Destination Marketing

VISIT TAMPA BAY LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE FALL CAMPAIGN TO INSPIRE SHOULDER SEASON TRAVEL

Running through December, the campaign targets U.S. and Canadian travelers planning fall and holiday getaways

Tampa, FL, Oct. 13, 2026 – Visit Tampa Bay is inviting travelers to experience fall in Tampa Bay with a new campaign designed to turn travel inspiration into booked stays during the destination’s shoulder season. Running October through December, the multichannel campaign targets U.S. and Canadian leisure travelers actively planning fourth-quarter getaways.

Developed in partnership with FKQ Advertising + Marketing, the campaign includes advertising on ChatGPT and a prominent presence at Orlando International Airport (MCO), reaching potential visitors as they explore destinations, plan vacations, and search for seasonal experiences.

“Tampa Bay offers memorable experiences year-round, and fall brings a unique blend of special events, professional sports, and holiday cheer,” said Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “We want to meet travelers where they plan, whether they’re browsing trip options online or asking AI for travel recommendations, and give them every reason to choose Tampa Bay this season.”

From Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Lightning home games to thrilling Halloween experiences at Howl-O-Scream and festive celebrations at Christmas Town, the destination offers something for every traveler. As the holiday season approaches, the Tampa Riverwalk and surrounding neighborhoods come alive with waterfront festivities, seasonal entertainment, and experiences that showcase Tampa Bay’s year-round appeal.

On ChatGPT, Visit Tampa Bay’s advertising reaches users exploring sports travel and luxury experiences, while expanded partnerships with online travel agencies help turn inspiration into bookings. At MCO, Visit Tampa Bay maintains its position as the airport’s largest static advertiser, strengthening visibility in Orlando, Tampa Bay’s largest year-round source market. This presence includes a complete takeover of the tunnel leading to the rental car counters, where 28 banners welcome arriving passengers and position Tampa Bay as an easy addition to their Florida getaway.

The campaign also includes always-on search and attraction pass advertising, connected TV, paid social, native, display, and out-of-home placements throughout Florida, creating multiple opportunities to connect with travelers and capture a greater share of fall travel.

The campaign builds on Visit Tampa Bay’s ongoing “Go and You’ll Know” platform, rooted in research showing that perceptions of Tampa Bay shift significantly once visitors experience the destination firsthand.