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The Venue & Location - Plan Your Stay!
Asheville for the Independent Explorer
A getaway that blends networking, nature, and nightlife
Perched atop Sunset Mountain, the Omni Grove Park Inn is more than just the conference venue—it’s a retreat for the senses. Built in 1913, the resort’s grand stone architecture and sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views make it one of America’s most celebrated historic hotels. Between conference sessions, unwind in the award-winning subterranean spa, known for its underground grotto pools, waterfalls, and candlelit caverns.
When you’re ready to explore, Asheville is a city built for the curious and creative. The Downtown Arts District and River Arts District brim with local studios, street murals, and live music. For craft beer lovers, Asheville’s “Beer City USA” reputation is well-earned—over 50 breweries, from Wicked Weed to Highland Brewing, make it a tasting adventure.
Outdoor enthusiasts can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike Craggy Gardens, or chase panoramic views at Chimney Rock State Park. At sunset, return to the Grove Park’s terrace for cocktails with one of the best mountain views in the South.
Whether you’re here to connect with peers, indulge in luxury, or recharge in the mountains, Asheville offers the perfect blend of sophistication, creativity, and adventure.
Asheville for Families
A mountain escape filled with fun, discovery, and relaxation for all ages
For families joining the Georgia Engineers Summer Conference, the Omni Grove Park Inn makes it easy to mix business with memory-making. The resort offers spacious rooms, outdoor pools, tennis courts, and kid-friendly dining—all framed by spectacular mountain scenery. The historic Grovewood Village, just steps from the Inn, features art studios, a sculpture garden, and the Antique Car Museum, a hit with kids and adults alike.
Beyond the resort, Asheville overflows with family-friendly attractions. Visit the iconic Biltmore Estate, where children can tour the grand mansion, pet farm animals, and explore acres of gardens and trails. Discover the Asheville Museum of Science, the WNC Nature Center, or the Asheville Pinball Museum for indoor fun. Stroll the Botanical Gardens at Asheville, picnic by the French Broad River, or ride the Asheville Trolley Tour to see the city in comfort.
Dining is easy for families, with everything from wood-fired pizza at White Duck Taco Shop to classic Southern comfort food at Tupelo Honey Café.
Whether your crew prefers hiking and exploring or relaxing poolside while you attend sessions, Asheville and the Grove Park Inn offer a welcoming balance of excitement and serenity—ensuring everyone leaves with stories to tell.
Asheville for Everyone
History, mystery, culture, and unforgettable experiences—no matter your interests
Asheville’s greatest strength is its ability to offer something meaningful for everyone in your group, whether they crave history, storytelling, food, art, or a little mystery after dark. A must-see for first-time visitors and longtime fans alike is the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately owned home. Built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, the estate pairs architectural grandeur with expansive gardens, a working winery, and miles of scenic grounds—making it equally appealing to history buffs, casual explorers, and those who simply want a beautiful place to wander.
For something a little more spirited, the Asheville Ghost Tour offers an evening walk through downtown’s historic streets, sharing well-documented stories of Asheville’s past, legendary characters, and long-standing local lore. It’s a popular option for groups looking for entertainment that’s fun, memorable, and rooted in real history rather than jump scares.
Art lovers and casual browsers alike will enjoy the River Arts District, home to hundreds of working artists’ studios housed in former industrial buildings along the French Broad River. Live demonstrations, galleries, and cafés make it an easy, low-pressure stop for all ages and interests. Downtown, the Asheville Art Museum showcases rotating exhibitions alongside a strong focus on regional and Appalachian artists.
Music, food, and performance round out the experience. Catch a show at the historic Orange Peel, consistently ranked among the best live music venues in the country, or explore local flavors at the Asheville City Market, where local farmers, bakers, and makers gather in the heart of downtown.
From stately mansions and mountain views to ghost stories, galleries, and great food, Asheville makes it easy for every attendee—and every travel companion—to find an experience that feels tailor-made.
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