DC Strengthens Position as a Premier Global Meetings Destination

WASHINGTON, DC - Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, reinforces its commitment to growing meetings and events during IMEX America, highlighting the city's resilience, new developments and strategic initiatives that set the nation's capital apart as a premier global destination for conventions.

As part of that commitment, DDC is reminding planners and clients that Washington, DC is fully open for meetings and events through its "DC is Open" campaign. While a federal government shutdown may affect a small number of federally funded sites, the city's hotels, restaurants, cultural attractions, theaters and unique venues remain open and ready to welcome attendees. DDC provides real-time information and resources at washington.org/dcisopen, ensuring planners and visitors have the latest updates to deliver a seamless experience.

"IMEX America is an important opportunity to show the difference between perception and reality," said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of DDC. "Washington, DC is not defined by federal headlines. It is a world-class meetings destination that delivers access to policymakers, thought leaders and innovators across every sector. From technology and healthcare to arts, culture and cuisine, DC combines intellectual capital with authentic neighborhood experiences that leave a lasting impression on attendees."

Momentum remains strong for meetings and events in Washington, DC, especially in tech, pharmaceutical and policy sectors that continue to grow. Between August and November 2025, the city will host 10 large conventions at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, including the International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology Annual Meeting and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association convention.

"Our convention strategy is centered on long-term growth, even as we see certain segments pull back in the short term," said Melissa A. Riley, SVP of convention sales and services. "Washington, DC continues to thrive with associations, nonprofits and corporate meetings from sectors like law, tech, aerospace, energy, financial services and more. While government-related travel has slowed, future bookings are strong. DC's consistent strength lies in meetings with an advocacy component, and our strategy builds on that by diversifying market segments."

There's Only One DC
DDC's award-winning "There's Only One DC" campaign continues to spotlight the city's assets: a sustainable, walkable destination with the #1 park score in the U.S., more than 100 free attractions, including 25 free museums and signature cultural festivals such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival and Passport DC. The campaign also personalizes DC through a new "We the People" video series, telling the authentic stories of residents who define the city beyond the headlines.

Meetings Outlook (as of Oct. 1, 2025)
Conventions and meetings of all sizes remain a vital driver of Washington, DC's economy:

• In 2025, convention center business will generate 454,632 room nights and over $400 million in estimated economic impact.
• Non-convention center meetings will contribute 482,552 room nights, with the potential to convert over 270,075 additional room nights.
• In 2026, convention center business is projected to generate 479,065 room nights, while non-convention center meetings are already responsible for 261,334 room nights and counting.
• Washington, DC welcomed 27.2 million visitors in 2024, the highest total on record. These visitors sustain 111,500 local jobs and generate tax revenue that reduces the burden on DC households.

International Strategy
International markets remain a key focus for DDC. In 2024, international visitors represented 8% of arrivals but accounted for 27% of all visitor spending, averaging nearly four times more per trip than domestic travelers. DC is also the seventh most visited U.S. city for international visitors, underscoring the strength and value of this market. Collaboration with Brand USA, the U.S. Travel Association and the Department of Commerce continue to help address entry challenges and expand global reach. DC's commitment is paying off, with large-scale international meetings choosing DC. A leading technology association in July 2028 will have an estimated $26.3 million economic impact and an international medical association in July 2030 is projected to generate $17.2 million.

Connected Campus
DDC's Connected Campus initiative expands meeting options beyond the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The program features five new campuses centered around the hubs of Capitol Riverfront, Wharf, National Mall, Connecticut Avenue Collection and Downtown DC-each pairing hotels, venues and attractions to give planners flexibility and attendees a vibrant experience.

New Developments
• Hotels: There are 20 new or renovated hotels and more than 3,000 rooms in the pipeline. Highlights include renovations at the Willard InterContinental and Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill, along with new boutique and lifestyle options such as Sixty DC and Canal House of Georgetown. Apartment-style additions like ROOST White House and Mint House Downtown further expand flexible choices.
• Cultural Attractions: In fall 2025, the Milken Center for the American Dream (70,000+ sq. ft.) opened. A $40 million renovation at the National Archives Museum debuts Oct. 23. The African American Civil War Museum reopens Nov. 11. In 2026, the Lincoln Memorial debuts a new immersive museum and the Jefferson Memorial will feature new exhibits. The Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden will return following a three-year revitalization, offering both indoor and outdoor event spaces.
• Air & Rail Access: Dulles International Airport continues its $675 million expansion, debuting a new 14-gate LEED Silver-certified concourse in 2026. Union Station is also undergoing major modernization, including recently unveiled NextGen Acela trains, the first high-speed trains built in America.
• Culinary: DC boasts 94% independently owned restaurants, 25 Michelin-starred restaurants and 30+ rooftop bars with panoramic city and landmark views-ideal for offsite group dining and authentic attendee experiences.
• Sports: Renovations at Capital One Arena include new and flexible meeting spaces. Plans for a new Commanders football stadium position DC as a hub for major sports events, which support the same ecosystem that sustains meetings and conventions.

America's 250th Anniversary
As the U.S. prepares for its 250th anniversary in 2026, Washington, DC will serve as the center stage for the national commemoration. DC's celebration will motivate travel and showcase the city's story through an expanded calendar of special events, activations and exhibitions all year. For meeting planners, the semi-quincentennial offers an unprecedented opportunity to align events with history, storytelling and national celebration in the capital city. Themed itineraries and details are available at DC250.us.

Sustainability
For the fifth consecutive year, Washington, DC ranks first among participating U.S. destinations in the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index), which measures sustainability performance across 77 environmental, social, supplier and destination management indicators. DC's overall score improved by six points to 57%, raising its position to fifth among North American destinations and breaking into the regional top five for the first time. The city was also recognized as the third most improved destination in the social category, supported by DDC's first resident sentiment study.

DDC's Sustainability District represents more than 80 member hotels, restaurants, attractions and venues that prioritize environmentally friendly practices and provide planners with sustainability-forward options for their events.

"Despite the shifting perceptions of the U.S., Washington, DC is building momentum," Ferguson said. "Every event here supports jobs, small businesses and the livelihood of Washingtonians. Our focus ensures that DC remains a compelling and resilient destination for meetings worldwide."

About Destination DC
Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation's capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination, with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities.

Source: Marketing Outlook Meeting press release