As the Chicago weather warms, I start to look for things to do this summer. The Hospitality & Tourism Summit provided more ideas than I could squeeze into the summer.

In its 23rd year, The Hospitality & Tourism Summit featured educational sessions, travel industry professionals and colleagues, more than 100 vendors and much more. After attending for my first time, it was easy to see why it is nominated as the Best Fair/Outdoor Event for the 2024 International Live Events Association Spark Awards.

Emcee Catie Keogh welcomes attendees to educational sessions. Photo Credit: Cameron Krasucki.

I started my day at a session on working with influencers. As someone who works on a professional and personal website, I learned a lot about networking with social media experts. There were several other sessions, with my favorite being The 77: Chicago’s Neighborhoods as Cultural Tourism & Event Destinations. I filled a page with notes on interesting Chicago spots.

Attendees listen to educational sessions at 2024 Hospitality & Tourism Summit Chicago. Photo credit: Cameron Krasucki.

The vendors provided the most interesting part of the event for me. The company representatives were energetic and eager to give information without being pushy. The relaxed vibe was a refreshing change of pace from other similar events. Because I didn’t worry about dodging a sales pitch, I stopped at many more booths than usual and learned a lot about area destinations.

One of my favorite stops was PB&J (short for Pizza, Beer and Jukebox). Located in the West Loop, PB&J is known for its Neapolitan pizza and draft beer selection. Although I have enjoyed several nights at PB&J, I was reminded I need to go there more often. The drink sample they offered, 1800 Tequila, hibiscus jalapeño syrup and lime juice, combined flavors into a light, refreshing mix, but I limited myself to one.

Another vendor caught my eye for nostalgic reasons. DuPage County promoted Olmec Trails, a summer exhibit featuring hand-painted, large-scale sculptures of Olmec heads. Recreating Mexican culture, 33 hand-painted sculptures will be placed throughout DuPage County. This brought me back to watching Legends of the Hidden Temple with my nephew, but besides that, it sounds like an amazing outdoor exhibit.

There were far too many other vendors to list, but I will be referring to my notes as I plan outings this summer. My blogs will be filled with ideas I picked up at the Tourism & Hospitality Summit.

Whether an industry professional or simply a local looking for activity ideas, this was an ideal place. I will definitely return next year.

As an added bonus, Tourism and Travel Summit was held in the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier. Everywhere I looked was a magnificent bit of architecture or an amazing window view of the beautiful Chicago skyline. Even the entrance to one vendor room looked regal and majestic.

— John Wroblewski, online writer