Adventure, culture, and nature: what's new in U.S. destinations at IPW 2025
IPW, the largest travel trade show in the United States, takes place from June 14th to June 18th. In its 56th edition, the event was held in Chicago, Illinois, at the McCormick Place Convention Center.
IPW opening at the Field Museum, Chicago. Photo: Angie Rodríguez. EL TIEMPO.
For four days, key organizations from the U.S. travel industry, along with approximately 1,100 domestic and international buyers from more than 60 countries and nearly 500 journalists, gathered to establish strategic alliances and realize business opportunities.
The closing ceremony of IPW 2025 will be held Wednesday evening at Navy Pier, where attendees can enjoy a variety of immersive experiences highlighting the history, cuisine, and architecture of Chicago , popularly known as the "Windy City."
“Enjoy the IPW 2025 Closing Reception to the fullest as we celebrate Chicago, the starting point of the legendary Route 66! ” reads the official event invitation.
During the fair, various destinations in the United States had the opportunity to present new offerings and tourist attractions to further strengthen their position not only in the domestic market but also internationally. Below, we present some destinations beyond those best known to Colombians, such as Florida, Orlando, and Miami:
The Windy City hosted the 56th IPW. Photo: @chicago/Instagram
Under the slogan Uncover Georgia , this state, located in the southeastern United States, was presented at IPW as a complete destination , with experiences for diverse traveler profiles: diverse landscapes, history, vibrant cities and a nature that invites adventure activities.
Some options to visit are:
- In northeast Georgia lies Toccoa Falls, a waterfall surrounded by lush forests.
- Cities like Columbus combine the energy of an urban environment with the natural beauty of the Chattahoochee River.
- In Covington, known for being the setting for series like The Vampire Diaries and The Originals, the historic architecture and sunset light create a movie-like atmosphere.
- On Sapelo Island, a little-known destination off the coast of Georgia, the night sky becomes a spectacle.
- For night sky lovers, Stephen C. Foster State Park, located in the heart of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, is a must-see. This park was the first in the state to receive International Dark Sky Park certification, ensuring ideal conditions for observing stars, planets, and even meteor showers.
With 3.5 miles of palm-fringed beaches, Santa Monica is more than just a sun-and-sea destination: it's a destination steeped in culture, history, and cinema. From the shady trees of Palisades Park to the palm trees of Ocean View Park , its coastline invites you to walk, bike, or simply relax by the Pacific.
Santa Monica Pier beach in California. Photo: @santamonicapier
Since 1926, Route 66 has guided millions of travelers from Chicago to the shores of California. The Santa Monica Pier is recognized as the "traditional end" of the Route 66 Alliance , with its End of the Trail sign serving as the perfect backdrop for a memorable photo.
Notable attractions include the Museum of Flying; the Santa Monica History Museum, which houses over one million historical artifacts and 600,000 photographs; The Victorian, built in 1892 as a family mansion; and the Marion Davies Guesthouse/Annenberg Community Beach House, the former oceanfront resort that William Randolph Hearst built for actress Marion Davies.
Colorado With mountains over 4,000 meters above sea level, ghost towns, scenic drives, and artisanal flavors, Colorado, located in the western United States, offers something unique in every season.
Some interesting figures from this state:
- It has four national parks with trails ideal for mountaineers.
- From ancient archaeological sites to landscapes shaped by volcanoes and the passage of time, it boasts nine national monuments.
- Discover Colorado's valleys, mountains, and suspension bridges on its 10 scenic railroads.
- The state has 58 mountains over 4,267 meters above sea level. No other state in the United States has as many mountains at that altitude.
- Crystal-clear lakes, remote campsites, and forest and meadow trails are just a few of the attractions you'll find in the 43 state parks.
- From luxurious spas to rustic hideaways accessible only by foot, Colorado's hot springs are a perfect way to relax surrounded by nature.
Alabama is a family-friendly destination brimming with beach activities. OWA Parks & Resort in Foley is a family-friendly resort home to Tropic Falls, an indoor theme park and water park that guarantees fun no matter the weather.
Before heading to the beach, check ocean conditions and familiarize yourself with the warning flag system. There are 14 access points available at locations like Gulf Place and Cotton Bayou.
If you want to combine the beach with shopping, at Tanger Outlets Foley, you'll find more than 120 stores featuring name brands and designers.
Close your stay with a luxurious dinner at Jesse's on the Bay in Fort Morgan. This sister restaurant to the renowned Jesse's in Magnolia Springs offers a menu featuring premium steaks , fresh seafood, and signature Southern dishes.
Anchorage Anchorage has an international airport with direct flights from major U.S. urban centers. From there, rail, road, and air connections will quickly take you to national parks such as Denali, Katmai, and Kenai Fjords.
At this destination, wildlife is part of the urban landscape: moose roam the trails, beluga whales swim along the Cook Inlet shoreline , migratory birds rest in Potter Marsh, and black bears explore the parks and uplands.
Furthermore, with roots in the Dena'ina Athabascan people, Anchorage offers a memorable cultural experience. Places like the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center allow for a complete immersion in the living history and richness of the state's Indigenous cultures.
Reno Tahoe Traveling from Reno to Lake Tahoe, one of the most popular destinations in the United States , is an ideal way to escape the hustle and bustle of life and explore nature-filled destinations.
Most routes from Reno will take you to different parts of the lake in about an hour. That means you can swim, hike, play volleyball, kayak, or simply sunbathe during the day and return to Reno in the evening for dinner.
Most beaches in Lake Tahoe charge between $10 and $40 to park a vehicle. Keep in mind that parking lots are cash only. If you plan to visit beaches like Sand Harbor or Zephyr Cove, arrive before 8 a.m. , as parking lots fill up quickly.
Lake Tahoe Photo: Courtesy.
ANGIE RODRÍGUEZ - TRAVEL EDITORIAL -@ANGS0614
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