WASHINGTON -

U.S. Travel Association concluded IPW 2026 this week in Greater Fort Lauderdale, South Florida, drawing nearly 5000 delegates from over 60 countries and building momentum for the future of international inbound travel to the United States.

The theme of IPW 2026 underscored the essential role international travelers play in the U.S. economy and the industry's united effort to expand international visitation in the years ahead. The renowned U.S. Travel international inbound show drives nearly 11 million international visitors to the U.S over three years—generating $26.1 billion in spending, supporting 63,000 American jobs and producing $3.3 billion in tax revenue.  

“At a moment when the competition for international travelers has never been more fierce, the U.S. travel industry showed up in force,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO, U.S. Travel Association. “IPW isn’t just a trade show, it’s a down payment on billions in future spending, thousands of American jobs, and the global reputation of the United States as a destination that wants to be visited.”

Over three days, more than 75,000 business appointments connected the U.S. travel industry with global buyers and media, showcasing the diversity of American travel—from coast to coast, big cities to small towns.

Visit Lauderdale rolled out the welcome mat for global delegates, curating events and experiences that put Greater Fort Lauderdale's beautiful beaches, entertainment and culture on full display. Hosting IPW 2026 positioned Greater Fort Lauderdale to convert global buyer and media interest into lasting international visitation gains, reaffirming its place as a premier international destination.

"IPW 2026 was an incredible opportunity to showcase the energy, accessibility and continued evolution of Greater Fort Lauderdale to travel professionals and media from around the world,” said Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. “We were proud to highlight the experiences, hospitality and connectivity that continue to make Greater Fort Lauderdale a standout destination. The connections made throughout the week will continue to drive meaningful business and visitation to our community for years to come.”

Travel Writer Awards
At IPW 2026, five travel journalists were honored with Travel Writer Awards, recognizing outstanding international travel journalism that inspires visitation to the United States.

Best U.S. Travel Destination: 
Adrian Bridge (United Kingdom) 
I saw a colourful slice of the Deep South on a train journey along America’s neglected Gulf Coast
The Telegraph


Maritza Mantilla González (Colombia) 
A los 100 años, la Ruta 66 sigue siendo el camino de la Libertad 
At 100 years old, Route 66 remains the road to freedom 
El Tiempo / Viajar Magazine


Margitta Brinke & Karl Peter Kraenzle (Germany) 
Neuland mitten in Amerika 
Uncharted territory in the heart of America 
AMERICA Journal


Best Trade Publication:
Stuart Forster (United Kingdom) 
Born in the USA
Selling Travel 

Best IPW Host City (Chicago 2025):
Lucio Luigi Rossi (Italy) 
Chicago, la carica dei 77 
Chicago: The Charge of the 77     
Latitudes Travel Magazine

IPW 2027 will be hosted by New Orleans & Company in New Orleans, Louisiana, continuing the momentum next spring.

 

U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the $1.3 trillion travel industry, an essential contributor to our nation's economy and success. U.S. Travel produces programs and insights and advocates for policies to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit ustravel.org for more information.

 

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