News

Briana Konecke is the Founder of Rural Tourism Network (RTN), a New York-based consulting and research organization dedicated to helping rural communities harness tourism as a driver of economic development and cultural preservation. RTN works at the intersection of destination strategy,…

Cayuga County, April 2026 — The Cayuga County Tourism Office is pleased to announce the 2026 Tour Cayuga Tourism Support Grant, a funding opportunity designed to support public programming that celebrates Cayuga County and encourages visitation to the destination. Now in its fifth year, the…

A critical shift in U.S. Customs and Border Protection policy is moving toward final approval and could impact travelers from key feeder markets, including Europe, Japan, and Australia as early as Summer 2026. The proposal would require travelers to disclose detailed family information and five…

Your Tourism Champions booth was on display at the Dream Destinations Travel Show at the MGM Springfield in Springfield, MA, on April 12th. We had steady traffic through the booth, with many New Englanders eager to explore New York State. Many families and retirees came through the booth during the…

Sean T. Fitzpatrick is Chief Marketing Officer at Overit, a nationally recognized creative agency based in Albany, NY. Overit, a national full-service marketing and communications agency, brings deep expertise in travel and hospitality, including destinations, hotels, tourism organizations, and…

On Wednesday afternoon, April 22 at the 2026 New York State Tourism Conference, Sarah Just, Director of Sales and Conference Services at Turning Stone Enterprises, will provide an update on the new developments at Turning Stone. Gain insight on upcoming projects, enhancements to meetings and…

On Wednesday, April 22 at the 2026 New York State Tourism Conference, rove co-founder James Sauter will moderate a panel of tourism industry thought leaders who will discuss the rapidly evolving use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impacts across all aspects of the tourism…

The following message is taken directly from the NYATEP newsletter: We are pleased to share an important leadership announcement for the New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals (NYATEP). NYATEP has appointed Chris Neale as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1,…

As New York State destinations face increasing pressure to maximize impact with limited resources, a strategic approach of repackaging existing assets offers a timely and cost-effective way to generate new energy, visitor interest, and local pride. Join us at the 2026 New York State Tourism…

New augmented reality experience brings Ontario County’s history to life through interactive storytelling and on-site exploration  Canandaigua, NY — Visit Finger Lakes (www.VisitFingerLakes.com) is pleased to announce the launch of the Finger Lakes Virtual Museum during…

As traveler demand shifts toward outdoor recreation, authentic experiences, and slower, place-based travel, New York’s trail network is uniquely positioned to support resilient tourism growth. Join us at the 2026 New York State Tourism Conference in Utica, New York, where Erica Schneider, Policy…

Learn how partnerships and international marketing strategies can help grow global visitation to New York State. In this panel discussion, hear real-world examples of how collaboration, strategic programs, and creative experiences are helping destinations of all sizes connect with international…

This blog is brought to you by SLELO PRISM’s Pledge to Protect.  April is Earth Month, a natural time to reconnect with the places around us. Whether that’s a walk close to home, time in the garden, or a day on the trail, Earth Month is a reminder that those everyday moments…

We are in the age of advocacy! Advocacy must be a 365 days per year mindset in Destination Organizations. Advocacy is not lobbying, it is the entire ecosystem we need to build relevancy and support for our work and funding. Preview the 6 hour Destination Advocate Program that will be held in Corning…

Travis Cain is the Co-Founder and Creative Director at Brave World Media, a full-service creative agency specializing in social strategy and management, brand storytelling, design, web development, video production, and photography — with deep expertise in tourism and economic development…

Participants Will Celebrate New York’s Public Lands by Volunteering in Cleanup and Stewardship Events Throughout the State Register for this Event Here Registration is now open for the 15th annual I Love My Park Day, which will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at state parks,…

The travel trade—tour operators, receptive operators, and destination management companies—is one of the most powerful distribution channels available to New York State destinations and suppliers, and one of the least understood. This breakout session on Friday, April 24 at the 2026 New York…

Alastair Jack is the managing director at Curacity. Curacity helps destinations translate their brand story into editorial opportunities that build awareness and consideration among travelers already engaging with travel and lifestyle content. Curacity complements broader tourism marketing efforts…

We are excited to announce that Rich Gagliano, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Empire State Development, and Ross Levi, Executive Director / Vice President of NYS Division of Tourism - I LOVE NY, Empire State Development, will provide an I LOVE NY update at the 2026 New York State Tourism…

Your Tourism Champions booth was on display at the Montreal Outdoor Adventure Show at the Palais des congrès de Montréal on March 28th & 29th. We were joined in the booth by Kosta Tsimiklis from REACH GLOBAL, representing I LOVE NEW YORK, and Sylvie Nelson from Adirondack Executive Services,…