Beneath the twinkle of Las Vegas’ neon-lit skyline is a growing urge toward mindfulness and inclusivity.
It’s reflected in a growing number of cultural museums, sprawling green spaces, and a number of diversity initiatives. If you’re looking for a destination that is striving for inclusivity and mindfulness, here are a few reasons why Las Vegas may be worth your time.
Meetings Diversity
Las Vegas neighborhood’s are among the most diverse in the nation, and local hotels and resorts are building this sense of inclusivity deeper into their MICE mentality as well. Caesars Entertainment recently added a diversity and inclusion role to their meetings team that complements the company’s social impact and sustainability programs. Wynn Resorts, meanwhile, recently hosted its second women’s leadership forum, “Women Who Thrive,” that brought together local female professionals of various disciplines who blazed a trail of equality in the workplace. And when it comes to creating space for diversity, planners can connect with diversity groups by working with Las Vegas chambers of commerce.
The Last Straw for Single-Use Plastics
Research shows that more than ever before attendees are looking for destinations that align with their values. One value that is gaining momentum is the conscientious handling of event waste. MGM Resorts has said it’s the last straw for single-use plastics to this regard. Straws will only be available upon request across its restaurants, which will eventually remove more than 250,000 straws a day from landfills and waterways. InterContinental Hotels Group, Marriott International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Hyatt Hotels have launched similar initiatives.
Mindful Eco Adventures
If thrilling eco adventures are your group’s bag, consider venturing away from the city lights with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour with views of Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam before landing in the canyon for a green meeting brunch. Another pre- or post-event adventure could find groups hopping onto ATVs, the desert air roaming through their hair, during a trek through the Valley of Fire, Nevada’s oldest state park, or exploring the area chill-style aboard The Desert Princess with Lake Mead Cruises. During a jaunt on the Mississippi-style paddle wheeler, groups will sip champagne to the sights of an extinct volcano, the colorful Paint Pots and Hoover Dam.
LEED Venues
The LEED Platinum-certified Springs Preserve is a wellspring for mindful moments with nature trails, gardens to meet and greet in and outdoor state-of-the-art amphitheaters spread across 180 acres. Groups are sure to find their Zen through gardening and horticulture workshops, or art exhibits with creative takes on local flora and fauna. The new T-Mobile Arena is LEED Gold-certified, as are the Venetian, Sands Expo, Palazzo, Wynn Las Vegas, Aria Resort & Casino and Encore Resort, among others.
