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The Reno-Sparks Convention Center recently underwent a $10 million remodel. (Photos courtesy of Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority)
Positioning itself as a top destination for large events, Reno Tahoe is making significant investments in its meetings offerings. Several resorts and hotels in the area have undergone millions of dollars’ worth of renovations, and the Reno-Sparks Convention Center recently saw a $10 million refresh, including updates to its interior design, as well as new technology to create a more seamless experience for planners and attendees.
“In the events industry, I am in and out of convention spaces regularly, and so I was thrilled when I walked into the Reno-Sparks Convention Center for the first time after the recent remodel,” said Brynna Nichols, director of business operations at the Reno-based Red Carpet Events & Design. “The remodel added the professional, modern aesthetic that event planners seek for their clients. I am proud to offer this venue as a viable option to our discerning clientele.”
The newly refurbished conference center is now equipped with upgraded technology, new carpeting and interior signage, and fresh paint.
The newly refurbished conference center, which offers 600,000 square feet of single-level exhibition and meeting space, is now equipped with upgraded technology, including a $1.3 million Wi-Fi upgrade (accommodating 5G speeds for up to 25,000 people), new carpeting and interior signage, and fresh paint. The exhibit hall lighting was replaced with LED bulbs and skylight obstructions were reduced to let in more natural light. All of the primary restrooms were refurbished, with new ramp sinks, tiles, and countertops, and the kitchen and concession areas underwent $500,000 in upgrades, meaning better food and better presentation.
In addition, the convention center will soon have new furniture; additional LED lighting in the remaining concourse, public areas, and meeting rooms; and updated exterior signage. Plus, the venue isn’t the only Reno meeting space getting an upgrade. The Row, a mega-resort destination in downtown Reno, recently underwent $50 million in improvements, including the addition of the 21,000-square-foot Spa at Silver Legacy — now northern Nevada’s largest luxury spa — and the nearby 1,900-room Grand Sierra underwent $100 million in renovations to the guest rooms, pool, and more.
Reno Tahoe resorts also are making it more convenient for meeting planners by keeping third-party commissions at 10 percent as other major hotel groups cut commissions. Venues that plan to keep commissions at 10 percent include The Row, the Grand Sierra, the recently renovated Nugget Casino Resort in Sparks, the 824-room Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, the 928-room Harrah’s Reno Hotel & Casino, the 1,621-room Peppermill Resort Spa Casino, and the 310-room Whitney Peak.
“Meeting planners play an integral role in the process of securing group business,” Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority Vice President of Sales Mike Larragueta previously told PCMA. “Reno Tahoe hoteliers recognize the value and expertise planners bring to this industry and will continue offering adequate incentives for the foreseeable future.”
The remodeled Reno-Sparks Convention Center offers 600,000 square feet of single-level exhibition and meeting space.
