Culture meets charm
By Kate Zaliznock
When it comes to selecting the perfect destination for meetings and events, planners are increasingly looking beyond the usual suspects. They want unique experiences, accessible locations and venues that offer both value and charm. Enter Alabama—a rising star in the meetings and events landscape.
With its mix of Southern hospitality, diverse event spaces, rich history and natural beauty, Alabama is quickly proving it can compete with larger, more established markets. Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, an annual conference or an incentive trip with local flair, here’s why Alabama deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Resources
In Birmingham
Steve Pierson, director of sales
[email protected] | inbirmingham.com
Huntsville & Madison County CVB
Erica Bradford, tourism sales manager
[email protected] | huntsville.org
Visit Mobile
Jerry L. Bousard, senior national sales manager
[email protected] | mobile.org
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
Amy Peralta, sales manager
[email protected] | alabamasbeaches.com
5 Reasons Why Planners Love It Here
Diverse and scenic venues. Whether it’s Gulf Coast beaches or landmarks across the state, Alabama offers a wide range of locations for every need. Meeting profs can choose from modern convention centers, elegant historic venues, resort properties and so much more.
Affordability without compromise. Meeting profs don’t have to sacrifice quality and value for the bottom line. Alabama offers top-tier venues at more competitive rates than those in larger markets—making your budget go further.
Southern hospitality, professional service. Alabama offers a warm welcome backed by expertise and a growing hospitality industry focused on delivering memorable and seamless events.
Growing infrastructure. Airports in Birmingham, Huntsville and Mobile have seen increased accessibility, and many cities have invested in upgraded hotel accommodations and facilities to draw in business travelers and events.
Culture and local experiences. Whether it’s Muscle Shoals’ indelible mark on music history, Birmingham’s incredibly impactful Civil Rights Institute, a statewide celebration of all things cuisine or any number of other attractions, Alabama has something that will have your attendees reminiscing about for years.
5 Great Places to Meet
106 Jefferson Huntsville, Curio Collection by Hilton in Huntsville features the luxurious Century Ballroom, suitable for up to 90 guests, as well as mid-century charming guest rooms outfitted with Serenity beds and Irish linens.
2,110 sq. ft. of flexible event space; 115 guest rooms
The Westin Huntsville offers modern AV equipment in all meeting rooms, multiple ballrooms, a heated indoor/outdoor pool and convenient access to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.
20,647 sq. ft. of meeting space; 232 guest rooms
Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection in Point Clear is surrounded by beautiful Mobile Bay on 550 acres and entirely reimagined following a $35 million renovation, which included a full refresh of its meeting spaces.
41,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 405 guest rooms
Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa is located near Hoover and features plenty of ways to keep your attendees rejuvenated, including the fifth-longest golf course in the world. Each guest room features elegant furnishings and a private balcony.
25,367 sq. ft. of meeting space; 259 guest rooms
Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook, Autograph Collection is less than 10 minutes from Birmingham Convention Center and has a billiards room, a Peloton-equipped wellness center and uniquely luxurious design elements throughout the property.
14,932 sq. ft. of meeting space; 99 guest rooms
This article appears in the May/June 2025 issue. Subscribe to the magazine here.
