Albany is a popular site for conventions, as it combines urban attractions with proximity to recreational opportunities and scenic splendor. The 17,500-seat Pepsi Arena offers more than 55,000 square feet of exhibit space. A covered walkway connects the Pepsi Arena to the Empire State Plaza Convention Center, which houses 80,000 square feet of exhibit space, six meeting rooms, and a 982-seat theater. Construction began in the fall of 2004 on a new convention center and hotel complex. The Albany Convention Center will have 85,000 square feet of exhibition space and the attached hotel will house 400 rooms. At a cost of $185 million, the complex is scheduled for completion in late 2006.
Convention Information: Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau, 25 Quackenbush Square, Albany, NY 12207; telephone (518)434-1217; toll-free (800)258-3582; fax (518)434-0887