CHICAGO — When you think of Baltimore, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
Do you think of the $7-billion reinvestment project that’s underway in the city? Or the planned modernization projects happening at the convention center?
With new leadership at the city’s DMO, Visit Baltimore, as Kireem Swinton was appointed as President and CEO, and a renewed energy to position Charm City as a premier destination for trade shows and events, Baltimore’s future is looking bright.
The Baltimore Convention Center
Coming in at No. 48 in Trade Show Executive’s (TSE) World’s Top Convention Center 2025 directory for its 300,000 square feet of prime exhibit space, the Baltimore Convention Center (BCC) is well-positioned with upcoming modernization projects planned to enhance its space.
The facility, which first opened in 1979 and was expanded in 1996, has focused its renovation projects around safety, functionality and reliability. Planned upgrades for the future include software, expanded strobe coverage and a redesigned command center to ensure the BCC meets current industry standards.
And while operational and safety upgrades have been the essential focus, the BCC team is also focused on enhancing the guest experience.
“The BCC is currently renovating 10 exhibit hall restrooms originally built during the 1996 expansion,” said Mac Campbell, CVE, Executive Director of the BCC. “These spaces are being updated both aesthetically and functionally with a modern design, improved lighting, upgraded ventilation, refreshed color palettes, new stalls and other enhancements. Clients have already shared positive feedback, noting that these improvements make the facility feel more welcoming, comfortable and contemporary.”
The BCC has also recently installed new elevators, completed a full-scale overhaul of the venue’s network and communications infrastructure with Hospitality Network, and is in the early stages of installing digital signage throughout the facility.
“These additions will not only create a more vibrant and modern atmosphere but will also provide clients with new opportunities to showcase branding, messaging, sponsorships and event communications throughout their shows,” Campbell said.
The BCC team is currently working to begin the study and planning phases of other interior enhancements including new carpeting, updated cosmetic finishes and a refreshed branding initiative for the venue.
“Planners should be excited about the long-term trajectory of the facility and the opportunities these future improvements will bring,” Campbell said. “As we move through the various phases of modernization and planning, our priority continues to be delivering a seamless and successful experience for every event taking place in the building today while also preparing for the future.”
Aside from upcoming modernization projects, the convention center’s location is also a draw. Baltimore’s overall reputation in healthcare and research makes it a desirable city for medical, biotech and life science events, with globally recognized institutions like Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland Medical System and Shock Trauma located nearby.
The connectivity in the downtown area is also a plus for organizers looking to provide attendees with a walkable host city.
“One thing organizers often underestimate about hosting events in Baltimore is how connected, accessible and well-supported the destination is — especially when it comes to attendee safety and ease of navigation,” Campbell said. “The BCC is located in the heart of downtown, allowing attendees to walk conveniently between hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and nearby attractions without needing extensive transportation. That level of connectivity not only creates a more seamless attendee experience, but also helps organizers feel confident in the overall flow and accessibility of their event.
“Our team works closely with local partners, public safety officials, hotels and community resources to help clients plan successful events and ensure attendees feel informed, comfortable and supported throughout their stay. Beyond the logistics, organizers are often surprised by Baltimore’s vibrant culinary and entertainment scene, rich history and the overall value the city offers compared to many larger convention destinations.”
A City Experiencing Transformation
While upgrades to the BCC are being planned, the city itself is also undergoing a fundamental transformation. Billions of dollars of private and public investment supporting redevelopments across the downtown and waterfront areas of the city promise to enhance the visitor experience. Redevelopment efforts in the Inner Harbor are slated to begin in the fall of 2026.
“Developments like Baltimore Peninsula, a 250-acre waterfront district with new retail, hospitality and community spaces, are redefining what’s possible in South Baltimore,” Swinton said. “Harbor Point continues to grow as a mixed-use waterfront neighborhood connecting the Inner Harbor to Fells Point, and The Walk @ Warner Street is adding a dynamic entertainment district with new venues and gathering spaces.”
There are also improvements happening at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, M&T Bank Stadium and CFG Bank Arena that will enhance the fan experience with upgraded amenities and provide more opportunities for corporate meetings and events in the iconic venues.
Leveraging Charm City Culture to Attract Business
Baltimore’s Warm Welcome initiative, which is designed to promote inclusivity and exceptional hospitality regardless of race, gender identity, nationality, ethnicity or disability, was designed to establish the city as a top destination for everyone.
The city’s welcoming culture has proven to be a draw for groups, with it recently hosting the National Society of Black Engineers, the International Association of Venue Managers, the CIAA, the BEYA STEM Conference, the Association of Writers and Writing Programs 2026 Conference and Bookfair, and the most recent TSE Fastest 50 Awards & Summit.
Related. Trade Show Executive’s Fastest 50 Awards & Summit Celebrates Growth in Charm City
“Earlier this year, we secured the National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners for 2030 and the Religious Conference Management of America for 2028. Looking ahead, Baltimore will host the ASAE Annual Meeting in 2033,” Swinton said. “The momentum isn’t slowing down. We are looking forward to welcoming the Islamic Circle of North America in May 2026, Jack and Jill of America and the Church of God in Christ AIM Convention in July 2026, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in August 2026. Looking ahead to 2027, we are thrilled to host Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, the National Medical Association and the Association for Asian American Studies.”
Baltimore also leans into its small business community to bring local flair to event-goers’ experiences in the city.
“Our small business and creative communities are the absolute heartbeat of Baltimore. We find that when we introduce our community to our customers, event organizers instantly want to bring that local magic to their attendees. We weave small businesses into everything we do,” Swinton said. “We also make sure they have a seat at the table during conference planning so they can prepare for incoming conventions, enhance the attendee experience and capitalize on the opportunity for a good first impression. In fact, we have small business owners on our Board of Directors to ensure they help guide our decisions for the good of the tourism industry.”
Creating Seamless Experiences for Event Organizers
The teams at Visit Baltimore and the BCC work together to ensure that event organizers are able to deliver seamless experiences for their attendees — and that starts with bringing high value without breaking budgets.
The convention center is committed to being a flexible solution-oriented partner to ensure organizers can adapt their plans in a fast-evolving economic and political landscape.
“Our catering partner, Levy, prioritizes locally sourced vendors to bring an authentic taste of Baltimore to every event, while Projection, our preferred in-house AV provider, offers full-service support without the added cost and logistics of shipping materials across the country,” Campbell said.
In addition, the BCC works closely with Visit Baltimore, local hotels and service partners to create customized packages, discounts and incentives that align with each client’s goals and budget.
“Baltimore proves that you can deliver high-end experiences on an affordable budget. We offer world-class arts and culture experiences through our many free museums and galleries,” Swinton said. “Visitors can enjoy incredible dining at any price point and find one-of-a-kind entertainment simply by walking our historic neighborhoods. With Charm City, you get premium value, deep culture and first-rate venues without the high price tag.”
The city’s “Save More in Baltimore” incentive also helps planners save money that can then be reinvested into their event experience.
“We also focus heavily on service. Our BaltiMORE Award recognizes excellence in our local workforce, building a deep sense of pride that inspires the whole community,” Swinton said. “Through our free ‘Charm City Certified’ online platform, we provide customer service and destination training for frontline staff, knowing that great hospitality shapes a visitor’s entire perception of the city.”
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Featured Image Credit: Ken Stanek, Ken Stanek Photography
