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A group of badge holders walk past the Reading Terminal Market.

Why Philadelphia is Great for Hospitality Events

Date November 26, 2024

Why Philadelphia is Great for Hospitality Events

A group of badge holders walk past the Reading Terminal Market.

Philadelphia has quickly become a top choice for hosting hospitality industry meetings and events, offering an ideal blend of accessibility, vibrant culture, and unique venues.

From its walkable downtown to its rich history, the city provides an unforgettable experience for event attendees. With its proven track record of successfully hosting large-scale conferences, Philadelphia continues to stand out as a premier destination for hospitality business and networking.

The SISO Leadership Conference unites CEOs and executives to tackle challenges in the hospitality industry, fostering connections and sharing knowledge to enhance growth and success. The 2024 event took place in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, where attendees were thrilled to engage with the city and its diverse set of assets and attractions.

Hospitality executives and leaders left the event excited about their time in Philadelphia, highlighting the city’s walkability, rich history, and culture as its top features. “There’s a little treasure in every corner,” said one attendee.

Attendees of the 2023 National Planning Conference by the American Planning Association were equally impressed by what Philadelphia offered. This event brought together a diverse group of urban planning professionals, researchers, and elected officials to reimagine the future of cities in the meetings world. Attendees participated in in sessions at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, with content driven by peer-led discussions and forward-thinking research.

Philadelphia’s vibrant offerings went beyond the convention hall, as participants enjoyed curated events like a 5K Rocky Fun Run, a Mural Arts Philadelphia tour, and a unique Flavors of Philadelphia walking food tour. These experiences highlighted the city’s rich cultural fabric, adding a memorable local touch to the conference.

A group of people are shown standing in a parking lot, listening to a tour guide as he talks about the mural in front of them. There is a large mural depicting a tree with people shown climbing ladders around the tree. The mural appears to be on the side of a building to the right of Philadelphia City Hall, a large building.

Mural Arts Tour. Photo by J. Ryan for PHLCVB.

As the meetings and conventions tourism agency of the city, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau looks forward to working with hospitality meetings and events when they choose Philadelphia.

“The enthusiasm and love for the events industry is so apparent when working with planners and attendees,” said Jamie Huckleberry, direct of destination services at the PHLCVB.

“Nowadays, there is a higher expectation in the offerings of a convention; it is more than the meeting.  It is what a destination can provide to the experience of the attendee.  Planners love to choose Philadelphia because we can deliver on that expectation through our award-winning restaurants, museums, venues and historical sites.”

Philadelphia continues to shine as a top-tier destination for hosting hospitality industry events, with its unique blend of history, culture, and premier venues making every event memorable. Ready to plan your next hospitality event in Philadelphia? Contact the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau today to learn how we can help bring your vision to life.