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One of the country’s leading meetings destinations is about to get even better as its downtown events and entertainment district undergoes a dramatic transformation. As part of the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) Authority’s 2020 Vision, Atlanta’s convention campus will, by next year, see significant developments, including an additional million-plus square feet of exhibit space at the city’s convention center and a $27-million re-envisioning of the nearby Centennial Olympic Park.
“2020 Vision is the single largest development Atlanta’s convention business has experienced since the opening of Georgia World Congress Center in 1976,” said Mark Vaughan, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau’s executive vice president and chief sales officer. “The new additions to the GWCC campus continue to position the city positively for new business and allow us to adapt to expanding convention needs as home to the fourth-largest convention center in the country.”
The 1.4 million-square-foot GWCC — including its two exhibit halls, 106 meeting rooms, and two grand ballrooms — will double its contiguous, multiuse exhibit space to more than 1.1 million square feet. Architectural updates to the property include new carpeting, terrazzo flooring, and more natural lighting.
Exhibit Hall B of Georgia World Congress Center
Elsewhere on the campus, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium — home of the NFL Atlanta Falcons and host of the recent Super Bowl LIII — is upping its game. Adjacent to the stadium and convention center is the newly opened Home Depot Backyard — another eco-friendly meeting option. The 11-acre outdoor multipurpose event venue features unique arts, entertainment, and cultural experiences that bring together local residents and visitors.
A highly anticipated, luxury Hilton brand convention center hotel is expected to open in 2022 on the northwest corner of the campus. The 1,000-room property is scheduled to break ground later this year and will be located on the former site of the Georgia Dome. And across the street, Centennial Olympic Park is getting a makeover, with revitalized green space — including added pathways and plazas throughout — improved sight lines, and new entryways.
Watch the accompanying video for more information on the latest updates to Atlanta’s meetings and events district.