The hospitality tech provider names 2025’s top cities where meetings mean business
Cvent, an industry-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider, unveiled its 2025 rankings of Top Meeting Destinations and Top Meeting Hotels globally. The annual lists are issued regionally for North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and for the first time this year, Latin America & Caribbean. Cvent also unveiled a new Top Lists category, the Top Venues and Vendors, which analyzes data from the Cvent Vendor Marketplace.
The destination and hotel rankings are determined based on insights gleaned from the more than $18B of global sourcing and request-for-proposal (RFP) activity through Cvent’s sourcing platforms in 2024, including a record-breaking $16.5B through the Cvent Supplier Network, one of the world’s largest group hotel and venue sourcing marketplaces.
Despite a dip in planner optimism due to macroeconomic uncertainty and rising costs, nearly 70% of planners are actively booking or sourcing new events and 63% see events as more valuable than they were pre-pandemic (Northstar/Cvent Meetings Industry PULSE Survey, March 2025). This trend is further supported by Cvent’s 2025 Planner Sourcing Report, which found that nearly 90% of planners expect the number of in-person meetings to increase in 2025.
The Top 10 North American Meeting Destinations for 2025
Orlando, FL once again claimed the top spot, followed by Las Vegas, NV (#2), and Chicago (#3), which rose three spots from last year. Atlanta, GA also moved upwards, rising two spots to #6 on this year’s list. Washington D.C. was the blowout addition to the Top 10 this year, moving up ten places to claim the #8 spot.
1. Orlando, Florida
Holding the crown for the seventh consecutive year, Orlando continues to enchant with its blend of world-class venues and theme park magic. The Orange County Convention Center and over 200 hotels make it a planner’s paradise.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada
Sin City isn’t just for slot machines; it’s a jackpot for meetings too. With over 150,000 hotel rooms and premier venues like the Las Vegas Convention Center, it’s a sure bet for unforgettable events.
3. Nashville, Tennessee
Music City hits the right notes with planners, offering a harmonious blend of southern charm and modern amenities. Venues like the Music City Center and a vibrant music scene make it a chart-topper.
4. Dallas, Texas
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including Dallas’s rise in the rankings. With plans to expand the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center and a surge in hotel developments, it’s a city on the move.
5. San Diego, California
Sun, surf, and successful meetings—San Diego offers a laid-back yet professional atmosphere, perfect for blending business with pleasure.
6. Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City breezes into the top ten with its iconic skyline, diverse venues, and deep-dish hospitality.
7. Atlanta, Georgia
A hub of southern hospitality and modern infrastructure, Atlanta offers a dynamic setting for meetings of all sizes.
8. Denver, Colorado
Elevating its position, Denver’s $233 million expansion of the Colorado Convention Center and commitment to sustainability make it a mile-high favorite.
9. Phoenix, Arizona
With its sunny disposition and state-of-the-art facilities, Phoenix provides a warm welcome to meeting attendees year-round.
10. Austin, Texas
Keeping it weird and wonderful, Austin’s unique culture and booming tech scene make it a hot spot for innovative events.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
Photo by Freepik
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