Meeting & Convention Tourism in Montana

Authors

• Glenna Hartman
• Elena Bigart
• Melissa Weddell

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

7-2026

Disciplines

Agricultural and Resource Economics | Leisure Studies | Nature and Society Relations | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Regional Economics

Abstract

As meeting and convention travel continues its post-pandemic rebound, Montana still lacks a comprehensive picture of this growing sector's reach and impact. This report offers the state's first statewide analysis of meetings and conventions — examining their economic contribution to local communities, the factors that make Montana an attractive destination, the scale and geographic spread of events across the state, and how Montana compares to national industry benchmarks.

The findings paint a promising picture: 75% of meeting planners say they'd recommend Montana, and over half plan to bring events to the state in the next one to three years. Montana's strength lies in experience-driven meetings that blend business with recreation and local culture — though expanding infrastructure and strengthening regional collaboration will be key to unlocking the state's full potential.

Keywords

Meetings and Conventions

Rights

© 2026 ITRR

Recommended Citation

Hartman, Glenna, Bigart, Elena, Weddell, Melissa. (2026). Meeting & Convention Tourism in Montana. Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research, University of Montana. Missoula, Montana. 70p.