Immersion Tours

The 2025 NYS Tourism Conference is taking learning on the road with Immersion Tours! On Thursday, April 24, hop on a bus and experience hands-on learning at one of five dynamic destinations, each focused on a key topic shaping the tourism industry. These curated tours will give you a behind-the-scenes look at real-world applications, innovative solutions, and inspiring success stories—all while networking with fellow attendees in a unique and engaging environment.

Immersion Tour #1: Let’s Sort it Out – Sustainability, Ecotourism, and Responsible Travel

Local Destination: Geneva

Site: Finger Lakes Viticulture Center

Explore how sustainability shapes tourism in the Finger Lakes, from waste diversion to eco-friendly viticulture. This session blends expert insights, real-world examples, and interactive discussions to highlight the role of environmental responsibility in tourism and community well-being.

Immersion Tour #2: Bouncing Back – Resiliency in a Time of Crisis

Destination: Naples

Site: Hollerhorn Distilling

Explore how communities and businesses navigate crises, from natural disasters to public relations challenges. Through real-world stories like Naples' resilience after the Hollerhorn Distilling fire, this session highlights strategies for recovery, communication, and collaboration to ensure long-term stability

Immersion Tour #3: Journey On – Workforce Development is a Team Sport

Destination: Canandaigua

Site: New York Kitchen

Accessibility in tourism is more than compliance—it’s a strategic advantage. This session explores real-world success stories, from sensory-friendly experiences to inclusive infrastructure, highlighting how destinations can create welcoming spaces for all visitors

Immersion Tour #4: Let me in too – The “A” in DEI-A – Accessibility for All

Destination: Victor

Site: Ganondagan State Historic Site and Seneca Art and Culture Center

The workforce is evolving—how can tourism businesses adapt? This session explores strategies for attracting, retaining, and developing talent while addressing leadership challenges and burnout. Through real-world stories and interactive discussions, discover how collaboration and innovation can shape a resilient tourism workforce.

Immersion Tour #5: Alphabet Soup, Please – AI, AR, MR, VR – Digital Technologies

Destination: Bloomfield

Site: AWA Communication Technology Museum

AI, AR, and emerging digital technologies are transforming tourism—but what’s next? This session explores how destinations can harness innovation while balancing high tech with high touch. Through expert insights and interactive discussions, discover the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of visitor engagement.