Phoenix Convention Center Hits Its Stride
June 30, 2015
Nearly six years have passed since the $600 million expansion project was completed on the Phoenix Convention Center, providing attendees with nearly 900,000 square feet of event space.
Just steps away from downtown Phoenix, the convention center sits on a 26-acre campus and is linked to downtown and several hotels via the new light rail system.
The expansion provided several elements that positioned the convention center for the future. There is more than 300,000 sq. ft. of continuous exhibition hall space that connects the North and West Buildings, including 190,000 sq. ft. of virtually column-free exhibition space in North Building.
In addition, there is more than 150,000 sq. ft. of break out space and $3.2 million in art around the convention center.
"Since the Phoenix Convention Center's expansion, we have welcomed more than 1 million delegates to Phoenix," said Phoenix Convention Center Director John Chan. "Our expansion, which nearly tripled the size of our facility, enables us to attract larger high profile conventions and events such as the National Rifle Association (NRA), U.S. Greenbuild International Conference and MLB All Star Fanfest.”
Besides the space, the convention center planned for future growth with state-of-the-art technology. A fiber network runs through all areas of the convention center, including exhibit halls and meeting rooms.
Complimentary wireless access is available in the convention center and public hot spots. Electronic signs can be found throughout the convention center, allowing for easy modifications to signage in response to new event information.
Touch-control screens in each meeting room provide exhibitor control of lighting, audio and background music as well as an automated “help function” that allows guests to contact the operations center if issues arise.
This expansion, completed in 2009, has moved the convention center not only to the top 20 largest convention centers in the U.S., but also has moved the city of Phoenix to new levels for events and venue hosting.
Last year, the Super Bowl was held in Phoenix, and the Super Bowl Media Center was housed in the convention center.
A football field was erected in the convention center as well, to provide a unique experience for football fans of all ages. And with other events scheduled, including the Phoenix ComiCon, the future is bright for the rising Phoenix Convention Center.
“In 2015, we hosted the Super Bowl NFL Experience and look forward to hosting the fan events for the 2016 College Football Playoffs and 2017 NCAA Final Four,” Chan said. “Though bookings and attendance were impacted during the recession, we are now seeing an increase in business back to pre-recession levels for this year and in the near future."
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
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