Cleveland: The Authentic Meetings Destination That Delivers

Cleveland, a city that is defined by its grit, authenticity, and unassuming personality, is making a name for itself as a meetings and conventions host. In 2024, “The Land” illustrated its capabilities when hosting both the NCAA Women’s Final Four and the ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition.  

When attending a meeting in Cleveland, visitors will experience a revitalized, planner- and pedestrian-friendly downtown, a newly expanded convention center, and a welcoming community eager to host more events. Plus, the city’s best-in-class offerings won’t break the bank. 

Last summer, the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland completed a $51 million renovation. The LEED Gold-certified open environment offers over 500,000 square feet of flexible meeting and exhibit hall space, an expanded Atrium ballroom, and a stunning roof terrace. The Center is also located within walking distance of 5,000 hotel rooms across 19 properties in Cleveland’s vibrant downtown. Attendees can easily enjoy everything the city has to offer on foot or with a quick rideshare. 

Stay Your Way in The Land 

From small meetings to large conventions, Cleveland meets planners’ needs with a range of hotels —– each offering its own take on comfort, style, and convenience. Hotel Cleveland, a historic gem with views of the city’s iconic Public Square, recently completed a $90 million renovation. In addition to 491 reimagined rooms and two new restaurants, the property offers 59,000 square feet of updated meeting space. 

Those seeking a boutique experience will enjoy the Fidelity Hotel, which opened in early 2025. With 97 rooms, a full-service restaurant, bar, lounge, and versatile event spaces, it’s an ideal fit for intimate meetings near the convention center. 

Opening in 2027, Cleveland’s W Hotel will feature a 15,000-square-foot ballroom and event center, full-service spa and gym, rooftop deck, and restaurant with stunning skyline views. The hotel is poised to become a top-tier venue for meetings and social gatherings.  

Memorable Venues, Exceptional Experiences 

Cleveland’s unique spirit is reflected in its event spaces. To fully embrace Cleveland’s rock ‘n’ roll history, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame provides an unforgettable venue. While still open to the public and for private engagements, a $135 million expansion is currently underway that will nearly double the museum’s size. The upgrades, which are expected to be completed in 2026, will include a 2,800-person indoor performance venue, additional exhibit areas, and an ADA-compliant park. 

For those seeking something more evolutionary, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History unveiled a $150 million transformation at the end of 2024, debuting over 375,000 square feet of reimagined space. It is designed to accommodate events throughout. The renovation also established the museum as the first in the U.S. to earn LEED v4 BD+C NC Platinum certification, providing an option for sustainability-minded planners.  

Over at Progressive Field — home of the Cleveland Guardians — a $200 million renovation was just completed. A new rooftop patio with sweeping city views provides an ideal setting for evening networking receptions and social events. Additionally, the new Globe Iron live music and events space, debuting in The Flats District in May, will offer an industrial-chic, 1,200-person capacity option just blocks from the Cuyahoga River. 

Beyond Conference Room Walls 

Once conference sessions wrap, Cleveland’s exciting mix of restaurants, bars, and more can help attendees unwind and connect. A short distance from the convention center is the bustling East 4th Street entertainment district, featuring Mabel’s BBQ, locally owned by acclaimed chef Michael Symon, and Cordelia, whose executive chef, Vinnie Cimino, is one of four Cleveland chefs nominated for a prestigious James Beard Award. New in 2025, attendees can enjoy Jolene’s Honky Tonk, a Nashville-style country bar featuring live music, themed drinks, and a rooftop patio — perfect for enjoying Cleveland’s warmer months. 

At the nearby Playhouse Square, the country’s second largest performing arts center, two national Broadway tours will launch this fall: The Notebook and Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen. District visitors can check out three new spots: a locally owned brasserie, a bar for handcrafted cocktails, and Friar’s Table, a restaurant that blends monastic tradition with modern innovation. 

The city’s Flats East Bank district is less than a 15-minute walk from the Huntington Convention Center and offers after-hours entertainment with a riverfront view. Decades Cleveland, the area’s latest addition, is a retro-themed bar and club that channels the ‘80s and ‘90s. Just over the bridge in the Ohio City neighborhood, Market Garden Brewery will debut a rooftop patio this summer. Next to the iconic West Side Market, the local staple will offer a relaxing private event space to enjoy craft brews with picturesque views of downtown.  

In addition to its world-class venues, accommodation, and entertainment, Cleveland’s residents are who truly make it special. Clevelanders’ warmth and hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for attendees. From convention center staff to local restauranteurs and hotel teams, everyone is invested in making every event a success.  

For more information, contact Destination Cleveland Chief Sales Officer Gordon Taylor: (216) 875-6615; GTaylor@destinationcle.org.