Conference draws 300+ travel, adventure pros to WNC, expected to have $500k economic boost

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Wednesday, June 12 marked Day 2 of a travel conference that’s being held in the mountains.

AdventureELEVATE North America is a three-day event drawing media, tour operations and thought leaders in the adventure travel community to different destinations.

Last year, Explore Asheville won the bid to host the 2024 conference.

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Asheville is the first city in the Southeastern U.S. to host the event that is now in its eighth year.

Hundreds of travel leaders were in the area visiting all that Western North Carolina has to offer.

“This is a group of over 300 travel, trade and adventure professionals from around the world,” said Dodie Stephens, with Explore Asheville. “They are focused around sustainable and responsible tourism.”

The event is expected to generate nearly $500,000, providing a much-needed boost to local businesses.