October 20, 2026 - October 22, 2026
Registration Now Open
2026 Greater Western TTRA Annual Chapter Conference
Rooted in Research: Cultivating Stronger Destinations Across the Greater West
October 20–22, 2026
Reno, Nevada
Whitney Peak Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
About the Conference
Join the Greater Western Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association for the 2026 GWTTRA Conference in Reno, Nevada, bringing together tourism researchers, destination professionals, industry partners, students, and educators from across the West and beyond.
Under this year’s theme, “Rooted in Research: Cultivating Stronger Destinations Across the Greater West,” the conference explores the changing forces shaping tourism and how research can help destinations make more informed decisions. Sessions will examine economic trends and travel demand, consumer behavior, resident sentiment, evolving tourism data, sports tourism, and the impacts of major events such as FIFA and the Route 66 Centennial. Through research, case studies, and peer discussions, attendees will gain practical insights, exchange ideas, and build connections with colleagues across the tourism community.
Conference at a Glance
Tuesday, October 20
Optional pre-conference excursions and Welcome Reception.
Wednesday, October 21
Full-day conference program featuring the keynote and four research-driven sessions.
Thursday, October 22
Half-day conference program featuring resident sentiment and major-event insights.
Know Before You Go: Frequently Asked Questions
Get ready for October 20–22, 2026, at the Whitney Peak Hotel, 255 N. Virginia Street in downtown Reno, Nevada. Here are the essentials for a smooth and enjoyable conference experience.
Plan your sessions with the conference schedule, program, and speaker highlights.
What should I pack?
The pre-conference guide notes an expected temperature range of approximately 34–60°F in Reno. Bring layers and a jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, and check the forecast before you travel.
- Business casual attire for conference sessions.
- Business cards to exchange with fellow attendees.
- A refillable water bottle. Water-filling stations are available on every floor of the hotel, and water will also be available in the meeting room.
Where do I pick up my conference name badge?
Visit the conference registration table on the third floor of the Whitney Peak Hotel to pick up your name badge when you arrive.
When is the conference registration table open?
- Tuesday, October 20: 3:00–6:30 PM
- Wednesday, October 21: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Thursday, October 22: 8:30 AM–12:30 PM
Is parking free?
Yes! Self-parking in the hotel garage is complimentary for conference attendees with validation.
- Take a parking ticket when entering the hotel garage.
- Bring your ticket to the conference registration table on the third floor to receive validation.
- Use the validated ticket when exiting the garage.
Remember to pick up your validation before leaving the hotel.
I registered for a pre-conference excursion. Where do I meet the group?
Both excursions take place on Tuesday, October 20. Meet in the hotel lobby at the designated time:
- Nevada Museum of Art Private Guided Tour — 1:30 PM: The group will walk to the museum together.
- Downtown Reno Pedal Trolley Tour — 1:45 PM: The group will meet in the lobby before boarding the trolley in front of the hotel.
Please arrive on time so each group can depart as scheduled.
I have food allergies or dietary needs. Will meals accommodate them?
Thank you for sharing your dietary needs during registration. The hotel team has been notified of the requests received.
Food items will be labeled to identify vegetarian and gluten-free options. For Thursday’s breakfast, the hotel team will set aside special meals for attendees with vegetarian or gluten-free requests.
For questions about your dietary request, contact Sarah at gw****@**ra.com or (586) 329-9700.
Will Wi-Fi be available?
Yes! Wi-Fi will be available in both the conference meeting space and guest rooms.
Is there a conference app?
There is no dedicated conference app for GWTTRA 2026. Stay up to date through the conference website and connect with fellow attendees on the GWTTRA Discord.
For the Discord invitation link, contact gw****@**ra.com.
Still have questions? For general conference inquiries, contact Sarah at gw****@**ra.com or (586) 329-9700. Safe travels—we look forward to seeing you in Reno!
Explore the Conference
- Conference Information for registration rates, the schedule, hotel information, sponsorship, planning committee, and contact details.
- Academic Opportunity for academic program information, the Student Immersion Program, and academic scholarship information.
- Program Highlights for session details, keynote speakers, featured speakers, and moderators.
- Things To Do for pre-conference excursions and ideas for extending your stay in Reno Tahoe.
Sponsors
