With the events industry flipped on its head and conventional events a thing of the past, the Beaumont CVB has put a priority on being a resource for meeting planners to help them navigate this uncharted territory. Instead of encouraging the cancel culture, we’ve entirely reimagined how to structure meetings from start to finish that are safer, socially distanced, and more effective than ever before using creative, memorable elements that get people talking. Check out these helpful tips and best practices for everything to consider when planning a meeting in 2021 from Airflow and Arrival Procedures to local touches like Zydeco music.
Airflow
Now, more than ever, having a spaced-out meeting is of top priority to meeting planners and destinations. In Beaumont, we offer a variety of venues from historic theatres to hotels, that can accommodate group of all sizes safely. Indoors or out, you'll have enough room to block off rows or leave the necessary amount of space to socially distance and avoid congregating in large groups. Whether you keep everyone together and then break out into smaller sessions, there are a number of flexible spaces that offer a range of layout options.
Birding
Situated on two migratory flyways, Beaumont is a haven for birds both through the spring and fall migration and year-round. Within 40 miles of Beaumont, you will find 28 Great Texas Birding Trails and schedule an excursion with your group to stop and see the birds and the outdoors in Beaumont. You do not want to miss out on this great opportunity!
Cost-effective
The Beaumont CVB team helps to create a tailored experience for any group at an affordable price when hosting your meeting. Beaumont offers one of the lowest per diems in the state, competitive hotel rates, and affordable attractions and restaurants so that you can truly enjoy the city while you are here!
Drivable
Conveniently located on Interstate 10, Beaumont is just 90 miles east of Houston and 25 miles from the Louisiana border. Beaumont is only 4 hours from Austin, 5 hours from San Antonio, and 4.5 hours from New Orleans. Fly American Airlines to the Jack Brooks Regional Airport (BPT) or take a train ride via Amtrak to attend your meeting in Beaumont.
Excursions
Beaumont is known for unique opportunities and we cannot wait for you to experience them while you are here! From holding a gator at Gator Country Adventure Park or kayaking along the Neches River or touring a historic museum, Beaumont has a range of options for attendees to enjoy.
Faith Trail
Beaumont is proud to be a city of diversity and inclusion, especially when it comes to our faith-based groups. Our Faith Trail gives visitors a peek into the cultural, historical, and architectural significance of these sites, dating back to the mid-1800s. You'll find everything from churches of all denominations to a Buddhist Temple, Islamic Society and Jewish congregation that can be toured.
Gator Country
We can promise you an authentic southeast Texas experience when you bring yourmeeting to Beaumont. Gator Country Adventure Park is an alligator and wildlife theme park that is sure to impress your attendees with over 450 reptiles and animals throughout the facility. Make lasting memories holding the gators, which can also travel to you to be a special guest at your venue.
Hotels
At Beaumont hotels, you will find the Texas hospitality that you are expecting when you meet in our city. Whether utilizing one of our full-service hotels for your meeting or limited service for overflow or a hotel room block, you will not be disappointed in the quality and safety during your stay. A number reside in the Walden Square area, which are easily accessible to both Ford Park and downtown.
Informative
The Beaumont CVB’s sole purpose is to be a one-stop-shop for any meeting planner. Our relationship with hotel partners, area restaurants, and attractions can help make the planning process easier whether you are booking hotel blocks at a competitive rate or planning excursions for attendees.
Jefferson and Julie Rogers Theatres
The Jefferson and Julie Rogers Theatre’s are historical markers and treasures to Beaumont. Built in the 1920s, these theatres offer the perfect space to plan a show for your event or utilize the facilities as meeting venues in downtown Beaumont. Imagine giving a presentation from the same stage where “It’s A Wonderful Life” premiered or renting out the whole theatre to throw a grand soiree.
Kayaking
Break out of the boardroom and get the endorphins flowing with a bit of outdoor activity as you “keep calm and paddle on” down the Neches River. Explore the beauty of the Big Thicket while kayaking with a local guide as you immerse yourself in the pines and wildlife. It's a great opportunity to work together in tandem or simply enjoy the time in nature with your team.
Lamar University
Established in 1923, Lamar University is home to over 15,000 students and a member of the Texas State University System. Lamar offers multiple venues on campus for meetings and gatherings, as well as facilities to host sporting events from basketball to track and field. You can also take advantage of the prestigious faculty and industry-leading staff as leadership for panels or speakers.
Museums
Once known as the “Museum Capital of Texas,” Beaumont has a wide variety of museums and attractions to pique the interest of attendees. Learn about the history of Southeast Texas at our historic home museums, Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, and the Texas Energy Museum; or peruse through the galleries of the Art Museum of Southeast Texas or the Dishman Art Museum.
Neches River Adventures
Take your meeting on the water with the Neches River Adventures crew. The covered excursion boat, The Ivory Bill, will take attendees down the Neches River and view the sights of the unique ecosystems; home to more than 200 tree species, 47 mammals, 300 bird species, and many reptiles and amphibians.
Outdoor Options
We think it is about time to think outside of the boardroom and take your meeting outdoors. Have a breakout under the oak trees at the Julie Rogers Theatre, utilize the Great Lawn for fun activities for attendees at The Event Centre, or have an unforgettable experience hiking or kayaking at the Big Thicket National Preserve.
Promotional Items
The Beaumont CVB is happy to provide our meeting and event planners with the tools they need to share with their attendees and increase awareness of the city. From maps and handouts to personalized promotional items, our staff can provide what you need for you upcoming event. Make a mark with a custom gift basket, branded giveaway items or local favors and flair.
Questions are Answered
Looking to evaluate venues? Need to know hotel capacity? Curious about extracurriculars? Our experienced staff is here to answer any questions you have about meeting in Beaumont. Whether you're looking for accommodations, excursions or full itineraries, we can work with you every step of the way to customize a plan for your group.
Restaurants
Food is a major part of the meeting experience with local tastes what sets each region apart. Whether you go with a private caterer, a local restaurant, or food trucks, the options to infuse the taste of the city into your meeting are virtually unlimited. You'll also want to determine if you want food individually packaged, served family-style, plated, or buffet.
Servicing
Take advantage of our full-service event planning. From site selection to program planning, tours and accommodation bids, our services will save you time and money. By utilizing the Beaumont CVB, we can customize your meeting or event through recommended local vendors and experiences to truly get a taste of the town.
Texas Friendly and Bayou Fun
Beaumont is the best of both worlds. Our location on the border of Texas and Louisiana offers attendees a unique taste of Cajun culture in Texas-sized portions. Meeting planners are blessed with Southern hospitality in spades while guaranteeing the memorable good times of Mardi Gras culture. Local touches like Creole cuisine, Zydeco music, and alligator attendees add those special touches that make our region unique.
Unconventional Spaces
From farms to ships, it is time to break out of the ordinary meeting space for good. Discover unexpected venues like the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, a replica 1901 oil city, or the Beaumont Botanical Gardens Center, where you will be immersed in acres of blooming flora and fauna, or historical theatres: for any size, group, or budget.
Visitors
We have a saying in Beaumont that there are no strangers here. When meeting planners choose Beaumont as their host city, we know what an honor it is to have you stay with us and we do not take that lightly. Our visitors are a part of our community, and whether that means meeting with the local muralist, hosting a group of athletes, or inviting the keynote speaker out for a drink, our home is your home.
Weddings
Whether you imagine a stately ballroom, a rustic farmhouse, or anything in between, we have venues of all shapes and sizes for your big day to blow even your princess fairytales out of the water. Looking for a regal church that can hold hundreds or an intimate venue for just your closest friends? Our team is here to help you plan your picture-perfect wedding.
“X” Factor
With southern charm and Texas-size fun, Beaumont is everything you could want from a meeting location. Accessible, affordable, and attentive, Beaumont delivers all of the comforts and service of a larger destination without the hassles of big city traffic, long commutes or parking nightmares. There are quirky attractions like the world's largest working fire hydrant, and a recreated boomtown where oil changed the world forever.
Youth
When meeting in Beaumont, we have more than enough opportunities for youth. Whether you're organizing a youth sports tournament, hosting an all-ages meeting, or simply bringing your family along as an attendee, our family-friendly itineraries have plenty of options for affordable meals and activities for from teens to tweens and everything in-between.
Zydeco
Add some Cajun flair and live music to your meeting! Get a true taste of southeast Texas with a Zydeco band to add a unique opportunity for your guests to enjoy.
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