The U.S. Travel Association just released a new report on the state of group travel, finding that while 2025 brought its share of challenges, demand for in-person meetings and events remains strong heading into 2026.
Released ahead of this week’s Global Meetings Industry Day, the report, U.S. Group Travel Report: Strength Beneath the Surface, paints a mixed picture for the meetings sector. Domestic attendance remained steady over the past year, but international visitation declined across several major inbound markets. Government-related meetings also dropped sharply after the first quarter.
At the same time, the report notes that overall non-government demand stayed healthy, with RFP activity exceeding 2019 levels.
USTA described 2025 as a volatile but ultimately stable year for group business, with planners continuing to adapt to changing conditions. After a softer summer, activity picked up again in the fourth quarter.
“Travel is the industry that makes every other industry possible,” said Managing Director of Group Travel Kevin Hinton in a statement. “Events move ideas. Being together in the same place builds trust. And group travel creates human connections that drive business, strengthen communities and shape the future.”
Looking ahead, the report points to cautious optimism for 2026, particularly around business travel and live events.
Among the findings:
- 86% percent of business travelers surveyed expect more group travel opportunities in 2026.
- 72% percent said they plan to attend at least two meetings next year.
- Executives surveyed expect to host more in-person meetings.
- Youth sports travel continues to grow, with the segment now estimated at a $40 billion industry.
The report also found that planners remain confident in face-to-face events despite economic pressures and continued uncertainty in some sectors.
Research for the report was supported by IMEX. Read the complete report here.
Stay tuned to Prevue for insights from
Global Meetings Industry Day 2026.
