DT Minich, the president and CEO of Experience Kissimmee, has been selected as the 2026 inductee into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame by VISIT FLORIDA. This honor celebrates his extensive contributions to Florida’s tourism sector, spanning over 30 years of leadership and innovation.
Minich received this recognition at the Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism, which took place from September 9-11 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach. The Florida Tourism Hall of Fame highlights individuals whose vision and leadership have been instrumental in establishing Florida as a top global travel destination.
Leadership and Career
Minich holds the distinction of being the only tourism executive to lead three Florida destination marketing organizations: Lee County Visitor and Convention Bureau, Visit St. Pete Clearwater, and Experience Kissimmee. Throughout his career, he has played a key role in helping communities develop stronger identities and expand their presence in both domestic and international markets.
Reflecting on his career, Minich stated, “This recognition represents every community, partner, and tourism professional I have had the privilege of working alongside throughout my career.” He further noted that each destination has taught him valuable lessons about the responsibility of tourism leaders to bolster communities and preserve Florida’s unique qualities.
Minich began his destination marketing career at Visit Fort Myers, where he developed initiatives like the Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail, supporting deeper connections between visitors and the region. He demonstrated resilience during crises, managing tourism communications after Hurricane Charley and supporting Gulf Coast destinations during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
Impact and Legacy
Under Minich’s guidance, Kissimmee’s vacation home inventory expanded from around 10,000 to over 30,000 properties. Experience Kissimmee’s annual budget grew from $11 million to more than $32 million, and the organization established a presence in over 18 international markets.
Sam Haught, Co-Owner of Wild Florida Adventure Park and a VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors member, remarked, “DT’s impact reaches well beyond any one organization or destination. He has helped tourism grow in a way that supports local businesses, creates opportunities for residents, and strengthens the community.”
Bryan Griffin, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, added, “DT Minich has spent more than three decades in service to Florida tourism, and the relationships he has built are felt in every corner of the state. He has supported destinations from the Gulf Coast to Central Florida, enhanced the industry, and made extraordinary contributions to Florida tourism.”
Florida Tourism Hall of Fame
Since its inception in 2001, the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame has honored individuals whose efforts have transformed Florida into a leading global tourist destination. Notable past inductees include Walt Disney, Henry Flagler, and Harris Rosen.