Welcoming You to Kansas City, Kansas: Midwest Travel Network Conference 2023
We are delighted that Kansas City, Kansas has been chosen to host the fourth annual Midwest Travel Network Conference, taking place from June 8-10, 2023. We are excited to showcase our vibrant city to Midwest bloggers and destinations, providing a lively setting for this prestigious event.
The Midwest Travel Network Conference has consistently brought together key players in the Midwest tourism industry, and this year is no exception. We are proud to host a conference that offers renowned speakers, engaging learning opportunities, and valuable networking experiences for all those involved in promoting tourism to the Midwest.
Join us in Kansas City, Kansas, where you'll have the chance to explore our rich history, diverse entertainment options, and thrilling attractions while connecting with like-minded professionals. Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of an event that fosters growth and collaboration in the Midwest tourism industry.
Getting to Kansas City, Kansas
Conference Location - Memorial Hall
WALK, RIDE, OR DRIVE!
Memorial Hall is only a 2 Minute Drive or a 9 Minute Walk from the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
Midwest Travel Network Conference 2023 Schedule can be found HERE
Learn more HERE about the 2023 Midwest Travel Network Conference Speakers
Tuesday, June 6th - Pre-Tours
Discover Bleeding Kansas
Lawrence & Lecompton, KS
Max: 5 People
For the citizens of Kansas and Missouri, the Civil War started much earlier than the date given in history books, April 1861. Between 1854 and 1859, a series of violent clashes between anti-slavery (free-stater) and pro-slavery (bushwhacker) forces became known as the Border War or Bleeding Kansas. The conflict centered around whether Kansas would be brought into the union as a free state or a slave state. Experience this history at sites and events in Lecompton and Lawrence. In addition to this history, you’ll be treated to unmistakable food, entertainment, and shopping in the adorable town of Lecompton and the quirky college town of Lawrence.
Note: Available to bloggers/content creators only. The tour will begin with lunch at noon on Tuesday, June 6, and conclude by 5 pm on Wednesday, June 7. Participants are responsible for their transportation to/from Kansas City before/after FAM.
I-70 Association Communities
June 6th & 7th
Begin your journey to Kansas City by exploring some of the most iconic cities in Kansas. The I-70 Association will help you build and customize your itinerary with stops in any of seven participating communities along I-70: WaKeeney, Hays, Salina, Abilene, Junction City, Manhattan and Leavenworth. Itineraries can range from a day trip to 1- or 2-night stays. Learn more about these communities here.
Note: Available to bloggers/content creators only. Participants are responsible for their transportation before and after FAM.
Kansas City Kansas Pre-Post
June 6th or 10th
Bloggers participating in Pre/Post tours can receive one complimentary night at the Hilton Garden Inn on either Tuesday, June 6 or Saturday, June 10. Come in early to participate in morning tours on Wednesday or stay over Saturday for Saturday tours and a Sporting KC match. Or, plan your own itinerary.
Note: Complimentary room is available to blogger/creator attendees only.
Wednesday, June 7th
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Breakfast on your own at Hilton Garden Inn or Local Option of your choice
Max: 20 people (only 13 people on shuttle)
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
Come learn the stories of freedom seekers crossing the Missouri River into the Town of Quindaro during their journey on the underground railroad. We'll explore the ruins buried in the hillside of pre-civil war structures like a brewery, well and hotels. Tour conducted by Urban Hikes, which provides active and informative hikes throughout KC.
Note: Tour cost and shuttle transportation included (limit 13 on shuttle). Participants will walk about 3 miles during the tour. Terrain has one steep hill and is rocky. It is not currently accessible for wheelchairs. Wear comfortable closed-toed walking shoes. Bring a water bottle. There is no bathroom at this site.
Max: 20 People
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
The Avenue of Murals Project includes eight murals in a four-block long corridor along Minnesota Avenue in downtown Kansas City, Kansas. Each mural celebrates the history and culture of KCK and the unique groups within the community.
Note: Tour cost included. This is a walking tour that will depart from Hilton Garden Inn. Participants will walk about 1-2 miles during the tour.
Max: 25 people
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
Enjoy a baseball game at Legends Field as the Kansas City Monarchs take on the Lincoln Saltdogs. Attendees will enjoy the game from the Legends Club, which offers complimentary food and drink. In 2021 in partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, the team changed its name to the Kansas City Monarch, a club founded in 1920 as part of Negro Leagues baseball.
Note: Game ticket, food and drink provided. Transportation from Hilton Garden Inn. Only clear bags are allowed in the ballpark.
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Heartland History Tour
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Max: 13 People
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
Located in western Wyandotte County, Zip KC hosts Kansas City’s wildest zip line adventures. Soar high above the bluffs of the Kansas River on nine zip lines stretching more than 5,800 feet and reaching up to 50 miles per hour. Tour starts with lunch at Legends Outlets Kansas City. At Zip KC you’ll have a tour and orientation before taking the course.
Note: Lunch provided. Tour cost and shuttle transportation included. Participants must sign a waiver. Wear athletic clothing and shoes. Minimum weight is 70 lbs., max 275 lb.
Max: 50 People
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
The KCK Taco Trail is a delicious way to enjoy tacos at nearly 60 restaurants and taquerias in Kansas City, Kansas. Sample the authentic Mexican favors like al pastor, birria, carne asada, chicken, lengua and more. Participants will receive four vouchers that can be redeemed for a free taco at a curated list of stops.
Note: Tour will be on your own, with a shuttle loop running between the locations.
Max: 50 people
Self-Guided with Shuttle loop
Kansas City Magazine said Strawberry Hill might have the best collection of dive bars in America. Sample the eclectic scene at stops like 403 Club, Easy Inn, Chicago’s, Fat Matt’s Vortex, Breits, Mockingbird Lounge, The Cigar Shop and more. Many of the bars are walking distance to the Hilton Garden Inn. Participants will receive two drink vouchers as well as a map with drink specials at participating locations.
Note: Tour will be on your own, with a shuttle loop running between the locations.
Caffeine Crawl
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Max: 25 people
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
America runs on coffee and Kansas City, Kansas is no different. Grabbing a good brew or coffee drink is an essential part of getting your adventure started in our city. Enjoy 3-4 of Kansas City, Kansas best known coffee spots. Three Bee’s Pottery features horchata and breakfast tamales. Splitlog Coffee has a patio with great views and Kinship Café serves one of the best iced coffees in KC.
Note: Tour includes coffee and food. Shuttle transportation provided
Max: 20 people
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
Explore Downtown KCK and Strawberry Hill. Hear the stories of the ethnic groups that settled this area while walking through the picturesque, quaint and eclectic neighborhood of Strawberry Hill & Russian Hill. This hike includes spectacular views across the river local history and the Wyandot National Burying Ground. Tour conducted by Urban Hikes, which provides active and informative hikes throughout KC.
Note: Tour cost included. This is a walking tour. No transportation provided. Participants will walk about 2-3 miles during the tour
Max: 13 People
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
Get a taste of what aerial movement is all about at this intro to aerial skills. Voler – Thieves of Flight is in a repurposed church on Russian Hill and offers classes and performances. Enjoy part of a beginner class to learn the basics of aerial silks including aerial conditioning, climbing and foot locks and more. Plan to get active.
Note: Tour cost and shuttle transportation included. Yoga pants and t-shirt recommended. Participants must sign a waiver.
Opening Reception: Sponsored by Kansas Tourism
Thursday, June 8th: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Shuttles on Loop: Departs from Hilton Garden Inn to Cider Hill Family Orchard
Enjoy an evening celebrating Kansas at Cider Hill Family Orchard. Enjoy food, drink and entertainment and learn about agritourism in Kansas. Evening sponsored by Kansas Tourism.
Note: First bus departs from hotel at 6 pm. Buses return starting at 8 pm
Friday Night Reception
Friday, June 9th - 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Shuttle on Loop - Depart from Hilton Garden Inn to Olde Mill Properties
Enjoy an evening in Bonner Springs, Kansas. The evening will take place at the Olde Mill Properties at The Fuel House. Enjoy barbecue, live music, yard games and more. Sponsored in part by the City of Bonner Springs, KS.
Note: First bus departs from hotel at 6 pm. Buses return starting at 8 pm.
Legends Shopping Experience
Saturday: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Max: 13 people
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
Celebrate National Outlet Day at Legends Outlets Kansas City Enjoy lunch, a tour and a guided shopping experience. Then shop until you drop on your own. Shuttle will loop with first return at 3 pm until 6 pm.
Note: Tour cost and lunch provided. Shuttle transportation included
Sporting KC vs Austin FC
Saturday: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Max: 13 people
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
Find out why Kansas City is called “America’s Soccer Capital” with an evening at Children’s Mercy Park. Major League Soccer’s Sporting KC takes on Austin FC. Game time is at 7:30 pm. Before the game, check out the pre-game activities and unique food options.
Note: Game ticket and one round of drinks provided. Shuttle transportation included. Only clear bags are allowed in the stadium.
Springfield, Missouri Post FAM
June 10th - 12th
Max: 4 People
Departs from Hilton Garden Inn
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
The Springfield, Missouri, Convention & Visitors Bureau is offering a post-conference press tour that includes visits to the award-winning Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, Fantastic Caverns and more! Participants will enjoy fine dining throughout the city and the beautiful lodging amenities of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Springfield. Learn more about Springfield at www.SpringfieldMO.org.
Note: If interested, fill out this form by May 1. Those who are selected to participate will be notified by May 5.
All attraction admissions, meals, and lodging are provided. You are responsible for your transportation to Springfield and your trip home.
Please note that those who expect financial compensation for their content should NOT fill out this form. Paid content creators work with the CVB's marketing department. Contact Megan Buchbinder to be considered at a different date.
