Inland Empire partners showcase offerings at Destination Mixer
Gohar Manukyan
April 16, 2026
On April 8, 2026, Visit California welcomed industry partners and staff to Sacramento for the Inland Empire Destination Mixer, an immersive event highlighting the region’s diverse tourism offerings.
Five Inland Empire partners brought their destinations to life through presentations, activations and culinary experiences that reflected the depth and character of the region.
Visit Temecula Valley
Visit Temecula Valley introduced attendees to the destination through storytelling and hands-on experiences, including a lavender sachet-making demonstration with Temecula Lavender Company. Guests sampled octopus and watermelon salad bites from Chef Hany and learned about the region’s evolving culinary scene and expansion plans at Europa Village. Wilson Creek Winery highlighted its regenerative agriculture practices while offering tastings.
Discover Inland Empire
Discover Inland Empire provided an overview of the region’s strategic priorities and global positioning, emphasizing upcoming travel trade and consumer initiatives, regional storytelling efforts and key tourism assets across San Bernardino and Riverside counties. The presentation also spotlighted Roy’s Motel & Café as an iconic Route 66 destination. A Route 66 Centennial-themed soda activation added an interactive element.
Greater Ontario California (GOCAL)
Greater Ontario California (GOCAL) highlighted the region’s growth as a sports destination, with assets including ONT Field and Ontario Sports Empire, along with professional teams such as the Empire Strykers and Ontario Reign. Attendees met Maverick the Mascot and were introduced to The Inlands, a rural tourism initiative designed to expand regional visitation.
Visit Big Bear
Visit Big Bear showcased its year-round appeal across outdoor recreation, culture and entertainment. Attendees previewed Sky Island Sanctuary: Big Bear Lake, a nature documentary focused on the area’s alpine ecosystem and conservation efforts. The activation also featured apple strudel tastings, a stein holding competition tied to signature festivals and information on the destination’s growing astrotourism presence through SkyFest.
California Historic Route 66 Association
California Historic Route 66 Association brought the spirit of Route 66 to life with a themed photo booth activation and classic diner treats. Attendees gained valuable insight into the highway’s historical significance, the association’s mission, and upcoming centennial celebrations.
The Sacramento mixer served as a powerful platform to strengthen connections between destination partners and Visit California staff. The event showcased the breadth and diversity of San Diego County’s tourism assets, reinforcing the region’s vital role in shaping California’s global travel story.
