San Francisco Media Event brings together journalists and destinations

Visit California hosted more than 63 Bay Area and international journalists and influencers at The Pearl in San Francisco’s Dogpatch neighborhood for an evening that spotlighted the state’s diverse travel experiences. Over 40 destination partners from across California participated, each sharing stories that reflected the character and flavor of their communities.

The setting created an immersive atmosphere, complete with San Francisco–inspired cuisine, cocktails poured by aerial bartenders and live performances that brought added energy to the room. Prize drawings from Visit Lodi, San Diego/Birch Aquarium and Visit Marin offered attendees a glimpse of the variety waiting to be discovered across the Golden State.

Notable outlets in attendance included AFAR, SFGate, Yahoo Life!, NerdWallet, East Bay Times, French Morning USA and Louis Vuitton City Guide. Throughout the evening, media representatives mingled with destination partners during a steady flow of conversations that sparked ideas for future coverage and allowed those who had previously connected virtually to meet face-to-face.

For destinations, the reception provided a powerful platform to highlight local businesses and attractions in a personal way. For journalists and influencers, it opened direct access to new voices and perspectives that will inform future coverage of the state.

The strong turnout and positive feedback underscored the value of these gatherings, reinforcing California’s position as the nation’s No. 1 travel destination and keeping the Golden State top of mind with Bay Area media and beyond.