Kentucky is a state known for its beautiful landscapes, horse racing, bourbon distilleries, and southern hospitality. It’s no surprise that tourism is a significant contributor to the state’s economy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how much money Kentucky makes from tourism.
What is Kentucky Tourism?
Kentucky tourism encompasses all activities that attract visitors to the state. This includes attractions such as horse racing tracks, bourbon distilleries, historical sites, museums, national parks, and outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing.
How Much Money Does Kentucky Make From Tourism?
According to the Kentucky Department of Tourism, in 2019 alone, the state generated $7.6 billion in direct travel expenditures. This represents a 3.4% increase from 2018 figures. It’s worth noting that this figure only includes direct travel expenditures such as lodging, transportation, food and drink expenses by tourists.
The Economic Impact of Tourism on Kentucky
Tourism not only generates revenue for businesses in the hospitality industry but also creates jobs and supports local economies. The Kentucky Department of Tourism reports that over 95,000 jobs were directly supported by tourism in the state in 2019.
Additionally, tourism indirectly supports industries such as construction and transportation through infrastructure development aimed at improving tourist experiences. In total, tourism generated $1.6 billion in tax revenue for the state in 2019.
Top Tourist Destinations in Kentucky
Some of the top tourist destinations in Kentucky include:
- Mammoth Cave National Park – known for its extensive cave system and underground river.
- Kentucky Bourbon Trail – a tour of several bourbon distilleries located across the state.
- Horse Racing Tracks – including Churchill Downs which hosts the famous Kentucky Derby annually.
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park – a popular hiking destination with a natural sandstone arch.
- Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park – a tribute to the birthplace of the 16th President of the United States.
The Future of Kentucky Tourism
Kentucky tourism has been steadily growing over the years, and there are no signs of slowing down. The state is continually investing in infrastructure and developing new attractions to attract even more visitors.
In conclusion, tourism is a vital contributor to Kentucky’s economy, generating billions in direct travel expenditures and supporting thousands of jobs in the hospitality industry. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and southern charm, Kentucky will always be a top destination for tourists from all over the world.