LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. — With the exponentially increasing growth in Athens and Limestone County, sharing its charm through an emphasis on tourism efforts has become essential to the story. Fortunately, thanks to the collaborative efforts of community partners led by the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association, Athens is taking a huge step forward by hosting the 2025 Alabama-Mississippi-Tennessee Rural Tourism Conference.
The AL-MS-TN Rural Tourism Conference is an annual event that aims to “provide the very best educational experience possible for tourism practitioners…securing presenters who are recognized leaders in the field and who can communicate their vision to our diverse audience.” - Rural Tourism Conference Mission Statement After the conference committees announced it would be hosted in Alabama for 2025, the initial bid was submitted by eligible counties in May and reviewed by the screening committee. Out of the 13 Alabama counties that submitted, only the top 3 were chosen to make a final, in-person bid presentation: Athens-Limestone County, Decatur-Morgan County, and Guntersville-Marshall County.
On July 26, all three presented their case to the planning committee in Tuscaloosa, pitching an extensive outline of options for the event venue, reception venues, conference branding, lodging, dining, transportation, night-life, and surrounding retail that would make them the most viable choice. Athens ultimately won the bid- marking the first time in the conference’s 24-year history that Athens has ever had the honor to host!
"Our team had only a short time to pitch the Athens-Limestone County community to the committee, and I think our passion for our city was evident and sparked their interest," Mayor Ronnie Marks said. "I am pleased that tourism officials from Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi will be here next year to see first-hand why we're so passionate about our historic and cultural treasures, recreational opportunities and shopping and dining options."
Truly demonstrating community support, Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly echoed the mayor’s sentiment, noting, “Our community is eager to share its beauty, history, and hospitality with the conference attendees, and we are confident that it will be a memorable and impactful event for all.”
Members of the winning bid presentation team included Mayor Ronnie Marks and Athens-Limestone Chamber President Pammie Jimmar, as well as representatives from the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association, Limestone County Economic Development Association, and Athens Main Street.
Upon receiving the news of winning, Jimmar said, "Winning the Rural Tourism Bid for 2025 is a testament to our community's hard work, dedication, and unique charm. We are thrilled to see our beloved Athens-Limestone County recognized on such a prestigious platform. This opportunity will not only boost our local economy but also showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty we are so proud of. Together, we will make 2025 a year to remember!"
