Over 40 years of Educating and Advocating for Tourism in the Southeast

Who we are…

On September 14, 1983, a small group of industry leaders from the Southeast gathered for the purpose of organizing the Southeast Tourism Society (STS). Those charter members shared the mutual belief that regional promotion of tourism, via a partnership between states, would create a powerful marketing alliance unparalleled throughout our country. Now, 40 years later, their vision continues as STS is an established leader among tourism organizations.

What we do…

  • Group standing on staircase showing their diplomas

    Education

    Learn to promote and sell your destination, attraction, or event at STS conferences.

  • Advocacy

    Become a voice for tourism at the local, state and federal levels

  • Monica Smith with two award winners holding their shining example awards

    Recognition

    Spotlight your staff, community, festivals, events, and attractions.

  • Two women with event badges around their necks, smiling

    Networking

    Share ideas and best practices and catch up on industry news with your peers.

Your next opportunity…

Domestic Showcase logo 2024

Domestic Showcase

March 20-23, 2024

Little Rock, Arkansas

Don’t Miss Out!

Mark your calendar for all the upcoming STS events and program!.

What our members are saying about us…

  • “STS provides a wonderful atmosphere for those in the travel & tourism industry to learn about current trends, share ideas, and solve problems. Our involvement in this organization benefits us every day.”

    — Tim Todd, TMP, Discover Upcountry Carolina, Past Chairman of the STS Board of Directors

  • “Being an active member of STS is essential to any tourism professional and their destination in the southeast. The organization does a remarkable job of providing top-notch education, advocacy, and networking opportunities to those in our industry. And to top it off, you will make connections and memories that will last a lifetime.”

    — Joni Buford, TMP, FEP, Growth Marketing Manager/Idea Cultivator; Accent Creative Group

  • "During the first week in my role, multiple people told me – you’ve got to go to Southeast Tourism Society’s Marketing College. Over the next three years, I learned how to better market our destination from leading industry experts and expanded my knowledge of what we do and why we do it. I highly recommend that anyone entering a hospitality and tourism-related role consider the investment and ongoing education from STS."

    Nick Breedlove, Executive Director, Jackson County, North Carolina TDA

Keep up with events, people, and destinations in the Southeast with the STS monthly newsletter!