Chattanooga, Tennessee, July 29, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga, Tennessee, will be the host city for the 2025 Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) Conference. Scheduled for August 19-21, the event is expected to attract over 250 outdoor media professionals who will benefit from networking opportunities and local outdoor activities such as rock climbing and hiking. The conference will be held at The Read House and will include pre- and post-conference tours that showcase Chattanooga’s outdoor attractions, contributing to the city’s economic boost.
Chattanooga to Host 2025 OWAA Conference with Over 250 Outdoor Media Professionals
Chattanooga, Tennessee, will serve as the host city for the 2025 Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) Conference, scheduled for August 19-21. The event is anticipated to draw more than 250 outdoor writers and media professionals who will explore the city’s acclaimed outdoor attractions.
Known as a premier southeastern outdoor destination, Chattanooga will provide an ideal backdrop for the conference. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of local outdoor activities, including rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, white-water rafting, and even hang gliding. This diverse array of experiences allows participants to engage with the natural beauty and adventure the city has to offer.
Conference attendees will stay at The Read House, a historic hotel located in downtown Chattanooga. This venue is expected to function as the central meeting point for the duration of the conference. A welcome reception will kick off the event at the Chattanooga Choo Choo, where local vendors, including Gate 11, will provide food and beverages. An additional after-hours reception hosted by Teren Clothing will offer further networking opportunities for attendees.
Pre- and post-conference tours will be available, showcasing the region’s outdoor offerings and enhancing attendee experience. Collaborations with local partners, such as the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Outdoor Chattanooga, will facilitate these tours. Key attractions in these tours will include the Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Zoo, Lookout Mountain Flight Park, Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center, and Chattanooga Guides Adventures. Outdoor Chattanooga will also organize hiking, paddleboarding, and kayaking tours during the event.
The economic impact of hosting the OWAA conference in Chattanooga is projected to reach several hundred thousand dollars. The influx of 250 outdoor travel writers will not only boost local businesses but will significantly enhance Chattanooga’s visibility within the outdoor enthusiast community. Articles and stories crafted by these writers will further promote the city, reaching millions of potential visitors in the process.
Chattanooga has previously garnered recognition as a beautiful mountain town by Outside Magazine and was named one of the “10 pretty mountain views in the U.S. that are a must-visit” by TimeOut Magazine. Such accolades underline the city’s growing reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation and adventure.
For additional information about the 2025 OWAA Conference in Chattanooga, attendees are encouraged to visit VisitChattanooga.com/OWAA, where further details and updates will be made available as the event approaches.
Key Features of the Conference
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | August 19-21, 2025 |
| Expected Attendance | Over 250 outdoor writers and media professionals |
| Main Venue | The Read House, downtown Chattanooga |
| Welcome Reception | Hosted at the Chattanooga Choo Choo with local vendors |
| Post-Conference Tours | Highlighting local outdoor attractions and activities |
| Economic Impact | Projected to be several hundred thousand dollars |
FAQ
What is the purpose of the OWAA Conference?
The OWAA Conference is aimed at outdoor writers and media professionals, providing them with networking opportunities and exposure to outdoor activities in the host region.
Where will the conference be held?
The conference will take place in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
What dates will the conference run?
The OWAA Conference is scheduled for August 19-21, 2025.
How many attendees are expected?
More than 250 outdoor writers and media professionals are expected to attend the conference.
What activities will be available to attendees?
Attendees can engage in activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and white-water rafting, among others.
What is the expected economic impact of the conference?
The conference is projected to generate several hundred thousand dollars in economic impact for Chattanooga.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- NewsChannel 9: 250 National Outdoor Writers to Visit Chattanooga
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- NewsChannel 9: Chattanooga Named Host City for 2025 OWAA Conference
- Google Search: Outdoors Writers Association of America
- NewsChannel 9: OWAA Conference to Highlight Chattanooga’s Outdoor Activities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Outdoor Recreation
- NewsChannel 9: Economic Impact of 2025 OWAA Conference in Chattanooga
- Google News: Chattanooga Outdoor Activities
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
