Utah is a state that is known for its natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. It attracts millions of tourists every year who come to explore the state’s national parks, ski resorts, and other attractions.
But have you ever wondered how much revenue Utah generates from tourism? Let’s take a closer look.
The Economic Impact of Tourism in Utah
According to a report by the Utah Office of Tourism, travel and tourism generated $9.75 billion in direct spending in 2019. This included spending on lodging, transportation, food and beverages, recreation, and retail.
Visitor Volume
In 2019, Utah welcomed over 26 million visitors which was an increase of 0.4% from the previous year. Out of these visitors, about 80% were domestic while the remaining 20% were international visitors.
Employment
The tourism industry in Utah also provides significant employment opportunities. In 2019, it supported around 140,500 jobs which was about 10% of the state’s total employment. These jobs were spread across various sectors such as accommodation and food services, retail trade, transportation and warehousing, and arts and entertainment.
Top Tourist Attractions in Utah
Utah has several attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in the state:
- National Parks: Utah is home to five national parks – Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park and Zion National Park.
- Ski Resorts: The state has some of the best ski resorts in the country including Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort and Alta Ski Area.
- Sundance Film Festival: This annual film festival attracts thousands of visitors to Park City every year.
- Temple Square: This historic site in Salt Lake City is the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and attracts millions of visitors every year.
The Future of Tourism in Utah
The tourism industry in Utah has been growing steadily over the years and is expected to continue its upward trend. The state government has been actively promoting Utah as a tourist destination and investing in infrastructure to support tourism.
In conclusion, tourism is a significant contributor to Utah’s economy and provides numerous employment opportunities. With its stunning natural beauty and world-class attractions, it’s no wonder that millions of visitors flock to the state every year.