California's Tourism Industry Convenes for Outlook Forum 2023 in Sacramento

More than 800 tourism industry members united at Outlook Forum 2023 in Sacramento to keep the Golden State the top destination in the U.S. and California tourism the industry trendsetter. Over three days, 63 speakers across 21 sessions addressed pressing issues in tourism and the state of California. View the full library of Outlook Forum 2023 session recordings.

The conference introduced key Visit California initiatives. As a surprise for attendees, the web hubs for two major content initiatives launched during the conference: Childhood Rules and Visit Native California.

The former is Visit California’s new multi-channel family travel campaign, anchored by the “Childhood Rules” TV spot. Visit Native California, which promotes tribal tourism, was discussed in a general session by a panel of Native American leaders: California’s Secretary of Natural Resources Wade Crowfoot, Chairman Reid D. Milanovich of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association CEO Sherry L. Rupert

As this year’s conference came home to Visit California HQ, Sacramento, it’s no surprise that content reflected Visit California’s strong relationships with state government. Caroline and Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis sat down to discuss California’s efforts to stimulate international trade, which includes travel and tourism from many of the state’s top markets. As tourism continues to play a major role in the Golden State’s economy, they focused their conversation on the new possibilities for state-industry collaboration.

The conference also offered a presentation by the team spearheading the project to invest a $5 million the U.S. Department of Commerce grant to prepare strategic tourism plans for each of our 12 tourism regions. The plans aim to help tourism stakeholders, residents and civic partners prepare for the future in their destinations.

In another unmissable session with deep Sacramento roots, Caroline interviewed Sacramento Kings and Rivercats Owner and Chariman Vivek Ranadivé. In addition to relating his basketball journey, Ranadivé shared how his vision for the ultra-modern Golden 1 arena and retail complex took shape, how he’s effectively worked with local government and why he believes the capital can become the city of the future.

Outside of the conference rooms, Visit Sacramento welcomed attendees with a reception and entertainment ins the stunning Memorial Auditorium. Many of the city’s biggest food talents and personalities prepared bites for a delicious farm-to-fork Taste of Sacramento.

Thank you to all attendees for taking the time to learn, network and strengthen the collaborative spirit that defines Golden State tourism.