IAAPA Public Affairs Conference 2025

Begin your day by checking in and reconnecting with fellow attendees over breakfast. This early gathering sets the stage for a full day of learning, networking, and championing the attractions industry alongside IAAPA Public Affairs leaders and peers.

Start your day at the epicenter of American politics with an overview of what to expect over the course of the conference. 

Go behind the scenes of the most powerful office in Congress with exclusive access you won't find anywhere else. Athina Lawson, Press Secretary for the Office of the Speaker, pulls back the curtain on how leadership sets priorities, drives the legislative agenda, and makes the decisions that shape our industry's future. Learn how to time your advocacy efforts perfectly and frame your issues in ways that capture leadership's attention.

A co-founder of Punchbowl News and the former co-author of POLITICO Playbook, Jake Sherman’s work has been described as “the be all and end all of politics and what’s happening in D.C.” by Trevor Noah and “the daily missalette of Washington” by Stephen Colbert. Among the most widely respected voices in the political press, Sherman, leads groups on an up-to-the-minute walkthrough of what’s happening on Capitol Hill and what is likely to happen between Congress and the White House as they address hot-button issues on politics and policy. With incomparable access to the highest offices in D.C., Sherman is an expert on the issues, players and personalities driving politics today, and how they will impact what matters most to your audience.

Get the economic intelligence you can't find anywhere else as major trade and tax policy shifts reshape the business landscape. Sarah Hoyt Corrigan from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce delivers the insider perspective on how tariff policies, tax reform developments, and global economic trends are impacting our industry. 

Get the latest summer travel data and industry insights straight from the source. Adam Sacks from Tourism Economics returns with fresh numbers showing how the travel & tourism industry performed this summer and reveals the trends that will shape visitor patterns in the months ahead.

Join experts from the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) as they share real cyberattack case studies. These federal specialists walk you through actual incidents step-by-step, showing you exactly how to prepare, respond, and recover when cyber threats target your operations. Walk away with a battle-tested playbook that could save your business millions and protect your guests' data.

Get the latest federal policy updates on workforce and immigration programs that impact your staffing strategy. Misty Chally from the Critical Labor Coalition and Patrick Shen from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce break down current domestic labor challenges and emerging immigration policy developments affecting businesses. Walk away better positioned to advocate for your workforce needs and leverage federal programs effectively.

Get your final briefing before hitting Capitol Hill tomorrow. IAAPA's Keith Stephenson and Zach Stokes give you the complete rundown on where each policy issue stands, how to weave these priorities into compelling personal stories, and the insider navigation tips that will make you look like a Capitol Hill veteran.

Enjoy free time to relax, catch up on work, network, or explore Washington, D.C.

Allow time to make your way to Nationals Park. Attendees are responsible for their own transportation.

Cap off an incredible day of learning with an exclusive dinner celebrating the spirit and strength of our industry. Connect with longtime allies, forge new partnerships, and energize yourself for the important work ahead while enjoying the Braves at Nationals game. 

Begin your day with a high-energy briefing that will have you walking into congressional offices with confidence and clarity.

This is the culmination of everything you've learned and the reason you're here. Step into the halls of power armed with compelling stories, crucial data, and the passion that drives our industry forward. Today, you're not just visiting Washington; you're helping shape the policies that will define our industry's future for years to come.

Conclude your advocacy journey with a celebration worthy of what you've accomplished. Share stories from the Hill, strengthen the relationships that will carry our industry forward, and toast to the positive changes you've set in motion.