About Us

NICE TO

Meet You

We are the marketing and management organization for the Greater St. Cloud region.

Our Destination Pros are here to showcase everything that makes Central Minnesota a place worth exploring. With endless festivals, live music, art, sports, outdoor beauty, and one-of-a-kind dining and shopping, there’s always something to experience. Take a look around, ask us anything, and when you’re ready, let us help you say yes to Greater St. Cloud.

Together, we work to:

Event and convention planners with personalized assistance and local expertise.

The region through creative campaigns that highlight Greater St. Cloud’s attractions, events, and local flavor.

The visitor experience by connecting guests with the area’s best lodging, dining, and entertainment options.

Meet Your Destination Experts

Rachel Thompson

Executive Director

With an extensive background in event planning and tourism, Rachel champions tourism and hospitality as a driver of economic growth for the St. Cloud Area.

Favorite Hidden Gem: George Fredrich Park…bring a hammock!

Favorite Outdoor Spot: Quarry Park trails in winter when they have the trail lights on

Favorite Place to Grab a Drink: Spice of Life Tea Shop

Nikki Gustafson CFEM, CGMP

Director of Sales

With decades of experience and an infectious personality, Nikki makes planning the perfect meeting in Greater St. Cloud easy.

Favorite Hidden Gem: Quite literally hidden, Blue Goose Speakeasy

Favorite Family-Friendly Activity: Blacklight Adventures! Laser Tag and Mini Golf, yes!

Favorite Local Event: Granite City Days

Craig Besco

Sports Director

With a strong background in customer service and a passion for events, Craig is dedicated to making your tournament one to remember.

Hidden Gem: The local fishing “honey holes” but I can’t disclose exactly where.
Local Bite: Arroy Thai & Filipino Restaurant
Event: SCSU Hockey Games

Rachel Foos

Marketing Manager

As our Marketing Manager, she is a strategic visionary who leverages data-driven insights and creative storytelling to elevate the Greater St. Cloud brand and drive meaningful engagement across all visitor touchpoints.

Favorite Coffee Stop: Kinder Coffee, love their London Fog!

Favorite Hidden Gem: The not-so-hidden Munsinger Clemens Garden.

Favorite Place to Catch a Show: I love seeing a Great Theater show at the Paramount.

Carlie Mertens

Marketing & Services Coordinator

With a background in event Planning and a passion for tourism, Carlie brings fresh energy and creativity to her role as Marketing & Services Coordinator.

Destination: Books Revisited
Hidden Gem: St. Cloud Public Library

Maddy Lindholm

Information Specialist

As our Information Specialist, Maddy is an expert navigator helping visitors uncover the best of Greater St. Cloud.

Destination:
Local Bite:
Event:

Sabrina Koelsch

Sales Manager

With history in tourism management and a love for the industry, Sabrina brings fresh energy and creativity to her role as Sales Manager.

Destination:
Local Bite:
Event:

Melissa Ludwig

Marketing & Services Coordinator

Your planning partner for: complimentary event services.

Destination:
Local Bite:
Event:

Submit

An RFP

Your next great event starts here. Connect with our team and bring your vision to life.

Learn More

About St. Cloud

Your next great event starts here. Connect with our team and bring your vision to life.

View Our

Online Guide

Your next great event starts here. Connect with our team and bring your vision to life.

Say Yes

With endless festivals, live music, art, sports, outdoor beauty, and one-of-a-kind dining and shopping, there’s always something to experience. Take a look around, ask us anything, and when you’re ready, let us help you say yes to St. Cloud.