In 2026, Nevada is set to join the league of U.S. MICE powerhouses – alongside Missouri, Georgia, Texas, Florida, Illinois, and California – positioning itself as a defining force in the global business events landscape. With world-class venues, unmatched infrastructure, and a deep commitment to innovation, these states are collectively steering the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry into a new era of excellence.
Leading the charge, Nevada – home to the iconic Las Vegas Convention Center and Mandalay Bay – continues to reign as the ultimate destination for global trade shows, corporate gatherings, and international exhibitions. Las Vegas alone is expected to host more than 20 major MICE events in 2026, backed by its 150,000-plus hotel rooms, top-tier connectivity, and legendary entertainment scene.
Florida is not far behind, shining brightly with its dual appeal of business and leisure. Orlando and Miami are major MICE magnets, home to some of the world’s most dynamic events and exhibition spaces. The Orange County Convention Center and Miami’s luxury venues embody Florida’s growing influence in the business events space.
Illinois, with Chicago at its heart, continues to make its mark as a global meeting hub. McCormick Place, the largest convention center in the United States, remains a cornerstone for trade shows and international business events, supported by Chicago’s exceptional accessibility and vibrant urban culture.
Texas, fueled by its central location and massive convention infrastructure, offers the perfect mix of scale and affordability. Houston and Dallas are set to host several high-profile trade shows in 2026, while California maintains its iconic appeal through the Los Angeles Convention Center and San Francisco’s Moscone Center – venues synonymous with innovation and global connectivity.
Meanwhile, Georgia’s Atlanta has solidified its place as the business epicenter of the South, supported by the Georgia World Congress Center, while Washington D.C. continues to attract policy-driven, government, and corporate meetings. Emerging destinations like North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are fast catching up, offering competitive infrastructure and accessibility for large-scale business events.
As the MICE industry continues to evolve, these destinations are setting new benchmarks for success. Nevada’s inclusion in this elite circle marks a significant milestone – symbolizing the growing strength, diversity, and innovation that define America’s business events sector today.
In 2026, the U.S. MICE landscape will not just host events – it will create experiences, foster collaboration, and shape the very future of global business engagement.
