Arizona is known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and numerous tourist attractions. The state attracts millions of visitors every year from all over the world.
But have you ever wondered how much money Arizona makes from tourism? Let’s take a closer look.
Arizona’s Tourism Industry
Tourism is one of the main industries in Arizona, contributing significantly to the state’s economy. According to the Arizona Office of Tourism, the industry generated $25.6 billion in direct spending in 2019 alone. This spending supported over 194,000 jobs and generated $3.7 billion in local, state, and federal tax revenues.
Top Tourist Attractions in Arizona
Arizona has a lot to offer to tourists with its natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s Red Rocks, and Monument Valley. In addition to that, there are many cultural attractions like museums and historic sites that attract visitors from around the world.
Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Arizona:
- The Grand Canyon National Park
- Sedona’s Red Rocks
- Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
- Horseshoe Bend
- Antelope Canyon
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Montezuma Castle National Monument
- Heard Museum
- Taliesin West (Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home)
- The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)
Tourism Revenue by Category
The tourism industry generates revenue for various sectors including lodging, food and beverage services, transportation services, recreation facilities, retail trade services, and more.
According to a report by Dean Runyan Associates on behalf of Arizona Office of Tourism:
- Lodging: $8.7 billion
- Food and Beverage Services: $5.4 billion
- Recreation and Entertainment: $4.9 billion
- Retail Trade: $2.1 billion
- Transportation: $1.9 billion
- Other Services: $2.6 billion
The Impact of COVID-19 on Arizona’s Tourism Industry
The tourism industry in Arizona, like many other industries, has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Arizona Office of Tourism, the state saw a decline of 31% in domestic visitation and 70% in international visitation in 2020 compared to 2019.
However, with vaccinations underway and travel restrictions easing up, there is hope for a rebound in the tourism industry for Arizona.
Conclusion
Tourism is a significant contributor to Arizona’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue annually. The state is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world and attracts millions of visitors every year.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Arizona’s tourism industry remains resilient and determined to bounce back stronger than ever before.