Idaho is one of the most beautiful states in the United States, with its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and vast forests. It’s no wonder that tourists flock to Idaho every year to experience its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
But just how much tourism does Idaho get? Let’s take a closer look.
Idaho Tourism Industry
According to the latest data from the Idaho Department of Commerce, tourism is a significant contributor to Idaho’s economy. In 2019, tourism generated more than $4 billion in revenue, making it one of the largest industries in the state. The tourism industry also supports over 46,000 jobs across various sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and retail.
Visitor Numbers
In 2019, Idaho welcomed over 21 million visitors from around the world. This number has been steadily increasing over the years due to increased marketing efforts by the state government and private businesses.
The majority of visitors come from neighboring states such as Washington, Oregon, and California. However, there has been an increase in international visitors from countries like Canada and China.
Top Tourist Attractions
Idaho has a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to different interests. Some of the top tourist attractions include:
- Yellowstone National Park: While technically not in Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is just across the border and attracts millions of visitors every year.
- Sun Valley Resort: This world-renowned ski resort attracts skiers from around the globe during winter.
- Hell’s Canyon: Known as North America’s deepest river gorge, Hell’s Canyon offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities such as rafting and hiking.
- Coeur d’Alene Lake: This scenic lake offers a variety of water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Craters of the Moon National Monument: This unique geological feature was formed by volcanic activity and offers hiking trails and guided tours.
Marketing Efforts
To attract more visitors to the state, Idaho has been increasing its marketing efforts in recent years. The state government has launched various campaigns such as “Visit Idaho” to promote tourism. Private businesses have also been stepping up their marketing game by offering unique experiences and packages to attract visitors.
Conclusion
Idaho may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about tourism, but it’s clear that it’s a significant contributor to the state’s economy. With its natural beauty and outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that millions of visitors flock to Idaho every year. As the state continues to increase its marketing efforts, we can expect even more visitors in the future.