Chicago, IL – The U.S. Travel Association’s IPW 2025 concluded last week with a resounding message: America must reclaim its share of the global travel market. More than 6,000 delegates from 70 countries gathered in Chicago to promote international travel to the United States and forge connections that will shape the next wave of inbound tourism.

Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, emphasized the urgency: “The total direct spending value of the U.S. travel industry is $1.3 trillion each year, with nearly $200 billion coming from international visitors. Yet over the last decade, we’ve lost market share. To regain it, we must offer a stronger, more seamless travel experience that aligns with modern expectations.”

Over three days, IPW hosted 100,000+ business appointments, positioning the U.S. as a dynamic and welcoming destination. Choose Chicago impressed international media and buyers with a range of immersive cultural events, showcasing the city's vibrancy and hospitality.

According to projections by Rockport Analytics, the impact of IPW 2025 could be profound: nearly 10.9 million new international visitors over the next three years, $26.1 billion in spending, 63,000 jobs supported annually, and $3.3 billion in tax revenue generated.

The event also demonstrated its commitment to innovation, with real-time translation, interactive activations, and short-format education sessions enhancing the experience for attendees.

As Freeman noted, “IPW is not the finish line—it’s a launching pad.” The next edition will take place in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in May 2026, hosted by Visit Lauderdale, and expectations are already building for what’s next.