The City of Pacific's Tourism Commission convened on September 16, 2025, to discuss potential marketing initiatives aimed at boosting tourism in the area. A key topic of discussion was a proposed six-month global marketing campaign presented by Herrmann Global Marketing, a firm recommended by Explore Saint Louis. The campaign, which would cost $6,000, aims to promote Pacific to audiences in the United States and the United Kingdom, with options to extend outreach to additional countries for an extra fee.

Kelly, a representative from the commission, highlighted the importance of this initiative, especially in light of Missouri's tourism growth, which has seen a 13% increase compared to the previous year. This uptick is noteworthy as many other states are experiencing declines in tourism. The proposed campaign would not only include traditional marketing efforts but also feature a destination story, providing insights into Pacific's attractions and statistics on visitor engagement.

The commission members engaged in a discussion about the potential benefits of international marketing versus focusing on local outreach. They noted that Pacific attracts a significant number of international visitors, particularly from countries like Italy, Spain, and various others, especially during peak travel seasons. This influx is partly attributed to the Route 66 passport program, which encourages travelers to collect stamps from various locations along the historic route.

While the commission acknowledged the importance of attracting international tourists, there was also recognition of the need to cater to local visitors. Many tourists tend to stay in nearby Saint Louis before venturing into Pacific, often visiting during midday hours. The commission discussed strategies to enhance the visitor experience, such as providing menus and information about local dining options.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the potential for a strategic marketing campaign to elevate Pacific's profile as a tourist destination. The commission is expected to deliberate further on the proposal, weighing the benefits of international outreach against local marketing efforts, as they seek to capitalize on the growing interest in Missouri tourism.