Best/largest orchid show to attend in the U.S.?

[gnathaniel]

I'd recommend the April AOS member's meeting and show in Asheville. It won't be anywhere near as big as Redland, Tamiami, or all the excellent California shows, but for its more modest size it's always of excellent quality and has great vendors, this year including Andy's, Krull-Smith, and I think a couple of Phal/Paph nurseries from Taiwan. Plus Asheville is a fun place to visit even apart from the show. I've had to miss the last several shows since I moved to GA (from Asheville, so I do have a bias here) and was in school fulltime, but I'm definitely going this year.

[Cym Ladye]

Given the choice of Redlands, SBIOS in Santa Barbara and POE in San Francisco, I would always opt for SBIOS. Not only do you have multiple vendors and beautifully arranged displays, but you have the option of going directly to at least 4 nurseries in the area holding open houses.

The displays are far superior to those at POE, especially the very large center display featuring water falls and multiple water features amid the incredible display of orchids. The ambiance is warmer and friendlier and last but not least, you cannot beat the restaurants and Santa Barbara weather in the spring!

POE is this weekend and SB is the following. Two shows for one trip!

[pipsxlch]

One thing about Redland is that there isn't a whole lot of parking there (assuming you're flying down and renting a car, or driving down). People are parking alongside the narrow country roads for probably 1/4 mile around; most of the public use small lot near the front entrance (have only ever come in that way) is taken up with handicapped parking. Wear comfortable shoes also! It's far enough out that a taxi might be a bit pricey. Another reason to show up early. Tamiami at the Dade County Fairgrounds has them beat in this department.

They just posted this year's dates and vendors on their website, but haven't posted a speakers list or about nursery tours or hotel discounts per usual yet. I haven't attended the speeches- either in a hurry or with my disinterested sister. There are several good nurseries within a short drive that usually have an open house.

Not pertinent for the OP, but they have a booth with USDA inspectors on site to inspect plants for international visitors. You can get your papers on them there to ship home. I don't remember this at Tamiami- but maybe I just didn't notice.

Hmm, if I ever get the chance SBIOS sounds interesting!