A city with the right infrastructure, interesting sights, and exciting activities should be at the top of the list when choosing where to host a trade show. The US is home to a wide variety of influential trade shows, but those mentioned in this article seem to be in destinations that are known for more.
Trade shows are a crucial part of business development and networking. They offer an opportunity for businesses to showcase their brands, products and services. Connecting with potential customers and partners is also an important aspect of trade shows.
Sometimes, where a trade show is held determines the audience that attends. Trade shows in cities that people are excited to visit result in high attendance numbers.
While attendance at trade shows has not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, it is on the rise and expected to be back to pre-pandemic levels within the next year or two. So, where are the best spots for trade shows in the US? Here is a countdown of the top 5 trade show destinations in the US.
#5 Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a major transportation and logistics hub, as well as a center for the film and television industry. It’s also a popular destination for trade shows in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and packaging. Atlanta boasts a walkable convention and entertainment district which is an attractive trait for people attending a trade show.
The Georgia World Congress Center, located in downtown Atlanta, offers over 1.4 million square feet of exhibition space. Some of the top events held in Atlanta include the International Woodworking Fair, the International Home & Housewares Show, and MODEX (the supply chain and logistics trade show).
#4 New York, New York
New York City is a global business and cultural capital, so it’s not surprising that it’s also a major trade show destination. Real estate comes at a premium in New York, so most convention spaces tend to be smaller, however the Javits Center was recently renovated and is now one of the largest convention centers in the country with 3.3 million square feet of space.
Some of the top events held in New York include the International Beauty Show, the New York International Auto Show, and the National Retail Federation (NRF) Big Show.
#3 Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a hub for a wide variety of industries, including manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. It is also home to world-class dining, popular attractions, and interesting culture.
Chicago is home to McCormick Place convention center, which has over 2.6 million square feet of exhibition space. Some of the major trade shows held in Chicago include the National Restaurant Association Show, the International Manufacturing Technology Show (MTS), and the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) Annual Meeting.
#2 Orlando, Florida
Orlanda is a top trade show destination particularly for events in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. It offers over 130,000 hotel rooms and getting around Orlando is easy with so many transit options.
The Orange County Convention Center is one of the largest in the country, with over 2 million square feet of exhibition space. Popular events held in Orlando include The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo, the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Conference, and the PGA Merchandise Show.
#1 Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is the unrivaled king of trade show destinations in the US. With its world-class convention center and abundance of hotels and entertainment options, it’s no surprise that it hosts over 22,000 conventions and trade shows each year! Who wouldn’t want to visit Las Vegas if given the chance?
Expansion and construction is always moving forward in Las Vegas. The “newest” and “most state of the art” technology is always at the forefront, giving it an advantage over those cities not as concerned with advancing technology.
Some of the biggest events held in Las Vegas include the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) International Builders’ Show, and the National Hardware Show.
Destination matters when choosing where to host a trade show to make it a success. Reach out to Earnest Images for any of your trade show needs!
