Chicago is the place to be for the travel trade this week as U.S. Travel hosts its signature IPW trade show, where U.S. suppliers and destinations – and the host city, of course – pull out all the stops to put on a show for the world and position the U.S. as a pre-eminent place to visit. At the same time, the event never fails to capture the zeitgeist of the host country – both in travel and in general – and, as such, this year ought to be a doozy.
With both international and domestic buyers and journalists representing more than 70 countries on hand, US travel officials are sure to face wrath (even if not responsible) over current U.S. foreign policy, most notably new border and visa protocols, while Canadian delegates will certainly have some questions and comments of their own.
At the same time, last week’s news of proposed funding cuts for Brand USA and ongoing civil unrest in cities across the country will certainly hog some of the spotlight.
By its nature, U.S. Travel walks a fine line when addressing circumstances within the country (for example, gun violence – a prominent topic in past years), but that rarely deters outspoken international attendees from calling out controversial topics, no matter the administration in power.
This year’s event kicked off Sunday with the annual media day (attended by Travel Industry Today) and opening night ceremonies, with the trade show continuing through Wednesday. During that time, it is expected that over 100,000 business appointments generating US$5.5 billion in future travel to the U.S. and 11 million international visitors will be conducted at the event, taking place at the McCormick Place convention centre.
Chicago
Undeterred by the noise surrounding the conference, Chicago, which last hosted IPW in 2014, is going all out to showcase the midwestern destination with a program that is featuring some of its most iconic locations, including the opening night celebration at the Field Museum, a press brunch at Wrigley Field, closing night party at Navy Pier, and the opportunity for delegates to explore Chicago’s neighbourhoods and other attractions on open nights. Pizza and music (blues-jazz) are already on the agenda of some of the Canadians attending.
“Chicago is going all out for IPW 2025,” stated Lisa Nucci, Chief Marketing Officer at Choose Chicago. “We have been collaborating with local partners for months in anticipation of hosting, and we can’t wait to show off everything that makes this city a must-visit destination … We want people to really go home feeling that they found their Chicago Style at IPW.”
Ellen Davis, Executive VP at the U.S. Travel Association, added, “Bringing IPW back to Chicago in 2025 is an exciting opportunity to spotlight one of America’s most iconic and energetic cities. Chicago is a place that blends bold innovation with deep cultural roots – and it’s the perfect stage to connect U.S. destinations with global buyers.
“With major moments on the horizon like the 2026 World Cup, America250 and the 2028 Olympics, IPW 2025 will help us position the U.S. for long-term growth and strengthen the relationships that power international travel.”
Next year’s IPW will take place in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
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