Nevada’s Tourism Industry Gathers in Reno for Annual Governor’s Conference
RENO, NV –Travel Nevada’s annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism (GovCon) returns to Reno on Dec. 8-9, 2026. Taking place at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, GovCon brings Nevada’s tourism industry together for informative sessions and engaging panels. This year’s theme, Step Out: Navigating Change, Creating Opportunity, encourages conversations exploring growth, adaptability, and innovation as Nevada’s tourism industry responds to a changing landscape and looks to the future.
World-renowned climber Alex Honnold headlines this year’s conference. Earlier this year, Travel Nevada partnered with Honnold and Outside Network on a five-part series, Get a Little Out There with Alex Honnold, highlighting the offbeat attractions and one-of-a-kind experiences found across Nevada. In his keynote address, Honnold will share how his home state continues to surprise and inspire him, and how embracing the unexpected can lead to new opportunities.
“Nevada’s spirit of innovation and resilience sets our tourism industry apart,” said Rafael Villanueva, Travel Nevada CEO. “As we gather at GovCon 2026, we’re discussing change, sharing ideas, and building partnerships that will drive the future success of Nevada’s tourism industry. We’re creating opportunities together that benefit communities across our state and inspire visitors from around the world.”
GovCon’s speaker lineup features leaders from across the tourism industry, including experts in destination marketing, data and research, AI, and international travel. Attendees will hear insights from Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Tourism Economics, as well as discussions on the future of international travel. Together, the sessions will offer practical insights and fresh perspectives to help Nevada’s tourism industry navigate change and thrive.
“When government and industry work together, Nevada wins,” said Nevada Lieutenant Governor and Chair of the Nevada Commission on Tourism, Stavros Anthony. “I’m excited to join tourism leaders, entrepreneurs, and partners at GovCon 2026 for an event that brings us together to share ideas, build relationships, and discover new ways to support Nevada businesses and communities. Collaborations is one of our greatest strengths, and the conversations and partnerships ahead will help keep our state moving forward.”
Tourism is an integral part of Nevada’s economy, supporting nearly 302,000 jobs across the Silver State. In 2025, direct visitor spending reached $54.8 billion; visitors spent about a $150 million a day in Nevada.
For more information about GovCon and to purchase tickets, visit www.nvgovcon.com.
The Nevada Division of Tourism is a division of the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. More commonly known as Travel Nevada, the Nevada Division of Tourism is responsible for promoting and marketing Nevada as a travel destination to domestic and international travelers. Operating within a performance-based budget structure, Travel Nevada is funded solely by a percentage of lodging tax paid by overnight guests throughout the state. For more, visit TravelNevada.biz.