Fast-growing Phoenix has long been a draw for meetings and events. The city offers an award-winning downtown convention center and urban core, easy air access, sun-drenched beauty and unmatched value. Lately an infusion of youthful energy and new investment has propelled downtown Phoenix into the spotlight as a modern urban center.

When it comes to getting here and getting around, few meeting and event destinations rival Phoenix for ease and convenience. The airport is served by 16 airlines with more than 1,200 daily flights. Sky Harbor is just four miles from downtown and 15 to 30 minutes from most area hotels and resorts, and arriving attendees can take the free PHX Sky Train from the airport to the nearest Valley Metro Light Rail station. The 26-mile light rail also links Phoenix to Tempe and Mesa, and an all-day pass is just $4. Downtown Phoenix is pedestrian-friendly; restaurants, sporting venues and nightlife options are walkable from the Phoenix Convention Center and downtown hotels.

The Phoenix Convention Center is one of the nation’s most-acclaimed convention centers, offering nearly 900,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space. Inspired by the Grand Canyon, the convention center was designed to amaze, making use of natural colors and textures that mirror surrounding desert and canyon landscapes, and incorporating energy- efficient design principles and ongoing sustainability programs.

From all-American diners, authentic rum bars and modern Asian-inspired eateries to ambitious, chef-driven restaurants where anything goes, Phoenix’s dining scene is blossoming as never before. Throughout downtown and midtown, the vast array of options gives diners a variety to choose from, morning, noon and night. Phoenix also boasts a dynamic and eclectic homegrown arts scene, best experienced in the Roosevelt Row arts district and along Grand Avenue.

One focus of activity just two blocks from the convention center is CityScape, a sophisticated mixed-use shopping, dining and entertainment complex. The high-rise development is home to fun after-hour spots, including a live music venue, comedy club and an upscale bowling alley.

Phoenix is blessed by the sheer beauty of its rugged mountain and desert landscape, with towering cacti and clear starry nights. What’s more, Phoenix offers attendees plenty to see and do, from spa treatments and championship golf, to outdoor adventures like horseback riding, hiking and hot air ballooning. And it’s all easy to reach, whether you’re staying at a downtown hotel or at one of the areas resorts.

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