2016 CenStates TTRA Annual Conference 

Join us at the CenStates Travel and Tourism Research Association conference to learn from industry experts, network with peers from the Central States region and turn research into MONUMENTAL results. This year's conference features an emphasis on research-driven programs, practical ideas, innovative strategies, and sharing among colleagues. With an historic (haunted?) hotel and cool downtown, Rapid City and South Dakota offer an ideal setting to learn and visit.

Powerful Program

Don't miss the great lineup of sessions that promise real life tourism case studies and the latest trends and tools that you can put into practice for your destination, including:

• Digital Marketing analysis
• Measurement of Place-Based Investments
• Redefining the Female Traveler
• Media Usage Trends
• Delivering Relevant Content
• Grassroots Downtown Development Tour
• So much more!

Check out the full schedule HERE.

Bucket List Location

Is Mount Rushmore on your bucket list? Not only will the opening event for the conference  include a bus trip to the park, opportunity to explore on your own, dinner overlooking the monument, and remarks from the park superintendent from a tourism perspective, but the group will attend the dramatic monument lighting ceremony that evening. What a great way to celebrate the National Park Service centennial and the 75th anniversary of the completion of Mount Rushmore. Be sure to arrive early on Wednesday, September 21 for the bus to Rushmore at 3 pm (although there will also be a 5 pm bus for those who need it).

Affordable Registration

We work hard to keep the registration rates low so all sizes of organizations may attend. These discounted rates are available until August 31:

CenStates TTRA Members

• Full Conference: $295
• One Day: $165
• Student: $60

Non-CenStates TTRA Members

• Full Conference: $325
• One Day: $185
• Student: $85
• Event Guest: $50

Not a Member? Join HERE!

Transportation

Make the journey part of the fun! Rapid City is easily accessible by car with easy access from I-90, I-29 and I-80. Coming by air? Direct flights and connections are available from Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Phoenix and Salt Lake City. FREE shuttles to the Alex Johnson Hotel will meet every flight for your convenience.

Hotel Reservations

The conference will take place at the landmark 1920's Alex Johnson Hotel in downtown Rapid City. The room block is now closed but rooms may still be available. by calling (605) 342-1210. If accommodations are needed, please contact CenStates TTRA.

Check out more at Rapid City CVB and Travel South Dakota.