Bentonville will welcome two major travel industry gatherings in April 2027, bringing travel buyers and media from across the U.S. and around the world to Northwest Arkansas.
Visit Bentonville will host the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s AdventureELEVATE North America April 20–22, followed by Travel South USA Global Week April 26–29.
Together, the back-to-back events will introduce hundreds of influential travel industry professionals to Bentonville, a destination known for its distinctive blend of cycling, outdoor adventure, art, one-of-a-kind culinary experiences, and a welcoming, walkable downtown.
“Hosting these two meetings in the same month is a unique opportunity for Bentonville,” said Kalene Griffith, president and CEO of Visit Bentonville. “Tourism professionals from across the country and around the world will experience Bentonville firsthand. We’re excited for them to explore our city and share what they discover with their audiences.”
AdventureELEVATE North America is the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s annual three-day North American conference focused on education, networking and business development within the adventure travel industry. It brings together tour operators, travel buyers, media and thought leaders for educational sessions, networking and opportunities to experience Bentonville firsthand.
“Pre-Adventures” for AdventureELEVATE participants will begin April 15, giving buyers and media additional opportunities to experience Bentonville and the region before the conference officially starts April 20.
"Arkansas Tourism is excited to support Visit Bentonville as they host the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s AdventureELEVATE North America and Travel South’s Global Week in April 2027. Bringing these two events to Arkansas is an incredible opportunity to showcase The Natural State to travel leaders from across the country and around the world, while reinforcing Arkansas’ position as a premier outdoor recreation destination with adventures to discover year-round,” said Dalaney Thomas, director of Arkansas Tourism, Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “Through the conferences and pre- and post-event tours, attendees will explore communities across Arkansas and experience firsthand the diverse landscapes, outdoor adventures, welcoming communities and authentic experiences that set our state apart. We look forward to welcoming attendees and sharing the hospitality and adventures that make The Natural State an unforgettable destination.”
For more information about AdventureELEVATE North America in Bentonville, visit events.adventuretravel.biz/adventureelevate/north-america-2027
Travel South USA Global Week will follow April 26–29. The invitation-only gathering connects international media with tourism leaders across the Southern U.S. Attendees will participate in one-on-one meetings, networking and destination visits. Additional Arkansas press travel will surround the event.
For more information about Travel South USA, visit industry.travelsouthusa.com
About Visit Bentonville
Visit Bentonville is funded by the Bentonville Advertising and Promotion Commission which was established in 1996. The commission is supported by a 2% tax on lodging and meeting space and a 1% tax on restaurant and dining establishments. The organization's mission is to promote Bentonville as a vibrant experience for all, enhancing the quality of life and stimulating economic development that will strengthen our local economy. Visit Bentonville leads the planning of sports, meetings and group tours while also marketing leisure experiences that include arts, cycling, culinary, film, music and aviation. Visit Bentonville also collaborates with tourism offices throughout the state of Arkansas to create positive economic impact while increasing tourism amenities for both visitors and residents. For more information, please visit VisitBentonville.com.
About the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.
About Travel South
Travel South USA is the global voice of the American South. Since 1965, it has united twelve states into a single, powerful destination brand, sharing the region’s culture, cuisine, music, history, and hospitality with the world. Its mission is to inspire international visitation and spending by positioning the South as one of the most authentic and compelling regions in travel. Through strategic marketing, signature trade shows, curated media tours, and global partner programs, Travel South USA makes the South visible, bookable, and competitive—ensuring the region speaks with one voice and resonates across continents.
About the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)
Established in 1990, the Adventure Travel Trade Association is the largest global network of adventure travel leaders. Our community is made up of ~30,000 individual guides, tour operators, lodges, travel advisors, tourism boards, destination marketing and management organizations, outdoor educators, gear companies and travel media who share a belief and commitment to sustainable tourism. The connections and creativity of this vibrant community come together both virtually and in person to create and deliver the solutions that propel our businesses and our communities toward a responsible and profitable future.
