The Salem Convention Center is ready to roll out the red carpet when we welcome over 400 important visitors for the 2013 Oregon Governor's Conference on Tourism April 14th-16th. The annual conference, which meets each spring, was last held in Salem in 2009. Presented by Travel Oregon, this event is Oregon's premier gathering for tourism professionals, and provides three fun-filled days of networking and immersion in the travel and tourism industry's best practices. Presenters at next week's conference will draw attention to the unique people and places in Oregon that attract businesses and tourism. We are proud to partner with Travel Salem to serve as this year's conference venue. We are teaming up with local businesses to showcase our beautiful city and the many reasons why visitors find Salem and the Willamette Valley so appealing. Our location in the heart of downtown Salem gives attendees convenient access to our historic downtown. In addition to a variety of nearby shops and restaurants, Salem offers a number of attractions including the Riverfront Park and Carousel, Elsinore Theater, Reed Opera House and the State Capitol. Downtown specialty stores feature fine art, apparel and antiques; all within walking distance of the Convention Center. We encourage conference attendees to get out and explore! Convention attendees will also enjoy refined hospitality at the adjoining 193-room Grand Hotel in Salem. To unwind, visitors can choose fine dining in Bentley's Grill, a glass of premium wine in the lounge or an exhilarating workout in the fitness center. There are numerous events and activities planned for our guests including Take a Bite Out of Salem where conference attendees are invited to dine at some of the finest restaurants in the city, including our own, Bentley's Grill! Travel Salem is also welcoming our visitors with complimentary pre-programmed GPS units with tours so they can enjoy the best of what our region has to offer including, wineries, historic museums, gardens, natural attractions, shopping and family-oriented attractions. The staff at the Salem Block are looking forward to making our guests feel welcomed and charmed by our great city!
