If you’re looking for event space in Las Vegas to host a small to midsize gathering, you definitely have to know where to look. Las Vegas, renowned for grand conventions, offers a plethora of choices for hosting events. But while the big events get all the headlines, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) shares that almost half the meetings held in Vegas involve substantially less than 500 attendees. So if you’re planning a more intimate event, we’re here to tell you that the city’s real magic lies beyond its famed ‘Strip.’
There are lots of options for smaller Las Vegas meeting venue rentals that can help you plan a smashing event without the hustle and bustle and hefty price tag of the Strip. Here are some suggestions on where to find event space for your small to midsize meeting in Vegas, plus tips on what to ask venue providers to ensure a successful and enjoyable event.
Beyond the Strip
Explore Downtown Las Vegas
Venture beyond the neon lights to discover the heart of event space in Las Vegas, which is so much more than just the Strip. If you have locals attending your event, navigating the congestion and high parking fees on the Strip might be more trouble than it’s worth. Downtown Las Vegas emerges as a top choice, blending convenience with affordability. This compact, walkable part of the city provides a variety of event spaces at a lower price point.
Check out venues in the Design District which offer non-hotel options such as Pacific Workplaces, Renowned Events, and Meet Las Vegas. All these venues boast excellent freeway access, providing quick connections to various parts of the city, but at lower costs without sacrificing quality.
Pro-tip: You can also look into the communities of Summerlin and Henderson. These areas are favored by locals and offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s tourist hotspots, perfect for more intimate, focused gatherings.
Think Outside The Hotel Box
Hotels are not the only option for hosting events. As nice as hotel conference rooms can be, they’re not right for every situation. For instance, hosting a leadership workshop could benefit from a setup that includes a central area for group interactions and smaller rooms for breakout sessions.
Consider renting event space in coworking spaces like Pacific Workplaces, which cater to small and medium-sized events. For instance, our event space in Las Vegas recently hosted a workshop for medical device technology company Abiomed. The purpose of the event was to present a new device for people with heart attacks to a very niche group of nurse practitioners in the local area. The event had less than 100 attendees, something in which the larger Vegas resorts may not even be willing to accommodate.
Stephanie Bricker, Managing Director of Pacific Workplaces Las Vegas said, “For us, events are all about finding ways to help businesses grow. We want to offer affordable event space for businesses that are bringing new ideas to the Las Vegas ecosystem. It’s about going beyond just offering space, but meeting the needs of our business community to create events where people can network, learn, and make new connections.”
Aside from coworking spaces, you can expand your venue search to include non-traditional spaces such as restaurants or even cultural spots like the Neon Museum. These venues can add a unique flair to your event, making it memorable and engaging.
Key Considerations When Choosing Event Space in Las Vegas
Amenities and Services
Selecting the right event space in Las Vegas should be based on the specific needs of your meeting format and attendees. It might be more cost-effective to find a Las Vegas meeting venue that’s equipped to cover all your needs from onsite staff, drinks & snacks, to technology. If possible, visit potential venues ahead of time to check out the landscape. During your tour of the event space, some things to ask include:
- Food and Beverage: Can attendees eat and drink on-site? Is alcohol permitted, and can you bring in outside catering?
- Technology Needs: Does the venue have high-speed internet and advanced presentation tools?
- Flexibility: Can the furniture be rearranged? Are there different room configurations available? Are there places nearby where people can meet informally after the event is over?
- Support: Are there onsite staff to help with setup and technology needs?
- Accessibility and Parking: How easy is it to get to the venue, and what are the parking options?
- Cancellations: What is the policy related to changing the event date or for cancellation refunds?
Setting the Tone: Minimizing Distractions
It’s important to remember the tone of your event, or who your event is catered to. Are you hosting a serious business seminar? If so, you should consider opting for an event space in a more professional setting to eliminate distractions. A serious business meeting or event held in a casino may seem like a great time for everyone. However, do you really want to be sitting at a table talking about marketing strategies when slot machines and blackjack tables are right outside the door? The environment you choose can significantly impact the focus and effectiveness of your event. Here are some strategies to keep distractions at bay:
- Schedule Breaks: Regular breaks keep attendees refreshed and attentive.
- Manage Cell Phone Use: Encourage attendees to step outside to use their phones, keeping the event space focused.
- Temperature Control: Ensure the venue maintains a comfortable temperature, avoiding extremes that can distract and discomfort participants.
More Than Just a Casino Town
Las Vegas is indeed synonymous with casinos and entertainment, but it’s also a hub of professional and creative venues perfect for various types of events. For small and mid-sized groups, affordable event space in Las Vegas is completely doable, especially if you’re willing to look beyond the Strip. Vegas offers far more than just its iconic hotels and casinos. While these are fantastic, the city holds a wealth of other exciting possibilities. We hope this article has helped introduce some creative options when searching for your next event space in Las Vegas.
Visit Pacific Workplaces Las Vegas for more information and to book a space that will transform your next event.