Tourism is one of the largest industries in the United States, contributing billions of dollars to the economy each year. But have you ever wondered which state spends the most on tourism? Let’s take a look at some of the top contenders and what makes them stand out.
California
California is known for its stunning beaches, world-famous theme parks, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s no surprise that tourism is a major industry in this West Coast state. In fact, California has consistently been one of the top destinations for domestic and international travelers.
According to a report by Visit California, the state spent over $131 million on tourism marketing in 2019 alone. This investment has paid off, with tourism generating over $145 billion in visitor spending and supporting over 1.2 million jobs in the state.
Florida
Florida is another popular destination for travelers, thanks to its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios. Tourism is a vital part of Florida’s economy, with millions of visitors flocking to the state each year.
Visit Florida, the state’s official tourism marketing corporation, reports that Florida spent over $76 million on tourism promotion in 2019. This investment led to record-breaking visitation numbers and over $97 billion in economic impact for the state.
Nevada
Nevada may be known for its bustling casinos and nightlife on the Las Vegas Strip, but there’s more to this state than just gambling. Nevada offers stunning natural scenery like Lake Tahoe and Red Rock Canyon as well as historical sites like Hoover Dam.
According to data from Travel Nevada, the state spent over $18 million on tourism marketing in 2019. This investment helped attract over 56 million visitors to the state and generated over $12 billion in visitor spending.
Hawaii
Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers, with its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and unique culture. The state’s tourism industry is a major contributor to its economy, providing jobs and revenue for local businesses.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority reports that the state spent over $82 million on tourism marketing in 2019. This investment helped bring in over 10 million visitors to the islands, generating over $17 billion in visitor spending and supporting over 200,000 jobs.
Conclusion
As we can see, California, Florida, Nevada, and Hawaii are among the top states that invest heavily in tourism marketing. By promoting their unique attractions and experiences to travelers around the world, these states have been able to drive significant economic growth and support local communities.
Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply curious about the tourism industry, it’s clear that these states are making a big impact on the travel landscape.