About Atlanta
Atlanta is a culturally and historically rich city in central Georgia. Not only did it play an influential role in the American Civil War and the civil rights movement, but it shot to global sporting attention as host of the Summer Olympics in 1996. It was in Atlanta that Coca-Cola was invented in the late 19th century before going on to dominate the soda industry for decades to come.
Atlanta’s warm Southern hospitality makes it an ideal place to host a conference, no matter what industry you’re showcasing. It boasts a wide choice of venues to select from and an inspiring network of experienced professionals who can turn your visions into reality.
Conference Options in Atlanta
Already found your conference room space in Atlanta? It’s time to start looking for experienced vendors who can make the event a success.
- Caterers
Want to feed your guests during your conference? Atlanta boasts a variety of restaurants, food trucks, and catering companies that can deliver the cuisine you’re after.
- Decor
Spruce up your conference room space with the addition of floral bouquets, potted plants, or other decorative items that will transform it from something drab into an inspiring setting. Atlanta is home to plenty of talented florists and event professionals who can work their magic if your conference room is a blank canvas.
- Photographer
If you want to promote your conference through a website or your social media channels, consider hiring a professional photographer to document some of the best moments. They’ll take care of all post-processing and deliver high-quality images that are sure to leave an impression.
- Equipment Rentals
Some Atlanta conference room spaces come with everything you need, while others will need to be equipped with tables, chairs, and audio-visual equipment. If that is the case, there are plenty of event equipment rental companies in Atlanta where you can find everything you need.
- Bar Staff
If you’re planning a cocktail event during your conference in Atlanta, you can hire casual bar staff to serve food and drinks. The city is home to several agencies that specialize in securing hospitality professionals and will do all of the vettings for you.
Event Planning Companies In Atlanta
If you’re overwhelmed with the prospect of planning your conference, you can hire an event planning professional to take charge. They’ll use their professional knowledge and network to deliver an incredible event based on your visions and needs.
- Atlanta Special Events
The talented team at Atlanta Special Events can take care of everything from designing your Atlanta conference room to hiring vendors. They’re renowned for their attention to detail and professional approach to all aspects of event planning and management.
- Legendary Events
With multiple awards under their belt, Legendary Events is a full-service event planning company that produces over 2,000 events every year. They have a reputation for delivering trend-setting spaces and gorgeous decor, all with attentive service.
- Lemiga Events
Lemiga Events specializes in organizing glamorous events, making them an ideal choice if you’re planning a cocktail party as part of your conference. They’ll help to design exceptional moments that will ensure participants remember your conference for years to come.
Pros and Cons of Conferences in Atlanta
With its affordable lifestyle and so much to see and do, Atlanta could be the perfect place for your conference. But there are a few drawbacks you should keep in mind before making a decision.
Advantages
- Affordable living
Atlanta is still a relatively affordable place to live, which makes it a great place to hold a conference if you’re working on a small budget.
- Mild winters
Compared to some parts of the U.S.’s Northeast and Midwest regions, Atlanta experiences milder winters, and you’re unlikely to get snowed in during the cooler months.
- City attractions
The city’s excellent museums, rich sporting scene, and outstanding choice of restaurants mean there’s plenty for your conference participants to do outside of scheduled presentations and lectures.
- Proximity to the great outdoors
Atlanta is located on the doorstep of riverside cycling trails and Appalachian hiking routes, so there’s plenty to keep lovers of the great outdoors entertained. When marketing your conference, you can entice participants with the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Georgia.
- Welcoming atmosphere
Atlanta is renowned for its Southern hospitality, and your out-of-town conference participants are likely to receive a warm welcome that will leave a big impression.
Disadvantages
- Traffic
Atlanta is a city that relies heavily on cars for getting around, which means that traffic can sometimes be slow and frustrating in the downtown area and along major transportation corridors.
- Lack of public transportation
Associated with the city’s traffic issues is its public transportation system, which isn’t on par with some other major U.S. cities. As a result, you and your conference guests may need to rely on taxis or shared-ride services for getting around.
- Driving distances
Atlanta sprawls across more than 8,000 square miles, which means getting from A to B can take a long time. This is something to keep in mind when finding a conference room space in Atlanta and considering its location relative to suitable accommodation.
- Hot summers
While Atlanta experiences mild winters, the summers can be unbearably hot, and temperatures regularly reach the 90s and 100s. If you’re planning a conference in July or August, ensure your space is equipped with good air conditioning.
Famous Locations in Atlanta
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Dedicated to the civil rights leader's life and legacy, this 35-acre park encompasses Martin Luther King Jr.’s boyhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he was baptized. Browse the displays in the “Courage to Lead” exhibition and pay your respects at his tomb before learning about some of the world’s other social justice leaders in the International Civil Rights Hall of Fame.
- World of Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola was invented in Atlanta in 1886, and this family-friendly attraction celebrates what has gone on to become one of the world’s favorite sodas. You can get hands-on with a range of interactive exhibits and browse the old bottling equipment or even test your skills at creating your own fizzy drink.
- Georgia Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Georgia Aquarium is home to marine species from all corners of the globe. In addition to its seven galleries where you can come face-to-face with inquisitive octopi and immense manta rays, it encompasses a 6.3-million-gallon whale shark exhibit.