Planning a conference involves more than selecting a meeting space. The location matters just as much as the agenda. Abingdon, Virginia offers an appealing mix of accessibility, comfort, and local character that makes it a strong choice for conferences and meetings of all sizes.
With easy interstate access, a walkable downtown, and a welcoming small-town feel, the area provides everything planners and attendees need for a smooth and enjoyable experience. This guide highlights what to expect when hosting a conference in Abingdon and how to make the most of your time in the area.
Getting Here and Getting Around
One of the biggest advantages of hosting a conference in Washington County is how easy it is to get here and how simple it is for attendees once they arrive. Abingdon, the county seat, is located just off Interstate 81, making travel straightforward for guests driving in from Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina.
The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center is conveniently located in Abingdon just minutes from I-81, which means attendees can go from interstate exit to conference check-in quickly and easily.
Once in town, getting around is equally convenient. Hotels, restaurants, and the Higher Education Center are all within a short drive of one another. Attendees can spend less time navigating traffic and more time focused on the conference experience. On-site parking at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center is ample and easy to access, which is a welcome convenience for guests arriving each day of the conference.
Designed with conferences in mind, the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center offers flexible meeting and event spaces supported by on-site technology and an experienced Conference Services team. From arrival to closing sessions, the Center provides a professional, welcoming environment that works seamlessly with Abingdon’s compact and accessible layout.
Where to Stay in Abingdon
Washington County offers a strong mix of hotel options, many of them located right off I-81. From familiar national brands to comfortable locally operated properties, attendees can find lodging that fits a range of budgets and preferences.
Most hotels are just a short drive from the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center and downtown Abingdon, making it easy for guests to balance conference sessions with evening plans. For larger events, reserving room blocks early is always a good idea, especially during busy travel seasons.
Popular options include:
- The Comfort Suites Abingdon, conveniently located just a mile from the Center.
- The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, a historic property offering a more distinctive stay.
Where to Eat and Gather
One of the highlights of hosting a conference in Abingdon is the local food scene. Downtown Abingdon is home to a variety of restaurants that are well suited for group dinners, casual networking, or grabbing a bite between sessions. Frequently voted one of the best small-town food scenes in America by USA Today, Abingdon offers a diverse selection of award-winning dining options.
The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center makes conference dining easy by offering breakfast and lunch catering through a variety of in-house options and certified caterers. Planners appreciate the flexibility of choosing catering that best fits their event without being limited to a single provider.
For dinner and evening gatherings, several local favorites are located just minutes from the Center, including:
Things to Do Between Sessions
Washington County gives conference attendees the chance to experience more than just meeting rooms. Abingdon is known for its walkable historic downtown, local shops, and scenic surroundings. For multi-day conferences, building in free time allows guests to explore the area, recharge, and connect outside of formal sessions.
Here are some of our favorite things to do:
- Explore the Virginia Creeper Trail
- Check out a play at the historic Barter Theatre
- Visit nearby Damascus, “Trail Town USA”
- Go shopping in downtown Abingdon
- Experience our local festivals and events. The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center is proud to partner with the Town of Abingdon on many community events, including the Virginia Highlands Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Why Washington County Works for Conferences
When you combine easy interstate access, comfortable lodging, local dining, and a professional conference venue, Washington County stands out as a smart choice for meetings and conferences in Southwest Virginia.
The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center plays an important role in that experience by providing a central, well-equipped conference venue in Abingdon, just off I-81. Its location, flexibility, and experienced Conference Services team help bring events together in a way that feels organized, welcoming, and seamless.
If you are planning your next conference in Washington County, Virginia, we invite you to explore everything the area has to offer and consider the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center as your home base for a successful event.
To learn more about hosting a conference at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, visit www.swcenter.edu/events.
