September 3, 2026
Eastern TennesseeOnce the capital of the short-lived, independent State of Franklin, today Greeneville is the “heart of northeast Tennessee,” according to DiscoverGreenevilleTN.com. Frontier legend and politician David Crockett and President Andrew Johnson once had homes there. Today, visitors can walk in …
September 3, 2026
Eastern Tennessee Gatlinburg.com; @TravelGburgAt the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a quaint town with everything a planner needs for a successful event, according to Dave Esslinger, vice president of sales and marketing for Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). “We …
September 3, 2026
Eastern TennesseeVisitChattanooga.com; @VisitChatt
Chattanooga’s designation as North America’s first “National Park City” reflects how the city functions day to day, according to Sean Phipps, marketing director for Chattanooga Tourism Co. “Green space, river access, and mountain trails are woven into our fabric of life,” Phipps says. “Planners return here …
September 3, 2026
Eastern TennesseeDiscoverBristol.org; @DiscoverBristol
Bristol offers planners unique options in a twin city that straddles the Tennessee/Virginia state line. According to ExploreBristol.org, visitors can learn about outdoor adventures, racing, and live music at the recently opened Explore Bristol Visitor Center.
Bristol Motor Speedway, a major stop on …
September 3, 2026
Eastern TennesseeSmokyMountains.org; @PeacefulSmokies
On the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” the Blount County towns of Maryville, Alcoa, and Townsend offer direct access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than busier tourism hubs, says Kim Mitchell, …
September 3, 2026
Southwest LouisianaVisitLakeCharles.org; @LakeCharlesCVB
Nicknamed “Louisiana’s Playground,” Lake Charles blends professional development with championship golf, live entertainment, and coastal excursions.
“Whether enjoying fresh Gulf seafood or taking in a lakeside sunset, Lake Charles keeps attendees deeply engaged while delivering a sophisticated resort footprint,” says Taylor Beard Stanley, …
September 3, 2026
Coushatta Casino Resort in Kinder features 900 luxury guest rooms and suites across three distinct hotel properties: the Grand Hotel, Seven Clans Hotel, and the adult-focused Chalets.September 3, 2026
South LouisianaIberiaTravel.com; @Iberia_Travel
Cyr Gates Community Center at New Iberia City Park accommodates up to 1,000 guests theater style. For downtown historic charm, the restored Sliman Theater accommodates up to 300 attendees for receptions, while the circa-1840s cottage and event pavilion at Antique Rose Ville accommodate …
September 3, 2026
South LouisianaCajunTravel.com; @VisitStLandryLA
Planners looking for something different will find it in St. Landry Parish, a heritage destination north of Lafayette, where professional business merges with south Louisiana soul. The parish seat of Opelousas, known as the “Zydeco Capital of the World,” sets a vibrant tone …
September 3, 2026
South LouisianaLafayetteTravel.com; @LafayetteTravel
As the “capital” of Louisiana’s Cajun Country, Lafayette offers genuine cultural experiences with excellent venues and accommodations. “Lafayette’s infrastructure ensures planners get the modern spaces they demand, while our award-winning cuisine, live music, and rich heritage keep groups deeply …
