KANSAS CITY: THE PREMIER CONFERENCE SPOT
Why book an in-person conference?
In 2021, we’re experiencing a resurgence of in-person meetings, which means the return of company culture, meaningful business relationships and improved communication. Connecting in person allows for in-depth conversations and informal small-talk that often gets lost in texts, emails and phone conversations. It also fuels the emotional investment people place within a company. In fact, customers who feel an emotional relationship to a brand or company have a 306% higher lifetime value and will recommend the company at a rate of 71% – a steep increase from the average rate of 45%.
So, why Kansas City?
From sports to the arts to delicious cuisine, Kansas City is overflowing with culture. Chiefs fans are proud to call Arrowhead Stadium home, as it ranks as one of the loudest football stadiums in the United States. Kansas Citians are biased, but with a great stadium, great fans, and an even better team – going to a game is an incredible pastime (and team bonding activity).
As the city of fountains, guests are greeted by 200+ fountains scattered throughout the city. Not to mention – people travel from all over the world to get a taste of KC BBQ. In terms of places to visit, the Country Club Plaza features tons of local retailers and restaurants, and the area was inspired by the architecture in Seville, Spain. Visitors can also find vibrant nightlife in the Power & Light District; an eight-block entertainment area with restaurants, bars, and live events. For history gurus, Kansas City has beautiful museums, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the National WWI Museum and Memorial.
But what truly makes Kansas City the ideal meeting spot, is its prime geographical location. Kansas City is at the heart of the Midwest – it’s the central meeting point for people traveling across the country and the international airport facilitates over 400 daily flights with direct flights to 50+ cities across the United States.
And, why KCI Expo Center?
The KCI Expo Center is well-known for holding conventions, business meetings, large-scale social events and weddings in the Kansas City Northland area. The convention center features various on-site amenities:
- A 5-minute drive from the airport & a 15-minute drive to downtown
- 70,000 sq. ft. exhibition hall (or two 35,000 sq. ft. halls)
- 10 meeting rooms, ranging in size from 260 sq ft to 6745 sq ft.
- Meeting rooms accommodate 10-650 people with theatre-style seating or 20-350 people with banquet-style seating
- Free shuttle service and an adjacent hotel
- Free ground-level parking
- Full-service catering and on-site restaurant
- Wireless and hard-wired High-Speed Internet, plus LCD projectors, microphones and an in-house sound system
- Exhibit hall equipped with electric, phone and water hookups
Interested in hosting your event at the KCI Expo Center?
To check if your dates are available for booking, or for more information about organizing events at KCI Expo Center, please email us at info@kciexpo.com.
Health and Safety of Our Attendees
In the wake of the most recent news activity involving Coronavirus COVID-19, KCI Expo Center wants to let our attendees know that we are taking precautions to ensure the quality of overall health and wellness at our events. Our number one goal in mind when organizing events and meetings is the safety of our patrons. Taking your health into consideration is an important factor in making sure you stay safe while attending.
Coinciding with statements from the KCMO Health Department and the City of Kansas City, KCI Expo Center acknowledges that there are confirmed cases in the Kansas City metro area, and we are aware of the potential health risk this poses to our attendees. We encourage all of our patrons to practice careful hygiene when considering attending events.
Currently, there are no federal announcements to restrict meetings and travel within the United States. However, there is now a restriction on holding events that expect numbers of patrons exceeding 1,000 in Kansas City. This was issued by Mayor Quinton Lucas and is considered to be a State of Emergency that will be in effect for the next 21 days. Learn more about this proclamation here. Kansas City is a destination to many visitors and the KCI Expo Center will be hosting several events in the coming months, including the RK Gun Show, the Gem and Mineral Show, and several dance competitions. We are still hosting the majority of these events and encourage our patrons to follow standard hygiene practices while attending. The KCMO Health Department recommends visitors to Kansas City and locals to exercise regular hand washing and other sanitization processes. Updates will follow in regards to the cancellation of select events.
For a good reference article for updates and tips on how to deal with coronavirus, check out the statement posted by the City of Kansas City.
For regular updates and additional resources, VisitKC has compiled a list for people visiting or living in Kansas City.
Top 2020 Travel Destinations Leaving From KCI Airport
With the new year comes new goals. Whether that means going to the gym or eating healthier, a top resolution is often making the effort to travel more. At KCI Expo Center, we understand catching the travel bug, especially because our event space is located so close to the KCI airport! This month, we have put together a list of the top travel destinations of the year so you can finally go on your dream vacation. Some places you might have never thought of for yourself! And before you take off, be sure to check out hotels near the Kansas City Airport. We always recommend staying in our adjacent hotel, Holiday Inn KCI Airport.
Maybe you want to travel stateside, or maybe you want to take the next 747 to a far off location somewhere else on the globe. There’s no wrong answer to finding a place for some much deserved rest and relaxation. Check out this list to find unique inspiration for your next trip out of Kansas City:
Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe in California is a beautiful destination all year round. There are picturesque ski slopes for winter, deep blue lakes for summer, and colorful landscapes in the fall. Northern California is rarely thought of when considering the Sunshine State as a part of your vacation plan, but it really should be. The scenery alone is enough to pull your interest. The opportunities for outdoor activities are endless, so if you are a junkie for everything outside, Lake Tahoe is definitely the place for you. Traveling from KCI Airport is easy and effortless, with just one connecting flight before landing in Reno.
Savannah, Georgia
This Georgian town is the perfect destination to experience the old school charm of the Southern United States. With a rich history and culture, Savannah is a beautiful city to vacation in. The story of this town goes all the way back to 1733, so the deep roots here are definitely something to explore. Not only that, Savannah has a nearby beach destination called Tybee Island. Two vacation spots in one? Sign us up. Flights leaving Kansas City International to Savannah are a dime a dozen, with no layovers! We love nonstop flights.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Colorado is well known as a popular vacation spot, usually for other recreational activities, but that’s none of our business! There are many other exciting things that this state holds. Breckenridge is nestled in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado. This town is perfect for a snowy getaway and looks exactly like a Christmas card. Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are included for the most ideal winter vacation. However, if you aren’t a winter weather person, Breckinridge does not fall short in the amount of summer activities. Check out the hot air balloon rides and camping opportunities while you’re there. While Colorado is close enough to make a road trip out of it, we suggest taking the nonstop flight from Kansas City. Not only is it nonstop, but it’s also budget friendly too.
Page, Arizona
Have you ever seen the stunning pictures of rock formations and smooth canyon walls? If you have, this is the city you’re looking for. Page, Arizona is the home of the famous Antelope Canyon. However, to take a tour of this natural wonder, you have to book a guided tour with the Navajo Nation. No exceptions. But that’s not the only Grand Canyon spot to see! This city is right on the edge of Horseshoe Bend, Tower Butte, and the nearby Lake Powell, so there’s plenty of natural beauty to go around. Northern Arizona is perfect for anyone and everyone that wants to take in the majesty of the southwest United States. Don’t forget, half the park is after dark! When flying out of Kansas City International Airport to see this natural wonder of the world, you’ll only have to make one pitstop in Phoenix. Don’t worry, the destination is absolutely worth it.
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit is a famous hub of the Midwest. Known as Motor City, Detroit has a history that is filled with ups and downs, and now the sprawling metropolis is having a comeback. You can explore the colorful downtown area, visit museums, like the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation that showcase the great diversity in industry, or explore the musical history of the city by visiting the Detroit Opera House for a classical performance. During the summer, taking a stroll down the RiverWalk is a must-do. Lining the river is a host of restaurants, shops, parks, and areas for public performances. Detroit might not have been on your list of cities to see in the U.S., but it absolutely should be. Since Detroit is right here in the Midwest, flights out of Kansas City happen almost daily! Check them out to see all of your options.
Quebec City, Canada
Often considered to be the Paris of North America, Quebec stands apart by having an old world and European charm, plus it’s right across the border! This city celebrates its French heritage wholeheartedly, as the language most commonly spoken here is French. Plus, during the winter you can experience the country’s only ice hotel! Since the city is also so close to Niagara Falls, you can experience the Montmorency Falls (these are a whole 30 meters taller than Niagara). There are events for all four seasons which makes Quebec City a great place to visit year round. Luckily, flights from Kansas City’s airport to Quebec City happen year round as well!
Cyprus Island
Step aside, Greece! Cyprus Island is the new seaside Mediterranean destination. It’s perfect for first time international travelers. According to the European Union’s 2012 barometer, 73% of the country speaks English. The weather is beautiful, as the island receives about 300 sunny days a year, so you can keep swimming in that beautiful blue ocean well into October or November! Within Cyprus is the last remaining divided city in the world, the United Nations recognizes one side of the capital city Nicosia as the Republic of Cyprus, while the northern part of the island is still Turkish territory. This can be seen by a buffer zone that runs through the capital. With delicious food, beautiful beaches, lack of tourists, and a rich history, this city is definitely a worthy destination. This might be the longest flight on our list, but we promise Cyprus Island is well worth the wait. Check out the flights headed out of Kansas City International in February!
Jalisco, Mexico
While Jalisco is not a city (it’s a northwestern region in Mexico), this state is most well known as the birthplace of mariachi and tequila. It’s also home to the popular beach destination of Puerto Vallarta and the capital city of Guadalajara. You can experience the true culture in small villages around the capital, or be fully immersed in the many all-inclusive resorts along the coastline. The small town of Tequila, Mexico, aptly named for the many tequila ranches and the blue and gold landscape, can be reached by train and is a designated Pueblo Magico (Magic Town) by the Mexican Secretariat of Tourism. The wonders of Jalisco are truly endless, which makes this region a perfect place for travel. To make finding flight details easier, we suggest departing from Kansas City International and landing in Puerto Vallarta.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland is the northernmost capital in the world. While this may deter some travelers, this slightly chilly climate has an insane amount of potential. The downtown area has a very interesting and artsy scene, bursting with galleries and intimate concert venues. For those with a little bit of an adventurous side, check out the incredible whale watching tours they offer along the coast to see the migrating pods of orcas swimming nearby. Iceland is also known for their geothermal spas, The Blue Lagoon being one of the largest. Kick back and relax just like the Icelandic locals. To sell you even more on this magical destination, this is a perfect location for hunters of the elusive Northern Lights. Luckily for our Kansas City locals, Icelandair offers flights right out of our very own Kansas City International Airport! They might have a quick stop in Seattle, but you’ll quickly be on your way.
Cinque Terre, Italy
When thinking of the coastal fishing towns of Italy, people often think of the Amalfi Coast. While beautiful, we decided to take you away to a quieter, more romantic, and pastel version of these quaint seaside villages. Cars have been almost completely banned from this Italian oasis for decades, making the main mode of transportation the 19th century train line. Go on wine tastings while looking over the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea and take strolls through historic villages filled with life, or visit the beach in Monterosso. This is the perfect string of villages to experience both land and sea, and we highly recommend it. International flights may seem daunting, but flying out of Kansas City International Airport is a breeze.
That wraps up KCI Expo’s list of travel destinations for 2020. We hope you take our advice and jet set your way from the KCI Airport to one of these stunning vacation spots. Don’t forget to send pictures!
Events at KCI Expo: Fall 2019
Fall is here and at the KCI Expo Center, there is something for everyone no matter what your interests. This season we are bringing in many exciting events, vendors, and exhibits for the community to enjoy. Check out who we are hosting in our upcoming events below.
September 2019
Sep. 20-22: Half Price Books Kansas City Clearance Sale
Nothing beats curling up with a new book or movie in the chilly fall season. Your favorite local bookstore, Half Price Books, is setting up shop in the KCI Expo Center this fall to help you find your new favorite fall past time. With a long-lasting tradition of commitment to the community, Half Price Books will be providing a big selection of books, movies, music, and video games with big savings to you. Everything will be $2 or less and the first 100 customers each day will receive a free tote bag. Visit our event page for times, location details, and more information.
October 2019
Oct. 26-27: RK Gun Show
At the end of October, join us for the largest gun show in the U.S. at the KCI Expo Center for the RK Gun Show. Gun collectors and hunting enthusiasts will gather for the weekend to see a wide variety of vendors displaying guns, hunting supplies, military surplus, and outdoor gear. Tickets are $12 for adults and $4 for children, with VIP pricing specials available as well. Safety is a priority for this event and will be handled accordingly. Visit our calendar for more information on this fall event.
November 2019
Nov. 1-3: Shows of Integrity
At this weekend-long event, you will be dazzled with quality gems and jewelry by the Shows of Integrity at the KCI Expo Center. If you are looking for unique, and trendy jewelry styles, this show is for you. Vendors will have gems, minerals, jewelry, and beads on display. Shows of Integrity is always looking for more vendors, wholesale buyers, and dealers to expand their show. Ticket pricing is $6 for adults, $3 for children 5-12, and FREE for children under 5. Check out our event page for show hours and a three day pass ticket special.
Nov. 15-16: 2 Friends and Junk
If you’re always on the hunt for unique vintage pieces you won’t want to miss 2 Friends and Junk at the KCI Expo Center. Vendors from all over will have quality antique pieces full of character that you won’t find anywhere else. This fall event will begin on Nov. 15 at 10:00 am and end on Nov. 16 at 5:00 pm. For directions, vendor information and registration, etc. visit our calendar of events.
More Fall Event Information
Whether you are new to Kansas City or a tourist, be sure to check out surrounding attractions in the Kansas City area. Make it a memorable weekend getaway and maximize your time near the city by booking your stay at our adjacent hotel, just minutes away from KCI Airport.
Do you have a private event you are hosting or exhibit that would be the perfect fit at the KCI Expo Center? Check out our 2019 available dates and contact our team today. Dates are filling up fast and you won’t want to miss out.
Summer Is Almost Over, Start Planning Your Holiday Party
All summer long, it seems as if craft and decor stores are already stocked full with holiday supplies — a season that seems so far away. But now that summer is almost over, the holidays are right around the corner and we want you to be as prepared as possible.
Hosting a holiday party in Kansas City for coworkers, friends, or family is a great way to connect with people and create lasting memories. It will take careful planning and preparation to make your party a success, which can be stressful. At KCI Expo Center, we’re here with helpful preparation tips so that you can enjoy the party with everyone else this season.
Where to Host
For Small- To Medium-Sized Family Gatherings
As the planner, one of the first things you will need to decide is where to host the party. For a small- to medium-sized party for extended family or friends, a community center or meeting space will work great. Finding a space with ample room to let kids run around and play games while the adults can converse is important to remember. This setting also gives your guests the ease of coming and going as needed, and it gives you more flexibility in planning the party you want.
For Medium To Large Business Parties
For larger business parties, a meeting or banquet room would work best. The KCI Expo Center gives you a great space for a corporate holiday party in Kansas City with easy parking, technology-savvy rooms, proximity to the airport, and its adjacent location to the Holiday Inn KCI Airport Hotel. Many businesses choose the KCI Expo Center for their corporate holiday party because of the wide range of space options and decorating services.
If you choose to use a venue outside of your business or home, be sure to book ahead to ensure you can reserve the space. Holiday party spaces book quickly, with many reserved years in advance. We would recommend booking your holiday party space by September or October at the latest.
Theme Ideas
Celebrate the holiday season with a fun theme idea. Corporate holiday parties should feel anything but “corporate.” Having a theme for your holiday party will help employees enjoy the night and experience camaraderie between their coworkers. Think outside of the box with a pet holiday party, holiday movie-themed party, a ski/winter wonderland party theme, etc. Themes can unite a large group and make for a festive and memorable day your guests will never forget. Themes also help to inspire every other aspect of your party from creative decor, food, and activities for your guests at the celebration.
Attire
Casual or formal? Whatever you decide, be sure to communicate the attire expectations when inviting your guests and send out RSVPs so they do not feel out of place. Encourage your guests to get creative with their casual or formal wear. If you are hosting a more laid back social, consider making it an ugly sweater attire theme. Masquerade parties make for a fun twist to a formal setting. With either setting, a fun way to get people involved is nominating the best-dressed person at the event.
Music
An easy way to set the mood for the party is with music. Choose between live music or set up your own music to play. Live music is a great option for a more formal and involved gathering. Research local bands that fit the style and theme of your party and make sure to contact them before the season gets busy and they are booked.
With today’s technology, there are more opportunities to discover the perfect music for the occasion outside of bringing in live musicians. Music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora have unique and pre-made playlists that fit any occasion. These holiday playlists range in categories from pop favorites to jazzy instrumentals. Ensure before the big day arrives that you check to make sure the proper technology is available to support playing your music over the speakers for all to hear.
Food and Beverage
Providing your guests all of the food and beverages for the day can be a big responsibility if taken on alone. You need to make sure there is enough food for everyone that also fits special dietary needs and allergy restrictions. To make things easier for you, consider a catering service for your party. If you decide to go with a theme, figure out a way to make your theme fit your meal and delicious holiday treats.
Make sure to include drink options that are both non-alcoholic and alcoholic so there are options that fit everyone’s preferences. When it comes to alcohol, you want everyone to be merry but also respectful of other guests. This is especially important for corporate and workplace holiday events. Controlling the amount of alcohol served at these parties will make for a healthier party budget and environment. To stay budget-conscious, many businesses opt for wine and beer.
Game Ideas
You might need to break the ice a little at your holiday party, especially if many of the guests are new to the group (i.e. significant others, new co-workers, outside friends, etc.) The opportunities are endless to liven up the party with competitive activities, get to know you games or brain teasers that everyone will enjoy.
Ideas for your corporate holiday party include holiday movie trivia, gift exchanges, holiday-themed awards, and more. Give classic games a holiday twist, like playing the card game “spoons” with candy canes rather than the traditional utensils. If supplies are needed that require guests to bring their own materials, let them know well ahead of time so they aren’t scrambling and show up stressed to your festive party.
In Summary
Planning a holiday party in Kansas City for your business or extended family can be daunting. It is important to ask for help when delegation is needed and start thinking about your plans now to organize a successful get together. Follow our tips to land on the nice list with your guests this upcoming holiday season.
