From the very first moment, IPW 2025 in Chicago felt different. We arrived at the majestic Field Museum for the opening night party and, surrounded by lights, gourmet food, cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere, it was clear: Chicago went all in to show the world it’s more alive and vibrant than ever.

As a journalist specialized in tourism, I had the privilege of experiencing every moment of this grand event organized by the U.S. Travel Association and Choose Chicago, which brought together more than 5,000 delegates from 64 countries. But beyond the impressive numbers, what truly stood out was the passion with which Chicago presented itself to the world.

One of the most special moments was the press brunch at the legendary Wrigley Field. With the magic of the stadium and the warmth of the hosts, we shared experiences with colleagues while the city continued to showcase its best self. Later, in the heart of the McCormick Place exhibit hall, I had the opportunity to conduct an exclusive interview with Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago.

“It’s a wonderful city ready to welcome you,” she told me without hesitation.

And it wasn’t just a phrase—it was a commitment. Kristen proudly spoke of the city's new international marketing campaign: “Never Done. Never Outdone”, a perfect definition for a city that reinvents itself and never stays behind. “This campaign was born from the heart of Chicago,” she emphasized, noting it was the result of over 300 community sessions, surveys, and focus groups.

A city that vibrates at every step

In addition to the intense days of meetings at McCormick Place, Choose Chicago rolled out an impressive array of activities to showcase the best of the city to media and travel buyers. More than 30 themed tours were organized ahead of International Innovation Week, including a culinary experience inspired by the series The Bear, a Chicago Blues tour led by Wayne Baker Brooks, and an immersive walk through the city’s LGBTQ+ history.

The press brunch was one of the standout moments: over 500 international journalists were welcomed at Wrigley Field, joined by Pete Crow-Armstrong and Seiya Suzuki. The emotional highlight came with a group performance of Take Me Out to the Ballgame, led by Kristen Reynolds, Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts, Mayor Brandon Johnson, U.S. Travel CEO Geoff Freeman, and Brand USA CEO Fred Dixon.

The opening night party “House Party 2.0” at the Field Museum, with karaoke, silent disco, and gourmet stations, set the tone for an unforgettable week. What followed was a festival of experiences: a VIP river cruise reception for the Japanese delegation; Magnificent Mile Monday with special deals and a private party at The Shops at North Bridge; the “Pie in the Sky” media event at Skydeck Chicago; and a neighborhood open house night with visits to Pilsen, West Town, and Hyde Park—showcasing the city’s multicultural spirit.

On Tuesday evening, the 2025 Pride Reception hosted by IGLTA lit up Sidetrack Lounge in celebration of diversity. And the official Closing Night at Navy Pier delivered a spectacular finale, with fireworks, a Route 66-themed mini-golf course, and immersive pop-up art.

A giant booth for a giant city

At the trade show, Choose Chicago wowed attendees with a monumental booth, topped by a 15-meter Chicago flag, original artwork by Oscar Joyo, and a claw machine filled with press giveaways. The Chicago Press Room inside IPW’s Media Center became a hub for interviews and inspiration.

Visual production was top-tier: October TV captured every moment on film, and All Star Press designed artistic souvenirs featuring the work of local artists Ariel Sinha, Blake Jones, Sentrock, and Oscar Joyo.

More than 25 local partners supported Choose Chicago, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the John G. Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck, the Barack Obama Presidential Center, the Chicago Cubs, and the Chicago Fire. The collaboration matched the city’s big spirit.

A legacy for global tourism

Kristen Reynolds explained it clearly: “More than 2 million international visitors came to Chicago last year. We want that number to grow. IPW allows us to show the world that this city is accessible, creative, diverse, and ready to welcome them.”

And the results are already taking shape: IPW 2025 is expected to generate 10.9 million new visitors to the U.S. over the next three years, with an economic impact of over $26 billion and 63,000 jobs annually.

This IPW was more than a trade show—it was a celebration of what tourism can be when driven by vision, passion, and community. Chicago shone brightly—and left us wanting more.