Appanoose County Tourism is excited to welcome tourism professionals from across Iowa to Centerville for the 2026 Tourism Insider Meeting on Wednesday, November 18!

We’re inviting you to spend a little extra time in our community, connect with fellow tourism partners and experience some of Appanoose County along the way. Come in the night before and join us Tuesday at 5:30 PM for a cocktail hour and private guided tour of historic Drake Hall, a great chance to catch up, meet other attendees and kick off your visit with one of our community’s unique historic spaces.

Overnight Accommodations: Room blocks are available at The Continental Hotel in downtown Centerville and Westbridge Inn & Suites, located approximately half a mile from the meeting venue. Please contact the properties directly to reserve your room and mention the Tourism Insider Meeting when booking.

On Wednesday, we’ll gather at the newly renovated Majestic in downtown Centerville for an Iowa Tourism update and two conversations featuring the people behind our local visitor economy.

Panel #1 When the Story Changes: Resilience, Reinvention & Destination Storytelling will explore how local destinations and attractions have navigated challenges, adapted when circumstances change and continued telling an authentic story that keeps visitors engaged.

Panel #2 Tourism Takes a Village: Getting Businesses Bought Into the Visitor Economy will bring local business owners to the table for a candid conversation about the good, the bad and how tourism organizations can better engage businesses in the visitor economy.

And we don’t want to just talk about Appanoose County tourism while you’re here! Lunch will include a Build Your Own Pizza experience at George & Nick’s Pizza, followed by a peek inside the newly renovated hotel rooms at The Majestic.

Doors open Wednesday at 9:30 AM with programming beginning at 10:00 AM. Coffee, pastries and lunch are included. Registration is free, but advance registration is required by Sunday, November 15 at 11:59 PM.

Come early, stay the night and let us show you around. We can’t wait to welcome you to Appanoose County!