Frankfort, Ky. (January 13, 2005) The Kentucky Department of Tourism is on the road again.  In 2005, Kentucky will be highlighted at some of the nation’s largest travel shows.

            In January, February and March the Tourism Agency will travel to various locations to promote Kentucky destinations.  The booths showcase Kentucky’s new brand, “Kentucky:  Unbridled Spirit” and Kentucky’s most famous locations.   The 2005 Great Getaway Guide and the State Highway Map will be circulated to thousands of attendees. 

            The series kicked off this week at the Chicagoland Outdoors Show in Rosemont, Illinois, January 12 through the 16th.  This is said to be the largest consumer event of its kind in the greater Chicago area.   Attendees can plan outdoor vacations, view and purchase fishing and hunting products, shop for boats and much more.

            Coming up this weekend, agency representatives will attend the Cincinnati Travel, Sports & Boat Show in Cincinnati, Ohio.  In February, Kentucky will be on stage at the Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show in Indiana the 18th through the 27th and in Novi, Michigan on the 23rd through the 27th for the Outdoorama Sport & Travel Show.   The winter season in this series of shows wraps up at the Cleveland Sport, Travel & Outdoor Show in Cleveland, Ohio taking place March 12 through the 20th.

            Kentucky will also be showcased at the American Bus Association (ABA) Marketplace in Chicago, Illinois February 4 through the 9th.  ABA is a trade association representing 950 motorcoach and tour companies in the United States and Canada. 

            Travel South USA Showcase in Memphis, Tennessee will take place February 12 through the 16th.  Travel South USA is reputed to be one of America's oldest and largest regional travel promotion organizations.   Travel South USA serves as an information source for journalists, tour operators, retail travel agents and other travel professionals.

            “This exposure plays a significant role in attracting potential visitors to our state and it’s essential that we take every opportunity available to market Kentucky,” said Commissioner of Tourism Randy Fiveash.  “These shows allow us to build and grow partnerships with other professionals in the travel industry and they play an important role in increasing revenue and creating jobs in Kentucky.”

For more information on Kentucky tourism please visit www.kentuckyunbridledspirit.com or call 800-225-TRIP (8747). 

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The Kentucky Department of Tourism, an agency of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet, exists to promote The Commonwealth as a travel destination, to generate revenue and create jobs for Kentucky's economy. Tourism is a $9.3 billion business for Kentucky.  It's the state's third largest industry and second leading employer.