As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, Milwaukee’s energy is still going strong. From national headlines and sustainability spotlights to the next big industry shows, Visit Milwaukee is keeping the Good Land front and center. Here’s a look at what’s happening and what’s next.

In just under two weeks, Visit Milwaukee’s sales team is heading to IMEX America in Las Vegas, bringing a taste of Milwaukee’s signature hospitality to the convention floor. Attendees can stop by Booth No. C4058 and experience the Milwaukee Tailgate Club, a one-of-a-kind activation inspired by Wisconsin’s legendary game-day traditions.

This immersive booth will feature local flair, giveaways, and plenty of Milwaukee spirit—showing planners exactly why our city is the place to be for their next meeting or event.

And speaking of game day, the team is also welcoming a very special guest to the huddle.

Ask LeRoy, the AR avatar of Green Bay Packers legend LeRoy Butler, is joining the Visit Milwaukee team in digital form. As Milwaukee’s first AI-powered augmented reality sales rep, Ask LeRoy will greet visitors, share highlights about the expanded Baird Center, and showcase why Milwaukee is the right choice for planners looking for energy, innovation, and unforgettable experiences.

Milwaukee continues to make waves nationwide. Through a new partnership with American City Business Journals, millions of readers across 44 Business Journal markets are discovering what makes Milwaukee one of the hottest destinations for meetings, conventions, and bleisure travel.

The first five advertorials are now live, spotlighting the city’s growth, innovation, and unmatched hospitality.

Featured stories include:

• The CEO who made Milwaukee impossible to ignore 2525 

• Why the next great American business story might start in Milwaukee 66 

• Explore one of the most buzzed-about culinary cities in the Midwest 44 

• From courts to courses, Milwaukee wins at sports tourism 77 

• This city’s electric energy surprises and delivers for visitors 55  

Each article brings new eyes to Milwaukee, reinforcing our reputation as a bold, forward-thinking destination where business and creativity meet.

During Climate Week, Milwaukee’s own Baird Center took center stage as CNBC highlighted the venue’s impressive sustainability efforts. After its $456 million expansion in 2024, the Baird Center achieved LEED Gold certification, joining a select group of only 30 convention centers in the U.S. with that honor.

Beyond its striking architecture, the Baird Center is leading the way in green innovation. Key features include:

• A 320,000-gallon underground stormwater detention system

• Bird-friendly glass to protect urban wildlife

• An ORCA food digester diverting up to 438 tons of food waste annually

• A solar roof and smart LED lighting system

For meeting planners, it’s proof that sustainability and sophistication can coexist—making Milwaukee’s convention district as responsible as it is remarkable.

Overlooking Lake Michigan, Discovery World continues to be one of Milwaukee’s most stunning venues for meetings and events. With indoor and outdoor spaces that blend modern design with natural beauty, it’s the ideal setting for memorable experiences.

Highlights include:

• The 8,000-square-foot Promenade, perfect for receptions

• The 6,700-square-foot Lakeview Pavilion, located at ground level

• The 6,400-square-foot Pilot House, featuring panoramic views of the lake and city skyline

With a total capacity of 4,000 guests and just 1.1 miles from the Baird Center, Discovery World delivers a one-of-a-kind event experience that’s as inspiring as its surroundings.

The Visit Milwaukee team is traveling coast to coast this fall, connecting with meeting planners and partners to showcase everything the Good Land has to offer.

Here’s where the team has been—and where we’re headed next:

• Washington, D.C. – National Account Executive Chad Chappell and partners represented Milwaukee at the 2025 Crabfeast and ASAE Summit Awards.

• Kansas City, MO. – Katie Lawerance joined the 2025 Destination Celebration KC.

• Tampa Bay, FL. – Visit Milwaukee is in town for the PCMA Partner Summit through September 28.

• Las Vegas, NV. – All roads lead to IMEX America from October 7–9.

• Columbus, OH. – Marissa Werner, Connie Kopecky, and team will attend the 2025 TEAMs Conference and Expo, October 13–16.

No matter the destination, our goal is the same: to share Milwaukee’s story, build connections, and invite the world to experience the city that’s redefining what a meeting destination can be.