by Cindy Hartzell

Created on: June 30, 2009

Las Vegas is on of the top convention and business meeting locations in the world. This wasn't a coincidence or an accident. Las Vegas city leaders and planners recognized the need for a convention center in the 1950s. In an attempt to encourage visitors and hotel occupancy during non-peak tourist months, the city built their first convention center, which opened in April 1959. Now fifty years later, there are ten different convention facilities in Las Vegas with a combined total of 9.8 million square feet of convention and meeting space available. And this is only the beginning of many reasons why businesses and organizations continue to pick Las Vega as the top meeting and convention destination.

Accommodations and Hospitality:

In addition to all the convention space, there are more than 233, 000 employees by various resorts located throughout Las Vegas. The resorts offer meeting space and luxurious personalized service. There are more than 140,500 guest rooms, and hotel offerings range from economy rooms to luxury 4 star suites. Hotel operators value convention business and are willing to offer discounts and group rates. Las Vega has a wide array of restaurants offering basic dishes, gourmet meals and everything in-between. The city has attracted many excellent chefs serving up single meals or catering banquets.

Travel Convenience:

There are more than 900 flights per day and many airlines offer non-stop service to McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. The airport is open year around and is only one mile away from Las Vegas Boulevard and 3.5 miles from the Las Vegas Convention Center. Over half of the Las Vega hotel rooms are within a 15-minute drive from the airport. With the convention centers in such close proximity, attendees will find many accommodations and attractions are within walking distance. Even so, Las Vegas also offers plenty of alternatives through bus and monorail service. Most hotels provide shuttles and there are plenty of taxis.

Variety of Entertainment:

Las Vega is known for the casinos throughout the entire city. The "Las Vegas Strip" is a 4.5 mi long. In addition to the casinos there are plenty of nightclub acts and glamorous shows. In addition to the MGM Grande, there are plenty of family attractions, and an abundance shopping opportunities. You will also find year round baseball fields, skiing, soccer and world class golf courses. Nature lovers can go horseback riding, visit Lake Mead or nearby National parks and take advantage of several hiking trails. Art enthusiasts will find excellent museums. There truly is something for everyone!

Learn more about this author, Cindy Hartzell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.