Why Las Vegas is a Trade Show Mecca

When most folks think of Las Vegas, the first thing that comes to mind is a gambling mecca seated right in the middle of a piping hot desert. I’m sure you would agree, yes? For the most part, that is true, but did you know that Las Vegas the top destination for trade shows?

I’m actually undershooting that just a little. According to the “2015 TSNN Top 250 Trade Shows in the United States” list put out by the Trade Show News Network (TSNN), Las Vegas has held the top spot for more than two decades.

Intel at CES 2014, Las Vegas
photo credit: Intel Free Press / Flickr

Last year alone, Las Vegas played host to more than 50 of the biggest trade shows and conventions in the country. That doesn’t even include the thousands upon thousands of meetings that took place here. Why is it that Las Vegas attracts so many of country’s biggest trade shows? Not surprisingly, the answer can be found in a complex concoction of factors which I’m going to highlight briefly below.

Accommodations

Treasure Island Resort, Las Vegas
photo credit: Cotterpin / Flickr

Even though the City of Lights is surrounded by deserts and scorching temperatures, the city itself keeps a cool demeanor as huge numbers of visitors arrive and depart each day. It is due to the massive number of annual visitors that there are so many motels, hotels, and world-class resorts. In fact, many of the world’s largest hotels (based on room count) are located right on the Strip.

With so much to offer in the way of accommodation, it isn’t hard to find a pool or luxury suite to wipe away the Vegas heat.

Entertainment

Las Vegas Strip
photo credit: AJ Batac / Flickr

For the one-percent of you that might not know, Las Vegas has quickly become the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” and for good reason too! The list of things to see and do is virtually limitless.

First and foremost, Las Vegas is one of the very few cities where gambling is legal. There are more than 40 casinos on the Las Vegas Strip ready and willing to take any money you’re willing to throw. Aside from gambling, the city features hundreds of live shows including dancing, singing, talent, and some that may not be suitable for minors if you catch my drift.

Tradeshow-Friendly

World of Concrete 2015, Las Vegas, Nevada
photo credit: Charles & Hudson / Flickr

Since Las Vegas has been the number one tradeshow destination for so many years (and that’s consecutive years), many tradeshow suppliers have set up shop there to cash in on the popularity. From promotional goods like hats and stress balls to Las Vegas exhibition stands, tradeshow vendors can easily find whatever they need to become a strong presence. Las Vegas also boasts an abundance of convention halls, meeting halls, and venues.

Food

Dinner at Ruth's Chris
photo credit: Yelp Inc. / Flickr

It shouldn’t be surprising at all to learn that Las Vegas is home to a plethora of eateries ranging from cheap-n-easy fast food to luxurious dining experiences. Whether you’re a high roller dropping hundred-dollar tips, or a frugal family just looking for a bite to eat, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a tasty meal to enjoy after a long day. Enjoying a great dinner on the Las Vegas Strip amongst the neon lights is an experience like no other.

Takeaway

Ranging from entertainment shows to the eateries, you can find nearly almost everything in Las Vegas. Its nicknames – Sin City, City of Lights, The Gambling Capital of the World, and so on – seem to accurately describe of what the city can offer you; however, it’s not truly complete without adding a new nickname to the city: The Trade Show Mecca.

Las Vegas deserves the title much more that many think, given the numerous events and venues available in the city – which is why you, as a business owner, should consider in taking a part of, either as a participant or visitor.