For the first time, the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism is bringing together the Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism presented by Oaklawn and the Arkansas Outdoor Economy Summit, creating an unprecedented opportunity for industry leaders, tourism professionals and outdoor advocates to collaborate. Set for Feb. 23-25 in Bentonville, this expanded event will explore the future of tourism and the growing economic power of Arkansas’ outdoor industry.
The conference will feature an energized fireside chat featuring First Gentleman Bryan Sanders and Tom Walton, co-founder and CEO of Runway Group. Moderated by Robin Thurston, CEO of Outside, Inc., this conversation will dive into the future of outdoor recreation in Arkansas and the industry’s growing impact on tourism and the economy.
“This is a landmark year for the Governor’s Conference on Tourism,” Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, said. “By bringing together our state’s top tourism and outdoor industry leaders, we’re setting the stage for innovation, investment and economic growth. This first-of-its-kind collaboration underscores the vital role outdoor recreation plays in Arkansas’ future.”
Now in its 51st year, the Governor’s Conference on Tourism remains the premier gathering for professionals driving the future of Arkansas tourism. The integration of the second Outdoor Economy Summit emphasizes the growing influence of outdoor recreation on the state’s tourism and economic landscape.
The gathering offers a dynamic lineup of sessions covering the latest trends in travel, destination marketing, outdoor recreation economics and industry workforce development efforts. Attendees will gain actionable insights from industry leaders, explore innovative strategies to attract visitors and engage in discussions shaping the future of Arkansas’ tourism and outdoor economy.
The event kicks off Sunday night with a lively opening reception and culminates Tuesday night with the annual Henry Awards Banquet, where leaders in Arkansas tourism are recognized for their contributions to the state’s thriving visitor economy.
For event details, visit the official conference website.
