The Henry B Gonzalez
Convention Center

The Henry B Gonzalez Convention Center is a world-class event venue located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, Texas. It has a rich history and has played a significant role in the development of the city's tourism industry.

The convention center was originally built in 1968 and named the San Antonio Convention Center. At the time, it was a state-of-the-art facility with a total of 162,000 square feet of exhibition space, a 2,500-seat theater, and a ballroom that could accommodate up to 6,000 people. Over the years, the convention center continued to expand and upgrade its facilities to meet the growing demand for event space in the city.

In 1998, the convention center was renamed in honor of Henry B Gonzalez, a former US Congressman who represented the San Antonio area for 37 years. Gonzalez was a champion of civil rights and social justice, and he played a key role in the creation of the Voting Rights Act and the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Since its opening, the Henry B Gonzalez Convention Center has hosted countless events, including conventions, trade shows, concerts, and sporting events. It has become a major destination for visitors from around the world, and it has contributed significantly to the growth of the city's tourism industry.

One of the most significant events in the convention center's history was the 1996 Republican National Convention. This was the first time that San Antonio had hosted a major political convention, and it was a significant milestone for the city. The convention center was extensively renovated in preparation for the event, and it played a key role in helping San Antonio establish itself as a major player in the national political scene.

Another major event that took place at the convention center was the 2008 Final Four basketball tournament. This was the first time that San Antonio had hosted the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship, and it was a major coup for the city. The convention center was transformed into a basketball arena, and thousands of fans descended on the city to watch the games.

In addition to these major events, the convention center has also hosted a wide range of other events, including comic book conventions, car shows, and cultural festivals. It has become a hub of activity in the city, and it has helped to put San Antonio on the map as a major tourist destination.

Over the years, the convention center has undergone a number of renovations and upgrades to ensure that it remains a state-of-the-art facility. In 2016, the center completed a major expansion project that added an additional 280,000 square feet of event space, bringing the total exhibition space to 1.6 million square feet. The expansion also included a new 54,000-square-foot ballroom, which is the largest in Texas.

The convention center is now one of the most technologically advanced event venues in the world, with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, high-speed internet access, and advanced lighting and sound systems. It also features a wide range of amenities for event attendees, including restaurants, cafes, and retail shops.

In addition to its role as an event venue, the convention center has also played an important role in the economic development of the city. The events hosted at the convention center generate significant revenue for the city, and they also create jobs and stimulate the local economy.

In recent years, the convention center has also become an important hub for sustainability and environmental stewardship. The facility has implemented a number of green initiatives, including a recycling program, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and water conservation measures. The convention center has received numerous awards for its sustainability efforts, including LEED Gold certification.

In conclusion, the Henry B Gonzalez Convention Center is a historic and iconic event venue that has played a significant role in the development of San Antonio's tourism industry.