Conferences and exhibitions are important events that are associated with a range of positive impacts for attendees and other stakeholders on different scales. However, recent external disruptions such as COVID-19 and other global environmental and economic uncertainties have led to an increase in virtual and hybrid meetings. As virtual and hybrid events have increased, the ongoing value of in-person conferences and exhibitions has become less clear. This study explores the short-term outcomes and long-term legacies of five national and international conferences held in person at the Vancouver Convention Center, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada in 2022. The study also compares the outcomes of conferences that return to the destination annually and those that rotate globally. The analytical framework is informed by the outcome and legacy approach developed by the BestCities Global Alliance, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The study identifies 47 short-term outcomes and 17 long-term legacies; affirming the value of in-person conferences and conventions. Key outcomes for returning and globally rotating conferences are also identified, as well as suggestions to guide the management and study of conference outcomes and legacies in other contexts.