Marilu F.
Yelp
Throughout the years, I have had a love-hate relationship with the Miami Beach Convention Center.
Years ago, I worked for an event planning company who was a supplier for many of the events held here. Hence, I know the hard work firsthand that everyone does to make sure that an event is a success. I know how booths are set up, how they get electricity, the works essentially. It is rather remarkable how people band together to do these things. Sadly, this is where my positivity ends.
The parking situation is chaos. Aside from the huge parking garage on 17th, parking anywhere else easily makes coming here a bit of a walk. If you manage to get a parking space at that particular garage, get ready to cross the street. The drivers are crazy and seriously do not jaywalk. You may see the end of your life otherwise.
Going inside the convention center, you are bound to face tight security. This is good as it provides safety. Unfortunately, some of the security is extremely uptight and sometimes at these events, they do not label things accordingly. This past Saturday, a security told me very nonchalantly that I couldn't sit on the floor. This wouldn't have bothered me except I felt I got an attitude and I honestly think that they should have had a sign there, which I said so, only to be met with no reply.
Not to mention that if you go, be prepared to freeze. It is the North Pole. The only way not to freeze is if somehow, someway, you go to an event that is ridiculously packed, and even then, I sincerely wonder.
I will no doubt go again and continue on with my love-hate relationship with the Miami Beach Convention Center.