Best of Northwest 2015 Winners

It’s time to celebrate our Best of the Northwest’s fifth anniversary—and all of the outstanding recipients of this year’s awards! Meeting and event planners from Alaska, British Columbia, Idaho, Oregon and Washington have again nominated their favorite vendors, attractions and venues in the Northwest. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next gathering, this list is a great place to start.

Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center

BEST of ALASKA

Best Attraction

THE WINNER IS: Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
Gustavus | 907.697.2230 

The magnificence that is Alaska is on full display at Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Only accessible by boat or plane, the 3.3 million–acre park is part of a 24.3 million–acre World Heritage Site—one of the largest internationally protected areas in the world. This mustsee national treasure includes rugged mountains, temperate rain forests, stunning fjords, wild coastline and imposing glaciers. Visitors describe the views as stunning, breathtaking, incredible and magical. It’s the perfect once-in-alifetime excursion to cap off a productive meeting, a destination wedding or the vacation of your dreams. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Denali National Park & Preserve
 » Mendenhall Glacier                                        

Best Convention/Conference Venue

THE WINNER IS: Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center
Anchorage | 907.263.2800

This is Dena’ina’s third win, thanks to its prime downtown location in the heart of Anchorage. The largest and most modern facility of its kind in the state, the center offers more than 85,000 square feet of event space suited to handle a wide range of events, from national conventions and trade shows to intimate local meetings. In addition, artwork displayed throughout honors the heritage of the Dena’ina Athabascan people.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Alyeska Resort
 » Hotel Captain Cook                                       

Best Hotel with Meeting/Event Space

THE WINNER IS: Hilton Anchorage
Anchorage | 907.272.7411 

The Hilton Anchorage is the largest hotel in Alaska, with more than 600 rooms and suites, and 20,000 square feet of flexible function space. The assistance of professional sales and catering staff, the Meetings Simplified planning package for gatherings of as many as 25 attendees, and a personalized group website for events make organizing functions here a breeze for event planners. Add in an ideal location within walking distance of the Anchorage Convention District, and we have a winner.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Hotel Captain Cook
 » Alyeska Resort  

The Lodge at Denali Park Village                                                        

Best Resort

THE WINNER IS: The Lodge at Denali Park Village
Denali National Park | 866.574.3759

“There’s no place more wild, rugged and breathtakingly beautiful than Alaska’s Denali National Park & Preserve—and no place more ideal to experience it from than The Lodge at Denali Park Village,” says Fernando Salvador, general manager of the lodge. Sitting on the banks of the majestic Nenana River, it’s spread out over 20 acres and eight buildings. After a day on the trails, gather in the Gold Rush Dining Room, or stop by Quigley’s Coffee Cart or the Lucky Miss Saloon. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge
 » Waterfall Resort                                             

BEST of BRITISH COLUMBIA

Best Attraction

THE WINNER IS: Whistler
Whistler | 800.944.7853 

Set in the spectacular Coast Mountains, “Whistler is the ultimate year-round destination,” says Patricia Westerholm, manager of communications for Tourism Whistler. “Here, guests will find two majestic mountains, epic skiing and snowboarding, a vibrant and picturesque village, four championship golf courses, a plethora of activity options, unbeatable shopping, charming restaurants, bustling pubs and nightclubs, hiking trails for every ability level, spas and arguably the best mountain bike park in the world … not to mention accommodations for every budget.” With classic touches such as cobblestone streets, creative events such as mountaintop barbecues, family-oriented attractions such as Kids’ Adventure Day Camps and festive Christmas celebrations, it’s easy to understand why readers rave about Whistler. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » The Butchart Gardens
 » Victoria Waterfront                                       

Best Convention/Conference Venue

THE WINNER IS: Vancouver Convention Center
 Vancouver | 604.689.8232

The spectacular Vancouver Convention Centre has won this award five times. That’s no surprise, considering its stunning location on Vancouver’s acclaimed waterfront. It also offers state-of-the-art facilities and worldclass services, with more than 460,000 square feet of space, a commitment to sustainability, unparalled technical capabilities and culinary excellence. Serving originally as Canada’s Pavilion for the World’s Fair Expo in 1986, the convention center has hosted events both large (15,000 delegates at the XI International Conference on AIDS) and small (a private meeting for two between former President Bill Clinton and former Russian President Boris Yeltsin). 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Fairmont Waterfront
 » Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour    

The Fairmont Waterfront                                       

Best Hotel with Meeting/Event Space

THE WINNER IS: The Fairmont Waterfront
Vancouver | 604.691.1991

Few venues can match the majesty and upscale comfort of the Fairmont Waterfront. Overlooking Coal Harbour, the hotel is just steps to everything that makes Vancouver spectacular, including the Vancouver Convention Centre (which the hotel is connected to), the cruise ship terminal, the Waterfront SkyTrain Station and magnificent Stanley Park. With 24,000 square feet of elegant meeting space, stunning mountain and water views and award-winning cuisine (prepared with herbs and honey harvested from its organic garden and beehives), the Fairmont is a unique blend of business and pleasure.                               

RUNNERS-UP
 » Four Seasons Resort Whistler
 » Fairmont Empress
 » Westin Resort & Spa Whistler                                      

Best Resort

THE WINNER IS: Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler | 888.403.4727

Whistler Blackcomb, with more than 8,000 acres of stunning terrain across two mountains, is the largest skiable area in North America and played host to the alpine ski events for the 2010 Olympics. In addition to terrain that will challenge the most avid freshpowder junkies, the resort boasts five villages, an impressive array of accommodations (from ultraluxe to family-friendly) and imaginative activities for every season and inclination, including heli-skiing, bear-viewing walks, and flight-seeing for alpine hikes and photography tours. New this year for adventurers: The Sasquatch, a zip line between Blackcomb and Whistler mountains that flies riders more than 7,000 feet and runs at elevations as high as 600 feet above the ground.  

 » Fairmont Chateau Whistler
 » Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa                                         

BEST of IDAHO

Sun Valley

Best Attraction

THE WINNER IS: Sun Valley
Sun Valley | 208.622.4111

Winter or summer, Sun Valley is magical. Surrounded by four mountain ranges— the Sawtooths, Smokies, Boulders and Pioneers—Sun Valley was America’s first destination ski resort and is famous for world-class skiing, hiking, hunting and fishing. The ski slopes of Bald and Dollar mountains are nearly perfect, lift lines are almost nonexistent, the sun shines 80 percent of the time, and fly-fishing and golf are phenomenal summer activities. Recently, the place has gone gaga over cycling. In fact, many claim Sun Valley’s amazing bike path system provides some of the best mountain biking on the planet. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » The Couer d’Alene Resort
 » Silverwood Theme Park                                 

Best Convention/Conference Venue

THE WINNER IS: The Coeur d’Alene Resort
 Coeur d’Alene | 800.688.5253

Located on beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene, The Coeur d’Alene Resort is a spectacular venue for any convention or conference—from large, one-of-akind conventions to small management retreats. From the full-service Hagadone Event Center to intimate spaces like the private boardrooms adjacent to Beverly’s restaurant, The Coeur d’Alene has a space to meet every meeting or event need. The staff has mastered the art of customer care and provides superb destination services, including meet-and-greets, entertainment and post-meeting recreation. Governor C.L. Butch Otter, who has attended several meetings at the resort, describes it as “a first-rate venue. Exceedingly functional and incredibly beautiful.” 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Sun Valley Resort
 » Shore Lodge                                      

The Coeur D'Alene Resort            

Best Hotel with Meeting/Event Space

THE WINNER IS: The Coeur d’Alene Resort
Coeur d’Alene | 800.688.5253

Not only is The Coeur d’Alene located on one of the country’s most beautiful lakes, it is one of the country’s most remarkable hotels. Whether visiting for business, vacation or a destination wedding, relaxation and pampering will be on the agenda, with sumptuous dining, rejuvenating spa treatments, welcoming accommodations and world-class golf available to delight guests. For meetings and events, the options are endless, including chartering a boat for a private on-board meeting or a romantic storybook wedding at sunset. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Sun Valley Resort
 » Shore Lodge                                                  

Best Resort

THE WINNER IS: Sun Valley Resort
Sun Valley | 208.622.4111

Beloved by long-time residents, ski bums, celebrities, youthful entrepreneurs looking for adventure and families in search of an idyllic getaway, Sun Valley is a yearround destination resort with unrivaled on- and off-mountain activities, as well as amenities that boast a small-town, bigliving vibe. Surrounded by pristine mountains, meadows and rivers, the town’s arts, shopping and dining scene rivals that of larger cities. Accommodations include charming cottages, historic lodges and comfy condos. Skiing and riding the slopes are big attractions, but so are hiking, biking and fishing. For a special outing, catch the sunset at 7,725 feet at The Roundhouse and stay for the jazz show, see Olympic medalists perform at the “Sun Valley on Ice” show, or enjoy a romantic dinner at the historic Ram restaurant, a Sun Valley icon.                                          

RUNNERS-UP
 » Shore Lodge
 » The Coeur d’Alene Resort                                    

BEST of OREGON

Best Attraction

THE WINNER IS: Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park | 541.594.3000

Oregon’s only national park is beyond beautiful and is a wonder that is like no other place on the planet. Crater Lake was formed more than 7,700 years ago, the result of a violent volcanic eruption. Today the destination is known for its sublime vistas: the deep, impossibly blue lake surrounded by sheer 2,000-foot cliffs, summer meadows blanketed in a profusion of wildflowers, and soaring peaks covered in deep snow. Stunning, stark and beautiful, Crater Lake is worth the trip in any season.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Cannon Beach
 » Columbia River Gorge                                               

Best Casino

THE WINNER IS: Spirit Mountain Casino
Grand Ronde | 800.760.7977

One visitor described Spirit Mountain Casino as “the best casino in Oregon— with really good slot machines.” But the resort is so much more than slot machines, boasting a 254-room luxury lodge, more than 76,000 square feet of casino gaming, five restaurants, worldclass entertainment and a state-of-theart event center with 17,518 square feet of space. The casino is just 30 minutes from the Oregon coast and 90 minutes from Portland, making it a convenient location for a fun night out or an important business event.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Wildhorse Resort & Casino
 » Three Rivers Casino Resort     

Greenlight Creative                                    

Best A/V Provider

THE WINNER IS: Greenlight Creative
Portland | 503.970.0246

For the fifth straight year, Greenlight Creative wins the category for Best A/V Provider in Oregon. Owner Dwayne Thomas is considered by his legion of fans to be the Northwest’s premier lighting expert. He’s described by our readers as a technical master and one of the most creative lighting artists anywhere, and they laud his leadership in providing sustainable lighting solutions and low-energy options. From cutting-edge product launches and unique runway fashion shows to inspirational fundraisers, Thomas’ creations leave audiences inspired and engaged. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Allied Video Productions
 » PSAV                                                             

Best Boat Charters

THE WINNER IS: Portland Spirit
Portland | 503.224.3900

When it comes to cruising, Portland Spirit excels at the basics by dishing up breathtaking scenery, freshly prepared Northwest cuisine and exceptional service on all of its cruises. The cruise company also offers a great selection of fun and imaginative themed cruises, including specialty cruises such as the Friday Early Escape Concert Cruise, Radical '80s Dance Cruise and Totally '90s Dance Cruise. Typical cruises include lunch, brunch or dinner and sightseeing. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Yaquina Bay Charters
 » Willamette Jetboat Excursions        

Wild Pear Restaurant & Catering               

Best Catering Company

THE WINNER IS: Wild Pear Restaurant & Catering
Salem | 503.378.7515

“Whether it’s an intimate sit-down dinner for 10, or a cocktail reception for 2,000, our goal is to create an enjoyable and memorable experience for you and your guests,” says Jessica Ritter, co-owner of Wild Pear with her sister Cecilia Ritter. “From beginning to end, we want everything to be as perfect as you do.” Located in a historic 135-year-old building in Salem, Wild Pear is a local favorite and offers an eclectic menu with enough variety to tempt any palate. From olive oil and herb roasted salmon to fresh Vietnamese summer rolls and Korean-style steak satay— choices found on the catering menu— everything is prepared to perfection.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Elephants Catering
 » Vibrant Table Catering & Events                  

Best Convention/Conference Venue

THE WINNER IS: Salem Convention Center
Salem | 503.589.1700

Long considered a gem by event planners because of its location, stunning architecture and impressive collection of museum-quality art, it’s no wonder that Salem Convention Center snagged this award. The center was artfully designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards and to reflect the natural beauty of the Willamette Valley. It is also one of the most beautiful event facilities in the whole Northwest. “Event organizers and attendees appreciate the level of professionalism in our staff, along with truly beautiful meeting spaces, our downtown Salem location and our commitment to sustainability,” says Donna Earley, director of sales and marketing. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Oregon Convention Center
 » Portland Art Museum                                    

Best Florist/Event Décor Provider

THE WINNER IS: Green Thumb Flower Box Florist
Salem | 503.363.1607

It’s personal for the employees at Green Thumb: They know their clients and take care of them—and their customers are fiercely loyal. “I always know I will get what I’m hoping for, and way more, when ordering flowers from Green Thumb,” one fan writes. “For that reason, I never consider any other florist.” From rehearsal dinners, receptions and elegant weddings to business functions and reunions, Green Thumb’s staff aims to please. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Vibrant Flowers
 » Royce’s Prop Shop                                        

Best Hotel with Meeting/Event Space

THE WINNER IS: The Grand Hotel in Salem
Salem | 503.540.7800

For business or leisure, The Grand Hotel is perfectly situated in downtown Salem. Adjoining the Salem Convention Center, it is the center’s headquarters hotel. From the Wine Nook (a private space for 15) to the Board Room (an elegant space for up to 75), The Grand can accommodate meetings with style. Add 193 luxurious rooms and suites, fine dining at Bentley’s Grill and nearby attractions such as the theater, the arts and wine country, and we have a winner. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Heathman Hotel Portland
 » Sentinel                                        

Best Rental Service

THE WINNER IS: A to Z Party Rentals
Salem | 503.585.7782

Serving Salem, Portland and surrounding areas from the Willamette Valley to the Oregon coast, this family-owned business takes pride “in successfully bringing together satisfied customers, families and friends for more than 20 years,” says owner Mike Perlenfein. A full-service party rental company, A to Z provides an extensive range of event services and products, including tents and canopies, audio-visual, beverage service, linens, games, lighting and fencing. Whatever the event, whatever the needs, they’ve got you covered—from “A to Z.” 

RUNNERS-UP
 » West Coast Event Productions
 » The Party Place                                                     

Best Resort

THE WINNER IS: Sunriver Resort
Sunriver | 800.801.8765

A readers’ choice award winner for the fifth time, Sunriver Resort is considered one of the Northwest’s finest yearround destination resorts. Set in the pines of central Oregon’s high country and located on 3,800 acres on the dry side of the Cascades, it offers room to roam. Or not. Many visitors relish a horseback ride, hiking and biking on the trails along the Deschutes River, a round of golf on one of the four majestic courses, or a canoe, kayak or rafting trip. Others are content to relax and rejuvenate at the resort’s renowned Sage Springs Club & Spa. With more than 45,000 square feet of flexible space and nine dining venues with menus to suit any taste, Sunriver is an excellent choice for meetings, events and memorable weddings.                                               

RUNNERS-UP
 » McMenimens Edgefield
 » The Allison Inn & Spa                                                      

Best Transportation Provider/Valet Services

THE WINNER IS: Lucky Limousine 
Portland | 503.254.0010

“We are the largest provider of luxury ground transportation services in the Portland area,” says Al Jochim, chief operating officer. “We are your onestop shop for all transportation needs, whether it’s a drop-off at the airport or shuttle service for convention participants.” Lucky Limousine is family owned and operated, with deep roots in the community and a reputation for supporting philanthropic causes. The company is also recognized as one of the best transportation providers anywhere by more than 75 national and international booking agencies that have chosen Lucky Limousine to be their local affiliate partner.                                           

RUNNERS-UP
 » NW Navigator
 » Premier Valet    

BEST of WASHINGTON​                                             

Best Attraction in Washington

THE WINNER IS: Pike Place Market
Seattle | 206.682.7453   

More than a century old, Pike Place Market is a beloved Seattle landmark and the go-to place for the best Northwest farm-fresh, locally sourced artisanal and specialty foods. More than 85 local farmers supply the bounty on display at the market, which showcases locally handmade goods from more than 225 artists. Endless dining options, from elegant restaurants to informal food stalls, are available as well.                                       

RUNNERS-UP
 » Space Needle
 » Chihuly Garden and Glass                             

Best Casino

THE WINNER IS: Tulalip Resort Casino                                                     
Tulalip Resort Casino | 360.716.6000

Offering luxurious accommodations, award-winning dining options, a spa, casino and world-class shopping all in one location, Tulalip Resort is an event planner’s dream. From sumptuous culinary artistry to traditional openfire pit cooking, there are food choices to suit every taste. For fun, the casino offers a wide variety of slots and table games, as well as Vegas-style entertainment. Tulalip also has 30,000 square feet of meeting space available. In honor of the casino’s Native American heritage, Coast Salish artwork and goods are prominently featured in the décor and shops throughout the resort. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Snoqualmie Casino
 » Northern Quest Resort & Casino 

                                           

Best A/V Provider

THE WINNER IS: Blue Danube Productions
Seattle | 206.423.0782

Owner Niki McKay’s goal for this five-year Best of the Northwest winner for Best A/V Provider in Washington is to create picture-perfect events. “We spend our days hiding in the shadows and helping our clients shine,” McKay says. “But sometimes, it’s kind of fun to have them turn the spotlight back on us,” she says about the many fan raves she receives. Like this one: “I’ve worked with a lot of production crews … but Blue Danube is far and away the best. Niki went not just one extra mile, but 100 extra miles for us,” writes one very satisfied client. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » AVMS
 » Hollywood Lights                                   

Best Boat Charters

THE WINNER IS: Argosy Cruises
Seattle | 206.676.3147

Argosy Cruises once again dominates in the Best Boat Charters category for the fifth year in a row for two reasons. First, it has spectacular tours in Puget Sound (including the Harbor Cruise Tour, Locks Cruise Tour, Lake Union Cruise Tour and Lake Washington Cruise Tour, to name a few). Second, our readers say the service is impeccable. The Harbor Cruise, with phenomenal 360-degree views of mountains, islands and the city skyline, makes it one of the more popular choices; the Tillicum Village on Blake Island Experience is just as much of a crowd pleaser. Other fun cruises include murder mystery events on Blake Island, the Seafair Blue Angels Cruise and the Christmas Ship Festival.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Victoria Clipper
 » Waterways Cruises and Events                               

Best Catering Company

THE WINNER IS: Kaspars Special Events & Catering
Seattle | 206.298.0123

“Our culinary passion inspires creative and fresh cuisine for spectacular events of the highest quality,” say owners Kaspar and Nancy Donier. They’re a perfectly matched pair: Kaspar is an awardwinning chef, and Nancy is a masterful event planner. Together they launched Kaspars Special Events & Catering to deliver the finest event experience possible. Kaspars caters events ranging from private parties for 10 to public celebrations for 5,000. “We have perfected a system of extraordinary service that smoothly adapts to any place and circumstance,” says Kaspar. A fleet of catering vehicles, including a 16-foot catering truck equipped with full refrigeration and ovens, ensures that food and beverages are always delivered at the pinnacle of freshness.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Lisa Dupar Catering
 » Herban Feast                                                  

Best Convention/Conference Venue

THE WINNER IS: Washington State Convention Center
Seattle | 206.694.5060

The renowned Washington State Convention Center (WSCC) is a stunning meeting and event space, featuring 66 meeting rooms, four ballrooms, six exhibit halls, more than 200,000 square feet of dedicated heavy-load exhibit space, as well as a number of cozy seating areas for intimate conversation. A beautiful new conference center, located over a sky bridge just across the street from WSCC, provides additional capacity as a business meeting and event facility. Events can be planned in either space, or can span both, to accommodate any size meeting, from executive retreats and small classes to international conferences and multifloor trade shows. Separate entrance lobbies and three loading docks allow multiple large events to operate simultaneously in the facility. An addition is planned for 2020, which will more than double the existing space.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Bell Harbor International Conference Center
 » Meydenbauer Convention Center          

PJ Hummel & Co.                           

Best Florist/Event Décor Provider

THE WINNER IS: PJ Hummel & Co.
Tacoma | 253.272.6605

When it comes to Best Florist/Event Décor Provider, many event planners consider PJ Hummel to be the best in this field—and it may be due to Hummel’s approach. “We take pride in the quality of our services and develop strong long-term client relationships based on communication, trust and delivered results, year after year,” says Hummel. One event director told us she’s at the top of her game, is very ethical and works really hard. “PJ always finds a way to make each event unique and special, no matter the occasion or the client. We can always count on our clients receiving the very best when we refer them to PJ,” says Jeannette Davidson, director of sales for Geoteaming. 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Ballad Blossoms
 » Lola Creative   

Hotel 1000                                                

Best Hotel with Meeting/Event Space

THE WINNER IS: Hotel 1000
Seattle | 206.957.1000

With an upbeat, fresh, contemporary design, Hotel 1000 redefines the luxury hotel experience. Amenities include genuine service, leading-edge technology and intimate yet spectacular accommodations. Located on First Avenue at the corner of Madison Street in the heart of downtown Seattle, Hotel 1000 is just steps from the waterfront on Elliott Bay and close to Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, the business district and historic Pioneer Square. A popular choice for exceptional meetings and weddings, Hotel 1000 provides eight elegant event spaces to choose from.                                             

RUNNERS-UP
 » Willows Lodge
 » Fairmont Olympic Hotel    

AA Party Rentals                            

Best Rental Service

THE WINNER IS: AA Party Rentals
Seattle, Tacoma | 425.640.5547; 253.922.9898

Whether setting up for an intimate dinner party for two, a wedding for 300, a business function for 700 or a charity event for thousands, AA Party Rentals can handle it. The company boasts an extensive inventory of quality products. Event planners tell us that items are always delivered on time, clean and well prepared, and AA can accommodate delivery and pickup schedules seven days a week, 24 hours a day. But the most important service provided to clients is access to a reliable staff that is uniformly first rate.  

RUNNERS-UP
 » Pedersons Rentals
 » ABC Special Event Rentals by CORT                                              

Best Resort

THE WINNER IS: Suncadia Resort
Cle Elum | 509.649.6400

Suncadia Resort is located on the sunny eastern slopes of the Cascades, making it a perfect setting for playing, staying and meeting in style. The resort’s accommodations include the Inn at Suncadia (boasting the intimacy and warmth of a rustic yet elegant mountain inn) and The Lodge at Suncadia (designed to resemble the grand lodges of Washington’s national parks). To inspire guests, its meeting and event venues offer spectacular river valley and mountain views. Whether staying at Suncadia for fun or for a meeting, you will have plenty to do, including world-class biking, hiking, swimming, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobile tours, broomball, tubing, golf and fly-fishing.

RUNNERS-UP
 » Salish Lodge & Spa
 » Willows Lodge                                              

Best Transportation Provider/Valet Services

THE WINNER IS: Butler Seattle
Seattle | 206.233.9233

It’s the fourth time Butler Seattle has won this category, and our readers can’t say enough about the company’s fabulous customer service. “Butler Seattle began with just one client in 1994, and we now serve the most prestigious and demanding accounts in the Puget Sound area,” says principal Jeremy Butler. “Whether you need a chauffeur and sleek Mercedes for a high-end client, professional valet service for a unique event or a stretch limo to get your wedding party to the church on time, we have the industry relationships, expertise and superior service to ensure that your transportation experience is truly extraordinary.” 

RUNNERS-UP
 » Pacific Northwest Limousine Service
 » British Motor Coach