What are Conference Centers and How Do They Differ From Hotels?

A conference center is more than a spacious meeting room. Many different types of events take place at these sophisticated facilities. They offer everything large groups of people need to take part in major corporate or nonprofit functions. When arranging events, organizers often compare them with hotels.

Amenities

Although every conference center supplies different amenities, some common features include amphitheaters, computer rooms and indoor or outdoor seating for hundreds of people. Some centers in the Keystone State have gyms or other fitness areas. Staff members help facilitate events and may provide security.

Technology

Most Pennsylvania meeting facilities enhance communication with up-to-date equipment. This technology includes video conferencing systems and digital projectors that presenters can connect to portable computers. Event participants with laptops, smartphones or tablets often benefit from Wi-Fi Internet access as well.

Events

A wide range of events take place at conference centers. In addition to important meetings, they host diverse conventions, banquets, holiday parties, trade shows and huge family reunions. Some film and art festivals also occur at these venues.

Locations

A number of meeting centers exist as stand-alone facilities. Many others are located within larger establishments, such as retirement communities or educational institutions. Any event planner can easily find a conference center Chambersburg, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh or one of several other Pennsylvania cities.

Dining

Many centers prepare and serve meals to event participants. Depending on the facility, organizers may or may not have to pay extra fees for snacks, meals and drinks. An alternative is to use an outside catering service to supply attendees with food.

Rates

Conference facilities typically charge cleaning fees and hourly rates. Minimum or maximum time restrictions may apply. Some centers in Pennsylvania require particularly large groups to pay for security guards. Nonprofit discounts are sometimes available.

Comparison

When event planners look for the ideal venue, they frequently discover that conference centers cost less than hotel meeting rooms. However, centers tend to provide fairly basic accommodations or no lodging. On the other hand, they usually dedicate more staff and equipment to each client.

To sum it up, conference centers rent out spaces where groups of people can hold discussions, presentations or parties. They also supply services that assist conference organizers and maximize the comfort of participants. Such facilities can be found on the campuses of many large organizations across Pennsylvania and the nation.