#IPW2025

 ORLANDO UNVEILS WHAT'S NEW FOR 2025 AT IPW

Visit Orlando, The Official Tourism Association® for Orlando, announced exciting new updates from The Theme Park Capital of the World at IPW in Chicago. From 2024 visitation numbers to the first new theme park to open in 25 years and other major attractions, hotel and shopping options, Orlando continues to lead the way as one of the most dynamic travel destinations in the world.

Orlando Announces 75.3 million Visitors in 2024

Orlando welcomed more than 75.3 million visitors in 2024, a 5.9% increase over the previous year, maintaining its position as America's most visited destination. International visitation reached 6.5 million, reflecting growth in key markets with Canada remaining the top international market, followed by UK, Brazil, Mexico and Colombia. The destination's growth is a testament to the uniqueness of Orlando; the city's increasing global connectivity, with new and expanded airlift in nearly all of Orlando's top international markets; and the efforts of travel trade partners, including Visit Orlando's network of international representation in 12 markets, with recent additions in Spain, France, Chile, Peru, Argentina and India.

2024 International Results – Top 5 Origin Markets:

#IPW2025

 ARKANSAS UNVEILS NEW ERA OF OUTDOOR RECREATION AT IPW 2025

Trail innovation, inclusivity, and Olympic-level cycling highlight The Natural State’s growing global impact

 

At IPW 2025, Arkansas Tourism unveiled new infrastructure plans that reinforce the state’s growing reputation as a national and global leader in outdoor recreation, sustainable infrastructure and inclusive access to the outdoors.

 

Key initiatives include new trail systems and access projects. Two gravity-oriented trail experiences are in the works, one in Mena in the Ouachita Mountains and one in Bella Vista in the Ozark Mountains.

 

The Trails at Mena will feature a mountain bike lift—a gravity-fed system similar to ski lifts—bringing users to the top of backcountry trails where the descent is the focus. When complete, it will be the largest lift-served mountain bike park in the world, built from the ground up exclusively for biking, with no ski infrastructure or legacy constraints. The park will be designed entirely for two wheels and will operate 365 days a year. The project is a model for public-private collaboration among federal, state, and local partners. The experience will open new possibilities for riders and redefine access to backcountry experiences. With millions of residents within a three- to six-hour drive, Mena offers significant potential as a premier weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts across the South-Central U.S.

#IPW2025

 CHOOSE CHICAGO LAUNCHES NEW COMMUNITY-DRIVEN CAMPAIGN POSITIONING CHICAGO AS A PREMIER GLOBAL DESTINATION

Choose Chicago Launches New Community-Driven Marketing Campaign to Amplify Civic Pride and Position Chicago as a Premier Global Destination 

Launching ahead of IPW 2025, the “Never Done. Never Outdone.” campaign is an invitation to experience a Chicago that is endlessly creative, relentlessly driven, and always ready to surprise you.

Choose Chicago today announced the launch of a new marketing campaign to position Chicago as a premier global destination for leisure travel, meetings, and events. The new “Never Done. Never Outdone.” campaign was informed and influenced by a year-plus long brand strategy effort consisting of over 300 community and industry listening sessions, focus groups, sentiment surveys, social listening research, and brand showcases. 

 BRAND USA ANNOUNCES BOLD AGENDA TO DRIVE INTERNATIONAL VISITATION AT IPW 2025

Brand USA Introduces New Global Tourism Campaign 'America the Beautiful' and Launches Dedicated Digital Hub, AmericaTheBeautiful.com. 

Organization Promotes Decade of Big Events, including America250, 2026 World Cup, Route 66 Centennial, Upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics and 2034 Winter Olympic Games, and Promotes What's New in the USA

#IPW2025

TREAT YOURSELF TO A SOLO SAN DIEGO TRIP

Traveling solo allows time for self-connection and relaxation, and it can feel liberating — you can do what you want, when you want, without having to compromise on where to eat or what to do. With its walkable and distinctive neighborhoods, endless dining options, bustling nightlife, miles of coastline and ample opportunities to experience nature, San Diego is an ideal destination for solo travelers, whether it's their first time adventuring on their own or are seasoned explorers. 

#IPW2025

 BRAND USA ANUNCIA DURANTE IPW 2025 UNA AGENDA AMBICIOSA PARA IMPULSAR LOS VIAJES INTERNACIONALES

Brand USA presenta su nueva campaña global de turismo 'America the Beautiful' y lanza su centro digital, AmericaTheBeautiful.com. 

La organización promueve una década de grandes eventos, incluyendo America250, la Copa Mundial de la FIFA 2026, el Centenario de la Ruta 66, los próximos Juegos Olímpicos y Paralímpicos de Verano de 2028 y los Juegos Olímpicos de Invierno de 2034, y promueve las novedades en EE. UU.

Brand USA, la organización de mercadeo de destinos de los Estados Unidos y patrocinador principal de IPW de U.S. Travel Association, llevó a cabo hoy su conferencia de prensa anual en McCormick Place en Chicago, Illinois, donde presentó su visión para el futuro de los viajes internacionales hacia los Estados Unidos. La organización lanzó una nueva campaña global de turismo, "America the Beautiful", diseñada para mostrar lo mejor de los Estados Unidos e impulsar los viajes internacionales hacia este país desde 2025 en adelante.

#IPW2025

360 CHICAGO ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF OBSERVATION DECK AND NEW DEDICATED EVENT SPACE ATOP ICONIC 875 N. MICHIGAN AVENUE

360 CHICAGO, the observation deck located on the 94th floor of 875 N. Michigan Avenue (the former John Hancock Center), today announced that the observation deck will expand to the 95th floor, becoming Chicago's first multi-story observation deck, and the 96th floor will become a premier event space for weddings, celebrations and corporate gatherings.

360 CHICAGO's parent company, Magnicity, purchased the two floors in June 2024, and after a multimillion-dollar renovation, the new spaces are expected to open to the public in 2027. New features planned include a grand staircase connecting floors 94, 95 and 96 – ascending through a dramatic triple-height space with striking views of Lake Michigan.

#IPW2025

18 WAYS TO CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY IN CHICKASAW COUNTRY

Chickasaw Country, Okla. - As America celebrates this Independence Day, the towns within Chickasaw Country will roll out the red, white and blue carpet for various events from parades and 5K runs to festivals and fireworks. Festivities around the region begin as early as June 21 and extend through July 5.

Tuttle, Oklahoma –

Kick off the holiday celebrations at Coal Creek Vineyard and Winery in Tuttle at the Summer Independence Kickoff Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. This day of family fun will include vendors, food trucks, helicopter rides and live music by Nathan Burris, Jeff Douglas, Caleb Robertson and Codey Wayne. The city of Tuttle will end the evening with a spectacular fireworks display.

#IPW2025

CALIFORNIA GOLD COUNTRY CELEBRATES COMMUNITY, CULTURE & CULINARY CREATIVITY WITH A YEAR OF UNFORGETTABLE FESTIVALS

Global Connections

New in 2025, Sacramento welcomes Terra Madre Americas, the first American edition of the globally celebrated Slow Food festival, arriving in September. This immersive event will feature tastings from across the Americas, workshops with coffee growers and roasters, and conversations focused on sustainability, ethics, and culinary heritage.

#IPW2025

 PARK CITY IN THE WINTER: 10 MUST-DO ACTIVITIES THAT GO BEYOND THE SLOPES!

When the snow covers the mountains of Park City, Utah, the city transforms into a true winter wonderland. Famous for Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort – two excellent ski resorts – the city is much more than a destination for skiers and snowboarders. A variety of unique experiences that travelers from all over the world expect, with unforgettable adventures, moments of relaxation, a whiskey tour, and a delicious progressive dinner, to name a few. 

While sliding down the slopes is one of the main attractions, Park City also offers a range of activities that celebrate the culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty of the region. Get ready to explore every corner of this vibrant city, where the cold is just an invitation to discover new passions and traditions. Here are 10 must-do activities for an unforgettable winter. 

#IPW2025

 WHAT'S NEW THIS SUMMER IN TENNESSEE

Soak up the sun, reconnect with nature, savor a new restaurant, make memories at a new festival or stay somewhere unique. Here's a look at what's new and happening this season in Tennessee. Find your summer travel inspiration.

NEW ATTRACTIONS, EXHIBITS & EXPERIENCES

Nashville – The Dolly Parton: Journey of a Seeker exhibit at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum focuses on turning points in Parton's life and career through the decades, how she overcame obstacles and became one of the most beloved and recognized living legends.

Arrington – Soak up the summer at Arrington Vineyard's first-ever Crawfish Festival June 14 with an authentic, Louisiana-style crawfish boil. Sip on Arrington wines and listen to live music.

#IPW2025

SAN DIEGO'S BUZZING NEIGHBORHOODS

From pristine beaches to high-energy urban areas, San Diego's vast and varied landscape is the perfect backdrop for more than 100 unique neighborhoods. Each neighborhood's personality and style speak of San Diego's rich diversity, and their cultural and culinary offerings continue to evolve due to their distinct individuality. Here, visitors can mingle with local residents, get lost in San Diego's history, and experience the city's dynamic culinary and artistic scenes.

Whether it's for their cultural contributions, historical significance or exciting new attractions and businesses, communities like Barrio Logan, La Jolla, Downtown, North Park and the Convoy District in Kearny Mesa are buzzing neighborhoods worth exploring. 

#IPW2025

 FIRST LADY RETURNS TO CHICAGO RIVER AND LAKE MICHIGAN FOR 2025 SEASON

Now in its 90th season, Chicago's iconic First Lady invites locals and visitors alike to rediscover the magic of the city, from the shimmering waters of the Chicago River to the open expanse of Lake Michigan. With stunning skyline views, rich history, and lively narration, First Lady offers guests unforgettable experiences on the water. 

There's something for everyone to choose from with a variety of unique cruises, including the award-winning Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) River Cruise Aboard First Lady, the tail-wagging fun of the Canine Cruise, the spine-tingling Creepy Cruise, or the dazzling 3D Fireworks Cruise that brings the city to life after dark. 

The First Lady 2025 season runs from April through November. First Lady is located on Chicago's River Walk at 112 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago IL 60601. Access via Columbus Drive stairs at Upper or Middle Wacker Drive. More information can be found at https://firstlady.com/ 

#IPW2025

 GREATER MIAMI AND MIAMI BEACH CELEBRATES PRIDE MONTH

Greater Miami & Miami Beach continues its year-round commitment to LGBTQ inclusion by honoring Pride Month with a vibrant calendar of events and programming this June. Locals and visitors are invited to celebrate the artistry and cultural contributions that have long shaped the destination into one of the most LGBTQ welcoming in the world.

Miami Beach Classical Music Festival's Pride Concert

This year's Pride festivities began with Miami Beach Classical Music Festival's Miami Beach Pride Concert, presented in partnership with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) and Miami Beach Pride. Held on May 31 and June 1, the event featured a talented lineup of performers and transformed the historic façade of the iconic Tides South Beach into a canvas of stunning visual projections. Performances included international DJs and music producers La Trice Perry and Eliad Cohen, setting the tone for cultural programming, entertainment and community pride.

#IPW2025

 GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU REPORT: MIAMI-DADE TOURISM REMAINS ROBUST WITH RECORD NUMBER OF VISITORS IN 2024

Marking a record number of visitors in the last year, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) emphasized the high-performing visitor economy and communicated the benefits of tourism in Miami-Dade County at its annual State of the Travel & Tourism Industry event. More than 500 attendees, including GMCVB industry partners, government officials and community leaders, gathered at Jungle Island to celebrate Greater Miami and Miami Beach's robust tourism ecosystem and one of the destination's main economic drivers.

Miami-Dade County experienced sustained tourism growth in 2024, attracting over 28 million visitors – the highest number ever recorded in a single year. These visitors spent $22 billion in the destination, generating $2.2 billion in local and state tax revenues. With more than 209,000 tourism-supported jobs in Miami-Dade, the industry now employs more people than ever before.

#IPW2025

WHAT'S NEW AND HAPPENING IN CHICAGO – SUMMER/FALL 2025

Prepare for the return of major events such as the James Beard Awards (the “Oscars” of the food world) at Chicago's Lyric Opera (June 16) the adrenaline-pumping  NASCAR Chicago Street Race (July 5-6) and Lollapalooza one of the biggest music festivals in the world (July 31 - August 3), expected to collectively draw in tens of thousands of domestic and international visitors. Interspersed with such showstopping events, visitors can also enjoy local festivals put on by the city including Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago House Music Festival and Conference, Chicago Jazz Festival, Grant Park Music Festival, Millennium Park Summer Film Series, Chicago Air and Water Show, and more.

#IPW2025

 IT'S TIME TO RAISE THE CURTAIN ON COLORADO AS ARTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES ACROSS THE STATE TAKE CENTER STAGE

Colorado may be best known for its abundance of active outdoor adventure offerings, but the state's arts and culture scene deserves its time in the limelight. Throughout the state, visitors will discover a rich tapestry of cultural experiences—from world-renowned music and film festivals to enchanting open-air performance venues, captivating hand-painted murals, striking art installations, and museum exhibits that leave a lasting impression.

Follow an array of film festivals rolling through towns across the state, and start making advance plans to experience one of the largest independent film festivals in the world as the Sundance Film Festival moves to Boulder starting in 2027. Check out the lineup of outdoor venues perfect for enjoying warm-weather performances including the legendary Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre. And don't miss The Colorado Historic Opera Houses Circuit, which is breathing life into historic buildings in five landmark opera houses in Aspen, Ouray, Leadville, Telluride and Central City.

#IPW2025

 PLAN YOUR NEXT MEETING & CONVENTION IN GRAPEVINE, TEXAS

Grapevine has 20+ hotels and a million square feet of convention space

 When it comes to meeting and accessibility for corporate convention business, no one can deliver like Grapevine, Texas can! With the many terminals at DFW Airport within Grapevine city limits, you're never more than 12 minutes from terminal to hotel. In addition to the convenience of location, are some of the Dallas Fort Worth area's best restaurants, entertainment facilities, the Original Urban Wine Trail and they're all within minutes of the meetings and convention hotels.  

#IPW2025

NORTH DAKOTA INVITES TRAVELERS TO EMBARK ON LEGENDARY ROAD TRIP ADVENTURES

Discover North Dakota, a destination where the spirit of the American West thrives amidst wide-open spaces, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming communities. More than just a place, North Dakota is an invitation to "Be Legendary" as you uncover rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Road trips remain a beloved American tradition, and North Dakota offers an abundance of captivating routes designed for every interest and budget. These journeys wind through bustling major cities and charming small towns, leading to both iconic attractions and unique local events that enhance the state's legendary appeal. Travelers will find ample lodging, diverse dining, and incredible experiences around every bend, with suggested routes like Interstate 94, Highway 83, and the scenic Missouri River Road Trip providing the perfect soundtrack for adventure.

#IPW2025

 25 FUN & FREE THINGS TO DO IN SAN DIEGO

Having fun in San Diego doesn't mean spending a lot of money. In fact, lots of things to see and do here are absolutely free! With 70 miles of beautiful beaches, near-perfect weather year-round and a variety of magnificent settings countywide, San Diego is a bargain getaway that promises fun for kids and adults any time of year. Visitors can save some cash with these activities.

1. San Diego Beaches

Head to San Diego's many beaches, which are consistently ranked among the top in the nation. The beaches are all free to the public, to swim, body surf or hang ten. Build a sand castle, relax with a good book or just bask in the sun – you won't be disappointed.