WASHINGTON, DC — Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, reinforced its commitment to attracting meetings and events during PCMA Convening Leaders.
“From large conventions to small, impactful meetings, Washington, DC uniquely provides access to policymakers, networking and educational opportunities,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, Destination DC. “Combined with the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and abundant attractions and experiences, DC creates memorable events that keep attendees returning. Through our Only One DC campaign, we’re strategically investing in marketing and sales to attract meetings of all sizes, demonstrating why the nation’s capital is the ultimate destination for events that leave a lasting economic and social impact.”
In December, Ferguson joined Brand USA as chairman of the board where he’ll collaborate on growth opportunities tied to international meetings, the recovery of the Asia market and areas of the world that haven’t been as emphasized. “The diversity of our marketing is important from a competitive standpoint as we aim to reflect the U.S. as a welcoming destination with broad appeal,” said Ferguson.
“Washington, DC empowers planners to connect with intellectual capital, leaders and policymakers,” said Melissa A. Riley, senior vice president of convention sales and services. “We’re committed to driving growth by prioritizing both large and small meetings, as well as international events that create meaningful global impact.”
In 2025, there are an estimated 399,409 total room nights stemming from convention center business, with an estimated 349,507 total room nights from non-convention center business.
DDC has capitalized on small and in-house meetings and diversified market segments, strengthening its presence in international markets, including the United Kingdom and Latin America. Canada is an additional key market.
Connected Campus
One new strategy to layer groups in Washington, DC beyond the Walter E. Washington Convention Center is the “Connected Campus” initiative. By providing meeting planners with interesting ways to use space clustered outside of the traditional downtown area, groups have more flexibility on date availability and their meetings help create compression for hotels in all areas of the city.
The positioning now includes five new campuses that center around meeting hubs that stretch the city. The campuses feature a creative meeting hub, surrounding hotels and supportive event spaces. The new campuses include:
• Capitol Riverfront
• The Wharf
• The National Mall
• Connecticut Avenue Collection
• Downtown DC
Adding New Hotels and Venues:
There are 19 new hotels or renovations in the pipeline, adding over 3,506 new or renovated rooms.
• The Canal House (February 2025)
Located in Georgetown, the 108-key hotel combines a modern office building and historic townhouses under Marriott’s Tribute portfolio. Its unique blend of contemporary amenities and historic charm offers a distinctive backdrop for meetings and events in one of DC’s most iconic neighborhoods.
• Hyatt House Washington, DC – Convention Center (Summer 2025)
Adjacent to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the 182-key hotel, formerly the Cambria in Shaw, is undergoing a full renovation beginning March 2025. When it reopens in June 2025 under the Hyatt House brand, it will feature upgraded meeting rooms, a fitness center, a bar and lounge and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.
• Moxy Hotel Southwest (2025)
Strategically located between Nationals Park and Audi Field, the 166-key hotel is part of a mixed-use development featuring residential spaces, rooftop views and a farmers' market. Its vibrant atmosphere and modern design will appeal to planners looking for a venue near DC’s buzzing sports and entertainment district.
• The James (2025)
The James DC is a conversion of the current Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle that will offer luxurious accommodations and a focus on destination-worthy dining and beverage experiences.
• CitizenM Georgetown (2025)
Just east of picturesque Key Bridge along the Georgetown waterfront, the Netherlands-based chain plans to open its third property in DC. Set within a renovated 100-year-old building, the 230-room hotel combines stylish design with functional meeting spaces.
• Arlo Hotel (November 2024)
The new 445-room Arlo Hotel incorporates a historic 1880s residential building with a modern 12-story addition. Highlights include a rooftop pool and lounge, fitness center, signature restaurant and bar and versatile indoor/outdoor event spaces.
• Hotel AKA Washington Circle (May 2024)
Situated near the Foggy Bottom area, the 151-room hotel offers intimate meeting spaces, a private theater and culinary experiences led by James Beard Award-winner Ellen Yin.
Rebranded and renovated hotels:
Several properties across the city have undergone significant upgrades and rebranding, including the Salamander Washington DC, Grand Hyatt Washington, Westin Downtown, Marriott Metro Center, Capital Hilton and Le Meridien Washington, DC, The Madison.
Prioritizing Sustainability
DDC is the first urban top-tier destination with a staff member dedicated to sustainability. The Sustainability District has over 50 members and helps meeting planners find sustainable hotels, restaurants, DMCs and convention services. In March, DDC will host its second annual Sustainability Summit.
In 2024, the Walter E. Washington Convention Center earned LEED Platinum certification, one of only four convention centers in North America with the distinction. In 2025, the Center will introduce new sustainability initiatives.
DDC announced the DEI Business Fellowship (DEIBF) cohort for 2025 including 12 industry service businesses. In its fourth year, the DEIBF program provides members with a year of complimentary marketing, networking and training. The program helps minority-owned and operated businesses access. The DEIBF program is the focus of the white paper, “Advancing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion through Destination DC’s DEI Business Fellowship,” published in the International Journal for Business Events and Legacies.
Access to Washington, DC
Washington, DC’s accessibility is a draw. Dulles International Airport serves 62 international destinations, while Baltimore/Washington International connects to 24. By 2026, Dulles will add a LEED Silver-certified, $675 million 14-gate concourse.
About Destination DC: Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities.
January 9, 2025