IPW 2025 BRINGS THE WORLD TO THE WIND CITY
This June, the world will arrive in Chicago — and the city is ready to roll out the red carpet. From June 14–18, 2025, Chicago will host IPW, the U.S. Travel Association’s flagship international inbound travel trade show, welcoming thousands of travel buyers, media professionals, and tourism leaders from over 70 countries.
Returning to the city for the first time since 2014, IPW 2025 promises to be a celebration not just of American travel, but of everything that makes Chicago a global destination in its own right — bold, diverse, creative, and endlessly compelling. In true Chicago fashion, the city is blending business and culture, iconic landmarks and neighborhood charm, all to help attendees truly “find their Chicago Style.”
The heart of the event — the business appointments and exhibitor showcases — will take place at McCormick Place, North America’s largest convention center. But it’s the city-wide experiences that truly bring the Windy City’s personality to life.
IPW officially kicks off with a high-energy cultural mashup at the Field Museum, one of the city’s most iconic institutions. Dubbed Chicago’s House Party 2.0, the event will blend the city’s signature sound — house music — with pop-up performances, immersive art, and culinary tastings from local food vendors. Attendees will get a vibrant taste of Chicago’s creative spirit, surrounded by ancient fossils and architectural grandeur.
Press Brunch at Wrigley Field – A Slice of Baseball History (June 15)
Before the official opening, members of the international travel press are invited to enjoy a special brunch at Wrigley Field, the beloved home of the Chicago Cubs and the second-oldest ballpark in America. It’s a chance to soak in the charm and tradition of this legendary stadium — a perfect warm-up to a week filled with discovery.
Neighborhood Immersions – The Soul of the City (June 17)
The event isn’t just about the landmarks. Organizers are putting special focus on giving visitors an authentic, street-level feel of the city through curated experiences in Hyde Park, Pilsen, and West Town. These neighborhood explorations will allow attendees to dive deeper into the real Chicago — from art galleries and historical sites to multicultural cuisine and vibrant local businesses.
“We want people to really go home feeling that they found their Chicago Style at IPW,” said Lisa Nucci, Chief Marketing Officer at Choose Chicago. “We’re creating moments that go beyond the brochure — where guests can interact with locals, discover hidden gems, and see the depth and diversity of our city in action.”
Closing Night at Navy Pier – Where Route 66 Begins (June 18)
To cap off an unforgettable week, the Closing Night Celebration will unfold at Navy Pier, Chicago’s lakefront playground and the symbolic starting point of Route 66. The evening will feature immersive activations, dazzling skyline views, and a celebration of Chicago’s legendary place in American history and cuisine.
A Global Stage for U.S. Travel
Organized by the U.S. Travel Association, IPW is more than a trade show — it’s the single largest generator of inbound travel business to the United States. The 2025 event is expected to drive $5.5 billion in future travel to the U.S., welcoming more than 11 million international visitors in the years to come.
“Bringing IPW back to Chicago in 2025 is an exciting opportunity to spotlight one of America’s most iconic and energetic cities,” said Ellen Davis, Executive Vice President at the U.S. Travel Association. “Chicago blends bold innovation with deep cultural roots — and it’s the perfect stage to connect U.S. destinations with global buyers.”
The timing is no accident. With global eyes turning toward the U.S. for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America250 in 2026, and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, IPW 2025 is a strategic moment to position the country — and especially Chicago — as a leader in international tourism.
Powered by Partners and Passion
IPW 2025 is a collaborative effort supported by the Illinois Office of Tourism, O’Hare and Midway International Airports, and a host of local and national sponsors including 360 CHICAGO, Big Bus Tours, the Chicago Cubs, Navy Pier, United Airlines, and more.
The spotlight is on — and Chicago is ready. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Chicago aficionado, IPW 2025 offers an unparalleled chance to experience the city through a fresh lens: one of innovation, authenticity, and deep-rooted hospitality. From the echo of jazz in a historic club to the smell of deep-dish pizza in a family-run pizzeria, this is a city that invites you to discover — and rediscover — what it means to travel with purpose and passion.
For more on IPW 2025 and Chicago’s upcoming events, visit ChooseChicago.com.
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