About Houston
Houston is a highly diverse city with about 145 different languages spoken in the city. It's also home to about 2.3 million people making it the nation's fourth-largest city. You'll also find diverse cultural amenities and world-class dining establishments all around town.
More than 10,000 restaurants representing culinary delights from over 70 countries are found all around the city. From ramen joints to healthy choices, Houston doesn't skimp out when it comes to offering gastronomic diversity. The city is also home to the world's largest medical facility. The Texas Medical Center is made up of 54 health-related institutions and draws in about 7.2 million annual visits.
Folks are also drawn to the city because of the live performances, carnivals, and games. Yours can be the next big event to look forward to if you book a convention venue in Houston.
Convention Venue Options in Houston
Conventions bring together a large group of people with a shared interest. It could be a professional gathering or a fandom-type of event. From booking a keynote speaker for the occasion to accessing the equipment needed for presentations, reach out to the local businesses for help in putting together a worthwhile convention in Houston.
- Location
Attendees decide if they'll turn up to your event based on the chosen location. That's why you want to lock down the best convention venue in Houston that is also accessible. It never hurts to make use of a mobile event app to provide attendees with all the necessary details and guidelines about your convention. Interactive indoor maps also help a great deal for conventions with parallel sessions happening at a large campus.
- Parking
You might find the best Houston convention venue only to discover that it doesn't come with parking. Make arrangements for parking at a nearby lot and either include it in the ticket cost or offer it at a subsidized cost. Offer valet parking services if the venue doesn't as a way of upscaling the convention experience. You should also team up with rideshare services for discounted rates or come up with a promo code exclusively for the attendees.
- Event Rentals
Each convention venue in Houston comes with different rental terms, and some furnishings may be included to get you started. More than likely, you'll need to source linens, chairs, tables, and other furnishings that align with your theme from the event rental stores in Houston.
- Equipment
Most conventions involve speeches and presentations. You'll need access to audio-visual equipment for this aspect of the occasion, and sometimes the venue provides these items. If you need to bring in what's needed for the occasion, the equipment rental companies in Houston can assist.
- Catering
Some convention centers have food and beverage minimums which are pegged on attendance. It means that your convention is required to attract a given head-count so that the venue can recoup costs for waiving facility fees. Some venues don't have such an agreement in place and in this case, you can supply your attendees with great treats by teaming up with the food vendors in Houston.
Convention Venue Companies in Houston
Convention venues in Houston are not built alike and they also offer varying amenities. For the additional services and equipment you need for your event, llocal businesses can deliver what's needed to get your convention in Houston on its feet.
- Arne's Warehouse
Arne's Warehouse has been in business for over six decades and they specialize in supplying party rentals. They have an inventory of more than 50,000 items including costumes, cotton candy makers, appliances and attachments, balloons, and other event rentals.
- The Design Firm
This interior design company knows how to spruce up your space in a creative way. The Design Firm specializes in fusing complementary prints and colors as well as highlighting the focal point of any room. Kara and Eric have an accomplished team working alongside them to make your venue stand out.
- Houston Furniture Rentals and Sales
For all your furniture-related needs; Houston Furniture Rentals and Sales can deliver. They also specialize in home, events, and commercial staging. Their photographer can also take professional pictures for your marketing material.
Pros and Cons of Convention Venues in Houston
The booming job market, pleasant sunny weather, and low cost of living are some of the reasons why Houston is an appealing place. However, when hosting a convention in Houston, there are aspects about the city that could easily get in the way of your plans.
Advantages
- Ethnic diversity
Houston houses a population of people from all around the globe. The accepting and welcoming environment is the exact atmosphere you want when hosting a convention.
- Fun and interactive experiences
You'll never be short of things to do or places to visit around Houston. The Galleria Mall is a favorite amongst both visitors and locals, with over 400 restaurants and stores. Most experiences are interactive and your convention should follow suit.
- Affordable living
Houston is comparatively more affordable than other major metros. It depends on the neighborhood, but you can locate various suitable convention venues in Houston at friendly prices.
- The food
The city has a legendary food scene with Tex-Mex, BBQ, and taco food trucks found all over. You'll have a great experience collaborating with the local food vendors for your convention.
- It's a green city
With plenty of parks, bike trails, and hiking spots; Houston is a green city. In turn, you should consider the outdoor convention venues in Houston for your event.
Disadvantages
- The weather
It takes a while to get used to the hot and humid climate. Temperatures soar quite high during summer and you want to have this in mind when looking through outdoor convention venues in Houston.
- Traffic
Like any major metropolitan area, Houston experiences terrible rush hour traffic. The downtown and The Galleria areas are some of the hardest-hit spots. Keep this in mind when selecting a convention venue and scheduling various activities.
- You'll need a car to get around
Houston isn't a walkable city just based on its sheer size. Settle for a convention venue in Houston that is accessible by public transportation and explore rideshare options for your attendees.
- Navigation problems
The city isn't the easiest to navigate and the more reason you should take the time to make it easier for the convention attendees to get to the location.
- High sales tax
The sales taxes in Houston are quite high and you might feel the pinch when hosting a convention in the city. Be prepared with a budget as you plan.
Famous Locations in Houston
- Houston Zoo
Herman Park houses the Houston Zoo which is a 55-acre facility that is home to 6,000 exotic and indigenous species. There's also a children's zoo within the grounds as well as an education center.
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Touted as one of the world's biggest rodeo events, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is truly a sight to behold. The annual event takes place between February and March, and it includes 19 fun-filled days. You'll see cowboys showcasing their skills, experience live music events, and wander the grounds enjoying the carnival.
- Houston's Street Art
It might look like graffiti, but Houston Street Art is perhaps the city's most underrated attraction. The installations are works of Houston's own Gonzo247, COPE2, and other top names in the field.