CHICAGO ROLLED THE RED CARPET FOR IPW 2025
Chicago has long been hailed as the beating heart of American architecture, music, and innovation—but in June 2025, it became the beating heart of international travel. With a signature blend of bold hospitality and visionary execution, Choose Chicago, the city’s official destination marketing organization, hosted a show-stopping IPW 2025, redefining what a travel trade show can be.
Held at McCormick Place, the U.S. Travel Association’s IPW 2025 welcomed more than 5,000 delegates from 64 countries for a high-energy week of business meetings, media engagement, and immersive cultural experiences. More than a conference, it was a love letter to the city—written in food, skyline views, blues music, and a flurry of unforgettable events.
THE BUSINESS OF TRAVEL—WITH A CHICAGO TWIST
The stakes were high. IPW is not just the largest international inbound travel trade show in the U.S.—it’s a catalyst for years of tourism growth. According to new data from U.S. Travel and Rockport Analytics, this year’s IPW is projected to bring 10.9 million new visitors to the U.S. over the next three years, translating to $26.1 billion in visitor spending and supporting over 63,000 American jobs annually.
“I’m immensely proud of Chicago’s tourism community for making IPW 2025 a truly show-stopping event—and the best IPW ever,” said Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. “From opening night at the Field Museum to closing night fireworks at Navy Pier, we showed the world exactly why Chicago is never done and never outdone.”
Over the course of three packed business days, Choose Chicago conducted over 500 meetings with international travel buyers and more than 200 interviews with global media, setting the stage for a powerful ripple effect in future bookings and travel coverage. The city’s presence on the trade show floor was just as strong, with a stunning 50-foot Chicago flag display, custom art by Oscar Joyo, and interactive features like the Chicago Style Claw Machine that delighted attendees.
ICONIC MOMENTS IN ICONIC PLACES
Chicago’s world-famous attractions took center stage as host venues for IPW’s dazzling event schedule. The week kicked off in epic style with House Party 2.0 at the Field Museum, complete with food, cocktails, karaoke, and a silent disco, all set beneath the watchful eye of Sue the T. rex.
The Press Brunch at Wrigley Field—held on the warning track and in the iconic bleachers—was another unforgettable moment. Over 500 international journalists were treated to appearances by Cubs stars Pete Crow-Armstrong and Seiya Suzuki, a live performance of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” and a welcome from Chicago’s civic and tourism leaders.
Mid-week, Choose Chicago celebrated its diversity and neighborhood vibrancy with curated tours of Pilsen, West Town, and Hyde Park, each brimming with art, music, and local flavor. Meanwhile, events like the VIP Japanese delegation cruise, Magnificent Mile Monday, and IGLTA Foundation’s Pride Reception at Sidetrack underscored the city’s commitment to inclusion and international partnership.
The grand finale? A “Playcation”-themed Closing Night at Navy Pier, complete with mini golf, rides on the Centennial Wheel, art installations, and a spectacular fireworks show. It was a night that encapsulated everything Chicago does best: bringing people together, elevating culture, and creating memories that last.
WHY CHICAGO?
“IPW is more than a travel trade show—it’s a statement about America’s readiness to welcome the world,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “And no one could’ve made that statement louder or more clearly than Chicago.”
Hosting IPW gave Chicago a once-in-a-decade opportunity to capture the imagination of travel professionals and media from around the world—and the city delivered. Over 30 pre-show tours highlighted Chicago’s culinary scene (including a food tour inspired by “The Bear”), blues heritage (with a personal touch from Wayne Baker Brooks), and LGBTQ+ history.
“Welcoming the world to our museum was the perfect way to kick off a week of inspiration and connection,” said Dr. Julian Siggers, President and CEO of the Field Museum. “The energy of the event reflected the best of what Chicago offers—authenticity, innovation, and heart.”
A COALITION OF CULTURE
Choose Chicago didn’t act alone. The IPW 2025 effort was powered by an all-star roster of partners, including the Illinois Office of Tourism, O’Hare and Midway Airports, and dozens of sponsors—from the Chicago Cubs and Navy Pier to United Airlines and Wrigley Field Events. Local labor unions and cultural institutions like the Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium, and Museum of Science and Industry also played key roles in showcasing the city’s world-class infrastructure and creative energy.
Artists including Ariel Sinha, Blake Jones, and Sentrock were commissioned to create original artwork and giveaways, reinforcing the message that Chicago is not only a place to visit—but a place to experience.
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
With IPW 2025 now in the rearview mirror, the future of Chicago’s tourism industry looks stronger than ever. The city proved it can not only host the world—but captivate it. From the jazz clubs of Bronzeville to the skyscrapers of the Loop, from River North bites to South Side soul, Chicago offered a unified message: We’re ready. We’re proud. And we’re just getting started.
#NeverDoneChi | #IPW2025 | #ChooseChicago
For more information, visit choosechicago.com and follow @choosechicago on all major social platforms.
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