What Is Virginia Tourism Authority?

By Anna Duncan

Virginia Tourism Authority (VTA) is a state agency that promotes tourism in Virginia. The mission of VTA is to increase the number of visitors to the state and improve the economic impact of travel and tourism on Virginia’s communities.

What Does Virginia Tourism Authority Do?

VTA works to market Virginia as a travel destination through various marketing channels, including advertising, public relations, and social media. They develop and execute strategic marketing campaigns that Target potential visitors based on their interests and demographics.

One of the primary functions of VTA is to provide information about attractions, events, and accommodations throughout the state. They operate the official Virginia tourism website, which serves as a comprehensive resource for travelers planning a trip to the state. The website includes information about popular tourist destinations such as Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Shenandoah National Park, and more.

Marketing Campaigns

VTA develops marketing campaigns that highlight the unique attractions and experiences available in Virginia. For example, one recent campaign focused on “LOVEworks,” which are large-scale installations featuring the word “LOVE” in different locations around the state. These installations serve as popular photo backdrops for visitors and have become an iconic symbol of Virginia tourism.

Tourism Research

In addition to marketing initiatives, VTA conducts research on travel trends and visitor behavior to better understand how to attract tourists to Virginia. This research helps them identify opportunities for growth in different market segments and develop Targeted marketing campaigns accordingly.

The Economic Impact of Tourism in Virginia

According to VTA’s most recent data, tourism generated $26 billion in revenue for Virginia in 2018. This revenue supported over 235,000 jobs throughout the state and resulted in over $1.8 billion in tax revenue for local communities.

  • Domestic travelers accounted for the majority of tourism spending in Virginia, with $22.4 billion spent by visitors from other states.
  • International visitors also had a significant impact, contributing $1.8 billion to Virginia’s economy.
  • Business travelers accounted for $5.6 billion in spending, while leisure travelers spent $20.4 billion.

In Conclusion

As you can see, Virginia Tourism Authority plays a critical role in promoting travel and tourism throughout the state. Through strategic marketing initiatives and research, VTA helps attract visitors to Virginia and supports local economies through tourism spending. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or culinary experiences, Virginia has something to offer for everyone – and VTA is here to help you plan your trip!