Birmingham wins bid to host prestigious international travel summit 2027

Railroad Park and the downtown Birmingham skyline (Pat Byington / Bham Now)

Birmingham has been selected to host the International Inbound Travel Association (IITA) 2027 Summit, according to Travel Daily News. The Magic City was chosen over five destinations bidding on the Summit.

The prestigious IITA Summit brings hundreds of travel organizations together to do business and support travel services for international travelers visiting the U.S. from around the world.

International travel experts coming to Birmingham

“We are thrilled to bring our group to Birmingham in 2027 for our members—the leading U.S. inbound tour operators—to experience the area from the many museums to the area’s rich history in the steel industry and civil rights heritage. Add in the myriad of culinary options, Birmingham is a major attraction for international visitors and these travel producers will get to experience it first-hand.”

The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau, an active member of IITA, was the official Destination Marketing Organization that submitted the winning bid. They also collaborated locally with the Hyatt Regency Birmingham and The Wynfrey Hotel.

“This is an incredible opportunity to showcase Birmingham’s rich history, vibrant culture, and classic Southern hospitality. 

Welcoming these industry leaders from around the world not only underscores our reputation as a premier destination, but will deliver long-term economic and cultural impact to our community. We can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable experience that highlights everything that makes Birmingham truly special.”

Birmingham is on a roll

City Walk lights after a Birmingham Stallions win. (Pat Byington / Bham Now)

Birmingham has successfully landed several national and global events this decade. 

In 2022, The Magic City hosted the World Games. This coming year, Birmingham will hold the 2025 World Police and Fire Games. Last month, The Magic City landed the bid to host the 2029 National Senior Games.

Can’t wait to welcome travel professionals from all over the world to The Magic City? Tell us what you think by tagging @bhamnow on Instagram, Facebook + LinkedIn.

Pat Byington

Longtime conservationist. Former Executive Director at the Alabama Environmental Council and Wild South. Publisher of the Bama Environmental News for more than 18 years. Career highlights include playing an active role in the creation of Alabama's Forever Wild program, Little River Canyon National Preserve, Dugger Mountain Wilderness, preservation of special places throughout the East through the Wilderness Society and the strengthening (making more stringent) the state of Alabama's cancer risk and mercury standards.