Virginia’s tourism generated U.S. dollars 26 billion in 2018, which is a 4.4 percent increase over 2017 as per Governor’s Office. The announcement was made by Governor Ralph Northam. Tourism in Virginia supported 234,000 jobs for Virginia communities in 2018 which is a one percent increase from 2017. The travel industry is the fifth largest employer in Virginia. The Virginia tourism industry also provided U.S. dollars 1.8 billion in state and local revenue, which is an increase of 2.9 percent compared to 2017. In 2018, domestic travelers spent $71 million a day in Virginia.
The growth has been attributed to the new Virginia’s Blue Ridge sports branding and the growing medical research scene in Roanoke. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge President Landon Howard said that the region is on its way to a goal of U.S. dollars 1 billion in tourism spending in Virginia’s Blue Ridge in the next few years.
As per the Governor, from coast to cliff, Virginia’s rich history, charming small towns, booming culinary scene, beautiful mountain vistas and warm, sunny beaches have positioned the Commonwealth to be a premier travel destination in the United States.
The iconic slogan “Virginia is for Lovers,” was developed by Richmond-based advertising firm Martin & Woltz (now the Martin Agency) in 1969. Destinations across the Commonwealth are participating in the commemoration of 50 Years of LOVE, and celebrating the important impact tourism has on Virginia’s economy and communities.
Even as they celebrate 50 Years of LOVE in 2019, the future is bright for the Virginia tourism industry as per Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball.
Tags: Virginia Tourism
