TTRA CenStates Conference 2026, Bloomington, IN

October 7, 2026 - October 9, 2026

SAVE THE DATE!

2026 TTRA CenStates Annual Chapter Conference

Dates: October 7–9, 2026
Location: Bloomington, Indiana

Organizer: Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) Central States Chapter

Call for Presenters is Now Open!

The TTRA CenStates Chapter is seeking presenters for the 2026 CenStates Conference, October 7 to 9 in Bloomington, Indiana.

We’re looking for engaging presentations, panels, and discussions that showcase how research and data are helping shape the future of travel and tourism. Topics of interest include AI and emerging technology, marketing and measurement, visitor experience, resident engagement, industry trends, practical applications of research, and destination success stories.

Sessions may be 30 to 60 minutes in length.

Submission Deadline: June 15, 2026
Presenter Notifications: End of July 2026

Ready to submit? Complete the Call for Presenters form:
Submit Your Proposal

Questions? Contact ce*******@**ra.com.

Discover What’s Next in Travel and Tourism

Calling all travel industry leaders, researchers, and innovators.

Join us in Bloomington, Indiana from October 7–9, 2026 for the TTRA CenStates Chapter Annual Conference, where research meets real-world application and ideas turn into action.

Together, we will explore the trends, data, and strategies shaping the future of travel and tourism, while connecting with a community that values insight, collaboration, and forward thinking.

Set in the vibrant college town of Bloomington, home to Indiana University, this conference blends meaningful learning with an engaging and welcoming destination experience.

Why Attend

This is more than a conference. It is a space to learn, share, and move the industry forward together.

Fresh perspectives on sustainability, emerging audiences, and technology
Actionable insights you can apply immediately to your destination or organization
Thought-provoking discussions that challenge assumptions and spark new ideas
Meaningful connections with professionals across academia, DMOs, and the private sector

Who Should Attend

Destination marketing professionals seeking data-driven strategies
Researchers and academics looking to share and apply their work
Industry partners and consultants focused on innovation and growth
Students and emerging leaders exploring careers in tourism

What to Expect

In-depth discussions
Engage in conversations that push thinking and inspire new approaches.

Networking opportunities
Connect with peers, industry leaders, and researchers in a collaborative setting.

Cutting-edge research
Gain insights that help you make smarter, more strategic decisions.

Relevant focus areas
From sustainable tourism to technology and new traveler segments, sessions are designed to reflect what matters most right now.

Conference Schedule

Subject to change

Wednesday, October 7

6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

Welcome Reception and Academic Papers

Thursday, October 8

7:30 AM	Breakfast
8:30 AM to 4:00 PM	Conference Sessions
5:30 PM to 7:00 PM	Offsite Walk the Talk, transportation provided
7:00 PM	Dine-Around, at attendee expense

Friday, October 9

7:45 AM	Breakfast
8:30 AM to 12:00 PM	Conference Sessions

Register for the CenStates Conference

Join us for three days of learning, connection, and inspiration.

Registration includes

Access to all sessions
Networking events
Conference materials

Registration rates

TTRA Member, $425 (Early Bird Member, $399)
Non Member, $475 (Early Bird Non Member, $449)
Student Member, $125
Student Non Member, $175
Full Time Professor with Student, $349

Early bird pricing available through August 7, 2026.

Registration will open soon. Join the list to be the first to know when spots become available.

Get Notified When Registration Opens

Sponsorship Opportunities

Position your organization at the center of meaningful industry conversations.

Sponsoring the CenStates Conference gives you direct access to a highly engaged audience of tourism professionals, researchers, and decision-makers across the central United States.

Build visibility, strengthen relationships, and showcase your expertise. Check out our sponsorship opportunities below.

Secure Your Sponsorship Today!

Sponsorship Levels and Benefits

Explore sponsorship opportunities and see how your organization can connect with a highly engaged audience of tourism professionals, researchers, and decision-makers.