Where Does Georgia Rank in Tourism Industry?

By Anna Duncan

Georgia is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, it has become an increasingly popular tourist destination over the years. In this article, we will take a closer look at where Georgia ranks in the tourism industry.

Overview of Georgia’s Tourism Industry

Tourism is a significant contributor to Georgia’s economy. According to the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the state welcomed over 111 million visitors in 2019 alone, generating $36.9 billion in economic impact and supporting more than 478,000 jobs.

Top Tourist Attractions in Georgia

Georgia boasts a wide variety of tourist attractions that cater to different interests. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in Georgia. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Georgia:

  • Historic Savannah: Savannah is known for its charming historic district, which features hundreds of restored buildings and picturesque squares.
  • Atlanta: As the capital city of Georgia, Atlanta offers plenty of entertainment options such as shopping centers and theme parks.
  • The Golden Isles: This group of islands off the coast of Georgia is a popular destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
  • Stone Mountain Park: This park features a massive granite mountain carved with historic figures and offers several recreational activities such as hiking and camping.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Georgia’s Tourism Industry

Like many other states across America and around the world, Georgia’s tourism industry has been hit hard by COVID-19 pandemic. With travel restrictions and social distancing measures in place for much of 2020 and into 2021, many businesses in the tourism industry have struggled to stay afloat.

According to a report by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the state’s tourism industry lost an estimated $8 billion in revenue and 120,000 jobs in 2020 due to the pandemic. However, with vaccination rates increasing and restrictions easing, there is hope that Georgia’s tourism industry will begin to recover in the coming months.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Georgia remains an attractive destination for tourists from all over the world. With its diverse attractions and rich cultural heritage, it is no surprise that it continues to rank high in the tourism industry. As we move into a post-pandemic world, we can look forward to seeing Georgia’s tourism industry once again thrive and flourish.