Enough About the Agenda . . . What About The Activities?

After our action-packed days of education and inspiration, we'll be out on the town experiencing Jacksonville's food, nightlife, and gorgeous waterfront! It's a chance to discover new favorite spots, explore the city, and network with your peers. Here's an overview of all the evening entertainment planned for Tourism Academy 2026.

Tuesday: Tourism Academy Golf Outing

When: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Where: Bent Creek Golf Course | 10440 Tournament Lane, Jacksonville, FL, 32222

Getting There: Transportation will be provided to and from the host hotel.

Arriving in Jacksonville early? Make the most of your time before the conference kicks off and join your peers for a round of golf at Bent Creek Golf Course.

A few things to know before you tee up:
- Advanced reservation is required. Tee time fee is $75/golfer.
- Rental clubs are available for an additional $65/golfer (limited availability, so reserve early if you need them).
- Box lunch is included

Advance registration now closed — see you on the course!

Tuesday Evening: First Timers Happy Hour

When: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 4:00-5:00 PM

Where: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront | 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Welcome to Tourism Academy! Whether you're a wide-eyed freshman attending Tourism Academy for the very first time or a seasoned alumnus returning for another year of learning and connection, this happy hour is for you.

First-timers, consider this your orientation. It'll be a relaxed, welcoming space to get your bearings, meet fellow newcomers, and get a feel for everything Tourism Academy has to offer. Returning guests, come back and help show the freshmen the ropes. Your experience and enthusiasm make all the difference. Together, we'll kick off the conference with good drinks, great people, and a whole lot of excitement for the days ahead.

Tuesday Evening: Welcome Reception — Jacksonville River Cruise

When: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 5:00-9:30 PM

Where: Out on the water with Jax Yacht Charter

Getting There: The departure dock is located just steps from the hotel, near the Main Street bridge.

Set sail on the St. Johns River aboard a private yacht from JAX Yacht Charter for an evening of food, drinks, and stunning views — an unforgettable welcome to Northeast Florida. To accommodate all attendees, two cruise times are available, each with space limited to 150 guests:

• Cruise 1: 5:30–6:30 PM (Board at 5:00 PM)
• Cruise 2: 8:30–9:30 PM (Board at 8:00 PM)

Reserve your spot and select your preferred departure time by CLICKING HERE. If you're on the later departure, join fellow attendees in Mathews (4th Floor; accessed via the SkyBridge) for the First Timers Happy Hour until 7:00 PM.

Book Cruise Time

Wednesday Afternoon: SWWGSD Happy Hour

When: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 | 5:00-6:00 PM

Where: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront | 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202

Calling all Smart Women Who Get S*** Done (and their allies!): join us for a pre-reception happy hour, where dynamic women representing destinations across North America will come together to connect, collaborate, and celebrate their impact. Enjoy a relaxed setting to share experiences, forge new relationships, and inspire future successes with like-minded industry leaders.

Wednesday Evening: Evening Reception

When: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 | 6:30-8:30 PM

Where: Hoptinger | 1037 Park Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32204

Getting There: Transportation will run between the host hotel and Hoptinger. Check back as the conference date approaches for shuttle timing and details.

Head to Jacksonville's trendy Five Points neighborhood for an evening of good eats, cold drinks, and plenty of fun. Hoptinger is your one-stop destination for the night, with a full bar and restaurant (dinner will be served), an arcade, bowling, and a rooftop bar and patio.

Thursday Evening: Closing Party — Travel Jam & Lip Sync Battle

When: Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 7:00-11:00 PM

Where: Decca Live | 323 E Bay Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202

Getting There: Please walk or use ride-share or local transit from your chosen dinner location. There will be a limited, looping shuttle service between our hotel and Decca Live.

End Tourism Academy 2026 with a bang! After exploring Jacksonville's restaurant scene on your own, join us for our legendary closing party featuring live music from the Tempest house band. Dance the night away, celebrate an incredible conference, and make some memories that'll last until next year.

Want to take the stage? Grab your colleagues and take center stage during our epic Lip Sync Battle!

Need to recharge between events? Don't miss our morning wellness activities! Join us for a group run/walk on Tuesday, May 12th, and a sound bath experience on Wednesday, May 13th.