2026 Nebraska Tourism Conference Set for This Week
PRESS RELEASE
FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Jenn Gjerde at 402-525-4455, or [email protected]
Ben Jones at 402-326-9941, or [email protected]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LINCOLN, Neb. – (February 10, 2026) – Professionals from Nebraska's tourism industry will gather for Visit Nebraska's annual Tourism Conference February 10-12, 2026 in Lincoln. The event, held at Embassy Suites, will feature a wide range of speakers and topics, including AI, podcasting, community activation, destination development, sports tourism and more.
Conference Highlights on Tuesday, February 10
9:00 a.m. - Opening Remarks and Keynote Speaker - Mike Smith: The Road Less Traveled
The best adventures and boldest stories often come from unexpected paths. From skateboarding across Nebraska three times to transforming Lincoln’s Railyard into an X Games–style venue, Mike shares lessons learned from partnerships with Red Bull, Vans, Liquid Death, Toyota, and Microsoft. Infused with insights from his 15+ years of turning wild ideas into reality, this keynote inspires audiences to embrace disruption, reshape their stories, and spark bold ideas in their own communities.
11:00 a.m. - Breakout Sessions
Topics include podcasting, creative experiences and boutique hotels.
1:00 p.m. - Keynote Speaker - Cassandra Gilbertson: 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study
Join us for a deep-dive into the 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study, which explores the trends, forces, and signals shaping the future of destination organizations. In this session, you'll get an inside look at the most recent findings and discover what they mean for your strategy, your stakeholders, and your community.
2:00 p.m. - General Session - The Power of Partnership: Advocacy and Local Leadership in Tourism
This panel featuring current and former local officials will guide you through best practices and ways to connect with local leadership. Whether you engage primarily with city, county or state officials we recognize there are barriers to working effectively.
3:15 p.m. - Breakout Sessions
Topics include neurodivergent visitors, community engagement and destination funding models and trends.
6:00 p.m. - Community Night
Join us for Community Night at the Museum of American Speed, hosted by Visit Lincoln. An evening to connect, explore, and celebrate Nebraska Tourism. Enjoy complimentary food and drinks while you experience this iconic museum, packed with legendary cars, history, and stories.
Conference Highlights on Wednesday, February 11
9:00 a.m. - Opening Remarks and Keynote Speaker - Kristy Durso: Reframing Accessibility — From Obligation to Opportunity
What if accessibility wasn’t just about compliance—but about connection? In this powerful keynote, accessibility advocate Kristy Durso blends personal storytelling, industry statistics, and real-world challenges to reframe the conversation around disability inclusion.
10:45 a.m. - Breakout Sessions
Topics include destination development programs, sports tourism and tourism revitalization.
1:00 p.m. - State Tourism Marketing Updates and Insights
2:15 p.m. - Breakout Sessions
Topics include visitor hospitality, AI and crisis communication.
6:00 p.m. - Awards Reception
Join us for the 2026 Nebraska Tourism Awards with Love, Nebraska! Celebrate the achievements and contributions of the Nebraska tourism industry! Don your pinks, reds and hearts to share your love of Nebraska. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be provided for attendees and enjoy entertainment by Josh Hoyer!
Conference Highlights on Thursday, February 12
8:00 a.m. - Nebraska Travel Association Breakfast (Nebraska State Capitol)
10:00 a.m. - Nebraska Tourism Commission Meeting
11:00 a.m. - SENTC & Byways Meetings
For more information on the Nebraska Tourism Conference, including a full schedule, click here.
For more information about travel, events and unique destinations in Nebraska, order your free travel guide today at VisitNebraska.com. Then stay connected with Nebraska Tourism on our Visit Nebraska Facebook page, on X, on Pinterest, on Instagram and on YouTube.
The mission of the Nebraska Tourism Commission is to expand Nebraska’s dynamic and diverse travel industry making it more viable by creating awareness, attracting increased visitors which results in greater tourism revenue and economic gain throughout the state. To learn more, go to VisitNebraska.com.