Planning a successful meeting or conference requires attention to detail and the right venue partner. Holiday Valley offers a range of spaces and services designed to make your corporate event seamless and the many amenities to make it memorable. We talked with Katie Worster, Meeting & Conference Manager, about the key features of our conference facilities to understand what makes Holiday Valley the perfect fit.
HV: Event Planning Support: What is your role in planning and day-of coordination? What’s your title?
KW: I am the Conference and Lodging Marketing Manager. I love seeing the finished product, so I am involved from start to finish. I will help coordinate your lodging, meals, meeting room set up and activities. Our Conference Coordinator often joins us as the date of your event approaches, but I will be available to assist you. While you are onsite, you will have the cell phone number of our Conference Coordinator as well as mine, so help is at your fingertips for any last-minute needs.
HV: What types of meeting and event spaces does HV offer?
KW: We offer 22 flexible meeting rooms located across 6 lodges. There are numerous outdoor spaces that are conveniently located near our meeting and lodging spaces that are used for cocktail receptions, networking and team building events. We even can offer hilltop events that are accessed by a chairlift.
Holiday Valley’s meeting and function rooms have tons of natural light with access to decks for scenic views of the Double Black Diamond Golf Course and ski slopes.
HV: What is the capacity range for different spaces?
KW: We can accommodate meetings for 10 – 300 guests.
HV: What AV and tech support do you provide?
KW: We can provide equipment including data projectors, screens, smart TVs, microphones and speakers, along with flip charts and easels.
HV: In terms of accessibility, are all venues ADA-compliant?
KW: Venues are ADA Compliant and we also offer ADA Compliant Lodging Rooms.
HV: How convenient is Holiday Valley for attendees traveling from Buffalo, Cleveland, Rochester? What is the distance from Buffalo airport?
KW: Holiday Valley is centrally located to many urban centers and just far enough away for attendees to focus on the meeting without a lot of travel. Buffalo and the Buffalo International Airport is just one hour north, Rochester is two hours northeast, Cleveland is three hours to the west, and Pittsburgh is four hours south.
HV: What lodging accommodations are available onsite and nearby?
KW: Two hotels are located on the resort property: The Inn at Holiday Valley has 102 guest rooms with patio and balcony views of the resort and the Tamarack Club, a Condo Hotel, offers 138 rooms ranging in size from hotel rooms to 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites. In addition, the Holiday Valley Rental Management team offers 100 condominiums, townhouses and chalets in the nearby area.
HV: Activities & Amenities: What team building or leisure activities do groups enjoy during multi-day events?
KW: The Double Black Diamond Golf Course sits right outside of the Holiday Valley Lodge where many of our meeting rooms are located. We can coordinate anything from individual tee times to Golf tournaments for the whole group. Sky High Adventure Park offers aerial obstacle and zipline adventures. It is an amazing teambuilding experience. Even those who don't enjoy heights can participate from the ground acting as coaches and cheerleaders. For those who want to have a quick teambuilding activity, we have several kits that you can rent with indoor and outdoor activities like conversation starters and the Perfect Shape. Miles and miles of hiking trails are at your doorstep.
HV: Weather Contingency: For outdoor networking or team-building events, what’s the backup plan?
KW: It is rare that they are needed, but we include an indoor weather back-up for outdoor events.
HV: Local Attractions: What does Ellicottville offer for dining, nightlife, and offsite experiences?
KW: Ellicottville has so much to offer from locally owned independent shops, restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries to axe throwing, and skeet/trap shooting experiences, there is something for everyone. We can provide shuttle service from your lodging to the Village.
HV: Regarding onsite catering, what meal options do you provide for meetings (breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee breaks)?
KW: We have an extensive catering menu that offers everything from all day beverage stations to plated and buffet dinners. Our menus are also customizable. With advance notice, we can offer special meals when the menu you select does not address an individual's dietary needs or food allergies.
HV: How far in advance should groups book? Can you accommodate last-minute meetings?
KW: 75% of our Groups are repeat, so planning in advance is advised during peak summer dates but with 6 Lodges and 22 meeting rooms it is likely we will have availability. We are happy to plan your meeting years or days in advance.
HV: Are pets allowed for overnight guests?
KW: The Inn at Holiday Valley has some rooms that are Pet Friendly. The Tamarack Club is unable to accept pets.
HV: Can a company book an entire lodge or venue exclusively?
KW: Absolutely! We have many companies who love being able to book an entire area for their outting.
HV: What unique features or services does HV offer for corporate groups?
KW: Chairlift Rides are a unique experience you can offer your guests when you host an event at Holiday Valley.
HV: Suites or Private Spaces: Are there executive suites or lounges for VIPs?
KW: The Inn at Holiday Valley has 7 suites and the Tamarack Club has many suites ranging in size from one bedroom suites with full kitchens, living rooms and fireplaces up to a two floor executive suite that has a full kitchen, spacious living room with fireplace and three bedrooms.
HV: Do you offer menu tastings for planners?
KW: Private tastings can be arranged for plated meals. Our customers continually mention the compliments they receive from their guests on the food!
HV: What makes HV stand out from other venues?
KW: The beauty of our resort really sets us apart from other venues. Our meeting rooms have windows that offer scenic views and natural light that helps set the tone for a successful meeting. But what I am most proud of is the friendly personalized service you will receive from everyone you and your guests encounter at the Resort and in the Village of Ellicottville.
HV: How can planners arrange a site visit?
KW: I can be reached by phone at 716-699-7002 or email me. Or stop by and say hello. My office is located by the front desk of the Tamarack Club, just down the hall from our fabulous restaurant, Edna’s at the Tamarack Club.
HV: Do companies often return for annual meetings or retreats?
HV: Families love coming to Holiday Valley for their reunions because Holiday Valley and Ellicottville have so much to offer. Whether it be the poolside lounger, the shopping enthusiast or the adventurer, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We have families who have made Holiday Valley a part of their family traditions for decades.
75% of our groups are repeat/annual customers. That does not happen by accident; it is the result of years of focusing on the customer and their needs.
From flexible meeting spaces and thoughtful planning support to outdoor adventures and the welcoming charm of Ellicottville, Holiday Valley delivers far more than a place to meet. It’s a destination where ideas come together, teams reconnect, and guests leave with lasting memories. With a dedicated conference team, scenic surroundings, and a proven track record of repeat groups year-after-year, Holiday Valley continues to be a trusted partner for meetings, conferences, and retreats of all sizes. When you’re ready to plan your next event, you’ll find everything you need, and more, right here in the heart of the hills.