MURRAY – For 40 years, the Murray Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has shaped the visitor experience for those coming to the city, while working tirelessly to foster connection, camaraderie and economic opportunities for community members.
Throughout the decades, Murray CVB has stayed at the forefront of tourism trends, meeting the ever-changing needs of visitors and residents alike. From multiple renditions of visitor’s guides, the birth of social media, and commercials spanning traditional and digital mediums, the Murray CVB has led the community through trend cycles and constantly evolving platforms; all while increasing overnight stays and leaving a legacy of impact, both economically and culturally.
The 40th Anniversary campaign serves as not only a spotlight on the CVB’s dedication to Murray, but a celebration of the city’s growth; the memories, events, community partners, and leaders who have played a part in the CVB’s continued success.
The Murray Convention and Visitors Bureau works in tandem with local organizations including Playhouse in the Park, the Murray Art Guiild, Murray Main Street and Murray State Athletics to nurture and strengthen the visitor experience.
“We could not be successful at what we do if it was not for the amazing community partners we have,” Said Executive Director Erin Carrico, “The term “it takes a village” certainly applies here. If we didn’t have a thriving downtown, and incredible university and our local arts, we couldn’t survive”.
Planning and executing locally loved traditions like Freedom Fest, showcasing and uplifting local events and artistry, and working behind the scenes to develop the community with Wayfinding signs are just some of the cornerstones of what the CVB has and will continue to do for Murray.
The City of Murray established the Murray Tourism Commission in January 1985. What began as a part-time position within the Chamber of Commerce later grew into a dedicated tourism office, now home to two full-time employees and internship opportunities for MSU students.
In 2006, the CVB relocated to the Historic Post Office building alongside Murray Main Street, and in 2008, a second full-time role was introduced to support events and marketing. In 2017, the CVB purchased and renovated its permanent home, a visitors’ center and event space in downtown Murray, where guests are greeted by local and regional art exhibits, tourist information, and more. The team aims to give visitors a taste of the city’s history and charm, all while showing them why Murray truly does feel like home as soon as they walk through the door.
“Acknowledging where we came from and how much we have grown is how we keep moving forward,” said Priyesh Nathu, The Board Chair for the Convention and Visitors Bureau, “Our board is always focused on what’s next and how we can tailor it to fit our budget and community needs.”
As they look to the future, the Murray Convention and Visitors Bureau is working to continue expanding their wayfinding sign project In addition, the CVB is gearing up for the 2026 Missouri Valley Conference Championship Baseball Tournament, which will be hosted at Johnny Raegan Field in May!
To see the Convention and Visitors Bureau’s full 40th Anniversary Campaign, featuring walks down memory lane from past staff members and prominent community leaders, old photographs and media from CVB projects and more, visit their Facebook page (Visit Murray, Kentucky), Instagram page (@murraykentucky), Tik Tok profile (@murraykentucky) and website (www.tourmurray.com/mky40).
