Maine Tourism Conference Highlights and Insights

April 29, 2026

ROCKPORT, Maine – Maine’s tourism and hospitality leaders gathered April 28–29 at the Samoset Resort for a sold-out annual Maine Tourism Conference, the state’s premier industry event. Presented by the Maine Office of Tourism (MOT) and the Maine Tourism Association (MTA), the conference convenes industry leaders from across Maine to share information, insights and strategies that shape the future of tourism in the state.

The two-day conference featured a report from the Maine Office of Tourism including visitor data and economic impact information, a 2026 look ahead and how the next phase of the Forged by Nature brand platform will support the state’s tourism strategy, and an update on culinary developments. The conference also included professional development sessions, industry discussions and an awards ceremony recognizing leaders across the state.

According to 2025 research presented by the Maine Office of Tourism, 14.15 million visitors spent more than $9.37 billion in Maine, generating an economic impact of $16.56 billion. The industry supported 108,800 jobs for Maine residents, underscoring tourism’s continued role as a key driver of the state’s economy. The data also showed growth in overnight stays in paid accommodations and longer lengths of stay, with visitor spending per trip rising more than 6% since 2024.

“There is no denying that tourism is an economic engine in Maine,” said Michael Duguay, commissioner of the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development. “The strength of this industry comes from Maine businesses and communities working together to deliver authentic, high-quality experiences for visitors.”

The conference’s opening keynote was delivered by Barton Seaver, a globally recognized leader at the intersection of culinary innovation, sustainability and public health. An award-winning chef and advocate for sustainable food systems, Seaver shared insights on how food, tourism and environmental stewardship intersect, and how destinations like Maine can align visitor experiences with long-term sustainability goals.

Additional keynote presentations were delivered by Nicole Porter of the U.S. Travel Association and Janette Roush of Brand USA. Porter shared insights on national travel trends, policy priorities and the broader economic impact of tourism, while Roush highlighted the role of innovation and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, in shaping the future of destination marketing and international visitation. Additional programming included keynote presentations and sessions focused on workforce development, artificial intelligence, visitor stewardship and emerging travel trends, along with expert-led workshops and networking opportunities designed to support Maine’s tourism and hospitality businesses.

“It was wonderful to have such a well attended conference this year. Working together with the Maine Tourism Association and industry partners, we were able to provide a worthwhile forum for the industry to come together, share insights and explore new opportunities,” said Carolann Ouellette, director of the Maine Office of Tourism, Film and Outdoor Recreation. “It also provides us with an opportunity to share an overview of the work the Office of Tourism does on behalf of the State of Maine.”

“This conference highlights the power of collaboration across Maine’s tourism and hospitality industry,” said Maine Tourism Association CEO Tony Cameron. “Bringing together businesses and organizations from across the state creates new opportunities to share perspectives, spark ideas and strengthen the partnerships that support our communities and enhance the visitor experience.”

As part of the conference, the 2026 MOT and MTA awards were presented to:

• Governor’s Award for Tourism Excellence: Marianne and Stuart Smith of the Bay View Collection.
• Rising Star Award: Lady Oyster Tours & Tastings, with locations in Phippsburg and Bath.
• Leadership & Growth Award: The Maine Maritime Museum in Bath.
• Stewardship Award: LoveMaineWaters Coalition and the Maine Sea Grant are recognized for their efforts to sustainably grow tourism in a way that supports the local economy, environment, and community. 
• Welcome ME Award: The Best Western Caribou Inn.
• Maine Tourism Association Hall of Fame Award: Dr. Lee Speronis of Husson University.

Other conference highlights included the ability to connect with destination marketing organizations representing Maine’s eight tourism regions, a “Great Grant Walk” showcasing projects funded through the Maine Office of Tourism’s Tourism Marketing and Management Grants program, and immersive experiences highlighting Maine’s outdoor and cultural assets.

Attendees also received an overview of the Maine Office of Tourism’s 2026 marketing strategy and campaign initiatives, designed to attract high-value visitors and support sustainable growth across the industry. The conference also served as a central forum for sharing new research findings and aligning industry partners around Maine’s tourism strategy.

Conference materials, including research and marketing updates, are available at the Maine Tourism Conference website and MOTPartners.com.