Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center: Events, Parking & Construction Guide
Attending an expo, business convention or public event in Dallas? Find confirmed upcoming event dates, the $17–$20 parking options, active exhibition halls, nearby hotels, accessibility information, airport connections and directions that account for the ongoing redevelopment.
Quick Answers Before Your Dallas Convention
Dallas, TX 75202
Venue and event inquiries
Memorial Drive & South Griffin Street
502 South Lamar Street
Events continue during reconstruction
Current redevelopment timetable
Also known as the Dallas Convention Center or KBHCCD, the facility occupies a large campus in southern downtown Dallas. Your event’s assigned hall and entrance now matter more than older general venue maps.
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Events: October–November 2026
The convention center continues to advertise consumer shows, trade exhibitions, industry conferences, sports activities and special events in its available halls.
Upcoming Events on the Official Calendar
| Event | Date | Venue area | Event type |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlantCon Dallas | October 24–25, 2026 | Exhibit Hall C | Consumer show |
| Collect-A-Con Dallas 2026 | October 24–25, 2026 | Exhibit Hall B | Consumer show |
| Win the Storm 2026 | October 28–30, 2026 | Exhibit Hall C and C Ballroom | Industry event / consumer show listing |
| Longhorn State Tattoo Expo | October 30 – November 1, 2026 | Exhibit Hall B | Consumer show |
| USA Wheelchair Football League Tournament | November 1–2, 2026 | Exhibit Hall C | Sporting event |
| Small Business Expo Dallas | November 4, 2026 | Exhibit Hall C and C Ballroom | Business expo |
The events above were listed by the venue on October 23, 2026. The schedule is not a complete list of private conventions, and event dates, halls and admission conditions can change.
Different Events Need Different Preparation
- Confirm ticket price and whether pre-registration is required.
- Check opening and final-entry times.
- Find the event’s assigned Hall B or C entrance.
- Review any special bag or costume-prop rules.
- Save badge registration and pickup instructions.
- Confirm sessions, breakout rooms and show-floor access.
- Check official group hotels and exhibitor rules.
- Allow extra time for construction-related wayfinding.
How to Confirm Your Event & Buy Tickets
Check the date, organizer and exact hall assignment.
Confirm whether the event is open to the public, trade-only or invitation-only.
Check ticket categories, ID requirements, bag limits, prohibited items and cancellation terms.
Do not navigate to a hall that has been closed for demolition.
Use the organizer link supplied through the official Dallas Convention Center events calendar.
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Parking: Current 2026 Rates
The convention center has two currently advertised official attendee parking facilities operated by ACE Parking.
Memorial Drive & South Griffin Street, approximately 1,200 spaces on two levels.
502 South Lamar Street, approximately 170 surface spaces.
| Feature | Garage | Lot C |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $20 | $17 |
| Location | Memorial Dr. & S Griffin St. | 502 S Lamar St. |
| Type | Two-level parking garage | Surface parking lot |
| Published capacity | 1,200 spaces | 170 spaces |
| Re-entry | Not included | Not included |
| Availability | First come, first served | First come, first served |
How to Choose the Better Parking Facility
- You prefer covered parking.
- You want the larger on-site parking inventory.
- You need access from the Memorial/Griffin side.
- The extra $3 is less important than convenience.
- You want the lower published official rate.
- Surface parking suits your vehicle.
- Your current hall entrance is convenient from Lamar Street.
- Spaces remain available when you arrive.
Paying at the Official Parking Facilities
Use Memorial Drive and South Griffin Street for the garage, or 502 South Lamar Street for Lot C.
Follow the parking system instructions shown at the entrance.
Remember your level or parking area and take your ticket with you.
The venue’s parking instructions describe payment at a pay station, at exit or through supported QR-code signage.
ACE Parking assistance is listed at 214-670-4255. Check the current official parking and directions page before departure.
What About Nearby Private Parking?
Commercial parking facilities exist around downtown Dallas. However, they operate independently and may apply separate event pricing, overnight restrictions, vehicle-clearance limits and reservation conditions.
When comparing third-party garages, check the total price, operating hours, exact pedestrian route, re-entry policy and whether the garage is accessible during ongoing construction.
Dallas Convention Center Construction: What’s Open & Closed in 2026?
The City of Dallas is rebuilding and expanding the convention center through a multiyear project. The current redevelopment schedule targets completion in 2030.
| Venue area | Current status | Visitor guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Building / Hall A | Operating during applicable phases | Use your event’s assigned public entrance. |
| Building / Hall B | Operating | Several 2026 public events use Hall B. |
| Building / Hall C | Operating | Hall C and C Ballroom continue to appear on the event calendar. |
| Buildings D, E, F | Decommissioned | Do not plan visitor access using older floor assignments. |
| DART Convention Center Station | Closed | Use current DART station alternatives. |
| Dallas Memorial Auditorium | Under renovation | Do not assume public entry or routine event operations. |
What the 2030 Expansion Will Include
Redevelopment concept
Future halls
Future meeting rooms
Major event space
Current city project timetable
Selected spaces remain in use
The City of Dallas confirmed in June 2026 that the existing redesign approach would proceed rather than adopting a proposed alternative. Construction and demolition are continuing while selected event operations remain active.
For milestone changes, road closures and redevelopment notices, follow the official Dallas Convention Center Master Plan updates.
Current Hall Layout, Ballrooms & Exhibition Space
KBHCCD was developed to accommodate major trade shows, exhibitions, conventions, meetings and receptions. However, its historical total floor area does not represent the space currently available during demolition.
Which Hall Will Your Event Use?
Hall B
Among the active exhibition areas. October 2026 events assigned to Hall B include Collect-A-Con and the Longhorn State Tattoo Expo.
Visitor priority: Verify the Hall B entrance, registration location and correct parking approach.
Hall C & C Ballroom
Used by several upcoming exhibitions, business events and sporting activities. The C Lobby also contains visitor amenities.
Visitor priority: Check whether your activity is in the exhibition hall, ballroom or another C-area room.
Older Capacity Information vs Current Availability
| Facility metric | Historical full-facility reference |
|---|---|
| Exhibition space | 529,250 sq ft |
| Ballroom space | 46,126 sq ft |
| Meeting-room space | 60,564 sq ft |
| Meeting rooms | 64 in venue planning inventory |
Historical full-campus statistics do not mean all those spaces are available for rental in 2026. Current capacities depend on the operating phase.
How to Find Your Exact Room or Exhibit Booth
Identify the current hall, ballroom, meeting room or exhibit-booth assignment.
For 2026 events, do not assume decommissioned Hall D, E or F spaces are available.
Ask whether registration is in the A, B or C area.
Use organizer guidance and onsite signage because construction barriers can change approaches.
Use the official active-space floor plans and capacity resources.
Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Map & Driving Directions
Full venue name: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas
Street address: 650 South Griffin Street, Dallas, Texas 75202
Telephone: 214-939-2700
Map for geographic orientation. Construction closures and your event’s entrance instructions take priority over generic map routing.
Use the Correct Destination When Driving
| Destination | Navigation address | Use for |
|---|---|---|
| Convention center | 650 S Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202 | General venue identification |
| Official parking garage | Memorial Dr & S Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202 | $20 parking |
| Official Lot C | 502 S Lamar St, Dallas, TX 75202 | $17 surface parking |
| Omni Dallas Hotel | 555 S Lamar St, Dallas, TX 75202 | Hotel arrival, not general attendee parking |
Arriving from Major Dallas Highways
- From I-30: Use your current navigation route toward the south end of downtown and check active detours.
- From I-35E: Follow current downtown approach information and avoid blocked construction streets.
- From US-75 / I-45: Route toward the downtown convention district using live traffic conditions.
- From southern Dallas: Check street access and temporary restrictions before attempting the final approach.
DART Station Closure, Rail Alternatives & Dallas Airports
Dallas Area Rapid Transit remains an important transportation option, but the station traditionally named Convention Center Station is temporarily closed due to redevelopment.
Alternative Rail Stations
| Station | Planning consideration |
|---|---|
| EBJ Union Station | Useful alternative for certain rail journeys and connections into the downtown convention district. |
| Cedars Station | Another nearby DART station; check the pedestrian route and actual event entrance. |
| Other downtown stations | May be useful depending on your origin, DART service pattern and final connection. |
From Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
DFW International Airport is approximately 20.5 miles from the convention center, according to the venue’s visitor information. DART provides rail connections into Dallas.
Locate the applicable DART airport train service.
Use an itinerary that does not depend on the closed downtown Convention Center Station.
EBJ Union Station may be useful; confirm the current routing and any transfer.
Walk or use available local transport to your assigned venue entrance.
Use the official DART trip planner and service alerts before travel.
From Dallas Love Field (DAL)
Dallas Love Field is approximately 7–8 miles from the convention center. The airport can be reached using taxi, rideshare or a combination of DART bus and rail services.
The airport connection uses local transit rather than a train that stops directly inside the airline terminal. Travelers with luggage may find a direct road transfer more practical.
Which Airport Should You Choose?
Often convenient for short domestic trips and quick road transfers.
Large international hub with rail and road connections into Dallas.
Compare flight times, total ticket cost, airport transfer charges and convention start time rather than choosing based only on distance.
Hotels Near Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas
Downtown Dallas offers hotel choices ranging from a connected convention headquarters hotel to boutique accommodations and breakfast-oriented properties.
Omni Dallas Hotel — Closest Major Convention Hotel
Address: 555 South Lamar Street, Dallas, TX 75202
The 1,001-room Omni Dallas Hotel is adjacent to the convention center and has historically provided a pedestrian skybridge connection. It offers multiple dining facilities, an outdoor heated pool, a spa and extensive meeting amenities.
Best for: Conference delegates, event organizers, speakers and exhibitors seeking minimal travel between guest rooms and event halls.
Other Downtown Hotel Options
| Hotel | Location | Why consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Hyatt Regency Dallas | 300 Reunion Boulevard | Full-service hotel beside Reunion Tower and near EBJ Union Station. |
| Aloft Dallas Downtown | 1033 Young Street | Modern boutique-style accommodation near the convention district. |
| Lorenzo Hotel Dallas | 1011 South Akard Street | Art-oriented alternative with an outdoor pool. |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown | 1700 Commerce Street | Business-friendly hotel with complimentary breakfast. |
| Homewood Suites Dallas Downtown | 1025 Elm Street | Suite-style accommodation suitable for longer stays. |
| The Adolphus | 1321 Commerce Street | Historic luxury property in central downtown Dallas. |
| Courtyard Dallas Downtown/Reunion District | 310 South Houston Street | Business-oriented alternative near downtown rail connections. |
Walking time to the active convention halls can differ from ordinary map distance because current pedestrian routes may be redirected by construction.
How to Choose the Right Hotel
- Check whether your event has a contracted hotel block.
- Compare taxes, parking, breakfast and any mandatory hotel charges.
- Choose a room location convenient for your assigned active hall.
- Ask whether the hotel offers event shuttle arrangements.
- Check cancellation terms and group booking deadlines.
- Confirm pedestrian routes to the convention center before booking.
Visitor Rules: Bags, Outside Food, Wi-Fi & Accessibility
Bag & Security Policies
The convention center does not apply one universal bag-size policy to every event. Individual organizers may set their own clear-bag, size and prohibited-item rules.
- Check whether your event requires a clear bag.
- Review the maximum permitted bag dimensions.
- Bring valid identification and admission credentials when required.
- Follow posted security and screening instructions.
- Ask the organizer before bringing unusual equipment or demonstration props.
Can You Bring Your Own Food?
Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited. The venue allows limited exceptions for medically necessary items and specially prepared food needed for dietary restrictions.
On-site concessions vary by event. The Level 2 C Lobby includes:
Coffee, espresso drinks, tea, packaged snacks and pastries.
Sandwiches, wraps, salads and some vegetarian or gluten-free choices.
Concession operations depend on the event and its schedule. Not every outlet is guaranteed to be open during every program.
Is Free Wi-Fi Available?
Yes. The venue advertises complimentary wireless internet in common areas and meeting rooms.
Find the available wireless networks.
Wait for the connection splash page.
Follow the displayed terms or instructions.
Smart City Networks support is listed at 214-853-8900.
Accessibility & Mobility Assistance
The convention center offers permanent accessible features, including accessible entrances, elevators, wheelchair-accessible routes and restrooms.
Specific temporary services, such as interpreters, temporary accessible seating and assistive devices, are generally coordinated with the event organizer.
Nursing & Pumping Facilities
Two Mamava nursing pods are identified on the convention-center campus:
- Level 2, A Lobby near the Arena.
- Level 2, C Lobby near Kay’s Place and Go Natural.
Since the venue is undergoing construction, confirm access to the relevant lobby before your visit.
Pets & Service Animals
Regular pets are not allowed inside the convention center. Qualifying service animals are permitted under applicable ADA guidelines.
Emergency and Lost & Found Contacts
| Need | Contact |
|---|---|
| General venue information | 214-939-2700 |
| Venue security dispatch | 214-939-2942 |
| Official parking assistance | 214-670-4255 |
| Wireless internet support | 214-853-8900 |
| Lost and found | Submit a report through the venue’s official lost-property service. |
For immediate danger or a life-threatening emergency, call 911. For non-emergency venue assistance, contact the appropriate onsite staff or security team.
How to Book Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center for an Event
The venue accepts proposals for eligible meetings, conventions, exhibitions and events. Available dates and capacities depend on the ongoing redevelopment phase.
Event Rental Planning Checklist
- Proposed event date and alternative dates.
- Expected attendance and visitor flow.
- Exhibition booths or seating arrangement.
- Meeting and breakout-room requirements.
- Registration, loading and equipment needs.
- Food, beverage and catering services.
- Internet, electrical and audiovisual services.
- Accessibility and security requirements.
- Staffing, labor and vendor schedules.
- Setup, dismantling and cleanup time.
Requesting Event Space: Step by Step
Include event type, preferred dates, duration, expected attendees and organizer details.
Specify exhibition space, ballroom access, meeting rooms, registration and supporting facilities.
Request capacities and spaces available for your particular event dates.
Include audiovisual production, connectivity, power, freight access, catering and security.
Use the official convention center planner and RFP resources.
Confirm costs, room assignments, accessibility, vendor requirements, deposits and cancellation conditions.
Do not advertise your space as confirmed until the venue has executed the required booking agreement.
Exhibitor Arrival & Freight Guidance
Exhibitors should use the event’s official service manual rather than public parking instructions for freight delivery.
- Find the assigned loading dock and scheduled delivery window.
- Check contractor and material-handling arrangements.
- Confirm advance warehouse versus direct-to-show shipping.
- Review electricity, internet, rigging and equipment requirements.
- Determine move-in and move-out schedules.
- Check active hall access and construction restrictions.
- Use the authorized exhibit services and exhibitor instructions.
Public attendee garage access is not a substitute for the event’s freight and loading arrangements.
Things to Do Near Dallas Convention Center
The downtown convention district includes hotels, historic sites, museums, public art and dining options that can be useful before or after a convention.
Outdoor cattle-drive sculpture installation near downtown’s convention district.
Observation experiences and skyline views; separate tickets may be required.
Historic district near the Sixth Floor Museum.
Dining and downtown entertainment options.
Local tip: During summer heat and major downtown roadwork, a short map distance may still involve an uncomfortable walk. Check current routes and use suitable transportation where necessary.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Kay Bailey Convention Center
1. Where is Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas located?
The venue is located at 650 South Griffin Street, Dallas, Texas 75202. Its main telephone number is 214-939-2700.
2. Is Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center open in 2026?
Yes. The facility continues hosting events in selected spaces, including Halls A, B and C, during construction. Buildings D, E and F have been decommissioned.
3. How much is parking at Dallas Convention Center?
The official parking garage costs $20 per day/per entry, and surface Lot C costs $17 per day/per entry. Parking is first come, first served, with no standard in-and-out privileges.
4. What events are scheduled at Kay Bailey Convention Center?
The venue’s late-October and early-November 2026 calendar lists PlantCon Dallas, Collect-A-Con, Win the Storm, Longhorn State Tattoo Expo, USA Wheelchair Football League Tournament and Small Business Expo Dallas. Events and admission conditions may change.
5. When will the new Dallas Convention Center open?
The City of Dallas currently expects the redeveloped Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center to be delivered in 2030. The schedule remains subject to construction progress.
6. Is the DART Convention Center Station open?
No. DART Convention Center Station closed to passengers on January 5, 2026, for redevelopment. Alternatives include EBJ Union Station and Cedars Station, depending on the journey.
7. What hotel is closest to Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center?
Omni Dallas Hotel at 555 South Lamar Street is adjacent to the convention center and has historically been connected by a skybridge. Confirm current pedestrian access during construction.
8. Can I bring outside food or pets to the convention center?
Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited, with limited exceptions for medical and dietary needs. Regular pets are not permitted, but qualifying ADA service animals are allowed.
9. Does Dallas Convention Center offer free Wi-Fi and accessible facilities?
Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is advertised under the network name “Free Internet.” The venue also has accessible facilities and routes, while certain temporary accessibility services must be arranged through event organizers.
10. How can I book Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center for an event?
Prepare your preferred dates, expected attendance, hall requirements and services, then submit a Request for Proposal through the venue’s official planner resources. A booking is confirmed only after the required agreement is executed.