About BDA Study Tour
The BDA Study Tour is an annual, curated trip designed to provide local leaders with insights and inspiration from another urban destination. The itinerary blends programming, walking tours, and social events—offering a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and strengthen relationships through shared experiences.
Typically structured as a fly-in, fly-out trip, the schedule is designed to make the most of every moment. Each destination is a chance to learn, and every route between stops becomes a guided tour. Delegates are intentionally exposed to a variety of experiences shaped by local culture, innovation, and leadership. The pace is brisk, moving from site to site, often concluding at a local watering hole where the group can relax, connect, and reflect on the day’s takeaways together.
Who Attends
The delegation is composed of local leaders and community champions who share a commitment to Downtown Bellevue and thoughtful urban planning. The group typically includes around 50 participants, representing a balanced mix of the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Themes Commonly Explored
- Arts & culture
- Business improvement districts
- Community-defining projects
- Economic development
- Growth management
- Housing & homelessness strategies
- Land use planning and policies
- Mobility projects and planning
- Office space trends
- Parks & open spaces
- Placemaking & place management
- Political climate for decision making
- Public-private partnerships
- Tourism & destination marketing
- Urban design & planning
Past Study Tour Destinations
- (2024) New York, NY
- (2023) San Diego, CA
- (2022) National Landing, VA
- (2019) Dallas, TX
- (2018) Santa Monica, CA
- (2017) Nashville, TN
- (2016) San Jose, CA
- (2015) Minneapolis, MN
- (2014) Austin, TX
- (2013) Pasadena, CA
- (2012) Denver, CO
If you want more information about joining the next study tour delegation, please contact Matt Jack, Director of Public Policy.