First Timer's Guide to Tourism Academy

Is it your first time attending Tourism Academy? Not sure what to expect? This guide is full of helpful tips and resources to help you navigate the conference with confidence and make the most of every session, activity, and connection.

What to Expect Each Day

The Tourism Academy agenda is packed full of opportunities for learning, networking, and fun. Here’s an overview of what each day includes:

Morning Activities – You’ll learn the most when you’re feeling your best, so consider joining these activities before sessions begin. On Day 1, join an easy 3-mile run hosted by Jacksonville-based JTC Running. On Day 2, center yourself with a calming sound bath and healing session.
Meals – Breakfast and lunch will be available throughout the conference. Dinner is provided during the Evening Reception on Day 1, while Day 2 is your chance to explore Jacksonville’s restaurant scene on your own.
Breakout Sessions – Attend destination roundtables, educational sessions, hands-on trainings, and collaborative discussions designed to help you build skills, exchange ideas, and dive deeper into your work.
Keynotes – Hear engaging case studies and industry insights from leaders shaping today’s tourism landscape.
Evening Activities –Each evening of the conference is full of activities and opportunities to network and connect with other industry members, including the Pre-Conference Official Welcome Happy Hour & Evening Event, SWWGSD Happy Hour, Evening Reception and Neighborhood Immersion, and the Evening Party, Concert & Lip Sync Battle.
Concert & Lip Sync Battle – Day 2 wraps up with a lively evening party featuring a concert and the always-entertaining lip sync battle. The music can get loud, so plan any important conversations for dinner or the following day. Expect familiar songs, a high-energy crowd, and plenty of chances to sing along. Want to be part of the fun? Step into the spotlight and join the lip sync battle!

How the Sessions are Structured

Tourism Academy sessions follow three main learning tracks, allowing you to tailor your schedule to your goals:

CRM Training – Ideal for anyone new to iDSS or looking to deepen their understanding of essential CRM functions.
CRM Advanced – Designed for intermediate and advanced CRM users aiming to sharpen their expertise.
Marketing & Web Strategy – Perfect for attendees focused on storytelling, website performance, partner engagement, and creative campaign development.

Mix and match tracks as you go. Each session offers valuable takeaways no matter your role or experience level.

Meet with Us

Have questions for the Tempest team or want to dive deeper into your strategies? Schedule a one-on-one with our Web, Growth, iDSS, or Destination Signals teams or set up some time at the Scholar's Desk to chat with a Tempest expert. These sessions are ideal for troubleshooting, brainstorming, or exploring ways to implement what you’ve learned.

Takeaways You Can Expect

Tourism Academy is designed to leave you with ideas, connections, and tools you can put to work right away. Expect to:

Learn about the latest DMO products and innovations at sponsor and vendor booths.
Discover smarter ways to manage workflows and processes in iDSS.
Explore fresh marketing strategies across SEO, GEO, and performance marketing.
Build new connections and friendships, share challenges, swap recommendations, and continue the conversation long after the conference ends.
Revisit presentation slides on the Tempest Community once the conference concludes.

What to Pack

Stay comfortable throughout the conference by packing these essentials:

Comfortable, business casual clothing and walking shoes.
A sweater or cardigan – Jacksonville is warm, but conference rooms can be chilly.
Plan to explore Jacksonville’s beaches? Don’t forget to bring a bathing suit!
Collared shirt and tailored bottoms if you’re joining Tuesday's golf outing.
Running attire if you’ll be participating in Wednesday’s morning run.