Finding parking at large venues like convention centres can be a challenge, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. As an event planner, attendee, or exhibitor, it’s important to know what parking options are available at the convention centre so you can plan accordingly. In this article, we’ll explore the parking situation at the convention centre and provide tips for finding the best parking spot.
Quick Answers
Here are quick answers to some common parking questions for the convention centre:
- Does the convention centre have its own parking lot or garage? Yes, there is a parking garage attached to the convention centre.
- How many parking spaces are available? There are approximately 5,000 parking spaces in the garage.
- How much does parking cost? Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $15-20 per day.
- Can you reserve or purchase parking passes in advance? Yes, parking passes can be prepurchased online or by calling the convention centre office.
- Is the parking garage patrolled and secure? Yes, security personnel monitor the garage 24/7.
Parking Garage at the Convention Centre
The convention centre has an attached 5-story parking garage that provides the most convenient parking option for events. The garage has approximately 5,000 parking spaces available and is connected directly to the convention centre, allowing easy access to event facilities.
Parking in the garage is available on a first-come, first-served basis. During large events, the garage is likely to fill up quickly each morning. Arriving early, such as before 9 AM, will provide the best chance at getting a spot. The garage often fills to capacity during major conventions and trade shows.
The parking garage is patrolled by security and monitored by surveillance cameras at all times. Parking attendants also monitor the garage during event hours. Vehicle security checks are performed at garage entrances and exits as an added security measure.
Parking Rates and Fees
Parking rates in the convention centre garage vary depending on the duration of parking:
- 0-1 hour: $5
- 1-2 hours: $10
- 2-4 hours: $15
- 4-6 hours: $20
- 6-24 hours: $25
These rates apply for both self-parking and valet parking. Special event rates may apply during major conventions, shows, and other large events.
Parking fees can be paid at automated pay stations located throughout the garage before returning to your vehicle. Cash and major credit/debit cards are accepted. Attendants can also assist with parking payments.
Pre-Purchasing Parking Passes
For convenience, daily parking passes can be pre-purchased online through the convention centre’s website. Passes may also be purchased over the phone by calling the convention centre office. Pre-paid passes offer assurance that parking is guaranteed and can save time waiting in line to pay upon arrival.
Pre-paid single day parking passes are $20 per day. Multi-day parking passes are available at discounted rates for extended conventions and events. Pre-paid parking codes are provided that can be scanned at garage entrances and exits to authorize access and payment.
Other Nearby Parking Options
In addition to the on-site garage, there are other off-site parking options in the vicinity of the convention centre:
Off-Site Garages and Lots
There are several commercial parking garages and surface lots within a short walking distance of the convention centre:
- ABC Parking Garage – 2 blocks north
- XYZ Surface Lot – 1 block south
- 123 Parking Garage – 3 blocks east
Rates at these off-site parking facilities are generally $15-20 per day but may fluctuate based on demand and events. Most locations can be booked and prepaid in advance online.
Street Parking
Metered street parking is available on many streets surrounding the convention centre. Rates vary by block but are typically $1-2 per hour with 2-4 hour maximums. Street parking tends to fill up fast, so expect to circle the area to find an open spot.
Be sure to read street signs carefully to avoid parking violations. Many spots have restrictions for parking times, permit parking only, or street cleaning schedules.
Public Transportation
Consider using public transportation to get to the convention centre area instead of driving and parking. The nearest metro station is 2 blocks west of the convention centre, providing easy access.
Several bus routes also have stops directly outside the convention centre entrance. Taking transit can be easier than finding parking, especially when road traffic and garage capacity is high.
Tips for Finding the Best Parking
Follow these tips to find the most convenient parking spot with ease:
- Arrive early – Get to the convention centre garage before 9 AM to increase odds of finding a space.
- Consider off-site parking – Commercial lots a few blocks away may have more availability.
- Pre-purchase passes – Booking parking online in advance guarantees you a spot.
- Check street parking – Metered street parking can be easier to find before 10 AM.
- Use public transit – Avoid parking altogether by taking metro, bus, or rideshare.
- Allow extra time – Add extra cushion to account for parking and walking to venue.
Parking Accessibility for Disabled Individuals
The convention centre aims to provide accessible parking for disabled attendees and exhibitors. Here is an overview of accessible parking options:
Convention Centre Garage Accessibility
The convention centre garage has designated accessible parking spaces located near elevators on all levels. Look for signage indicating accessible parking areas within the garage.
There are extra wide parking spaces and aisles to accommodate wheelchair lifts and ramps. The garage also has ample vertical clearance for lifted vehicles.
Complimentary Valet Parking
As a courtesy, complimentary valet parking is available for attendees with valid disabled parking placards or plates. Valets can park vehicles in designated accessible spots and transport passengers directly between cars and the convention centre entrance.
To utilize the complimentary valet parking, simply provide a valid disabled parking permit when pulling up to the valet stand outside the convention centre.
Accessible Street Parking
There are also designated accessible street parking spaces located near the convention centre entrance and metro station. These spots require valid disabled permit display.
On-street accessible parking can be limited, so guests are encouraged to take advantage of the ample accessible spots in the convention centre garage instead.
Parking Reservations for Large Groups
If you’re planning transportation for a large group attending a convention, consider reserving a block of parking spaces in advance through the convention centre office. Group parking reservations allow securing a guaranteed number of parking spaces for conventions, meetings, tours, or shuttle drop-offs.
To reserve a block of parking, contact the convention centre administrative office at least 2 weeks prior to the event date. Be prepared to indicate the number of vehicles in your group that require parking and the desired parking dates/times.
Parking rates for reserved group blocks are:
Duration | Rate |
---|---|
0-2 hours | $10 per vehicle |
2-6 hours | $15 per vehicle |
Over 6 hours (daily) | $20 per vehicle |
Note that reserved group parking may be relocated from the garage to outdoor auxiliary lots during extremely high capacity events. Shuttles are provided to transport guests from auxiliary lots to the convention centre entrance.
Parking Directions and Signage
Clear signage and directions are posted to guide vehicles to convention centre parking areas:
- Watch for parking entrance signs from all major highways and streets approaching the convention centre.
- Follow signs for parking garage access from the main convention centre entrance road.
- Once inside the garage, each level is clearly labeled for self-parking or valet.
- Pedestrian signs point the way to the convention centre lobby upon parking.
- Colored zones and numbered rows help locate your parked vehicle.
- Exit signs direct vehicles out of the garage.
If you have any trouble finding the convention centre garage or locating your parked car, parking attendants are available to assist you or point you in the right direction.
Parking Policies and Rules
Be aware of the convention centre’s parking policies and rules:
- Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis unless pre-paid passes or group reservations are made.
- Parking rates are subject to change for special events.
- Vehicles must be parked completely within a marked space.
- Handicap spaces are reserved for vehicles with valid accessible plates/placards only.
- Vehicles left overnight without authorization are subject to towing.
- Guests must observe all posted speed limits and directional signs.
- Unauthorized vehicles parked in fire lanes, traffic lanes, or no parking zones may be cited or towed.
By following these parking rules and any staff member instructions, guests can avoid issues when parking at the convention centre.
Conclusion
Parking at major convention centres like this one can be challenging, but being prepared helps everything go smoothly. With ample parking available in the on-site garage as well as nearby off-site lots and streets, there are plenty of parking options for events here. Following tips like arriving early, pre-purchasing passes, and using transit makes parking a breeze. With accessible spaces and parking groups also accommodated, the convention centre works hard to meet all parking needs. By knowing parking policies and following directional signs, drivers can easily enter and exit the garage. With the helpful information in this article, parking should be simple next time you visit the convention centre.