The Wheel at ICON Park® on International Drive in Orlando

Top Reasons to Choose Orlando

Wondering why you should choose Orlando for your next meeting? For starters, the award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) has long been one of the best in the nation — and we’re working to make it even better with more space, more connectivity, more versatility and more safety features. Here are leading meeting planners’ top 10 reasons for hosting their events in Orlando, and why we should be No. 1 on your list, too!

1. Top Meeting Destination

The Wheel at ICON Park
The Wheel at ICON Park® on International Drive in Orlando

Orlando is the most visited destination in the country, as well as Cvent’s NO. 1 MEETING DESTINATION. And thanks to increased safety measures at Orlando International Airport, our hotels, our world-famous theme parks, attractions and other unforgettable amenities, your attendees can confidently enjoy endless adventures, relaxation, dining, nightlife and more once the workday is done.

2. Ever-Expanding Meeting Space

Drone image of the Orange County Convention Center
Orange County Convention Center

With 7 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space, the award-winning Orange County Convention Center is one of the best in the country. Recent years have elevated the OCCC into an even more dynamic and sought-after venue, including the addition of aeroponic gardens, new Wellness Rooms, dedicated rideshare pick-up and drop-off locations, and the all-new OCCC Executive Studio — a state-of-the-art digital broadcast center for hybrid conventions and tradeshows developed in partnership with LMG. The OCCC has also earned the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s (GBAC) Star Accreditation, which provides third-party validation to ensure the implementation of rigorous sanitation protocols and is recognized as the gold standard of safe venues.

3. Opportunities for Every Budget

Caribe Royale All-Suite Hotel & Convention Center exterior pool waterfall
Caribe Royale Orlando

Orlando is also one of the most affordable destinations, providing low travel costs from accommodations to dining. With over 127,000 guest rooms to choose from, there’s something to fit every budget — from value-priced hotels to 4- and 5-star resorts and every price point in between.

4. Easy to Get Here

airplane flying at sunset

Orlando International Airport (MCO) currently provides nonstop service from approximately 150 cities around the world, and Orlando airfares are among the lowest of major destinations. MCO continually adds conveniences to support our growing travel market, too, earning the distinction of being one of J.D. Powers & Associate’s top mega airports for customer satisfaction. And like our convention center, MCO and its onsite Hyatt Regency Orlando have both achieved GBAC Star Accreditation.

5. So Much So Close

Orange County Convention Center aerial shot with connectivity bridge
Orange County Convention Center and Hyatt Regency Orlando

Offering 5,202 hotel rooms in four hotels connected to the OCCC, Orlando is the most connected city. What’s more, the OCCC is in the heart of our lively convention and tourism district. With more than 45 hotels, 75-plus world-class restaurants and 100-plus unique entertainment experiences within a 2-mile radius, that prime location only adds to the center’s appeal.

6. One-of-a-Kind Events

2022 IPW Closing Event at Islands of Adventure Photos taken by Michael Delgado.

Orlando offers amazing possibilities for one-of-a-kind events that are sure to bring your meeting to the next level. Our entertainment venues — and the creative geniuses behind them — also roll out the red carpet for groups with customizable experiences. From unforgettable VIP theme park outings to championship golf excursions, we have an array of options for groups large and small.

7. Culinary Adventures

The Ravenous Pig
Chefs James & Julie Petrakis’ Shrimp & Grits at The Ravenous Pig

With thousands of restaurants across the destination, from award-winning eateries to renowned celebrity chefs and innovative tastes from around the world, Orlando has a vibrant culinary scene that is sure to please every taste. At Disney Springs® at Walt Disney World® Resort alone, you’ll find José Andrés’ JALEO, Masaharu Morimoto’s Morimoto Asia, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Florida Kitchen, Guy Fieri’s Chicken Guy! and menu creations at Planet Hollywood, and Rick Bayless’ Frontera Cocina. Nearby, Four Flamingos — A Richard Blais Florida Kitchen, Todd English’s bluezooPrimo by Melissa Kelly and Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips further add to Orlando’s flavor — and you never know who will show up next! Group options are available. Many of our restaurants also offer al-fresco dining under Orlando’s gorgeous skies, as well as take-out and delivery services.

8. World-Class Entertainment

Performers on stage at Mango's restaurant
Mango's Tropical Cafe on International Drive in Orlando

Orlando offers endless entertainment options, from swanky lounges and high-energy nightclubs to great, local live music and world class performances. Whether you want to plan an event outside the Orange County Convention Center or your hotel, or simply want to unwind with the crew after a day of meetings, Orlando delivers one-of-a-kind entertainment experiences that are committed to safeguarding your peace of mind.

9. Superior Service

Photos of the vacation planners to use to promote national plan your vacation day as we relaunch the Visitor Services Team

An experienced and savvy partner. That’s what meeting planners have when working with Visit Orlando, the Orange County Convention Center and the city’s 150-plus meetings hotels. Our knowledgeable Destination Services team are Orlando experts with more than 120 years of collective experience in the meeting industry, and most are Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs). Orlando is also supported by a world-class hospitality industry ready to meet your needs. With one in every three jobs supported by the hospitality industry, Orlando’s workforce has often been lauded by meeting planners as one of the most courteous in the country.

10. Home of Innovation

A man operates a joystick of a virtual reality flight simulator computer at Orlando Science Center.
Orlando Science Center

As the simulation capital of the world, and home to University of Central Florida (UCF) — one of the country’s largest universities and ranked among the most innovative by U.S. News & World Report — Orlando is a leader in innovation. From advanced technologies and health/life sciences to film/digital media and entertainment production, we offer unprecedented creative resources to supercharge your meeting.

Ready to learn more? Submit your RFP to unlock everything Orlando has to offer your organization!