More than $10 billion in tourism-related development is planned for Anaheim over the next decade—and Visit Anaheim President and CEO Mike Waterman calls it the destination’s “golden decade.”
In this TSNN News Desk executive interview, Waterman joined TSNN VP of Group Content Danica Tormohlen at Connect Marketplace2026 in Tampa to discuss the projects reshaping Anaheim for trade shows, meetings and major events.
Read highlights from our conversation.
A Journey from New Hampshire to Anaheim
Waterman shared his background, rooted in New Hampshire, where he studied hotel restaurant management at the University of New Hampshire. After 26 years at Marriott, he pivoted to destination marketing, bringing a wealth of experience to his role in Anaheim.
“Growing up on the hotel side was really foundationally a big reason why when I made the leap, it was super successful,” said Waterman.
What’s New in Anaheim?
The Anaheim Convention Center stands as the largest on the West Coast and the 10th largest in the country, according to Waterman. Over the next decade, more than $10 billion in tourism-related infrastructure is set to transform the city. The highlights include:
OC Vibe: A massive new entertainment center featuring 36 restaurants, two hotels, and multiple venues, opening next March.
Disneyland Forward: Transforming surface parking into new attractions, with groundbreaking already underway for a series of exciting developments.
Waterman emphasized the significance of these projects, stating, “I knew about OC Vibe [when I took the job], but I did not know about Disneyland Forward. This is going to be the golden decade for Anaheim,” he said.
Elevating the Hospitality Scene
Anaheim has also seen a notable change in its luxury hotel offerings. With the addition of high-end brands like Westin, JW, and Viv, the city now caters to a more upscale clientele.
As Waterman pointed out, “We didn’t have any luxury products other than the Grand Californian. Now, the restaurant scene includes Michelin chefs, elevating the entire dining experience.”
A Hub for Major Events
Anaheim is proud to host top-tier trade shows, including NAMM and Natural Products Expo West, solidifying its reputation in the industry. Waterman highlighted the economic impact of these events, noting that during Natural Products Expo West, a nearby restaurant had 27 private events in just four days.
“Anaheim was recognized as a top three share in the top 250, behind Vegas and Orlando. We’re super proud of that,” said Waterman.
Looking Ahead
Upcoming events, including the Connect Marketplace 2027 in August and significant preparations for the 2028 Olympics, ensure that Anaheim remains a focal point for industry gatherings and global attention.
If you’re intrigued by the future of Anaheim and want to hear more from Waterman, be sure to check out the full episode.