The transformation from McClellan Air Force Base to the Lions Gate Hotel and Conference Center was an ingenious project with a successful outcome. The hotel and grounds offer those planning events a versatile option to the downtown hotel choices. Once you pull in to the complex you may experience an interesting calm vibe – like you just entered the quiet, clean, tree-lined streets of a small town.

The well established grounds of Lions Gate include a 122 room hotel, some specialty cottages (formerly officer’s homes and quarters), Club Room Ballroom and the General’s Garden. A pretty courtyard is next to the Club Ballroom and on the other side is a spa and swimming pool available for more casual events. The complex is suitable for both meetings and conferences and special events and weddings of all shapes and sizes from 50 to 350 guests.

The General’s Garden is the most popular space for weddings and receptions. It is comprised of open, grassy, grounds behind what was really a General’s home on base (so you know it has to be especially nice and fitting for the office). The pleasantly landscape area has plenty of room for a wedding ceremony near the meandering, landscaped guest entry. Events of about 250 can be accommodated nicely. There is a patio that gives some solid ground for dance floor, bar and buffet areas. The alfresco lawn dining area is in shade in the early evening. A permanent structure makes for a sweet framing of the wedding ceremony. Guests may explore the interior of the General’s home which also has guest accommodations up to 8 people. The home also works well as a bridal changing area.

The Vixens were delighted with lunch at Lions Gate and an informative tour provided by Sunny Cobb of their sales and catering department; she is very knowledgeable and an experienced on-site wedding planner and is very involved with the wedding arrangements. In house catering will expertly service any needs you may have for food and beverage for a multitude of event types.

You must visit Lions Gate and the General’s Garden as the history, charm and uniqueness of this entire venue make it a wonderful option for your next event.

Thank you to Jordan of Jordan Zink Photography for joining us Vixens and capturing these images.

~ Vixen Laurie