Florida is a state that is renowned for its beautiful beaches, sunny weather, and world-class attractions. It’s no surprise that millions of tourists flock to the state every year.
But have you ever wondered how much money Florida makes from tourism? Let’s take a closer look.
Overview of Florida Tourism
Tourism is a significant contributor to Florida’s economy. In fact, it’s one of the state’s largest industries.
According to Visit Florida, the official tourism marketing corporation for the state, Florida welcomed a record-breaking 131 million visitors in 2019 alone. This was an increase of 4.1% from the previous year.
Total Tourism Spending
So, how much money did these visitors bring in? According to Visit Florida, tourists spent a whopping $91.3 billion in the state in 2018. This includes spending on accommodations, food and drink, transportation, entertainment, and more.
Tourism Employment
Tourism doesn’t just generate revenue for businesses; it also creates jobs for Floridians. In fact, according to Visit Florida, the tourism industry employs over 1.5 million people in the state. This accounts for over 14% of all jobs in Florida.
Top Tourist Destinations
Florida has no shortage of attractions that draw visitors from around the world. Here are just a few:
- Walt Disney World Resort: This world-famous theme park attracts millions of visitors each year.
- Universal Orlando Resort: Another popular theme park that features rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows.
- Miami Beach: Known for its stunning beaches and nightlife scene.
- The Everglades: A unique ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of wildlife.
The Future of Florida Tourism
While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry worldwide, Florida’s tourism industry is expected to rebound. According to Visit Florida, the state’s tourism marketing corporation, 2021 is expected to be a strong year for tourism in Florida.
Safety Measures
As the world adapts to living with COVID-19, many businesses in the tourism industry have implemented new safety measures to protect visitors and employees alike. This includes increased cleaning protocols, mandatory mask-wearing, and limiting capacity.
New Attractions
Florida is also continually evolving and adding new attractions. For example, Universal Orlando Resort recently opened a new rollercoaster based on the popular Jurassic World movies.
Conclusion
Tourism is a vital part of Florida’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue and providing millions of jobs. With its world-class attractions and beautiful weather, it’s no wonder that so many people choose to visit the Sunshine State every year. As the world continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s exciting to see how Florida’s tourism industry will adapt and continue to thrive in the future.