The Nebraska Tourism Conference is the premier event for education and networking within the state’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industry. Organized by Visit Nebraska, the state’s official destination marketing organization, this conference brings together tourism professionals from across the region for three days of valuable learning and collaboration. Attendees have the chance to explore the latest trends, share best practices, and gain insight into the future of tourism. With a diverse lineup of speakers, interactive workshops, and ample networking opportunities, the conference serves as a key platform for professionals to enhance their expertise, build connections, and stay at the forefront of the industry.

Nebraska Tourism Conference 2025

The Nebraska Tourism Conference 2025 will take place from February 11 to 13, 2025, at the Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel in Lincoln, USA. This conference serves as a key event for professionals in the tourism and hospitality industry, offering valuable opportunities for education, networking, and collaboration.

Large Delegation at the Nebraska Tourism Conference

The Nebraska Tourism Conference attracts a large group of attendees, ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 delegates. This significant-scale event brings together tourism professionals, industry leaders, and community stakeholders for a series of workshops, keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and discussions on the latest trends in the tourism sector. With such a diverse audience, the conference offers an ideal platform for sharing knowledge, promoting Nebraska as a prime tourism destination, and fostering collaborations across the industry.

Conference Schedule: February 11-13, 2025

Nebraska Airports and Their Accessibility for the Nebraska Tourism Conference

• Eppley Airfield (OMA)
  Located in Omaha, Eppley Airfield is Nebraska’s largest and busiest airport. With its numerous flights connecting Nebraska to major cities across the country, it serves as the primary gateway for travelers attending events like the Nebraska Tourism Conference. The airport is well-equipped with services and amenities to ensure a smooth travel experience for all delegates.
• Lincoln Airport (LNK)
  Located in Nebraska’s state capital, Lincoln Airport is a convenient choice for those attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference. Offering both commercial and private flight services, this airport provides direct access to Lincoln’s many attractions, making it ideal for visitors wanting to explore the city and its surrounding areas.
• Alliance Municipal Airport (AIA)
  For travelers headed to western Nebraska, Alliance Municipal Airport is a vital regional hub. With limited commercial flights, it’s an excellent choice for smaller, more personal connections. Delegates attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference from this area will find it a quick and accessible option for reaching the event.
• Ainsworth Regional Airport (ANW)
  Located in the Sandhills of Nebraska, Ainsworth Regional Airport offers a smaller, regional option for attendees of the Nebraska Tourism Conference traveling from the north-central part of the state. While it primarily caters to general aviation, it provides an easy gateway for those looking to explore the region’s natural beauty before or after attending the conference.
• Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI)
  Located in Grand Island, Central Nebraska Regional Airport provides convenient access to delegates attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference from the heart of the state. The airport offers commercial services that connect travelers to major cities, making it a practical choice for those traveling to the conference from nearby areas.
• Chadron Municipal Airport (CDR)
  Serving the northwestern region of Nebraska, Chadron Municipal Airport is a smaller airport ideal for those attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference from the scenic Pine Ridge region. It is a general aviation airport, providing access for smaller planes, and is a great choice for visitors interested in experiencing the area’s natural beauty and culture.
• North Platte-Lee Bird Regional Airport (LBF)
  Situated in the central part of the state, North Platte-Lee Bird Regional Airport offers commercial flights and is a popular access point for travelers attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference from western Nebraska. Its location makes it a convenient choice for those looking to explore the state’s iconic landmarks and attractions before or after the conference.
• Kearney Regional Airport (EAR)
  Serving Kearney and the surrounding area, Kearney Regional Airport is a great option for attendees coming to the Nebraska Tourism Conference from central Nebraska. It offers commercial flights and is ideal for delegates traveling to the conference who want to experience the central part of the state and its unique attractions.
• Norfolk Regional Airport (OFK)
  Norfolk Regional Airport is a small, regional airport serving northeastern Nebraska. Offering direct flights to select destinations, it provides convenient access for delegates attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference. Whether you’re flying in for the event or exploring the charming town of Norfolk and its surroundings, this airport offers an easy and efficient option for travelers.

Airlines Serving the Nebraska Tourism Conference Delegates

• American Airlines
  As one of the major U.S. airlines, American Airlines offers numerous flight options to Nebraska, providing convenient access for delegates traveling to the Nebraska Tourism Conference. With flights into Omaha’s Eppley Airfield (OMA) and other regional airports, American Airlines is a popular choice for those flying to Nebraska from major U.S. hubs. Their extensive network makes it easy for attendees to connect from cities across the country.
• Alaska Airlines
  Known for its excellent customer service and extensive West Coast network, Alaska Airlines provides direct flights to Eppley Airfield (OMA) in Omaha, connecting Nebraska to destinations like Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco. This makes Alaska Airlines a great option for attendees of the Nebraska Tourism Conference coming from the Pacific Northwest or California.
• Frontier Airlines
  Based in Denver, Frontier Airlines offers low-cost, direct flights to Omaha’s Eppley Airfield (OMA) and several other Nebraska airports. With its focus on budget-friendly fares, Frontier Airlines is a preferred option for delegates attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference who are looking for affordable travel options while still reaching their destination comfortably.
• Delta Airlines
  Delta Airlines offers both domestic and international flights with connections to Nebraska’s Eppley Airfield (OMA) and other major airports. With its broad network and reputation for reliability, Delta provides a convenient way for delegates traveling to the Nebraska Tourism Conference from across the country and beyond. Delta’s premium services and various amenities also make it an attractive choice for business travelers.
• United Airlines
  United Airlines, with its hub in Chicago, provides multiple daily flights to Eppley Airfield (OMA) and several other Nebraska airports. As a key player in the U.S. airline industry, United makes traveling to the Nebraska Tourism Conference seamless, offering numerous connections to cities nationwide. United’s extensive services, including premium cabins and in-flight amenities, cater well to both leisure and business travelers.
• United Airlines (Regional Services)
  Along with its mainline flights, United Airlines also operates regional services through its partners, providing access to smaller Nebraska airports like Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI) and North Platte-Lee Bird Regional Airport (LBF). This ensures that delegates from across Nebraska and nearby regions can easily access the Nebraska Tourism Conference without hassle.
• Allegiant Air
  Allegiant Air, known for its budget-friendly options, offers direct flights from several U.S. cities to Eppley Airfield (OMA) in Omaha. For travelers attending the Nebraska Tourism Conference, Allegiant Air provides an economical and convenient option to reach the conference venue. Its no-frills approach ensures affordable access to the event while keeping travel costs low for attendees.

Unique Lodging Experiences in Nebraska

• Cambridge Bed and Breakfast, Cambridge
  Event: Living History Tour
  Located in the charming town of Cambridge, this historic B&B is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The owners offer an immersive living history tour where visitors can learn about the Faling family, the original owners, and the building’s Neoclassical architecture.
• High Plains Homestead, Harrison
  Event: Old-West Frontier Village Stay
  Step back in time at this Old-West frontier village in northwest Nebraska. Stay in one of six bunkhouse rooms or the Sand Creek Cabin. Surrounded by the stunning badlands, there are numerous activities such as bird watching, geocaching, fossil hunting, mountain biking, and hunting.
• Historic Argo Hotel, Crofton
  Event: Haunted B&B Experience
  This fully restored 1912 B&B provides a mix of comfort and intrigue. Guests can choose from a variety of rooms and enjoy delicious morning meals. The hotel is famous for being haunted, with reports of wandering apparitions, a ghostly figure named Alice, and unexplained phenomena like doors closing and items moving on their own.
• Kottage Knechtion Treehouse B&B, South Sioux City
  Event: Treehouse Stay & Breakfast
  Nestled between two towering cottonwood trees, this cozy treehouse sits 18 feet in the air. Constructed from reclaimed and repurposed materials, the treehouse includes a cozy bed, a fireplace, and outdoor seating areas perfect for watching the sunrise and sunset. Breakfast is provided at The Koffie Knechtion, where guests can choose from quiche, burritos, muffins, and a full coffee bar.
• Platte River Glamping, Louisville
  Event: Glamping Cabin & Tepee Stay
  Located in Platte River State Park, this unique accommodation offers two options: luxurious glamping cabins for a private, nature-immersive experience or a more rustic stay in a tepee at Tepee Village. Both options promise a memorable outdoor adventure.
• River Inn Resort, Brownville
  Event: Floating B&B Stay & Dinner Cruise
  Stay at this serene floating B&B along the banks of the Missouri River in historic Brownville. The resort features beautiful rooms and a gourmet breakfast. For an added treat, The Spirit of Brownville offers dinner cruises on Friday through Sunday.
• Rowse’s 1+1 Ranch, Burwell
  Event: Authentic Ranch Experience
  For an authentic ranching experience, head to Rowse’s 1+1 Ranch, located on the edge of Nebraska’s Sandhills. Participate in daily ranching tasks like working cattle, checking pastures, roping, and sorting. Each day is different, ensuring a hands-on, true western adventure.
• Sheepwagon Hideouts at RuJoDen Ranch, Chadron
  Event: Sheepwagon Stay in Seclusion
  Stay in an authentic sheepwagon, once the perfect home for herders, at RuJoDen Ranch in the Pine Ridge area of northwest Nebraska. This secluded hideaway offers ultimate privacy and a peaceful retreat.
• Slattery Vintage Estates Glamping Tents, Nehawka
  Event: Romantic Glamping Stay
  For a romantic getaway, enjoy a stay in one of Slattery Vintage Estates’ glamorous glamping tents. These 12×14 tents are elevated on decks with a porch overlooking the vineyard. Featuring a full-size bed, dressers with mirrors, a full range of furniture, and electric fans and heaters, these tents offer a luxurious camping experience.
• Cabooses at Two Rivers State Recreation Area, Waterloo
  Event: Stay in Restored Cabooses
  Enjoy a unique stay at Two Rivers State Recreation Area in one of 10 restored Union Pacific cabooses. Each caboose is air-conditioned and sleeps up to six people, complete with a full bathroom, kitchen, and dining area for a fun and memorable outdoor experience.

Nebraska’s Iconic Foods to Try

• Runza
  A bread pocket filled with ground beef, cabbage, and seasoning. Originating in 1949 in Lincoln, it’s a Nebraska favorite with 85 locations across multiple states. Enjoy one during the Nebraska Tourism Conference, where you can get a taste of local flavor!
• Nebraskan Steak
  Nebraska is known for its exceptional steaks. Misty’s Steakhouse offers flavorful cuts with a unique seasoning now sold in stores. Make sure to savor a juicy steak at the Nebraska Tourism Conference!
• Kolaches
  Verdigre, Nebraska, is the Kolache capital, where you can try sweet pastries at Verdigre Bakery, celebrating the town’s Czech heritage.The Kolache Days Festival for a delicious, cultural treat!
• Cheese Frenchees
  Deep-fried grilled cheese sandwiches served with tomato soup, ranch, and ketchup. Don & Millie’s is the perfect spot to try them during Nebraska’s State Fair, where these crispy bites are a hit!
• The Reuben
  Created in Omaha in 1925, this sandwich features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.The original at Omaha Food Fest where the Reuben reigns as a local icon.
• Butter Brickle Ice Cream
  A blend of toffee, vanilla, and salted caramel ice cream, first created in Omaha. Experience the creamy goodness at Coneflower Creamery during the Omaha Ice Cream Festival.

Nebraska’s Top Attractions and Their Role in the Nebraska Tourism Conference

• Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
  One of the top zoos in the world, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium features diverse exhibits such as the world’s largest indoor desert and rainforest. It’s home to over 17,000 animals from various habitats across the globe, offering visitors a chance to explore nature up close. It’s especially known for its commitment to conservation and animal care.The zoo participates in events like the annual “Nebraska Tourism Conference,” where it highlights its latest conservation efforts and visitor experiences.
• Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
  This unique bridge spans the Missouri River and connects Omaha, Nebraska, with Council Bluffs, Iowa. It’s a walking and biking bridge with spectacular views of the river and cityscape. A popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, it also features a fun marker that lets you stand in two states at once—Nebraska and Iowa. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is often highlighted in discussions at the Nebraska Tourism Conference for its role in connecting Nebraska’s outdoor experiences.
• The Durham Museum
  Housed in the former Union Station, The Durham Museum in Omaha preserves the region’s rich history. With exhibits focused on the pioneers, railroads, and the development of the American West, it provides a glimpse into Nebraska’s past, along with stunning architectural beauty.
  Event: The museum is featured during the Nebraska Tourism Conference with presentations on its innovative exhibits and its role in preserving Nebraska’s cultural heritage.
• Great Platte River Road Archway Monument
  Located near Kearney, this historical monument commemorates the overland travelers who journeyed across Nebraska along the Great Platte River Road. The Archway features a unique combination of history and interactive exhibits, offering visitors a chance to step into the past and learn about the westward expansion of America. The Archway often collaborates with the Nebraska Tourism Conference to host workshops and events related to historical tourism and heritage sites.
• Joslyn Art Museum
  A renowned museum in Omaha, Joslyn Art Museum showcases a rich collection of art from various periods, including European, American, and Native American works. The museum is known for its stunning architecture and offers engaging exhibitions and programs for all ages. Joslyn Art Museum is frequently highlighted at the Nebraska Tourism Conference, offering sessions about art tourism and cultural experiences in Omaha.
• Carhenge
  Located in Alliance, Carhenge is an intriguing roadside attraction made up of vintage cars arranged to resemble England’s ancient Stonehenge. It’s a quirky, fun, and creative tribute to automotive culture, drawing visitors who appreciate unusual landmarks. Carhenge is often discussed at the Nebraska Tourism Conference for its role in drawing curious visitors and its unique appeal as a quirky roadside attraction.
• Sunken Gardens
  Situated in Lincoln, Sunken Gardens is a peaceful and beautifully landscaped space. Known for its vibrant seasonal flowers, it offers an oasis of tranquility with carefully designed gardens, serene walking paths, and koi ponds. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.The Sunken Gardens is featured in the Nebraska Tourism Conference as an example of Nebraska’s stunning horticultural attractions.
• Nebraska State Capitol
  In Lincoln, the Nebraska State Capitol is a striking architectural masterpiece. Its soaring dome and unique art deco interior make it one of the most distinctive state capitals in the country. Visitors can explore the building, learn about Nebraska’s legislative processes, and enjoy views from the top.The State Capitol is an iconic feature in the Nebraska Tourism Conference, where its architectural beauty and historical importance are discussed as key tourist destinations in Lincoln.
• Chimney Rock Museum
  Located in Bayard, Chimney Rock Museum showcases the historic landmark of Chimney Rock, which was a famous site for pioneers traveling westward. The museum offers a collection of exhibits that bring the pioneer experience to life. Chimney Rock Museum is often represented at the Nebraska Tourism Conference in discussions on historical landmarks and western migration tourism.
• Scotts Bluff National Monument
  Scotts Bluff National Monument is a prominent landmark that served as a vital navigational point for pioneers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. Visitors can explore its hiking trails, enjoy scenic views, and learn about the area’s history. Scotts Bluff National Monument is frequently discussed at the Nebraska Tourism Conference as a significant historical site attracting travelers interested in American pioneer history.
• The Old Market
  The Old Market is a historic district in downtown Omaha known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, restaurants, and shops. It’s a lively area offering a mix of history, culture, and entertainment, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The Old Market often hosts events and is highlighted during the Nebraska Tourism Conference as a prime example of the state’s vibrant urban culture and history.
• Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
  Located in Ashland, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum showcases the history of the U.S. Air Force and the development of aerospace technology. Visitors can view historic aircraft, learn about Cold War history, and explore exhibits on space exploration.The museum is featured during the Nebraska Tourism Conference with presentations about its role in Nebraska’s aviation history and aerospace tourism.
• Golden Spike Tower
  Located in North Platte, the Golden Spike Tower offers panoramic views of the world’s largest railroad yard. Visitors can learn about the history of railroads in the U.S. and see thousands of rail cars in operation from a spectacular vantage point.The Golden Spike Tower is often featured in discussions at the Nebraska Tourism Conference, highlighting its role in showcasing the state’s railroad heritage.
• Indian Cave State Park
  Indian Cave State Park, located along the Missouri River in southeastern Nebraska, offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park is named after ancient petroglyphs found in the area, showcasing the region’s Native American history. Indian Cave State Park is often highlighted at the Nebraska Tourism Conference for its beautiful landscapes and its historical significance in Native American heritage.

The Nebraska Tourism Conference serves as a vital gathering for professionals in the state’s tourism and hospitality sectors. The event facilitates valuable learning and networking opportunities, allowing attendees to share best practices and collaborate on new strategies to enhance Nebraska’s tourism industry. Overall, the conference is a crucial platform for strengthening the state’s tourism ecosystem, fostering innovation, and enhancing Nebraska’s presence as a top travel destination.

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