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

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

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.

Call for Academic Papers

The Central States Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) invites researchers from around the world to submit abstracts for presentation at the 2026 CenStates Chapter Annual Conference in Bloomington, Indiana.

Submissions are welcome for completed research, conceptual papers, and works in progress across all areas of travel and tourism research.

Abstract Submission Deadline: September 1, 2026

Complete submission guidelines, requirements, important dates, and the online submission form are available here:

Submit an Academic Paper

For questions, please contact ce*******@**ra.com.

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 is now open!

Optional Pre-Conference Tour

At this year’s conference, we are thrilled to be able to offer a private group tour of the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center (TMBCC) as our pre-conference activity.

Dedicated to the people of Tibet, this Cultural Center, located on 90 acres just south of Bloomington, offers a relaxing and peaceful setting for meditation and reflection. The Tibetan Chortens here (2) are the only ones in the nation. The TMBCC was established by Indiana University Professor Emeritus Thubten J. Norbu in 1979 to acquaint people with the history and culture of Tibet and to support Tibetans everywhere. Throughout the year, it provides a place for workshops, teachings, seminars, initiations, retreats and ceremonies relating to the Tibetan and Mongolian cultures. Highlights include the Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, butter sculptures, a permanent sand mandala and many other works of art.

The tour will take place prior to the Welcome Reception on Wednesday, October 7 from 2:30-4PM, and is availble to the first 30 attendees who sign up during registraiton. Transportation will be coordinated onsite at the event.

If you have any questions, please contact ce*******@**ra.com.

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.