Convention Center Growth

• $200 Million Investment: Omaha is investing $200 million to expand and renovate the convention center.
• 90,000 Square Feet: The expansion will add 90,000 square feet, including 25 new meeting rooms for a total of 41 meeting rooms.
• Two-Level Addition: The new section will be a two-level, modern design with sweeping glass walls and views of the Missouri River.
• Completion Date: The project is expected to open in fall 2027, with construction already underway.
• Competitive Edge: The upgrade allows Omaha to welcome an additional $1.2 billion in new meeting business – with larger conventions drawing more visitors to local hotels, restaurants and businesses.

Omaha is strengthening its position as a destination for major conventions and events. A $200 million expansion and renovation of the CHI Health Center Omaha convention center, Nebraska’s largest indoor arena and convention venue, reflects the city’s determination to compete for larger conventions. As Omaha continues to grow, so does its ambition to become a leading hub for regional and national conventions, events and tourism.

With 25 new meeting rooms, bringing the total number of breakout spaces to 41 – a game changer for Omaha’s ability to host major multi-day events. The two-story structure will feature expansive glass walls and sweeping views of the riverfront parks and Missouri River, with a grand opening planned for fall 2027.

There’s a reason meeting planners keep coming back to Omaha. The city pairs world-class convention space with a genuinely walkable, welcoming environment – the Old Market entertainment district, 3,600+ downtown hotel rooms and a glass-enclosed skywalk to the 600-room Hilton Omaha, all within easy reach of CHI Health Center Omaha.

“Meeting planners have been telling MECA for years that they love coming to Omaha — they just need more room,” said Adam J. Straight, President & CEO of the Metropolitan Entertainment & Convention Authority (MECA). “With 90,000 square feet of new space and 41 total meeting rooms, we’re finally able to give them that, and then some.”

The expansion will make an already strong destination even more competitive. More meeting rooms, more capacity and a contemporary redesign with a striking glass façade and Missouri River views will position Omaha to pursue larger and most prestigious events – and win them over.