Bamboo in the Carolinas: Growth, Innovation & Conservation

Travel & Lodging Information for the 2025 American Bamboo Society Conference

Airport & Transportation
The most convenient airport for conference attendees is Greenville-Spartanburg
International Airport (GSP), located about 15 minutes from downtown and the host hotel,
Embassy Suites Greenville Downtown Riverplace. GSP offers direct flights from major U.S.
cities and has on-site rental services from Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz,
National, and Thrifty (gspairport.com).

Additional Airport Option: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is approximately 101
miles away—a drive of about 1 hour 40 minutes.
Ride-share: Uber and Lyft pickups are permitted and meet travelers at the front curb of the
terminal—an important option since the hotel does not offer a shuttle.
Parking: Downtown Greenville offers numerous public garages. Rates are:
Daily maximum: $7
Parking beneath the Embassy Suites is available via RiverPlace Garage ($7/day) or
valet ($25/day). EV charging stations and ParkMobile payment are available
(visitgreenvillesc.com).

Other transport: Taxi and limo service is available via Eastside Transportation.

Hotel Booking: Embassy Suites Greenville Downtown Riverplace
Address: 250 Riverplace, Greenville, SC 29601
Reservation Link: Hilton ABS Booking Page
Phone: 864-263-4800 (ask for the American Bamboo Society Conference rate)
ABS Hotel Contact: Gracie Meitzner – g.meitzner@hospitalityamerica.com, 864-412-7832
Important Notes:
● Rooms are large and ideal for sharing. If you’d like help finding a roommate, contact
Carole Meckes bambooaustin@gmail.com

● Greenville is a popular fall destination due to Clemson football and seasonal tourism.
Book early to avoid rate hikes or sellouts.

● For extended stays (arriving early or leaving late), contact Gracie Meitzner directly to
receive the ABS discount for your full stay.
Hotel amenities include :
Dining & Social
● Free made‐to‐order breakfast buffet, accommodating vegetarian, vegan, gluten‐free
and American options
● Daily manager’s evening reception with snacks, beer and wine
● On‐site dining options: rooftop restaurant and bar with skyline views; includes a Ruth’s
Chris Steak House option
● Room service during select hours; lobby coffee/tea station; convenience market

Fitness & Recreation
● Indoor saltwater leisure pool
● 24‐hour fitness center with cardio and strength equipment