The convention center was built several years ago and has been a welcome addition to the city. I've been to several events here and have always thought they did a good job. It's open and airy and easy to navigate. The South Sound has needed something like this for a long time.
I was here for part of a weekend event. I noticed that there were staff people moving through almost constantly, checking on water, removing trash, clearing used dishes, just keeping the place clean. Other venues I've been in did not have this happening!The meal service, for 400 people, was in buffet lines, and moved very quickly. Having stood in some interminable lines, I was very impressed. New trays and bowls of food kept appearing, so everyone got all the choices, not just what was left. Biggest complaint I heard was that the brownies were too popular!
The newish and shiny Convention Center was across the street from Hotel Murano (also recommended) which streamlined this biz trip, significantly. The northern and eastern-facing walls are nearly all glass which kept the common areas filled with light on this sunny day! The catering was the best large group food I've had, especially for a group of 500+! I've never raved about convention food before, and must this time! Breakfast included freshly sliced mixed fruit cups and yogurt; lunch included choice of perfectly baked salmon, chicken or beef, freshly-steamed broccolini w/roasted red peppers, and roasted red potatoes ALL served still warm, plus a wonderful fresh, mixed greens salad; and the afternoon snack was also healthy fresh fruit and vegetables, pita w/hummus. Two items for improvement: HAVE VISIBLE RECYLCING BINS, and select a different coffee provider. Great venue, overall!
Very nice facility, but not enough washrooms. Line up during every break. Not sure who catered our meetings, but the food was cold and not very good.
I have been to several centers and I like the way this one was designed. Escalators are in just the right places and plenty of facilities.
It is a very beautiful convention and trade center. most of them can be quite boring but not this one. modern, clean and the staff always helpful. have been to many functions there and have alway been pleased...
Was disappointed that there was no food places in the center open when we was there. No pop machines etc. Parking was hard to figure out...many in the group thought parking was $10 a hour due to the reading of the signs. I was trying to find the handicap parking and only after I had parked in another spot and walking in did I see it. Portland's Convention center parking was easy and right under the center so easier to park and walk into.
I have attended several meetings and conventions here and don't see anything special about it. Lots of conference rooms and mediocre shops and food places downstairs. A plus is that it's within easy walking distance of the Washington history museum.
I never thought of Tacoma as a place to bring a convention, but that's what I went for, and what a great venue. HUGE spaces. Clean, like it just opened. The food was sub-par for what you pay ( gourmet grill 5th level ) easy access, friendly staff.
This is a big beautiful facility downtown with awesome views of Mt Rainier from the upper floors.You'll need lots of escalator time to find your venue, but once your in the building, it's easy.And then there's parking. It's reasonably priced, but get on their site to find the right entrance to your garage. Otherwise, there's more elevator time. Again, probably not a big deal, but any booth loading or handicapped visitor issues - plan ahead.