As part of National Tourism Week, TourismOhio today released 2014 data showing continued tourism growth and underscoring the industry’s significance as an economic driver for the state.
During 2014, Ohio saw an all-time high of an estimated 200 million visits, an increase of 5 million visits from 2013 when Ohio received 195 million visits. Of those trips, there were 38 million overnight trips in Ohio last year. Research shows that overnight visitors spend, on average, nearly three times more than day trip visitors ($112 for day trips vs. $341 for overnight trips).
More visits to Ohio have also yielded more spending in the state. Direct visitor spending in 2014 was estimated at $31 billion, $1 billion more than the previous year. The increase in visitor spending generated approximately $40 billion in sales, up from $38 billion in 2013 – also, a new record for the state.
TourismOhio strives to make Ohio a destination of choice, enriching lives through authentic travel experiences. TourismOhio aggressively positions Ohio as relevant travel destination and supports Ohio’s tourism industry to drive economic prosperity throughout the state. Tourism marketing programs helped generate 200 million visits to Ohio and $40 billion in sales in 2014. www.discoverohio.com
