Dutchess Tourism, Inc.

Be sure to attend our fireside chat with Wheel the World at Destinations International CEO Summit March 25. “Unlocking the Power of Accessibility” explores?how Dutchess County leveraged Destination Verified to become more accessible, more welcoming and more competitive in attracting visitors. Our president and CEO Melaine Rottkamp, CDME will discuss the value of accessibility with Arturo Gaona and Alvaro Silberstein of Wheel the World #DICEO25.

Dutchess Tourism partners with Wheel the World to work toward making travel to New York's Hudson Valley more inclusive and stress-free for everyone. Together, we’re transforming this beautiful destination into a hub for accessible tourism. From iconic attractions to local businesses, Duchess County is committed to ensuring visitors of all abilities can enjoy everything the area has to offer. Through our partnership, over 50 locations have been assessed and vetted for accessibility, providing travelers with detailed and reliable accessibility information. Several sites were also awarded microgrants to make improvements identified in assessments. From assisted-listening devices to wheelchairs and accessible picnic tables to emergency pull-cord systems and grab bars, local attractions have made strides in making accessibility and safety a priority. Whether it’s navigating walkways, dining at local spots, or staying at welcoming accommodations, you can now plan your trip with confidence. Discover how small changes make a big difference and why Duchess County is setting a new standard for accessible tourism. https://lnkd.in/era39DMx

LAST CALL: the ad reservation deadline for our 2025 Discover Dutchess Destination Guide is Monday, March 10. To learn more about advertising opportunities for the?printed and digital travel guide?and to reserve your space,?contact us. https://lnkd.in/ehBqt7-3

We had a great day in Albany Tuesday with the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association (NYSHTA) and colleagues from NYS Destination Marketing Organizations talking with elected officials about key issues for tourism across the state.

*New Speaker Added!* Ross Levi, Executive Director NYS Division of Tourism at Empire State Development will present at our Tourism Trends Conference & 10th Anniversary celebration on April 3. Get your tickets today, and don't miss out on an exciting announcement: https://lnkd.in/egY36DuA

Thank you to Dana Jones Founder and CEO at Accessadoor, LLC for her Lunch & Learn presentation "Unlocking Accessibility: A Guide to Accessibility for Businesses" this week at Marist University. Attendees walked away with actionable steps toward a more inclusive visitor experience at their business through guided self-evaluations, discussions on solutions and an approved shopping list. For upcoming FREE Lunch & Learn presentations, click here: https://lnkd.in/dxgQViQ

Mark you calendars for our 10th anniversary celebration! Join us on April 3rd for this special event at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie. The Tourism and Trends Conference portion of the event will examine the results of a resident sentiment survey conducted by Longwoods International, as well as presentations on the state of the industry from Zartico CEO Sarah Greene Lehman and our President & CEO Melaine Rottkamp, CDME. Register today: https://lnkd.in/egY36DuA

Did you know? The first destination organization was founded on February 19, 1896, making today Destination Professionals Day. This annual observance is hosted by Destinations International, the world's largest trade association for destination organizations (with 8,000 members and partners from over 750 destinations). Destination Professionals Day celebrates the professionals who drive tourism, events and community impact. Our team is united in our shared passion for sharing the plethora of experiences available in Dutchess County with visitors. We work with a variety of partners to showcase their unique offerings. World-class dining fueled by farms, breathtaking nature, striking history, unforgettable arts and a booming craft beverage scene are just a few of the reasons we love promoting travel to the heart of New York's Hudson Valley ?? #DestinationProfessionalsDay To learn more about us, click here: https://lnkd.in/gfZH4WXT

Thank you to all the attendees of today's Lunch & Learn session from Impact PR & Communications! Register for three additional sessions this spring, including a guide to accessibility for businesses presented by Accessadoor, LLC founder and CEO Dana Jones on February 19, 1:30 p.m. at Marist University. For the full schedule and to register, click here: https://lnkd.in/dxgQViQ

Have you signed up for this FREE Lunch & Learn program from Impact PR & Communications (Wednesday, February 12 at 1 p.m.)? This hands-on presentation from CEO & founder Filomena Fanelli and account executive Kayla Hannemann will focus on ways to harness the power of PR to highlight your small business, attract locals and tourists, and secure support or patronage for your organization. RSVP for this and all upcoming Lunch & Learn programs here: https://lnkd.in/dxgQViQ