Montgomery County has long been one of the Mid-Atlantic’s best-kept secrets. But as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, the region is stepping firmly into the spotlight — and it’s bringing bald eagles, steam locomotives, and a World Cup watch party with it.
The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board made that case loud and clear at its 2026 Travel Rally on May 26 at Whitemarsh Valley Country Club. The event, themed “Stars of the Story,” drew tourism professionals, hospitality leaders, and community officials together to preview what promises to be the most exciting year in the county’s modern history.
A Region on the Rise — By the Numbers
Montgomery County’s tourism economy isn’t just growing — it’s breaking records. According to VFTCB President and CEO Mike Bowman, the county supports more than 40,000 jobs and generates $2.5 billion in economic impact annually.
Hotel revenue in 2026 has already exceeded original forecasts by more than $3 million, and combined hotel revenue from May through July is projected to approach $100 million — a 12 percent increase over last year. The VFTCB’s sales team also reported a 20 percent jump in room night production compared to 2025, driven by growth in conventions, sporting events, and group travel.
“There has never been a more exciting time to showcase our region’s history, attractions, and experiences,” Bowman said.
Celebrating America 250 — Right Where History Happened
Few places in the country are better positioned for America’s 250th anniversary than Montgomery County. Valley Forge National Historical Park, one of the most visited Revolutionary War sites in the nation, marks its own 50th anniversary this year — a milestone the VFTCB is leaning into hard.
A “Birthday Bash” community celebration is planned for June 29 on the steps of the Montgomery County Courthouse, featuring live entertainment and patriotic programming to honor both anniversaries at once. Across the county, a “Houses of Declaration” initiative will bring public readings of the Declaration of Independence to communities ahead of Independence Day.
And for history buffs who love their history big: the Union Pacific “Big Boy,” the world’s largest steam locomotive, will roll through Montgomery County this summer as part of its national America 250 tour.
World Cup Fever Comes to King of Prussia
Montgomery County is also gearing up for a major moment in global sports. With FIFA World Cup matches taking place this summer in nearby Philadelphia, the VFTCB announced plans for a free, multi-day World Cup Watch Party in King of Prussia. Expect large viewing screens, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and community programming, making it one of the region’s most anticipated summer events.
Sports Tourism Scores Big
The county is cementing its reputation as a serious sports tourism destination. Three major upcoming events are set to bring an economic surge to the region:
USA Taekwondo at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, the return of the Rumble Grass Volleyball Tournament in Pottstown, and the first-ever Lacrosse World Series Championship at The Proving Grounds in Conshohocken are collectively expected to generate more than 5,000 hotel room nights and approximately $4 million in economic impact.
Golf, Jazz, and More: A Year-Round Destination
Montgomery County’s 50 golf courses — more than any other suburban county in the region — got a major marketing push this year, including SiriusXM PGA Tour Channel ads, a Lyft rideshare campaign, and aerial banner flyovers tied to the PGA Championship.
Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA continues its run at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks, adding to the county’s growing arts and entertainment profile. And this fall, the fifth annual Montco Jazz Fest returns, expanding once again with county-wide support.
Looking ahead, the VFTCB’s Annual Luncheon is set for Oct. 29, 2026, at Valley Forge Casino Resort.
Don’t miss out on all the action! For upcoming events and visitor information, head over to the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board.
