2026 Annual Conference
REGISTER TODAY
PRICING // SCHEDULE // HOTEL // PARTNERS // DESTINATION TOUR // GET TO KNOW PLANO // OPENING RECEPTION // DMS INFO // SPEAKERS // YP RECEPTION
Destinations Texas is the leading state association for destination management professionals. We are proud to provide the strongest educational content and networking opportunities for destination organizations throughout Texas.
Our Annual Conference attracts close to 400 participants state-wide and features presentations by tourism's best thought leaders, break-out educational sessions, shirt sleeve discussions along with endless opportunity to connect and collaborate with your DMO industry colleagues.
- Connect and learn from the strongest tourism leaders in Texas and the US
- Relevant and impactful educational training, regardless of your budget size
- Peer-to-peer exchanges among destination organizations and industry partners
- The destination tour and optional electives need to be added to your registration when you register for the conference.
- The Women's Conference is a stand-alone event, however, you can save $100 by registering with an add-on a ticket to your Annual Conference registration.
- The hotel reservation link will be emailed to you after you register for the conference.
CANCELLATION DATE - FRIDAY, JULY 31st 2025: Our cancellation policy is as follows: Before the cancellation date, you can cancel for a full refund minus a $100 administrative fee. After the cancellation date, we cannot accommodate cancellations or registration transfers.
| Credits | Price | |
|---|---|---|
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Member Registration
Registration Ends 9/2/26 at 11:59 PM CDT
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$845.00 |
| Credits | Price | |
|---|---|---|
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Women's Conference Add-On
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1.00 (DMS Elective) | $195.00 |
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Pre-Conference: Destination Tour in Plano
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1.00 (DMS Destination Tour) | $65.00 |
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Pre-Conference: Destination Marketing Principles
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1.00 (DMP Destination Marketing Principles Class) | $65.00 |
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DMS Elective - Pictures Make Them Want to Be There
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1.00 (DMS Elective) | $65.00 |
| Credits | Price | |
|---|---|---|
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Non-Member Registration
|
$1,045.00 |
2026 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
The Destinations Texas Women's Leadership Conference will run September 1 - 2, 2026 just prior to Annual.
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Women’s Conference Registration
11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Women’s Conference – Day 1
5:15 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Destination Tour // Behind the Screams: Inside Plano's Dark Hour Haunted House
Dark Hour Haunted House in Plano is one of the most acclaimed haunted attractions in Texas, known for its cinematic sets, professional actors, and Hollywood-level makeup and special effects. During this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, attendees will get a rare look at what makes Dark Hour so immersive - from intricate set design and animatronics to costume and makeup artistry. This special experience offers an inside perspective on how one of North Texas’ most thrilling attractions brings its haunting stories to life and continues to draw visitors from across the region.
Light bites and beverages to follow at a neighboring local establishment.
8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Women’s Conference - Day 2
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Partner Hall Load-in
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Registration/Badge pickup
Pre-Conference Optional Add-on sessions and Committee Meetings:
11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. First Time Attendee Luncheon (By Invite Only)
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Destination Marketing Principles (DMP)
11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Team Texas Meeting
Annual Conference Begins
Noon – 1:00 p.m. Partner Hall Open
1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Destinations Texas Annual Conference - Day 1 including the Texas Tourism Awards Presentation
4:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. Young Professionals Reception sponsored by Tempest and Destination Bryan
Haywire- 5901 Winthrop St, Plano
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Opening Reception presented by Visit Plano
Legacy Food Hall - 7800 Windrose, Plano
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Registration/Badge pick up
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Breakfast and Morning Remarks
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Morning Sessions
12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. Lunch and the Destinations Texas Annual Business Meeting
1:45 p.m. – 4:40 p.m. Afternoon Sessions
4:40 p.m. – 5:40 p.m. Partner Hall Time
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Networking Happy Hour sponsored by Texas Monthly (location TBD)
EXPLORE PLANO ON YOUR OWN – FREE NIGHT AND PARTNER DINNER
Destination Spirit Day: Show Your Hometown Pride!
A celebration of the incredible communities across Texas! We invite all attendees to rep your destination by wearing your hometown-branded gear - shirts, polos, team colors, or anything that proudly shows where you’re from. Let’s fill the conference with our local pride and statewide spirit!
7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. Partner Hall
8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. Small DMO Breakfast invite only
8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. Breakfast
8:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Morning Remarks
9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m. Morning Keynote
9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m. Morning Keynote
9:55 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Wall of Wine Drawing
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Conversations That Matter
10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. DMS Elective Course (optional, pre-registration required)
Course Title: "Pictures Make Them Want to Be There"
CONFERENCE ENDS
2026 Annual Conference Hotel Information
Marriott at Legacy Town Center | Trinity River Ballroom
7121 Bishop Road
Plano, TX 75024
(972) 473-6444
$225 ROH single/double rate
**Room Block closes Monday, August 10th, however we anticipate our block selling out before then.
Surrounded by scenic parks and water features, the Dallas/Plano Marriott at Legacy Town Center is a luxurious Plano hotel conveniently located within walking distance to upscale shopping, fine dining, and entertainment. On-site amenities at this modern and comfortable hotel in Plano, TX include a beautiful outdoor heated pool and fitness center.
Enjoy breakfast at Copper Creek, or Rustic Jewel for lunch or dinner or a drink after work. Relax and refresh in the hotel's spacious guest rooms with luxurious Revive bedding and plenty of flexible workspace.
ROOM RATES: Our discounted group room rate is $225 single/double. As in years past, we anticipate our room block will sell out prior to the cutoff date of Monday, August 10th.
PARKING: Parking is available in the garage, which is a part of the hotel. For all registered guests and local attendees, self-parking is available at $20.00 daily. Valet is available for $30.00 daily. These prices include in-and-out privileges.
ROOM CANCELLATION: Reservations must be cancelled by 11.59 pm local hotel time 3 days prior to arrival date. Please note that hotel will assess a fee equal to one night's room/tax USD if you must cancel after this deadline.
OPENING KEYNOTE: Johnny Quinn, former US Olympian
Push What's Possible || Wednesday, September 2nd 1:00 p.m.
Every high-achieving team faces unexpected moments that test everything they’ve got—their discipline, their focus, and their self-belief. When the stakes are high and the outcome uncertain, how do you not just survive the season, but stay ready for what’s next?
From NFL locker rooms to the Olympic starting line, Johnny Quinn learned that readiness isn’t luck. It’s built through the right mindset and daily disciplines that prepare you for opportunity before it even arrives at your door. In this relatable and instantly applicable talk, he reveals the P.U.S.H. framework that turns great teams into unstoppable ultra performers.
You’ll learn how to:
• Collaborate under pressure by finding a way to get the job done with the people and resources available.
• Build the habits that keep them prepared for whatever comes their way.
• Turn “no” into “next” by choosing readiness over resistance.
• Presented by Johnny Quinn, former US Olympian and Keynote Speaker
GENERAL SESSION: Featuring Larry Woods and Bob Jameson Moderated by Maura Gast
The Art of Destination Leadership: A Conversation with Texas Legends|| Wednesday, September 2nd 2:45 p.m.
As two of Texas tourism’s most respected leaders close an extraordinary chapter in their careers, join us for an unforgettable conversation about leadership, legacy, and the evolution of destination organizations.
In this candid fireside-style discussion, Maura Gast of Visit Irving sits down with Larry Woods of Visit Boerne and Bob Jameson of Visit Fort Worth to reflect on decades of industry transformation, community leadership, organizational growth, and the moments that shaped their careers. From navigating change and building strong teams to earning stakeholder trust and advocating for the value of destination organizations, these industry icons will share the lessons they learned along the way, and the wisdom they hope the next generation carries forward.
Whether you are a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this session offers timeless insights, honest reflections, and practical takeaways from three of Texas tourism’s most influential voices.
THURSDAY KEYNOTE: Lori Robertson
Crafting and Leveraging a Magnetic Personal Brand // Thursday, September 3rd
People don’t trust brands the way they used to. In a world flooded with AI and curated feeds, audiences want to know the real people behind the organization before they ever consider buying, partnering or referring. In this energizing opening keynote, Lori Robertson reveals why your personal brand has become one of your most valuable assets, with data showing 74% of people are more likely to trust and do business with someone who has an established personal brand. The best way to stand out in an artificial world turns out to be refreshingly human: being more of who you already are. You’ll leave with practical ways to build trust, grow your influence and put your personal brand to work.
Key Takeaways:
- Why personal brand has become essential currency, no matter your role or title
- The marketing tactics and trust signals consumers actually respond to today
- How being more authentically human beats trying to be more polished
- Three simple ways to accelerate trust with the people you most want to reach
- Where personal branding is making the biggest impact and what that means for your growth
Additional Sessions & Speakers are announced weekly in our member enews and will be published with the full conference schedule in July! Check back soon for more.
2026 Destination Tour
Tuesday, Sept. 1 from 5:15pm-9pm // Behind the Screams: Inside Dark Hour Haunted House
Dark Hour Haunted House in Plano is one of the most acclaimed haunted attractions in Texas, known for its cinematic sets, professional actors, and Hollywood-level makeup and special effects. During this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, attendees will get a rare look at what makes Dark Hour so immersive - from intricate set design and animatronics to costume and makeup artistry. This special experience offers an inside perspective on how one of North Texas’ most thrilling attractions brings its haunting stories to life and continues to draw visitors from across the region.
Transportation will be provided. Light bites and beverages to follow at a neighboring local establishment.
**This Destination Tour counts as credit towards the DMS Program
2026 Annual Conference Host Destination
We are so grateful to Visit Plano for being our host and presenting sponsor.
Plano, offers a unique blend of charming small-town atmosphere and modern city conveniences. As a suburb of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, you can expect Plano to be a city with a wide range of travel options.
PLAN YOUR TRIP // GETTING AROUND // VISITOR GUIDE // THINGS TO DO
2026 OPENING RECEPTION
Rewind to the Raddest Decade and kick off the Annual Conference at Visit Plano's 90's Mixtape Opening Reception!
Legacy Hall | 7790 Windrose Ave, Plano, TX
Wednesday, September 2nd
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Come in your best ‘90’s-inspired costume, grab some grub, sip on your favorite drinks, and jam to live music while making connections that'll be all that and a bag of chips. Whether you're rocking your best '90s vibes or just here for the nostalgia, it's time to press play on an unforgettable evening. No scrubs, just good vibes!
2026 DMS Graduates will be honored and recognized at the Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, September 2nd.
DMS Candidates will have the following opportunities to earn credits at the Annual Conference:
- September 1 - 2: Women's Conference - elective
- September 1: Destination Tour
- September 2: Destination Marketing Principles (DMP) Course (runs at the same time as Women's Conference, so you will have to choose one.)
- September 4: Additional DMS Elective Course: "Pictures Make Them Want to Be There" (runs as the same time as shirtsleeves.)
Friday, September 4th 10:00am - 12:30pm DMS Elective: "Pictures Make Them Want to Be There"
Your city is stunning. Your events are electric. Your venues are gorgeous. And none of that matters if you don't have the images to prove it. But not every event gets a photographer. Sometimes the best person for the job is the one who's already there — and that’s you.
Together you’ll learn why the best camera is the one you already have, and how a few simple techniques are all that stand between a forgettable snapshot and an image that makes people say "I need to go there."
Come ready to learn, and leave ready to capture. No experience required. No excuses accepted.
Course Led by Stacey Brooks, Founder & Lead Photo Ninja at SeePink, Inc.
Learn more about the Destination Management Specialist Program
Young Professionals Reception
presented by Tempest & Destination Bryan
Wednesday, September 2nd
First Floor Whiskey Lounge
5901 Winthrop St, Ste 110
4:45 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. (just prior to and within walking distance of the Opening Reception)
Are you a rising leader in your DMO? Whether you're early in your career, new to the industry, or looking to expand your professional network, we invite you to join us for the Destinations Texas Young Professionals Reception.
More than just a networking event, the Young Professionals Reception offers a welcoming space to exchange ideas and build meaningful connections. Whether you're seeking new perspectives, career inspiration, or valuable industry relationships, you'll find opportunities to grow alongside fellow professionals who are shaping the next generation of destination leadership.
Join us Wednesday, September 2nd, from 4:45 p.m.–5:45 p.m. at Haywire Legacy West happening just before the Opening Reception.
Come meet others who share your ambition, enthusiasm, and start building relationships that could influence the next chapter of your destination management career.
Be sure you’ve opted-in to Young Professionals updates by selecting “yes” in the YP section of your account profile.
WALL OF WINE
Destinations Texas Past Chairs are pleased to announce the return of the Wall of Wine Raffle at this year's Annual Conference.
Attendees are invited to help build our Wall of Wine by donating a bottle from their destination, region, or personal favorite. Then, purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to take home the entire collection of Texas wines and spirits gathered from across the state.
How it works:
- Bring a bottle to donate to the Wall of Wine
- Purchase Raffle Tickets for $20 each
- One lucky winner takes home the entire collection
Don't miss this fun conference tradition and your chance to win big. Pack a bottle, buy a ticket, and join the excitement at Annual Conference!
Thank You to our Presenting Sponsor
Interested in speaking at one of our events?