Top 10 Reasons to Host an Event at the John S. Knight Center
Make a statement with your next event in Summit County. The John S. Knight Center’s downtown Akron location, versatile facilities and dedicated planning team make it an ideal gathering space for events of all sizes. Here’s why we’ve long stood as the premier meeting venue in Akron:
1. Customizable Event Spaces
The John S. Knight Center (JSK) can accommodate events of any size, from intimate meetings and fundraisers to trade shows and large conventions. A contemporary, column-free exhibition hall, two ballrooms and 18 meeting and breakout rooms are all available, totaling 123,000 square feet of options. Many can be opened or sectioned off, allowing for flexible room setups based on your vision and needs.
2. State-of-the-Art Amenities
All of your technology requirements are covered with cutting-edge A/V, lighting and production capabilities that ensure your event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression on your attendees.
3. Onsite Culinary Excellence
Forget traditional convention fare. Keep everyone happily sated with the standout food and beverage offerings from our in-house culinary team. Elevate your event with customizable menus that can be served in the style of your choosing, whether that’s a gourmet plated dinner, a buffet or casual concessions.
4. Welcoming Hospitality
We are dedicated to providing exceptional service and treating everyone with care and attention. We’ll make the planning process seamless, ensure guests feel welcomed and supported throughout the event and handle all of the details through the final farewell.
5. Dedicated Team of Experts
Our Operations Team will work side-by-side with you from start to finish. They bring decades of experience and a wealth of industry expertise to ensure every detail is expertly managed and that everything runs smoothly. Whether it’s A/V needs, lighting or transportation and entertainment referrals, we’re here to help bring the event you imagine to life.
6. Stunning Architectural Features
Impress your guests with the Center’s welcoming, eye-catching design, including a two-story, 3,000-square-foot glass rotunda and a rooftop patio — both ideal sites for hosting networking mixers, cocktail receptions and other moments of connection.
7. Prime Downtown Akron Location
The best of our city is within steps of the venue, so your attendees will always have something to do. They can easily walk to and explore downtown Akron’s top restaurants, museums, shops and entertainment.
8. Accessible and Affordable
Our event space sits in the heart of Summit County. With several major highways nearby, it’s a convenient site for regional visitors. The venue is located just 11 miles from Akron-Canton Airport and 30 miles from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, so it’s easy for out-of-town guests to reach. Both the Center and Greater Akron are affordable options for events of all sizes.
9. Proximity to Accommodations
No need to fret about where to stay. With 400 hotel rooms in downtown Akron and nearly 5,000 rooms across Summit County, your attendees have a variety of comfortable lodging options just minutes from the Center.
10. Connected to the Community
Since its opening in 1994, the John S. Knight Center has been an integral part of Akron’s thriving event scene. Our strong relationships with hotels, Summit County attractions and regional airports allow us to provide behind-the-scenes connections that will enhance your event and create unique opportunities for your attendees.
Ready to host your next event at JSK? Submit a quick RFP, and our dedicated Sales Team will be in touch to help you plan the perfect gathering.