Friday, June 13, 2025

According to a new report, Kentucky’s tourism sector soared to a record $14.3 billion in economic impact in 2024, joining a broader national trend where states are drawing millions of travelers, revitalizing local economies, and fueling post-pandemic growth. With states like California surpassing $157 billion in visitor spending and Florida welcoming over 140 million travelers, the data shows a clear pattern: tourism is no longer just seasonal—it’s now one of the most influential forces behind America’s economic momentum.

Governor Andy Beshear announced that Kentucky generated a record in economic impact from tourism in 2024, supporting across the state. That marks the third consecutive year of historic growth for the commonwealth’s travel industry. Fueled by statewide investment in tourism infrastructure and local promotion under the “New Kentucky Home” initiative, the state welcomed , who collectively spent —up 3.8% from the year before. Key spending areas included food and beverage ($2.6B), lodging ($2.4B), transportation ($1.9B), retail ($1.9B), and recreation ($1.3B).

From bourbon trails and museum visits to iconic sports attractions like the Louisville Slugger Museum, the surge in footfall is not just pumping dollars into local businesses—it’s transforming communities. Tourism leaders, including the Louisville Tourism board, credited the boom with driving growth in Jefferson County alone, where tourism now supports over and generates annually.

On the West Coast, California once again led the pack, raking in in visitor spending in 2024—up 3.0% year-over-year. The state’s tourism sector supported nearly , contributing in state and local tax revenue. From scenic coastal highways and national parks to bustling metropolises and world-class wine country, the Golden State’s appeal proved unstoppable.

Florida also posted blockbuster numbers, driven by a powerful mix of theme parks, beaches, and booming outdoor tourism. The Sunshine State drew in , generating an estimated in economic benefit. Outdoor recreation alone accounted for , making up a significant portion of the state’s GDP. Florida remains a top choice for both domestic and international travelers—and it’s paying off in spades.

North Carolina secured its place among the top states by recording in visitor spending in 2024, marking a 3.1% increase from the previous year. The state’s tourism sector now supports over , and its diverse range of offerings—from mountain retreats and beach vacations to thriving city breaks—is drawing more attention than ever.

Wisconsin celebrated its in tourism, posting a total economic impact of . The state welcomed , up 1.4 million from 2023, and brought in in state and local tax revenue. With lake getaways, fall foliage, and food-focused city tours leading the way, Wisconsin is fast becoming a year-round destination.

Often overlooked in the national spotlight, Connecticut quietly delivered an impressive performance. The state reported in total tourism impact, including in visitor-driven business sales. The sector supported and brought in in tax revenue, as travelers flocked to its shoreline, heritage towns, and revitalized city centers.

Illinois also saw tourism momentum soar. State parks alone drew —a 15-year high—while broader investments like shoreline redevelopment and park infrastructure upgrades reinforced the state’s commitment to enhancing visitor experiences. From Chicago’s iconic skyline to outdoor escapes in downstate regions, Illinois is seeing visitors return in waves.

In Virginia, state parks alone generated an impressive in economic impact and supported . That figure doesn’t even account for the larger travel ecosystem across the state, which thrives on historical tourism, coastal getaways, and the growing wine and culinary scenes.

Despite its remote location, Hawaii remained one of the top tourism drivers in the U.S. With roughly , the Aloha State brought in about in visitor spending, with tourism accounting for . Beaches, culture, and natural beauty continue to make Hawaii a dream destination for travelers worldwide.

Texas wrapped up 2024 with strong tourism momentum. Houston alone brought in , generating over —a 15.5% jump over the prior year. Across the state, travel and hospitality supported more than , with thousands more expected in 2025. From food festivals to rodeos, cultural events to space tourism, Texas’ broad appeal is powering its tourism boom.

Kentucky unites with California, Florida, North Carolina, Connecticut, Illinois, Virginia, Hawaii, Texas and more as a powerful tourism boom drives record visitor spending and job creation, turning U.S. states into billion-dollar economic engines. A new report confirms this surge is fueled by strategic investments, growing travel demand, and state-level efforts to attract and retain tourists nationwide.

These states aren’t alone. Across the U.S., tourism is acting as a powerful economic engine, fueling job creation, supporting small businesses, and revitalizing local communities. A new wave of traveler enthusiasm, driven by pent-up demand, better infrastructure, and aggressive marketing, is turning 2024 into a record-breaking year for America’s tourism industry.

States like Kentucky that once played supporting roles in the national travel scene are now center stage, proving that when the right investment meets the right moment, tourism can do more than entertain—it can transform economies.