Destination Ann Arbor and Choose Lansing Join Cities of the Big Ten Passport Initiative

As the Big Ten has expanded, so have the tourism opportunities between the 18 member schools, which are now spread from coast to coast.

Destination Ann Arbor and Choose Lansing have announced their participation in the new Cities of the Big Ten passport initiative, a collaborative effort designed to encourage visitors to explore beyond athletic events and discover attractions in each of the Big Ten cities.

“Being a part of the Big Ten conference strengthens the bond between our communities,” said Amy Karbo, vice president of marketing of Destination Ann Arbor. “This initiative provides a wonderful opportunity to highlight and share the unique attractions of each of our destinations, encouraging visitors to explore all that we have to offer. We are thrilled to be part of this initiative that not only brings sports fans to our city but also encourages them to explore everything else Ann Arbor has to offer.”

The effort, facilitated through a digital passport developed with Bandwango, aims to promote travel experiences in each Big Ten destination. The Cities of the Big Ten is a partnership of Destination Ann Arbor, Choose Lansing, The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, Visit Bloomington, Central Jersey Convention & Visitors Bureau, Destination Madison, Discover Los Angeles, Experience Champaign-Urbana, Experience Columbus, Experience Prince Georges County, Chicago’s North Shore, Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau, Meet Minneapolis, Think Iowa City, Travel Lane County (Oregon), Visit Lafayette/West Lafayette and Visit Seattle.

“As home to the State Capitol and Michigan State University, there’s so much more to see beyond Spartan Stadium when visitors come for a football game,” said Tracy Padot, chief marketing officer of Choose Lansing. “Whether it’s one of our attractions, museums, great dining, or outstanding accommodations, we are a welcoming destination for all.”

Bandwango and the Big Ten cities have developed a digital passport featuring 10 attractions for each of the 17 Big Ten cities representing 18 schools. The free passport is accessible from a mobile device, providing instant access to things to see and do in each location.

The passport features a curated list of places to visit and explore, aiming to help sports fans traveling to support their team, or anyone interested in new travel adventures, get better acquainted with the cities of the Big Ten.