---
title: "Associations NOW Presents: Milwaukee’s Rise as a Meetings Destination"
id: "63936"
type: "post"
slug: "associations-now-presents-milwaukees-rise-as-a-meetings-destination"
published_at: "2026-06-11T13:16:47+00:00"
modified_at: "2026-11-01T18:41:23+00:00"
url: "https://associationsnow.com/2026/06/11/associations-now-presents-milwaukees-rise-as-a-meetings-destination/"
markdown_url: "https://associationsnow.com/2026/06/11/associations-now-presents-milwaukees-rise-as-a-meetings-destination.md"
excerpt: "In this episode of Associations NOW Presents: Industry Partner Edition, guest host Sharon Pare of HighRoad Solutions sits down with Leslie Johnson, chief sal..."
taxonomy_category:
  - "Meetings / Events"
taxonomy_post_tag:
  - "industry partners"
  - "video"
  - "YouTube"
taxonomy_content_format:
  - "Podcast"
taxonomy_role:
  - "Director"
  - "Executive Team"
  - "Manager"
  - "VP"
taxonomy_persona:
  - "Industry Professionals"
---

[Home](https://associationsnow.com/)
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 » Associations NOW Presents: Milwaukee’s Rise as a Meetings Destination

In this episode of Associations NOW Presents: Industry Partner Edition, guest host Sharon Pare of HighRoad Solutions sits down with Leslie Johnson, chief sales officer at Visit Milwaukee, to explore why Milwaukee is gaining attention as a premier destination for meetings and events. Johnson discusses the city's recent growth, driven by the expanded Baird Center, a thriving culinary scene, and major events that have showcased Milwaukee on a national stage. The conversation highlights what sets Milwaukee apart from larger convention cities, including its walkability, affordability, authentic neighborhoods, and collaborative hospitality community. Johnson also shares insights into the city's "Flavor Era" campaign, new entertainment and cultural developments, and the experiences that make Milwaukee memorable for visitors. From lakefront festivals and iconic attractions to local dining recommendations, the episode offers a fresh look at a city that's quickly becoming a favorite among event planners and attendees alike.

[ASAE Staff](https://associationsnow.com/author/asae-staff/)

[More articles by this author](https://associationsnow.com/author/asae-staff/)

Tags: [#industry partners](https://associationsnow.com/tag/industry-partners/)
 [#video](https://associationsnow.com/tag/video/)

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