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main photo: Visit San Jose

San Jose McEnery Convention Center

The 520,000-square-foot San Jose McEnery Convention Center is infused with the kind of cutting-edge thinking that makes Silicon Valley the epicenter of innovation. The Idea Tree, a sculptural canopy at the main entrance, digitally remixes words from passersby and transforms them into haiku-like whispers to visitors who pass beneath it. Versatile air walls allow for adjustable exhibit floors, free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout lets thousands stream content simultaneously, and a state-of-the-art overhead lighting system enables show management to easily tailor light levels. The venue boasts 165,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, a 35,194-square-foot grand ballroom, and 43 meeting rooms, as well as four outdoor terraces and a plaza ranging from 3,900 to 6,300 square feet.

WHERE TO SLEEP
The Hilton San Jose and the San Jose Marriott, with 859 rooms between them, are connected to the SJCC. Five additional business-class hotels are within walking distance of the venue, though dozens of hotels at all price points are a short taxi ride away. For economical yet stylish lodging alternatives, venture to nearby suburbs such as Santa Clara or Campbell.

WHAT TO EAT
Coffee and snacks are available at Peet's Coffee inside the convention center. For lunch, grab a burger or sandwich a couple blocks from the venue at Our House, which sources all of its ingredients locally. Treat clients to a sophisticated dining experience at The Grill on the Alley or Arcadia, both of which are acclaimed upscale steakhouses with private dining options.

HOW TO GET THERE
The SJCC is 4 miles from the Mineta San Jose International Airport, with taxi service costing roughly $25 each way. Alternatively, visitors can hop on the train for $2.50. Uber and Lyft are available beginning at about $15. The venue has an attached parking ramp, and San Jose has several public transportation options, including DASH, a free downtown shuttle (www.sanjoseca.gov).

The facility has seven unions that must be used to complete functions such as freight handling, sign hanging, food and beverage service, rigging, computer and audiovisual setup, and installation and dismantle.

Full-time employees of an exhibiting company may hand-carry materials one time each so long as they do not access the loading dock.

No ceilings are allowed on the top-most level of exhibits. And if any deck is designed to hold more than 10 people at once, a second staircase is required for emergency evacuations.

Round cords are not permitted under carpet.

Exhibitors may only display a one-day supply of literature, and reserve collateral must be stored in closed containers.

The entire venue has free Wi-Fi, although exhibitors can order enhanced wireless speeds for a fee.

All table coverings, fabric walls, paper, and decorative materials must have a California flameproof certificate or tag.

Fuel in display vehicles may not exceed one-quarter of a tank or five gallons, whichever is less, and fuel openings must be sealed.

Adhesive decals and stickers may not be distributed inside the convention center.

Plastic bags may not be distributed anywhere in the city of San Jose, including the convention center.