“Framing the Future,” will be the focus of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau’s 2026 Annual Meeting, on Nov. 10 at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers. The meeting kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with lunch, and the program runs from noon until 2 p.m. Image: Blind Pass Beach on Captiva.
Provided by Lee County Visitor &
USA TODAY Network, Reuters
Travel and tourism never stand still. The way people plan trips, choose destinations and decide where to spend their time and money continues to change, and our industry must change with it.
That will be the focus of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau’s 2026 Annual Meeting, “Framing the Future,” on Nov. 10 at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers. The meeting kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with lunch, and the program runs from noon until 2 p.m.
Aside from valuable networking opportunities, there are lots of reasons to attend.
We will talk about the state of the industry and share marketing and sales strategies guiding our work for the coming year. And the VCB team will show local businesses how they can put those strategies to work.
David Kenworthy, vice president of product innovation at MMGY Global, will explore one of the biggest changes facing tourism and nearly every other industry: artificial intelligence. He will discuss practical ways businesses can use AI, how it is changing the way visitors research and plan travel, and how emerging technologies are reshaping the way destinations connect with travelers and deliver personalized experiences.
It’s a fascinating topic to explore, and we look forward to showing the industry what’s next for Lee County’s digital visitor experience.
The advance registration fee is $25 and includes valet parking. Reserve your spot and plan to join us. More at visitfortmyers.com/lee-vcb/2026-annual-meeting.
Historic Burroughs Home & Gardens offers glimpse into past
Following recent renovations, this cherished downtown Fort Myers landmark is once again offering docent-led and self-guided tours.
You may have driven past the historic Georgian Revival mansion, which sits on its original site along the Caloosahatchee River in the vibrant River District. Also, a popular wedding and event venue, the home once hosted notable locals Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
Visitors will have a chance to glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the home through its original furnishings, heirlooms and period décor.
Details and reservations: burroughshome.com/historic-home-tours.
Celebrating the return of Captiva Island Inn
We continue to celebrate the reopenings and completed renovations taking place throughout Lee County. And we couldn’t be happier to say, “Welcome back, Captiva Island Inn.”
After Hurricane Ian destroyed the historic property four years ago, the inn has returned to picturesque Andy Rosse Lane. Following a $6 million rebuild, five of the 10 elevated suites are accepting reservations, with the remaining five set to open in late November.
Featuring full kitchens and vaulted ceilings, the hurricane-resistant accommodations retain their colorful cottage charm. Southern Living named the property No. 3 in its 2026 South’s Best Inns Reservations are available at captivaislandinn.com.
Each reopening or new build throughout our islands and neighborhoods marks another important step forward and sends a welcoming message to returning and first-time visitors alike: Our community is ready to welcome you.
And that’s good news not only for our tourism industry, but for the businesses, employees and residents throughout Lee County who benefit when visitors choose our destination.
Pamela Johnson is the executive director of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau, the destination’s lead tourism marketing organization. The VCB is funded by Lee County’s 5% Tourist Development Tax, paid by visitors staying in short-term accommodations. Tourist Development Taxes support destination marketing, beach and shoreline projects, and stadium debt service.
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Lee County VCB annual meeting: ‘Framing the Future’ of tourism
Reporting by Pamela Johnson, Executive Director, Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau / Fort Myers News-Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Following recent renovations, this downtown Fort Myers landmark on the Caloosahatchee River is once again offering docent-led and self-guided tours. Also, a popular wedding and event venue, it offers visitors a chance to glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the home through its original furnishings, heirlooms and period décor. Provided by Lee County Visitor & USA TODAY Network, Reuters
Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect
This story was originally published October 11, 2026 at 5:08 AM.