What is a classical convention?

What is the best convention center in Atlanta?

• I am interested in renting a convention center for a convention this time next year.. I was looking at several convention centers but I have no idea what the costs are and which are the best location wise.. How much does it usually cost to rent out a convention center for the weekend (all hidden prices included) and which do you like the best? Must be in Atlanta.

• Answer:

  I would think the more important question would be: What convention center can provide the location and services that will make my convention a success? For one, it would have been very helpful to know the type of convention...for dentists or Star Wars fans? How many people you expect to attend? Is it designed for a local, regional, national or international market? What time of year do you want to hold it? If you're looking for small, let's say 500-2,000 persons, then there are many of the downtown hotels that can handle a crowd that size. Most hotels will base their price on how many rooms you can guarantee they will rent. The Hilton, the Westin Peachtree Plaza and the Marriott downtown are just a few that can all handle this many persons without a problem. Some might be in love with the dentists, but not so much for the Star Wars crowd. But, each of those chains have other locations around the Perimeter that can provide an excellent location for groups of this size. If you're expecting say, 25,000 persons or more, then you need to consider the World Congress Center or the Galleria Center (in Marietta). Each has a number of hotels either attached or close-by that people can walk to/from, as well as restaurants, etc., close-by to support that many persons. I have taken part in Home Shows at both of those locations, produced by Semco Productions, each show was excellent...for those taking part in it, and those attending. Time of year can make a big difference. Check with both the Atlanta and Cobb Visitors' & Convention Bureaus for calendars of presently planned events...this also means major sports events as well. You don't want to plan your event the same weekend as another large convention...your prices will go up. Also, don't try to go up against something like the SEC Football Championship Game...you just might be the only person attending your own convention that day. One place that I would recommend not to use, is the center down by the airport. For one, it's too far from people even using MARTA to get to it (and you have to keep transportation in mind); no connecting hotels or support restaurants, etc; and they charge a fortune to park as well. It's a nice facility, but with it's poor location & overall support, not user friendly.