Samantha Gutting, chief sales officer for Explore Branson (Mo.), presented “The T3 Advantage: Exclusive Experiences in Third-Tier Cities” at MPI’s 2024 World Education Congress (WEC)—where Explore Branson was the exclusive sponsor of the “Craft Your Experience” theme.
We spoke with her about what’s new for meeting planners in Branson and taking attendees beyond “sitting and being inside” syndrome.
What’s new in Branson that would be of interest to meeting planners?
The Hiltons of Branson are undergoing an extensive refresh. The Hilton Promenade, a boutique hotel located on Branson Landing Center just steps from the Branson Convention Center, is close to completion on its modern luxury remodel, with the completion expected this summer. The Hilton Convention Center hotel is slated for its refresh in 2025. The combined investment of the Hilton properties refresh is over $10 million.
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena is officially opening this summer after a decade in planning and development. What is quickly becoming known as America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater is a one-of-a-kind immersive outdoor experience.
The mission behind this beautiful amphitheater is to not only share the beauty of the Ozarks with the world, but to further the conservation mission of Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shops family of outfitters, as all of the buildings and infrastructure are permanently set aside as part of a non-profit foundation that is committed to advancing the cause of conservation. All net proceeds will go toward supporting conservation and further enhancing the venue. Guests can experience world-class live entertainment as well as experience a centuries old barn, a variety of food and beverage options, VIP suites and corporate meeting spaces.
Can you tell us about a recent successful event that was held in Branson that showcased the area’s versatility as a meeting and event destination?
Branson has a Customer Advisory Board (CAB) that is comprised of people from across the U.S. representing all verticals of the meeting industry. We brought this diverse group of professionals together for two-and-a-half days to experience the range of offerings available to planners and attendees.
From engaging in networking, dinner and live music lakeside directly across from the hotel and convention center to participating in high-level moderated meetings, enjoying unique culinary options—both in venue and food—as well as enjoying golf at one of the world’s top golf courses and enjoy a two-and-a-half-hour-long private excursion on a catamaran, the CAB was able to truly experience an unexpected cu-rated event in Branson where friendships and memories of a lifetime were made.
Can you tell us about a trend that’s having a big impact on events?
Branson has three pristine lakes and the CVB works frequently with the Army Corp of Engineers to coordinate environmental CSR projects. This allows attendees to be outside in the beautiful Ozarks or even on the water participating in shoreline cleanup and can culminate in a private afternoon cruise on a catamaran or paddle boarding or a picnic by the lake. It’s a nice way to break up the “sitting and being inside” syndrome!
Photos courtesy Explore Branson.