Tampa Convention Center Expansion: New Waterfront Rooms & LEED

The Tampa Convention Center completed a $44 million capital improvement project that added 18 waterfront meeting rooms connected directly to the Exhibit Hall, along with outdoor event spaces on The Sail Plaza and Tampa Riverwalk.

The center holds a 4.5-star Google rating and projects a $152.7 million economic impact for 2026. Staff members hold Certified Venue Professional and Certified Protection Professional designations and serve on national boards for the International Association of Venue Managers, Event Service Professionals Association, and Meeting Professionals International.

The Tampa Convention Center earned LEED Silver Certification for Building Operations and Maintenance. In 2026, the center diverted 7.7 tons of unused event items to local educators through a partnership with Teaching Tools for Schools.

The culinary team, composed of Certified Culinary Institute of America professionals, creates custom menus for events. The center also offers specialized accessibility programs including staff training, sensory kits, and emergency communication cards.

The Tampa Convention Center is accepting nominations for the Meetings Today Best Of Awards through May 29, 2026, via the Meetings Today website.