MICE Focus: Seattle

With the news that Singapore Airlines added Seattle to its network of non-stop services from Singapore to the US today, I thought now would now be a good time to put a spotlight on the city-port’s thriving MICE industry but putting together a list of its top hotels and conference centres.

Washington State Conference Centre

First up we have, what I think, is the primo event space of the Emerald City. Found in Seattle’s bustling downtown area the ultra modern and high-tech Washington State Convention Centre,  is within easy reach of the city’s best restaurants. These include 17 recipients of the coveted James Beard Awards — so delegates are in no-short supply of options when it comes to filling their bellies with all manner exciting food stuffs including the artisanal baked goods of Sea Wolf Bakers, just ten minutes away.

Comprised of 21832sqm in exhibition space, 4087sqm of prime ballroom real estate, as well as 67 meeting areas  and function rooms, this centre is backed up by a well-drilled technical team; cutting-edge audio/visual technology, including video projection, LED walls, plasma rentals, teleprompting, audio packages and lighting systems, to give your event the necessary sparkle and glamour to make an impact on attendees.

Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

For a more luxurious take, event planners could do a lot worse than taking a look at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle. This striking venue is full of chic, spacious and versatile meeting spaces.

Indeed, Four Seasons has more than 980sqm of function space — all  conveniently grouped on the second floor. All of these rooms are enhanced by the properties floor-to-ceiling windows which fill each space with sunlight and panoramic views of Elliott Bay and Puget Sound. 

The Ballroom accommodates up to 500 guests under a soaring ceiling. For events with up to 140 guests, the Sycamore Room features views of Elliott Bay and the city. Four other function rooms are flexible for groups of up to 100. An outdoor terrace adjacent to the Hotel is available for receptions, intimate cocktail parties, breakfasts, lunches and dinners. 

Bell Harbor International Conference Centre

Bell Harbor International Conference Centre is located on Pier 66 in the heart of Seattle’s waterfront, with a capacity for up to 6,000 guests and dramatic views of downtown Seattle and Puget Sound, the seaside property is a real MICE hotspot, featuring 9290sqm of meeting space which can accommodate up to 200 trade show booths. 

As an International Association of Conference Centres (IACC) certified conference centre in Washington State, Bell Harbour guarantees planners state-of-the-art technology, ergonomically designed chairs, and dedicated conference rooms — most with natural light and amazing waterfront views.

A highlight of the centre is the 300 seater Bay Auditorium. Designed as an amphitheatre, the auditorium offers a focused environment and professional ambience and includes the latest audiovisual equipment and lighting, Herman Miller executive chairs and surround sound.