The IFEA Annual Convention & Expo, presented by atVenu, is heading to

Tucson, Arizona!

#IFEA71 #IFEA2026

Tucson, Arizona, is the perfect destination to gather, connect, and Step Forward at the 71st Annual IFEA Convention & Expo, presented by atVenu, October 5–7, 2026.

Hosted at the stunning El Conquistador Tucson, this iconic resort—nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains—offers sweeping desert views, resort-style amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere ideal for learning, networking, and collaboration. With thoughtfully designed meeting spaces, outdoor areas, and opportunities to relax and recharge, the resort provides a setting that supports both professional growth and meaningful connection.

With a history spanning more than 4,000 years, Tucson is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions in North America and a city where culture, creativity, and community are deeply intertwined. As America’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Tucson is celebrated for its distinctive culinary scene rooted in Indigenous, Mexican, and Southwestern traditions. Attendees can explore a vibrant downtown filled with locally owned restaurants, live music venues, galleries, and historic theaters, along with cultural landmarks such as Mission San Xavier del Bac, the stunning 18th-century Spanish colonial mission often referred to as the “White Dove of the Desert.” Visitors can explore the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, stroll through Barrio Viejo’s colorful adobe architecture, or enjoy Tucson’s thriving arts and culinary communities that celebrate generations of cultural influence and innovation.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Tucson to be an unforgettable playground. Surrounded by five mountain ranges and the iconic Sonoran Desert, Tucson offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation and adventure. Attendees can hike or bike among towering saguaros in Saguaro National Park, enjoy scenic mountain drives, play championship golf courses, or take part in guided desert excursions and stargazing experiences under some of the clearest skies in the country. October brings warm, sunny days and cooler evenings—perfect for outdoor networking events, patio dining, and gatherings beneath desert sunsets and star-filled skies.

Tucson’s vibrant festival and event culture makes it a natural and inspiring host city for IFEA’s global community. Signature events such as Tucson Meet Yourself, the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase, the All Souls Procession, La Fiesta de los Vaqueros - Tucson Rodeo and Parade, Fourth Avenue Street Fair, Tucson Festival of Books, Tucson Jazz Festival, El Tour de Tucson, Tucson Marathon, Old Tucson Wild West Days, Pima County Fair, the Arizona International Film Festival, and numerous cultural celebrations throughout the year highlight the city’s creativity, diversity, and strong sense of place. From breathtaking landscapes and rich history to innovative energy and welcoming hospitality, Tucson offers an unforgettable setting to connect with peers, gain inspiration, and help shape the future of festivals and events—together.

Have Some Time On Your Hands Before or After the Convention? Check Out Some of the Area Attractions.

Museums & Cultural Attractions

Tucson’s museums and cultural attractions reflect the region’s rich history, creativity, and scientific innovation—offering engaging experiences that blend education, heritage, and discovery. From world-class museums and historic landmarks to immersive living history sites and renowned research facilities, these attractions provide meaningful ways to explore the stories, cultures, and ingenuity that define Southern Arizona. Hot spots include:

• Old Tucson Studios – Classic Western film set and theme park where hundreds of movies were shot; fun for all ages.
• Pima Air & Space Museum – One of the world’s largest aviation museums, featuring more than 350 historic aircraft.
• Tucson Botanical Gardens – Lush gardens with seasonal exhibits, a butterfly house, and cultural events in a tranquil setting.
• Mission San Xavier del Bac – Stunning 18th-century Spanish colonial mission known as the “White Dove of the Desert.”
• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum – World-renowned zoo, botanical garden, aquarium, and natural history museum showcasing the Sonoran Desert.
• Tucson Museum of Art – Downtown museum featuring regional, contemporary, and international art collections.
• Biosphere 2 – A 3.14-acre living laboratory exploring ecosystems such as rainforest, ocean, mangrove, desert, and more.
• Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón Museum – Living history museum recreating Tucson’s early Spanish colonial settlement.

Outdoor & Natural Attractions

Surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges and the iconic Sonoran Desert, Tucson is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. These natural attractions offer unforgettable scenery, recreational opportunities, and unique ways to experience the region’s diverse landscapes—whether hiking among towering saguaros, exploring caves, or gazing at the night sky from high above the desert floor. Hot spots include:

• Mount Lemmon SkyCenter – Observatory offering guided stargazing programs and breathtaking mountain views.
• Saguaro National Park – Scenic desert park featuring giant saguaro cacti, hiking trails, and unforgettable landscapes.
• Sabino Canyon Recreation Area – Popular destination for hiking, tram tours, and stunning desert scenery in the Catalina foothills.
• Catalina State Park – Scenic state park offering hiking, biking, and camping at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
• Colossal Cave Mountain Park – Explore ancient limestone caves, encounter wild burros, and enjoy hiking trails and desert views.

The Shopping Scene

Tucson offers a diverse and engaging shopping scene that blends local character with well-known retail favorites, giving Convention attendees plenty of options to explore before or after sessions. Shopping in Tucson is as memorable and varied as the city itself. Hot spots include:

• Historic Fourth Avenue District - Browse locally owned boutiques, galleries, dining spots, and nightlife along
• Trail Dust Town - Enjoy the Western-themed charm, shops, and family-friendly fun
• La Encantada - For upscale, open-air shopping with scenic mountain views, offering a mix of national brands and unique boutiques
• Tucson Mall and Park Place Mall provide classic indoor shopping with major retailers, dining, and entertainment.
• Tucson Premium Outlets - The hot spot for bargain hunters looking for discounted brands
• Oracle Wetmore Shopping Center - A neighborhood center offering convenient local retail and cafés.
• Main Gate Square - Near the University of Arizona where you'll find an eclectic mix of shops and eateries
• Mercado San Agustin - Showcases Tucson’s creative spirit with artisan goods, local food, and a lively marketplace atmosphere

Nightlife & Theatre

Tucson’s nightlife and theatre districts come alive after dark—particularly in Downtown Tucson and the Historic Fourth Avenue area. Whether you’re looking to catch a nationally touring act, enjoy a live comedy show, experience professional theater, or simply unwind with music and cocktails, Tucson’s after-hours entertainment provides plenty of memorable ways to connect and explore beyond the Convention. Hot spots include:

• Rialto Theatre – Iconic downtown venue hosting concerts, comedy shows, and touring performers.
• Club Congress – Lively nightlife hub at the historic Hotel Congress featuring live music, DJs, and dancing.
• Arizona Theatre Company – Produces Broadway-caliber plays and performances in a professional theater setting.
• Gaslight Theatre – Beloved local theater known for classic melodramas, musicals, and family-friendly performances.
• The Century Room – Intimate jazz lounge offering live music, cocktails, and a refined evening atmosphere.

Teeing Off in Tucson

Tucson is a fantastic golf destination for players of all levels, and staying at El Conquistador Tucson puts you right in the heart of some of the region’s best desert golf experiences.

• El Conquistador Golf offers 45 championship holes across three distinct courses — the Conquistador Course, the Canada Course, and the scenic 9-hole Pusch Ridge Course

Beyond the resort, Tucson’s golf scene includes a wide variety of public and private courses including:

• The Arizona National Golf Club, a highly regarded 18-hole championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
• Ventana Canyon Golf & Racquet Club, featuring Tom Fazio-designed layouts through canyon and desert terrain;
• And municipal options like Dell Urich/Randolph Golf Course and Rolling Hills Golf Course,

Looking for Somewhere to Eat? Check Out Some of These Great Eateries.

At/Very Near the Hotel

These are convenient dining spots within or immediately adjacent to the El Conquistador Tucson property — ideal for casual meals, classic resort dining, or networking over food and drinks.

• Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails – Signature Southwestern cuisine with scenic views of the Pusch Ridge.
• Sundance Café – Casual café with Southwestern breakfast, lunch & buffet options.
• Colibri Lounge – Relaxed lounge for drinks and light bites with panoramic views.
• Desert Springs & Grill – Poolside snacks, salads, sandwiches & refreshing cocktails.
• The Overlook Restaurant – New American cuisine with sunset mountain views (open to the public). (At El Conquistador Golf Course)

Very Close — Short Drive (5–15 min)

These local favorites are just a few minutes’ drive from the hotel, offering a mix of casual and elevated dining experiences — perfect for lunches, group dinners, or exploring Tucson’s local food culture.

• Wildflower – Seasonal, inventive New American fare in a relaxed setting.
• The Parish – Cajun and Creole comfort food with a lively vibe.
• Vivace – Classic Italian dishes and seasonal pasta offerings
• Seis Kitchen Oro Valley – Serving Regional Mexican cuisine with scratch-made dishes.
• The Landing – A relaxed spot offering American classics, tacos, burgers, and sandwiches.
• Harvest Restaurant – A farm-to-table favorite focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients and scratch-made dishes.
• Caffe Torino – A refined Italian restaurant serving Northern Italian cuisine.
• Noodleholics – Casual Asian noodle restaurant known for made-from-scratch noodle bowls, dumplings, and flavorful fusion dishes.
• Saffron Indian Bistro – Authentic Indian flavors, a vibrant dining atmosphere, and a menu of classic curries and tandoori favorites.
• Truland Burgers & Greens – A local go-to for fresh, flavorful burgers and salads, showcasing quality ingredients and creative menu twists.
• Mali Thai – Offering classic Thai dishes with bold flavors and aromatic spices.
• Noble Hops – A popular gastropub with a broad menu of New American.

Short Drive — Broader Tucson Favorites (15–30 min)

Enjoy Tucson’s broader culinary scene with iconic local spots, eclectic international flavors, and classics beloved by locals and visitors alike.

• Visit Tucson

Information about restaurant discounts at the Resort and Tucson area available soon.