From March 15–17, WHLA staff and members joined tourism professionals from across the state at the 2026 Wisconsin Governor’s Conference on Tourism (WIGCOT), held at Milwaukee’s Baird Center and hosted by the Wisconsin Department of Tourism. As one of the nation’s premier state tourism conferences, WIGCOT once again delivered a dynamic mix of education, inspiration, and meaningful connections that continue to strengthen Wisconsin’s tourism industry.

When scrolling TikTok, it’s easy to lose track of time. For Jordan Kaminski, Membership Director at WHLA, one scroll led to something unexpected — a fast-paced, funny, and informative “Speed Tour” of Metropolis Resort in Eau Claire that had already amassed millions of views.

The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) is pleased to announce that Representative Dave Armstrong and Senator Jesse James have officially announced their co-sponsorship of LRB 2882/6083 – Tourism Promotion Improvement Districts (TPIDs) — a significant step forward in an effort WHLA has been working diligently to advance on behalf of Wisconsin’s lodging and tourism industry.

The 2025 Wisconsin Lodging Conference & Trade Show may have wrapped up November 2–4 at the Chula Vista Resort, but the learning doesn’t stop there! WHLA’s Conference Encore webinar series brings some of the most in-demand sessions from the live event to you online this December.

In the competitive landscape of Wisconsin’s hospitality industry, independent lodging operators face the challenge of maximizing revenue while delivering exceptional guest experiences. rezStream works with properties across the state to tackle this challenge head-on, and one of the most effective strategies is encouraging direct bookings through your website. A well-crafted “Book Direct Benefits” page is a proven way to boost profitability, build guest loyalty, and take back control from OTAs.

​A great stay makes an impression with guests, and linens are a part of the experience. Soft, fresh, well-kept sheets and towels inspire glowing reviews and positive word-of-mouth. Investing in high-quality linens helps turn those reviews into repeat bookings and loyal guests.

On July 25th, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) announced that it would be changing its visa interview waiver policy, effective September 2, 2025. Under the updated policy, nearly all nonimmigrant visa applicants, including H-2B visas, will now be required to attend an in-person interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy. This change applies to all nonimmigrant visa applicants (all types of U.S. visas) applying for a visa at an embassy or consulate on or after August 28th. While there are a few exceptions to this policy, none apply to H-2B visas.

Spur of the Moment Ranch, a unique lodging destination nestled in Wisconsin’s beautiful Nicolet National Forest, has made a strategic investment to enhance comfort in its rustic camping cabins. By installing Mitsubishi heating and cooling units, the ranch has not only increased summer comfort but also extended its rental season to nearly year-round.

​In Wisconsin and across the US, effective utility management is pivotal for reducing operational costs and promoting environmental sustainability. Innovative technologies now offer hotels and resorts the opportunity to enhance efficiency in water usage, electricity consumption, and HVAC systems. Implementing these solutions can lead to significant financial savings and support eco-friendly initiatives.​

Just off the beaten path in Princeton, Wisconsin, Acorn Ridge Motel is a 14-room property that’s always embraced its classic roadside charm. But with new owners at the helm, the motel has recently completed a thoughtful refresh — one that brings modern convenience and comfort to guests without losing the retro personality that long-time visitors love.