The Ultimate Guide to the 2026 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference in Duluth: Learn, Network, and Grow Your Business

The 2026 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference will be held in Duluth, Minnesota, on February 11–12, 2026, at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). The event offers both in-person and virtual attendance options, making it accessible for tourism professionals across the state and beyond.

This annual conference is designed specifically for those in the tourism industry, bringing together national keynote speakers, breakout sessions on relevant topics, and opportunities for networking. For two days, attendees will immerse themselves in learning, with a focus on the future of Minnesota’s tourism industry, including marketing, innovation, and trends shaping the sector.

Who Will Attend?

The conference is expected to attract tourism professionals from across Minnesota and the nation. Participants include key figures from the tourism industry, local government, hospitality businesses, and marketing professionals. The event is a unique opportunity to engage with experts and peers to share knowledge, ideas, and best practices to strengthen the industry.

Both in-person and virtual options are available, ensuring broader participation for professionals unable to attend the event in person. This hybrid format gives individuals the chance to benefit from the conference regardless of location.

What Will the Conference Feature?

The 2026 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference will include a variety of components that cater to tourism industry professionals:

1. Keynote Speakers: National industry experts will address crucial topics and provide insights into the future of tourism.
2. Breakout Sessions: These will cover a range of subjects related to tourism marketing, the role of AI in the industry, and evolving tourism trends, helping attendees stay ahead of emerging changes.
3. Networking Opportunities: The conference will also provide ample opportunities for professionals to network with peers and potential partners, which could lead to collaborations and new business ventures.
4. Explore Minnesota Tourism Awards: Recognizing achievements in the state’s tourism industry, these awards will highlight the people and organizations making a significant impact.

Where is the Conference Held?

The event will take place at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) in Duluth, Minnesota, known for its scenic location on the shores of Lake Superior. The DECC is a prime venue for large-scale conferences and events, offering attendees a spacious and accessible setting.

Duluth, a popular tourism destination in northern Minnesota, boasts rich history and natural beauty, making it the perfect backdrop for this year’s conference. The city’s status as a hub for outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and a growing tourism sector aligns well with the themes of the conference.

When Will It Take Place?

The Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference will be a two-day event, starting on February 11 and ending on February 12, 2026. Attendees can choose to attend in person at the DECC or participate virtually. In-person registration costs 275 dollars for the two days, while virtual attendance is free, though advance registration is required for access to the livestream link.

Why Attend the Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference?

Tourism plays a vital role in Minnesota’s economy, and this conference is designed to provide industry professionals with valuable insights that could directly impact their business. With national experts discussing trends, growth opportunities, and the state’s economic outlook, the conference offers actionable strategies for businesses to enhance their operations and connect with the broader tourism network.

Notably, tourism in Minnesota is a major economic driver. In 2023, the state saw 14.1 billion dollars in visitor spending, and tourism’s total economic impact reached 24.2 billion dollars. The sector also supported over 180,000 jobs across lodging, food service, and transportation industries. These statistics demonstrate the critical importance of the tourism industry to Minnesota’s economy and why staying informed through events like the Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference is essential.

For Duluth specifically, while local media may report on visitor numbers, state sources confirm that tourism in the region is a significant contributor to the local economy, with prior reports highlighting several million visitors annually and a multi-million-dollar economic impact. These broader figures underscore the importance of events like the 2026 conference to foster continued growth and innovation.

How to Register for the Conference?

Registration for the 2026 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference is now open. In-person registration costs 275 dollars for both days of the conference, which includes access to all sessions and events at the DECC. For those unable to attend in person, virtual attendance is available at no charge, but attendees must register in advance to receive the livestream link. This virtual option ensures that tourism professionals from all across the state and nation can participate and benefit from the event.

The conference will focus on themes such as marketing, technological advancements in tourism, and industry trends, all of which are critical for businesses to stay competitive in the ever-evolving tourism landscape.

Don’t Miss Out!

Whether you’re attending in person or virtually, the 2026 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference promises to be an invaluable event for anyone in the tourism industry. Don’t miss your chance to gain insights, expand your network, and contribute to the future of Minnesota tourism.

Conclusion

The 2026 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference is shaping up to be a must-attend event for tourism professionals. With its combination of in-depth sessions, valuable networking opportunities, and a focus on the latest trends in the industry, the event provides an essential platform for anyone interested in the future of tourism in Minnesota. Attendees can look forward to connecting with industry leaders, gaining access to crucial insights, and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving field.

Remember, whether in Duluth or virtually, registering early ensures you don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to grow your business and expand your knowledge.

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