Phoenix is a popular gathering place for large and small groups that wish to conduct business in a pleasurable environment. Known for its resorts, Phoenix offers plentiful hotel space (about 10,000 rooms in the central city alone), a year-round warm climate, and a variety of leisure activities. These factors have contributed to an increase in group business in metropolitan Phoenix since 1980. Nearly 40 percent of visitors to the Valley come to attend a convention.
The Phoenix Civic Plaza and Convention Center, with 300,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space in 43 breakout meeting rooms providing a total seating capacity for more than 29,000 people, has been the city's primary convention facility since 1972. A $600-million expansion is planned that will by 2008 increase the space to 900,000 square feet. Meeting space is also available at Veterans Memorial Coliseum, at Arizona State University, and at area hotels.
Convention Information: Phoenix Civic Plaza and Convention Center, 111 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004; telephone (800)AT-CIVIC