Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, NC

Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina. It sits in Wake County and is referred to as the "City of Oaks.'' The reason for the nickname is due to the oak trees which surround the city and exist in its forests. Despite being the capital, Raleigh is the second largest city in the state. Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham create the Research Triangle. It is a hub known for its growing businesses, scientific research, and textile development. Biotech research is very prominent in Raleigh. Duke University, one of the leading research colleges in the US, is stationed in Raleigh.

There are numerous reasons why vacationers and business travelers may visit Raleigh. One of those reasons is the events the city offers. The Raleigh Convention Center, built in 2008, hosts many events annually. The building is 500,000 square feet. Within the square footage mentioned there are 20 meeting rooms inside the center. Residents can rent one room or more when needed. In fact there can be 20 different meetings held in one day if necessary.

The facilities also include a ballroom, reception area, and an open floor space for larger conventions. The lobby of the facility has floor to ceiling windows allowing the North Carolina sun through. There is also a 4,100 square foot mezzanine overlooking the exhibit hall.

At any one time the convention center may have 50 to 5,000 groups of individuals hosting their occasions. Most common reasons for the use of the convention center are: trade shows, conferences, and conventions.

Their mission is to ensure Raleigh residents have a facility, amenities, and services that are needed for meetings and events. The Raleigh Convention Center also wants to provide a place of culture for their growing city.

Events that will be held at the Raleigh Convention Center for 2009 include:

A Veterinary Graduation Reception (May)

Strut '09 (May)

NGS Family History Conference (May)

Latin American Women's Club (May)

JJAG Enterprises LLC (June)

New Schools Project Summer Institute (June)

Tekawitha Conference (June)

Korean American Scientists and Engineers Association (July)

This is just a highlighted list of events the convention center holds in a year. Businesses, private clubs, schools, and private residents can book the convention center for any need they have.

Raleigh Convention Center has a staff that can be hired to oversee all events being planned. If a group needs coffee, a specific arrangement for booths, technical support, and other services, the convention center can offer it.

For any business personnel or vacationer traveling to the convention center for a conference there are hotels in the surrounding area. The Raleigh Marriott City Center and Sheraton Raleigh Hotel are within walking distance of the Raleigh Convention Center. The center is 20 minutes from the Raleigh Durham Airport, which services international flights and the 50 states. Onsite at the Raleigh Convention Center is parking. Visitors may also reach the Performing Arts Center Deck or downtown Raleigh from the area. Restaurants provided in the area offer more than just convention food if needed.