Unlock The Keystone State
By Kate Zaliznock
Eastern Pennsylvania offers a compelling blend of pivotal history and forward-thinking innovation, making it an exceptional choice for meeting profs seeking a destination that guarantees memorable experiences for attendees on any budget. The region boasts a variety of unique locations, from the iconic streets of Philadelphia, rich with Colonial-era landmarks and cultural attractions, to the charming, small-town ambiance of Lancaster.
Add to this the dynamic downtown district of Scranton, with its vibrant arts scene and accessible amenities, and it becomes clear that Eastern Pennsylvania provides the perfect backdrop for meetings and events of all sizes with its mix of urban sophistication and rustic charm.
Top Contacts
Philadelphia CVB
Eva Misher, general sales inquiries
ConvSales@discoverPHL.com | discoverphl.com
Lancaster Convention Center
Jacyn Thompson, director of convention sales
jacyn.thompson@aimhosp.com | lancasterconventioncenter.com
Vallery Forge Tourism
Lisa Karl, vice president of sales and strategic partnerships
karl@valleyforge.org | valleyforge.org
5 Reasons Meeting Profs Love Eastern PA
- More value for your budget. The combination of a low cost of living with high quality of life means your dollar goes further.
- Old World charm. Some of the most notable historic locations in the United States, including Gettysburg, Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park in King of Prussia and Fort Hamilton in The Poconos are must-sees.
Read More: New and Renovated: History at Heart
- Beautiful landscapes. Postcard-perfect locations such as Brandywine Valley, Lake Nockamixon, the Lancaster County countryside and French Creek State Park offer visitors delightful opportunities to enjoy sublime nature and Insta-backdrops.
- Sports and entertainment. No shortage of opportunities to take in the big game or enjoy an A-level concert here. MLB’s Phillies and the NFL’s Eagles lead the charge for professional teams, and recent musical headliners include Taylor Swift, Beyonce, ZZ Top and John Legend.
- Access. Centrally located between major metropolitan hubs like New York City and Washington, D.C., there isn’t a better launchpad than this destination for an incentive or secondary event.
5 Places to Meet
Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia has over 11,000 hotel rooms within walking distance, and its state-of-the-art facility is centrally located for maximized convenience.
Over 1 million sq. ft. of flexible of meeting space, with 7 exhibit halls and 82 meeting rooms.
Read More: Pennsylvania: All Aboard on the Road to Philly
Lancaster County Convention Center at Penn Square was renovated in 2019 and now features elegantly classic designs that include wood paneling and leather furniture. The location also offers rooms and suites for on-site accommodations.
90,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 416 guest rooms.
Desmond Hotel Malvern, a DoubleTree by Hilton is only eight miles from Valley Forge National Historic Park and offers an indoor pool as well as pickleball, tennis and basketball courts.
20,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 194 guest rooms.
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions–PA offers meeting profs unparalleled F&B options, a water park and an entertainment center alongside its impressive convention and meetings space.
84,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 977 guest rooms.
Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square features a preserved peek into the Underground Railroad and is within walking distance of several other historic sites, year-round entertainment and delectable dining options.
90,000 sq. ft. of meeting space; 416 guest rooms.
This article appears in the January 2025 issue. You can subscribe to the magazine here.
