Owensboro transforms into a powerhouse of sports tourism with one of the most exciting weekends our city has ever seen! Visit Owensboro is proud to host over 53 championship-level high school baseball and softball games as part of the Kentucky 2A Championships and Kentucky All A State Championships—bringing top-tier student-athletes from across the state. …
CEO speaks tourism
Mark Calitri Visit Owensboro President/CEO speaks tourism
Owensboro isn’t just growing—it’s leading
Wait a second… is that Green River Distillery in a Kentucky Department of Tourism ad? Yes, it is—and we love to see it! Mark Calitri, president, Visit Owensboro, said, “Owensboro is gaining major attention across the state, and it’s no surprise. This up-and-coming riverfront city is thriving, full of momentum, and turning heads with its…
Mark Calitri Joins the Greater Owensboro Music Commission
Mark Calitri, President of Visit Owensboro, has joined the Greater Owensboro Music Commission as a key advocate for the role music plays in shaping vibrant communities. With a deep understanding of how tourism, economic development, and cultural identity intersect, Calitri brings both strategic vision and passionate leadership to this new organization. His involvement signals a…
Celebrating the Women Who Move Owensboro Forward
Behind every big win for Owensboro, there’s a team of hardworking, dedicated women making it happen. From planning major events to promoting our city as a top destination, these women tackle tough tasks, overcome challenges, and bring new opportunities to our community every day. “It’s incredible to see the passion and dedication this team brings…
Honoring the Heart of Hospitality: Recognized for Outstanding Service in Tourism
Continuing a Legacy of Excellence in Guest Experience The Larry Maglinger Award was created to honor the legacy of a dedicated City Commissioner and to recognize local residents who serve as true ambassadors of tourism. This award celebrates individuals who not only provide outstanding customer service but also go above and beyond to make…
Promising city occupancy rates to start the year
Our Owensboro hotels took in a record $32.6 million last year despite the dip in occupancy. Owensboro occupancy went from 59.2% in 2023 to 58.2%. Rising room rates made all of the difference in these numbers. Mark Calitri, president of the Owensboro-Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau, said Tuesday that this year is starting…
The Mark Calitri leadership minute: Are you a bucket filler or a bucket taker?
Are you a bucket filler or a bucket taker? One of the best lessons we learned in kindergarten still applies today. In life—and at work—there are two types of people: Bucket fillers who add value, lift others up, and build something better. Bucket takers who drain energy, focus on themselves, and weigh down the team.…
The Mark Calitri Minute: Quick insights on bold leadership
Stay Teachable: Embracing Humility for Continuous Growth Staying teachable is a simple concept but often one of the hardest to achieve. It requires the humility to take a step back, detach from the current situation, and view yourself from a distance. In business, I’ve found this mindset is essential. It’s about always being willing…
New Kentucky Home Initiative
To build on Kentucky’s historic economic momentum and record-breaking tourism success, Gov. Andy Beshear has announced the New Kentucky Home initiative! The governor was joined by economic development and tourism leaders from across Kentucky to hone in on the new initiative allowing collaboration between the two industries. So what is the New Kentucky Home initiative?…
Owensboro tourism forecast looks good for 2025
Mark Calitri, president of the Owensboro-Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau, said, “The outlook for 2025 remains robust. Despite some uncertainties, elevated room rates and strategic event planning promise a positive trend.” Churchill Downs’ $100 million Owensboro Racing & Gaming facility, 460 Wrights Landing Road, is slated to open in February, he said in an…