The Explore Minnesota Tourism Council consists of people from a multitude of sectors in hospitality and tourism appointed by the Governor to serve in an advisory capacity to Explore Minnesota. Its purpose is to serve the broader interests of tourism in Minnesota by promoting activities that support, maintain, and expand the state's domestic and international travel market, thereby generating increased visitor expenditures, tax revenue and employment.
The Explore Minnesota Tourism Council consists of up to thirty-five (35) members appointed by the Governor, including the Executive Director of Explore Minnesota, who serves as chair. The council is enabled through legislation, M.S. 116U.25 (Laws of MN '04 Ch 171). Enabled: 04/30/2004.
Questions regarding the Explore Minnesota Tourism Council may be directed to Lydia Hollingsworth at lydia.hollingsworth@state.mn.us or Beth Helle at beth.helle@state.mn.us.
Tourism Council Meetings
All Tourism Council meetings take place 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
December 8, 2026
- Virtual: Join Zoom Meeting
- Meeting ID: 890 0229 8576, Passcode: 5xWTeu
- Dial-in: +1 646 558 8656
September 15, 2026
- Hybrid
- In-person: Explore Minnesota (121 7th Place East, Saint Paul, MN 55101)
- Virtual: Join Zoom Meeting
- Meeting ID: 837 9091 1899, Passcode: 8teJpQ
- Dial-in: +1 301 715 8592
June 9, 2026
- Virtual: Join Zoom Meeting
- Meeting ID: 817 1200 2145, Passcode: 1HcBYU
- Dial-in: +1 301 715 8592
March 10, 2026
December 9, 2026
September 16, 2025
Explore Minnesota Tourism Council Members
Council members are appointed by the Governor.
New Tourism Council Member Orientation
View the Orientation Video
Access the Orientation Presentation
