Vermont, also known as the Green Mountain State, is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The state is famous for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational activities, historic sites, and cultural events. But how much of Vermont’s economy is dependent on tourism?
According to the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, tourism is one of the most significant sectors of Vermont’s economy. In 2019, visitors spent over $2.8 billion in Vermont, generating more than $198 million in state taxes and supporting over 33,000 jobs.
Breaking down Vermont’s tourism industry
The tourism industry in Vermont can be broken down into various categories:
Accommodations
One of the biggest contributors to Vermont’s tourism industry is accommodations such as hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. These businesses provide lodging options for tourists visiting the state.
- Hotels/Motels: There are over 200 hotels and motels throughout Vermont that offer comfortable accommodation options to visitors.
- Bed and Breakfasts: There are more than 100 bed and breakfasts scattered throughout the state that provide a cozy and homely atmosphere for tourists.
- Vacation Rentals: There are also over 7,000 vacation rentals available in Vermont that range from cabins to condos.
Restaurants
Vermont has a thriving culinary scene that attracts foodies from all over the world. The state is famous for its farm-to-table restaurants that serve fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
- Fine Dining: There are several fine dining restaurants in Vermont that offer gourmet cuisine using local ingredients.
- Casual Dining: There are also many casual dining options in Vermont, including cafes, diners, and family-friendly restaurants.
- Breweries and Wineries: Vermont is home to more than 50 breweries and wineries that offer tours and tastings to visitors.
Recreational Activities
Vermont is famous for its outdoor recreational activities such as skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. These activities attract tourists all year round.
- Ski Resorts: Vermont has several ski resorts that are popular among skiers and snowboarders. These resorts also offer other winter activities like snowshoeing and ice-skating.
- Hiking Trails: There are over 700 miles of hiking trails in Vermont that offer scenic views of the state’s natural beauty.
- Fishing: Vermont is home to several lakes and rivers that provide excellent fishing opportunities for anglers.
The impact of COVID-19 on Vermont’s tourism industry
Like many other states in the US, Vermont’s tourism industry has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The state had to shut down many of its attractions, accommodations, and restaurants to prevent the spread of the virus.
However, with the easing of restrictions and vaccination efforts underway, Vermont’s tourism industry is slowly recovering. The state has implemented safety protocols such as mandatory mask-wearing in public places to ensure visitors’ safety.
Conclusion
Tourism plays a significant role in Vermont’s economy. The state’s scenic beauty, outdoor recreational activities, culinary scene, and cultural events attract visitors from all over the world. While COVID-19 has impacted the industry in recent times, with appropriate measures in place, Vermont’s tourism industry is gradually returning to normalcy.