable city with great food and beautiful natural surroundings.

Your attendees will enjoy exploring Portland's unique atmosphere, made better by its friendly locals and thriving craft beer culture. Post-conference, outdoorsy attendees can enjoy nearby attractions like Multnomah Falls and Hood River.

Portland isn't just known for its scenic beauty and great food; it's also home to big players like Nike, Intel, and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). These brands create an environment that sparks new ideas and collaborations during your conference.

What convention centers are in Portland, OR?

There are two main convention centers in Portland, OR.

Oregon Convention Center: The largest convention center in Portland, the OCC offers over 255,000 square feet of exhibit space, multiple meeting rooms, and a 25,000-square-foot ballroom.
Portland Expo Center: Another major venue in Portland for trade shows, consumer shows, and exhibitions that features over 333,000 square feet of space, including exhibit halls and meeting rooms.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Portland, OR?

The Portland city center has more than 10,000 hotel rooms and the 600-room Hyatt Regency headquarter hotel is located right next to the Oregon Convention Center. Here are some of our favorite hotels to consider during your next conference in Portland:

What's the main airport for flying into Portland, OR?

The main airport for flying into Portland, OR, is Portland International Airport (PDX). It is located about 9 miles northeast of downtown Portland.

aerial view of Indianapolis, indiana

7. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis' central location in the United States ensures easy access for conference attendees from across the country. Located within a day's drive of over half of the nation's population, and with direct flights available at Indianapolis International Airport to major cities worldwide, traveling to the city is convenient.

Once in Indianapolis, attendees can enjoy the walkable downtown area. It features a diverse selection of hotels, restaurants, and attractions all near the convention center and other meeting venues.

The city also provides accessible public transportation options, including the IndyGo bus system and bike-sharing programs, making it simple to explore and navigate during your stay.

What convention centers are in Indianapolis, IN?

The Indiana Convention Center (ICC) offers over 566,000 square feet of exhibit space, including a 183,000-square-foot exhibition hall, multiple ballrooms, and meeting rooms.

The ICC is connected to several hotels via skywalks and is a central hub for conventions, trade shows, and large-scale events.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Indianapolis, IN?

Indianapolis, IN, offers several excellent hotels that are great for conferences and events. Here are some of our top choices:

What's the main airport for flying into Indianapolis, IN?

The main airport for flying into Indianapolis, IN, is Indianapolis International Airport (IND).

aerial view of kansas city

8. Kansas City, Kansas

One of the major benefits of hosting a conference in Kansas City is its central location. Positioned in the heart of the United States, Kansas City is easily reachable from major cities nationwide.

The city’s international airport and well-connected highway system ensure convenient travel for attendees.

Conference attendees can enjoy a variety of activities including shopping and dining at Country Club Plaza, outdoor activities at Loose Park, and sporting events at Arrowhead Stadium and Kauffman Stadium.

What convention centers are in Kansas City, KS?

In Kansas City, KS, the primary convention center is the Kansas City Convention Center (KCCC), which is located in nearby Kansas City, MO, just across the state line.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Kansas City, KS?

Kansas City offers plenty of great places to stay. The metropolitan area has more than 36,000 rooms—with 4,600 committable rooms in the convention core.

Here are some of our top picks of places to host your small conference or event:

What's the main airport for flying into Kansas City, KS?

The main airport for flying into Kansas City, KS, is Kansas City International Airport (MCI).

view of city and river in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

9. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

If you're seeking an affordable city to host your smaller conference and Chicago is beyond your budget, Milwaukee, WI, is an excellent alternative.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is known for its breweries and offers plenty of fun activities for attendees to enjoy.

Following the conference, attendees can explore attractions such as the Harley-Davidson Museum, featuring motorcycles owned by Elvis Presley, or the Milwaukee Public Museum, which showcases a European Village and a recreation of historic Milwaukee.

Summer is the ideal season for hosting your conference in Milwaukee, with temperatures typically reaching the high 70s F.

What convention centers are in Milwaukee, WI?

The Wisconsin Center is Milwaukee's largest convention center, located in the heart of downtown. It offers over 188,000 square feet of exhibit space, multiple ballrooms, and meeting rooms.

Connected to the Hilton Milwaukee City Center and Hyatt Regency Milwaukee via skywalks, it is a central hub for major conventions and events in the city.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Milwaukee, WI?

Milwaukee has over 6,200 hotel rooms downtown and a hotel scene with a range of properties designed to meet any need and budget.

Here are some of our top picks:

What's the main airport for flying into Milwaukee, WI?

The main airport for flying into Milwaukee, WI, is Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE). It is located about 5 miles south of downtown Milwaukee.

aerial view of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania

10. Pittsburg, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh is a great, cost-effective choice for your next small conference.

Its central location allows for convenient travel, with less than six hours by car or train from Washington, D.C., Canada, and 10 other states.

The Pittsburgh International Airport accommodates over 8 million passengers annually, with a growing list of nonstop destinations.

Attendees can explore a variety of attractions, dining options, and activities.

From world-class museums such as The Andy Warhol Museum and historic sites like Saint Anthony Chapel to exciting events like the acclaimed Picklesburgh festival, Pittsburgh offers art galleries and a rich cultural scene for attendees to enjoy.

What convention centers are in Pittsburg, PA?

Located in downtown Pittsburgh along the Allegheny River, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center is the largest in the city. It offers over 1.5 million square feet of space, including exhibit halls, meeting rooms, and a 31,000 square-foot ballroom.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Pittsburgh, PA?

There are over 1,500 hotels in the Pittsburgh area, many well-suited to host smaller conferences and events.

Here are some of our recommendations for the best hotels to host your small conference at:

What's the main airport for flying into Pittsburgh, PA?

The main airport for flying into Pittsburgh, PA is Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT).

aerial view of boulder, colorado

11. Boulder, Colorado

If you are looking for a location that’s somewhere in the mountains, with lots of restaurants and outdoor activities, check out Boulder for your next conference.

Situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains alongside the famous Flatirons, Boulder offers unique meeting spaces and event spaces.

Attendees will find plenty to enjoy in Boulder, with shopping at the Pearl Street Mall and convenient access to outdoor activities.

If sustainability is a priority for your company, Boulder is a great choice for hosting your meeting. The city is known for its dedication to eco-friendly practices, with over 120 LEED-certified buildings, including various meeting and event venues.

What convention centers are in Boulder, CO?

Boulder, CO does not have large convention centers to host events in compared to those found in larger cities. However, some venues and facilities can accommodate smaller conferences, meetings, and events:

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Boulder, CO?

In Boulder, CO, several hotels are great for hosting small to medium-sized conferences and events.

Here are some of our top picks in the Boulder area:

What's the main airport for flying into Boulder, CO?

The main airport for flying into Boulder, CO is Denver International Airport (DEN), located about 45 miles southeast of Boulder.

aerial view of santa fe, new mexico

12. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Looking for a destination with breathtaking scenery to host your next conference? Look no further than Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Santa Fe is located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, part of the Rocky Mountains, at an altitude of over 7,000 feet. Surrounded by thousands of acres of national forest and wilderness, yet conveniently located just an hour's drive from Albuquerque International Airport.

Rated as one of the most walkable cities in the country, Santa Fe offers easy navigation through its charming downtown and vibrant neighborhoods.

With its friendly atmosphere, relaxed pace, pleasant climate, and genuine hospitality, Santa Fe stands out as one of the top destinations to host business meetings in the U.S.

What convention centers are in Santa Fe, NM?

Located in downtown Santa Fe, the Santa Fe Community Convention Center is the primary venue for larger conferences and events in the city. It offers over 40,000 square feet of flexible event space, including a 17,000 square-foot ballroom and multiple meeting rooms.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Santa Fe, NM?

Here are our top hotel picks for hosting small conferences in Santa Fe:

What's the main airport for flying into Santa Fe, NM?

The main airport for flying into Santa Fe, New Mexico is the Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF).

Attendees can also fly into Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ) which may provide more flight options, but it is about an hour’s drive away from downtown Santa Fe.

aerial view of Louisville, kentucky

13. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville combines Southern hospitality with affordability, making it a great destination for any meeting or event.

With 2 convention centers and 22,748 hotel rooms, you have numerous venues to choose from for hosting your small conference.

Downtown Louisville offers a lively, walkable atmosphere with a variety of activities for attendees to enjoy.

Ever heard of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail? Louisville marks the starting point of this iconic trail, allowing your attendees to explore part or all of it after the conference.

What convention centers are in Louisville, KY?

Located in downtown Louisville, the Kentucky International Convention Center is the largest convention center in the city. It underwent a significant renovation, reopening in 2018 with over 200,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 40,000 square-foot ballroom, and numerous meeting rooms.

There is also the Kentucky Exposition Center, located right next to the airport.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Louisville, KY?

Louisville has tons of hotel choices to accommodate your guests, with over 6,800 rooms available in the downtown area alone.

Here are some of our favorite hotels for hosting small conferences in Louisville, KY:

What's the main airport for flying into Louisville, KY?

The main airport for flying into Louisville, KY is Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF).

aerial view of tampa, Florida

14. Tampa, Florida

Looking for a Florida destination to host your small conference that's not Orlando or Miami?

Tampa is an excellent choice—a vibrant city less crowded yet fully equipped to accommodate meetings of all sizes.

Prefer outdoor gatherings? Embrace Tampa Bay's year-round sunshine along the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile pathway winding along the Hillsborough River, connecting hotels, restaurants, parks, and attractions.

Outdoor dining and drink options are everywhere, especially at Sparkman Wharf downtown, offering trendy restaurants, bars, a beer garden, and live music right on the waterfront.

What convention centers are in Tampa, FL?

Located along the waterfront in downtown Tampa, the Tampa Convention Center is the city's primary convention facility.

It offers over 600,000 square feet of event space, including exhibit halls, ballrooms, and meeting rooms.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Tampa, FL?

Whether you prefer a riverside hotel or a downtown venue, Tampa offers a variety of options. Here are our top picks to consider when hosting your small conference in Tampa:

What's the main airport for flying into Tampa, FL?

The main airport for flying into Tampa, FL is Tampa International Airport (TPA).

aerial view of bend, oregon

15. Bend, Oregon

Whether you're planning a small, intimate team retreat by the river or seeking a larger conference or convention center with breakout rooms, Bend is a great destination for your next small conference.

With access to the outdoors, a nearby airport offering convenience, and all the amenities of a mid-sized city, Bend is a great location to host your small team. Some people describe Bend as having a vibe similar to Salt Lake City or a much smaller version of San Francisco.

In Bend, a popular destination for relaxation, business casual is the norm. Breweries and distilleries provide unique meeting venues that set a laid-back tone for your group.

What convention centers are in Bend, OR?

Bend, OR does not have large convention centers comparable to those found in bigger cities. However, there are hotel venues and facilities that can accommodate smaller conferences, meetings, and events.

What are the best hotels for conferences and events in Bend, OR?

Here are some of our top picks for hosting smaller conferences in Bend, OR:

What's the main airport for flying into Bend, OR?

The main airport for flying into Bend, OR is the Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM). It is located in Redmond, Oregon, approximately 16 miles north of Bend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Defined as a Small Conference?

A small conference is typically defined as an event with a limited number of participants, usually ranging from 50 to 250 attendees.

It focuses on a specific niche or specialized topic, allowing for more intimate interactions, personalized networking, and in-depth discussions.

Small conferences often feature fewer sessions, a more focused agenda, and a closer-knit community compared to larger conferences.

What Is a Tier 2 City?

Cities that fit into this category include places like Kansas City and Milwaukee. Being classified as "Tier 2" doesn't imply they are inferior to "Tier 1" cities.

In reality, these cities offer outstanding event venues, activities, and dining options, but at a significantly lower cost.

What Is a Tier 1 City?

A Tier 1 city refers to a big city that has several key attributes making it an ideal location for hosting large-scale events. Examples of Tier 1 cities include big cities like Las Vegas, San Fransisco, and Salt Lake City.

What Are the Pros of Hosting Your Conference in a Tier 2 City?

Easier Airport Navigation: Smaller airports mean less hassle and quicker transit times.
Less Congestion: Smaller cities are easier to get around, with less traffic and more accessible venues.
Better Venue Fit: Smaller hotels and convention centers are a better fit for smaller groups, you don't feel like your group is a small fish in a big pond.
Smaller City Feel: More local options for restaurants, bars, and shopping.

What Are the Cons of Hosting Your Conference in a Tier 2 City?

Selecting a Tier 2 city to host your conference does come with a trade-off: flights and transportation can be more challenging to arrange compared to Tier 1 cities.

For instance, while most people can get a direct flight to Las Vegas and San Fransisco, while direct flights to Kansas City are less common. This might necessitate earlier arrivals for those coming from further away, potentially increasing hotel expenses.

Ready to Plan Your Next Conference?

GoGather has years of experience in conference logistics and event management services, crafting memorable experiences for high-profile brands. Let’s brainstorm your next event together.

Madison Shepherd

Madison Shepherd is a Marketing Specialist at GoGather. When she's not writing blogs or sending out social media posts, she enjoys hiking, traveling, or reading at one of the many beautiful beaches in San Diego.