Need to host a conference or large event? Looking for a scenic venue that will give your attendees something they talk about for days and which provides all the necessities needed for a good conference? Well then, let’s explore Iowa and Nebraska today. These two states have some of the largest and most beautiful places in the country for holding conferences. Being out here in the wide open areas of the country also means you will have far cleaner and fresher air than you would in other places.
Let’s explore three places in Iowa first that have garnered a reputation for excellence and are perfect for hosting a conference or event. While you’re at one of these three fantastic locations be sure to let your attendees know of the many great sightseeing opportunities there are in nearby Des Moines. One of sightseers’ favorites is the state capital with its gold leaf dome, and the city is also host to the Blank Park Zoo.
Sunstream Retreat Center
Welcome to scenic Ogden, Iowa. Sunstream Retreat Center is located roughly 65 minutes from Des Moines International Airport; 55 miles from Des Moines and 20 miles from Ames. The retreat is available year-round and provides several room types: cabin suites and dormitory style. There are nearby hotels as well. The retreat can hold up to 375 people and has five meeting & event rooms. It offers state-of-the-art A/V equipment and has free wireless internet. Up to 350 guests can stay for the night and the retreat offers excellent food and beverage options.
Iowa State University
Looking for a larger location, then consider Iowa State University. It’s roughly 35 miles from Des Moines and can accommodate groups up to 10,000. The campus has guest rooms year-round, fantastic dining options, free Wi-Fi and excellent on campus technical assistance for all services and facilities. The campus is laid out in an easy to navigate fashion. Almost everything is within walking distance and there are hotels within 5-10 minutes of the campus as well.
Simpson College
Looking for a truly close location to Des Moines that can hold a medium sized conference or event? Then check out Simpson College of Indianola. The main campus is only 19 miles away from Des Moines. It can have roughly 400 guests and can provide overnight accommodations during the summer. The college has quality food, great dining facilities, top-notch A/V equipment and professional staffs that can help you plan your event to ensure it goes off without a hitch.
If Iowa is a bit far for your conference, then let’s explore Nebraska and a couple excellent locations it has to offer.
University of Nebraska (Lincoln)
This university is located right in downtown Lincoln, and is 45 miles from Omaha. It is just 10 minutes from Lincoln airport. The university can host groups as large as 5500, has 200 meeting rooms and has classrooms that can seat up to 850. It provides superb dining accommodations with their farm grown meals, free Wi-FI, state-of-the-art A/V systems. In addition to all these benefits the campus is absolutely gorgeous year-round, perfect for large events and conferences. Furthermore, while your attendees are here they will be close to the centennial mall, the historic Haymarket, Deer James Arthur Vineyards and much more. All of which are exciting and interesting places to explore during your attendees down time.
Lied Lodge & Conference Center
Ideal for a retreat or small conference, the Lied Lodge can host a group of 380. It has overnight accommodations, is located in scenic Nebraska City which is only 50 miles from Lincoln and Omaha. The lodge provides excellent A/V services, Wi-Fi and a delicious menu that will be sure to make your attendees delighted. Let your attendees also know that Nebraska City is home to the Lewis and Clark Center, an exciting place to view their achievements on the expedition and view the natural history of the U.S.
