Kentucky Reports Best Year for Tourism in 2022, With Nearly $13 Billion in Economic Impact

Kentucky’s tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022

Ed Reinke

FILE - Tourists stand in the rotunda area of Mammoth Cave in Mammoth Cave National Park, Ky., on Aug. 3, 2011. Kentucky's tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022, generating an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, the state said Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. (AP Photo/Ed Reinke, File)

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky 's tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022, generating an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, the state said Tuesday.

The number of travelers visiting the Bluegrass State last year — and the amounts they spent — surpassed pre-pandemic levels as guests flocked to attractions, Gov. Andy Beshear's administration said.

“Tourism is essential to Kentucky and that is why I have made it a priority to support this industry," the governor said in a news release. "It’s thrilling to see our hard work pay off in such a historic way.”

Attractions include renowned horse farms and bourbon distilleries as well as outdoor adventure, history, arts and cultural draws, Beshear said. Kentucky is home to Mammoth Cave National Park.

Bourbon tourism also reached new heights last year in Kentucky.

Attendance at distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail surpassed 2 million in 2022 for the first time ever, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association said earlier this year. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, which showcases smaller distilleries, had its best year, with total attendance last year reaching 738,287, the association said. Attendance is continuing to surge this year, the industry said Tuesday.

“We’re on track to break last year’s record,” Eric Gregory, the association's president, said in a statement.

Distilleries are drawing crowds that tend to stay longer and have more disposable income to spend in those communities, he said. Spirit makers have invested big sums into new or expanded visitor centers to play up the industry’s heritage and allow guests to soak in the sights and smells of bourbon-making.

Overall tourism in Kentucky generated $12.9 billion in economic impact last year along with 91,668 jobs, state officials said. The state's previous high was $11.8 billion in economic impact in 2019.

Communities across Kentucky registered historic tourism numbers last year. That includes Fayette County, which reached $1.5 billion in total economic impact, generating 11,209 jobs, the officials said. Beshear unveiled the latest tourism numbers in the Distillery District in Lexington, the state's second-largest city. Lexington is in Fayette County.

“We are thrilled to see such a strong return to travel in 2022,” said Mike Mangeot, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Tourism.

Last year, travelers spent $8.9 billion while visiting Kentucky, the state said, citing a study by Tourism Economics. That activity generated more than $937 million in state and local taxes, they said.

“These numbers underscore the economic benefits of tourism and the importance of investing in our local communities," said Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier.

Support for tourism has drawn bipartisan support from the Democratic governor and the state's Republican-dominated legislature.

The legislature provided $75 million in federal pandemic relief funding for tourism recovery in 2022, according to House and Senate leadership offices. The funding was committed to statewide tourism marketing, a grant program for local tourism commissions to help pay for marketing and to help attract meetings and conventions. Lawmakers allocated another $150 million for improvements at state parks, contingent on the parks department providing a plan for those investments, the House speaker's office said.

Copyright 2023 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Kentucky reports best year for tourism in 2022, with nearly $13 billion in economic impact

FILE - Tourists stand in the rotunda area of Mammoth Cave in Mammoth Cave National Park, Ky., on Aug. 3, 2011. Kentucky's tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022, generating an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, the state said Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. (AP Photo/Ed Reinke, File)

FILE - Tourists stand in the rotunda area of Mammoth Cave in Mammoth Cave National Park, Ky., on Aug. 3, 2011. Kentucky’s tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022, generating an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, the state said Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. (AP Photo/Ed Reinke, File)

FILE - Bottles of bourbon are shown in a display case at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center in Bardstown, Ky., on April 8, 2009. Kentucky’s tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022, generating an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, the state said Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. (AP Photo/Ed Reinke, File)

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky’s tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022, generating an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, the state said Tuesday.

The number of travelers visiting the Bluegrass State last year — and the amounts they spent — surpassed pre-pandemic levels as guests flocked to attractions, Gov. Andy Beshear’s administration said.

“Tourism is essential to Kentucky and that is why I have made it a priority to support this industry,” the governor said in a news release. “It’s thrilling to see our hard work pay off in such a historic way.”

Attractions include renowned horse farms and bourbon distilleries as well as outdoor adventure, history, arts and cultural draws, Beshear said. Kentucky is home to Mammoth Cave National Park.

Bourbon tourism also reached new heights last year in Kentucky.

Attendance at distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail surpassed 2 million in 2022 for the first time ever, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association said earlier this year. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, which showcases smaller distilleries, had its best year, with total attendance last year reaching 738,287, the association said. Attendance is continuing to surge this year, the industry said Tuesday.

FILE - The overdose-reversal drug Narcan is displayed during training for employees of the Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), Dec. 4, 2018, in Philadelphia. Drug overdose deaths in Kentucky fell nearly 10% in 2023, marking a second straight decline in the fight against an addiction epidemic that's far from over, Gov. Andy Beshear said Thursday. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

“We’re on track to break last year’s record,” Eric Gregory, the association’s president, said in a statement.

Distilleries are drawing crowds that tend to stay longer and have more disposable income to spend in those communities, he said. Spirit makers have invested big sums into new or expanded visitor centers to play up the industry’s heritage and allow guests to soak in the sights and smells of bourbon-making.

Overall tourism in Kentucky generated $12.9 billion in economic impact last year along with 91,668 jobs, state officials said. The state’s previous high was $11.8 billion in economic impact in 2019.

Communities across Kentucky registered historic tourism numbers last year. That includes Fayette County, which reached $1.5 billion in total economic impact, generating 11,209 jobs, the officials said. Beshear unveiled the latest tourism numbers in the Distillery District in Lexington, the state’s second-largest city. Lexington is in Fayette County.

“We are thrilled to see such a strong return to travel in 2022,” said Mike Mangeot, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Tourism.

Last year, travelers spent $8.9 billion while visiting Kentucky, the state said, citing a study by Tourism Economics. That activity generated more than $937 million in state and local taxes, they said.

“These numbers underscore the economic benefits of tourism and the importance of investing in our local communities,” said Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier.

Support for tourism has drawn bipartisan support from the Democratic governor and the state’s Republican-dominated legislature.

The legislature provided $75 million in federal pandemic relief funding for tourism recovery in 2022, according to House and Senate leadership offices. The funding was committed to statewide tourism marketing, a grant program for local tourism commissions to help pay for marketing and to help attract meetings and conventions. Lawmakers allocated another $150 million for improvements at state parks, contingent on the parks department providing a plan for those investments, the House speaker’s office said.

kentucky tourism statistics

kentucky tourism statistics

Kentucky tourism brought a record economic impact in 2022

Tourism Economic Impact Announcement-Lexington Distillery District

Kentucky officials are citing 2022 as the best year in the Commonwealth for state tourism. The record last year outdistanced the previous high mark in 2019, just before the COVID pandemic came to Kentucky.

The report sets out that tourism-related businesses across the state generated $12.9 billion in economic impact and accounted for more than 91 thousand jobs. The Tourism Economics study indicates in 2022 almost 76 million travelers visited Kentucky. State Tourism Commissioner Mike Mangeot.

“Kentucky was a surprise to a lot of people. We were an unknown, so people came down, they could spread out, they could vacation in the outdoors. I think it was a combination of everything. It was our location. It was what we have to offer as a tourism destination,” said Mangeot.

And Mangeot said state funding of $88 million in targeted marketing was also a key factor in reaching a record level of tourism. When asked about breaking another record in 2023, the tourism leader said all numbers are trending up.

Andrew Steele is Boyd County Tourism Director. He said a historical racing gaming facility is slated to open in a few months while a new quarter-horse racetrack is scheduled to open in the spring of 2025.

“There’s no horse racing on our side of Kentucky, anywhere in eastern Kentucky so, I think the closest is probably Corbin now. But, we’re going to be the only quarter-horse racing track in Kentucky. We’re bringing a new horse racing industry back to Kentucky,” said Steele.

Steele noted an off-road park and arts center are already making a substantial impact. The tourism director added it’s becoming more evident that quality-of-life attractions are needed to catch the eye of manufacturers.

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Economic Impact

Tourism is the 3rd largest industry in Kentucky. Of the $14.5 Billion* economic impact it generates in Kentucky, $3.4 Billion** comes from tourism activity in Louisville.

The tourist dollars spent on day trips and overnight trips to Louisville supported 70,000 hospitality industry jobs*** in Jefferson County alone prior to the pandemic and currently supports 63,000. The economic impact is of course significant, but the results are even more important, as they positively affect the quality of life in Louisville itself.

Tourism generates funding for all kinds of economic initiatives, initiatives that directly benefit Louisville’s deep and diverse community. From one of the country’s finest metropolitan park systems, to an outstanding core of arts groups, to families and professionals, to researchers, investors, educators, entrepreneurs, and dreamers alike. By maintaining its commitment to this critically important industry, Louisville simultaneously enriches and nurtures its infrastructure — which is why, year after year, Louisville ranks as one of the top cities in the nation for quality of life. In terms of the overall growth of population and other economic development ventures, it is important to remember that everyone not born in the city was first a visitor.

*Data from Economic Impact of Kentucky's Travel and Tourism Industry by CERTEC **Tourism Economics report 2019 ***US Bureau of Labor Statistics

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WCPO - Cincinnati, Ohio

Kentucky reports record year of tourism; state leaders tout bourbon as one key driver

kentucky tourism statistics

NEWPORT, Ky. — Last year marked a record year for Kentucky tourism, drawing in nearly $14 billion in spending statewide according to the state’s Department of Tourism. The state said tourism led to more than 95,000 jobs.

Most of the tourism spending in Kentucky went toward food and beverage ($2.54 billion). State officials tout the state’s bourbon infrastructure as a major driver.

“It's been in our great state for over several hundreds of years,” said Mollie Lewis, president of New Riff Distilling.

While some might think of “bourbon country” as being farther south, Northern Kentucky has a rich history in the business. The region served as a hub for production, along with Cincinnati, before prohibition.

“During prohibition, it all fell apart,” Lewis said. “Northern Kentucky was basically forgotten as far as bourbon tourism and bourbon production for the latter half of the past 50 years.”

That’s since changed. Now, the region serves as a gateway to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

“Northern Kentucky is still a great secret,” she said. “But the secret is leaking out.”

Tourism brought in more than $2 billion to Kenton, Boone and Campbell counties last year.

“We need these millions of visitors coming in to keep our bars or restaurants full and provide base visitation for all these attractions,” said Julie Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of meetNKY.

Kirkpatrick said those visitors put new eyes on the region.

“New people thinking about moving here and new people thinking about investing here,” she said.

In Independence, Boone County Distilling Co. is reaping the reward. The business sees tourists from Australia, China and Japan, to name a few.

“I would say it's 80% out-of-town visitors and 20% from Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties,” said Boone County Distilling Co-Founder Josh Quinn.

Quinn said the industry in Northern Kentucky is a “hidden gem.”

Northern Kentucky tourism officials, like Kirkpatrick, say bourbon is only the tip of the iceberg. She points to other major attractions (like the Ark Encounter and Newport Aquarium) and events (Cincinnati’s Oktoberfest and the Taylor Swift concert) as drivers too.

“There's more and more stuff to do here every day,” said Lewis.

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Kentucky tourism continues record-setting pace in 2023 with nearly $14 billion in economic impact

FILE - Tourists stand in the rotunda area of Mammoth Cave in Mammoth Cave National Park, Ky., on Aug. 3, 2011. Kentucky's tourism industry stayed on its record-setting pace in 2023, generating an economic impact approaching $14 billion while sustaining nearly 100,000 jobs, Gov. Andy Beshear said Thursday, May 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Ed Reinke, File)

Kentucky's tourism industry stayed on its record-setting pace in 2023, generating an economic impact approaching $14 billion while sustaining nearly 100,000 jobs, Gov. Andy Beshear said Thursday.

Travelers visiting the Bluegrass State last year spent $9.7 billion as tourism continued its post-pandemic momentum as a key contributor to Kentucky's growing economy, the Democratic governor said.

“We’re welcoming people to our new Kentucky home, one filled with opportunity and prosperity," Beshear said during his weekly news conference. "Where we want you to come see what we have to offer, and then we want you to move your family here to be a part of it.”

The governor joined tourism leaders at Castle & Key Distillery to celebrate the second straight record-breaking year for tourism in Kentucky. In 2022, the tourism sector bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to generate an economic impact of nearly $13 billion and was responsible for 91,668 jobs.

Last year was even better, with the statewide tourism industry producing $13.8 billion in economic impact and the sector sustained 95,222 jobs, Beshear said. The study by Tourism Economics determined that 79.3 million travelers visited Kentucky in 2023, up 4.5% from the prior year, he said.

Kentucky's attractions include horse farms and bourbon distilleries as well as outdoor adventure, history, arts and cultural draws. Kentucky is also home to Mammoth Cave National Park.

Bourbon tourism is flourishing, with attendance surpassing 2.5 million visitors last year along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, which showcases smaller distilleries. Bourbon tourists tend to spend more and stay longer compared to other attractions, the bourbon industry says.

“With distilleries now in 42 counties, bourbon tourism is resurrecting Main Streets across the commonwealth and pouring much-needed revenue into local coffers. And there’s more to come,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.

Spirit makers have invested big sums into new or expanded visitor centers to play up the industry’s heritage and allow guests to soak in the sights and smells of bourbon-making.

Communities across Kentucky registered robust tourism numbers last year.

Beshear said tourism generated $4.2 billion of economic impact last year in Jefferson County, which includes Louisville, the state's largest city. In Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties — just south of Cincinnati — the combined economic impact of tourism was $2.1 billion, he said. It was $1.6 billion in Fayette County, home to Lexington, the state's second-largest city. In Warren County, tourism brought in $477 million of economic impact, and in McCracken County it generated $319 million.

State Tourism Commissioner Mike Mangeot thanked tourism officials statewide for their role in the sector's success, along with the thousands of leisure and hospitality industry workers. The tour guides, restaurant workers, hotel desk clerks and others are “the frontline ambassadors,” he said.

kentucky tourism statistics

2023 announced as Kentucky’s best year for tourism, breaking previous records

kentucky tourism statistics

Tourism in the state of Kentucky continues to set records for economic impact. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear recently announced 2023 to be the best year in Kentucky Tourism, breaking the record set by 2022.

Officials reported tourism in the state generated $13.8 billion and sustained nearly 100,000 jobs. Governor Beshear said developing the state as a tourist destination takes the combined efforts of tourism professionals.

“It takes hard work and a love for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. When you look at what we’re doing, we’re not looking at the same Kentucky anymore,” said Beshear. “Thanks to the work of everyone here we’re welcoming people to our new Kentucky home. One filled with opportunity and prosperity. Where we want you to come see what we have to offer.”

Officials added that out-of-state tourists spent $9.7 billion that remained in Kentucky communities. Hank Phillips is the President and CEO of the Kentucky Travel Industry Association. He said tourism helps the region’s residents.

“When tourism succeeds, Kentuckians benefit. We benefit from the economic development that tourism provides, the jobs that it creates, and the services that families receive,” said Phillips.

Beshear provided the update from the Castle and Key distillery, one of 46 distilleries that make up the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Beshear said the bourbon industry has been one of the pillars of tourism for the state, bringing in over two million visitors each year.

Liberty & Wealth

Liberty & Wealth

Kentucky Tourism Smashes Records with $14 Billion Earnings

Posted: June 5, 2024 | Last updated: June 5, 2024

<p><b>Kentucky tourism is on fire – in a good way – as the state’s industry broke records for revenue and employment generation in 2023.</b></p>

Kentucky tourism is on fire – in a good way – as the state’s industry broke records for revenue and employment generation in 2023.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pickadook <p><span>The UN estimates that anywhere between 2-5% of global GDP is laundered each year – around $2 trillion. 40% of that would be $800 billion, which is more than some countries’ total GDP.</span></p>

Record Year for Kentucky Tourism

The state of Kentucky saw its tourism industry boom in the 2023 fiscal year, generating high revenue and more jobs than it ever has before, and breaking the previous record set in 2022. 

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Africa Studio <p><span>For fans, this monopoly has meant paying way more for tickets, thanks to all those extra fees. </span></p>

Billions Generated in 2023

Over the course of the fiscal year Kentucky tourism generated a staggering $13.8 billion and provided 100,000 jobs throughout the year, according to Governor Andy Beshear.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Salivanchuk Semen <p><span>“Tennessee is leading the nation in prioritizing resources for families in need,” Governor Lee stated. “We are the first state in the nation to cover the cost of diapers for mothers in the first two years of a child’s life, and we hope this is a model for others.”</span></p>

“Opportunity and Prosperity”

“We’re welcoming people to our new Kentucky home, one filled with opportunity and prosperity,”  Beshear announced at a weekly news conference on Thursday.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Lund <p><span>On the same day, he appeared at an event at the Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort, to celebrate the record-breaking tourism year. </span></p>

Celebration Event

On the same day, he appeared at an event at the Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort, to celebrate the record-breaking tourism year. 

Image Credit: Shutterstock / wellphoto <p><span>“Our economy and our tourism industry are booming. More and more people want to visit Kentucky for our world-class destinations and events – creating more experiences for their families while generating jobs for Kentuckians,” Beshear declared at the event.</span></p>

The Industry is Booming

“Our economy and our tourism industry are booming. More and more people want to visit Kentucky for our world-class destinations and events – creating more experiences for their families while generating jobs for Kentuckians,” Beshear declared at the event.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / CarlosBarquero <p><span>He also described the tourist uptick as “the biggest tourism and economic roll of our lifetime” which was driven by heavy investment in the tourist industry.</span></p>

“Biggest Tourism and Economic Roll of Our Lifetime”

He also described the tourist uptick as “the biggest tourism and economic roll of our lifetime” which was driven by heavy investment in the tourist industry.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pressmaster <p><span>If passed, Musk’s stake in the company would shoot up from 12.89% to 22.4%. He would become the largest shareholder by a staggering margin.</span></p>

On the Up Since the Pandemic

The Bluegrass States’ surging economy has been significantly helped by tourism, which has been on an upward trajectory since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / ESB Professional <p><span>The proposal has arrived as Russia is increasingly spending more funds on its ongoing war in Ukraine. As of February, the government had spent an estimated $211 billion on equipping, maintaining, and deploying its own army in Ukraine, according to Reuters.</span></p>

A 4.5% Increase

Over the course of 2023, it welcomed 79.3 million visitors, an increase of 4.5% over the previous year. These statistics were monitored and released in a study by Tourism Economics, an organization that collects and analyzes global tourism data.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ollyy <p><span>The report broke down this record-breaking revenue by spending categories. The highest amount of revenue from tourists came via spending on food & beverages, which accounted for $2.54 billion.</span></p>

Food and Beverage on Top

The report broke down this record-breaking revenue by spending categories. The highest amount of revenue from tourists came via spending on food & beverages, which accounted for $2.54 billion.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / dotshock <p><span>Coming in second is accommodation at $2.28b, followed by $1.68b on transportation, $1.82b on retail, and $1.26b on recreation and entertainment.</span></p>

Other Categories

Coming in second is accommodation at $2.28b, followed by $1.68b on transportation, $1.82b on retail, and $1.26b on recreation and entertainment.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone <p><span>The state’s tourist attractions are largely cultural and historical, with some outdoor adventure venues included. </span></p>

Culture and History

The state’s tourist attractions are largely cultural and historical, with some outdoor adventure venues included. 

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Booming Bourbon Tourism

Bourbon tourism in particular is an enormous attraction for liquor lovers around the country who see Kentucky as the home state for bourbon. 

Image Credit: Shutterstock / FreeProd33 <p><span>In particular, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour teach visitors about the history of the liquor and the art of brewing it, as well as showcasing a number of smaller acclaimed bourbon distilleries.</span></p>

Bourbon Trails and Tours

In particular, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour teach visitors about the history of the liquor and the art of brewing it, as well as showcasing a number of smaller acclaimed bourbon distilleries.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Salivanchuk Semen <p><span>Now, Musk and the board of directors are making a conspicuous public effort to push the upcoming vote through: including advertising campaigns, and now a personal tour of a Tesla factory.</span></p>

More Than the Average Tourist

Now, distilleries have spent extra funds to tap into the cultural and historical side of the industry. Experts in the industry also claim that ‘bourbon tourists’ are more likely to stay in the state for longer and to spend more money than the average tourist. 

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Vicky Gosselin <p><span>“With distilleries now in 42 counties, bourbon tourism is resurrecting Main Streets across the commonwealth and pouring much-needed revenue into local coffers,” said the Kentucky Distillers’ Association president Eric Gregory. “And there’s more to come.” </span></p>

“Resurrecting Main Streets”

“With distilleries now in 42 counties, bourbon tourism is resurrecting Main Streets across the commonwealth and pouring much-needed revenue into local coffers,” said the Kentucky Distillers’ Association president Eric Gregory. “And there’s more to come.” 

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mike_O <p><span>Other significant state tourist attractions include the Mega Cavern underground zipline tours in Louisville, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and the Mammoth Cave National Park.</span></p>

Other Attractions

Other significant state tourist attractions include the Mega Cavern underground zipline tours in Louisville, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and the Mammoth Cave National Park.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / zeljkodan <p><span>Naturally, Louisville, the largest city in the state, has been a major attraction for visitors, with $4.2 billion in tourism revenue being generated in Jefferson County, where the city is located.</span></p>

Jefferson County on Top

Naturally, Louisville, the largest city in the state, has been a major attraction for visitors, with $4.2 billion in tourism revenue being generated in Jefferson County, where the city is located.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sergey Nivens <p><span>Lobbyist Samantha Padgett from the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association argued that current restrictions are too harsh and scare off employers.</span></p>

Heritage Secretary Sings States Praises

Lindy Casebier, the Cabinet Secretary of Tourism, Arts & Heritage also spoke at the Castle & Key event where she praised Beshear and the state government for their efforts.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nancy Mao Smith <p><span>“Tourism in Kentucky is thriving thanks to the leadership of Gov. Beshear, the hard work of our communities, large and small, and the world-class destinations that welcome visitors to the commonwealth,” she said. “Tourism is economic development that creates jobs, investment, and transformative experiences while improving quality of life for all Kentuckians.”</span></p>

“Improving Quality of Life for All”

“Tourism in Kentucky is thriving thanks to the leadership of Gov. Beshear, the hard work of our communities, large and small, and the world-class destinations that welcome visitors to the commonwealth,” she said. “Tourism is economic development that creates jobs, investment, and transformative experiences while improving quality of life for all Kentuckians.”

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Salivanchuk Semen <p><span>Mitchell commented that “crown dependencies and the overseas territories have not yet done as much as they must do.”</span></p>

Continuing to Expand

Beshear and the state government aren’t about to let the opportunity for continued growth slip out of their hands. “Together, we will continue to expand this success and welcome visitors to experience the natural beauty and warm hospitality of our new Kentucky home,” he concluded during the conference.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Monkey Business Images <p>As the pandemic wanes, companies are recalling remote workers back to the office, sparking debates on fairness, costs, and convenience. However, there are also notable productivity, coworking, and mental health benefits to consider. Feeling the effects of these changes? <strong><a href="https://wealthyliving.com/remote-no-more-19-companies-returning-to-the-office/" rel="noopener">Remote No More: 19 Companies Returning to the Office</a></strong></p>

Remote No More: 19 Companies Returning to the Office

As the pandemic wanes, companies are recalling remote workers back to the office, sparking debates on fairness, costs, and convenience. However, there are also notable productivity, coworking, and mental health benefits to consider. Feeling the effects of these changes? Remote No More: 19 Companies Returning to the Office

Image Credit: Pexels / Gustavo Fring <p>Ever wandered Costco’s aisles, questioning if that giant jar of pickles is a real bargain? Or debated buying tires where you get your rotisserie chicken? Welcome to the definitive guide to Costco shopping—a journey to save money, prevent regrets, and offer quirky insights into bulk buying. <strong><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/8-costco-must-buys-and-8-to-leave-behind/ss-AA1neMG5" rel="noopener">8 Costco Must Buys and 8 to Leave Behind</a></strong></p>

8 Costco Must Buys and 8 to Leave Behind

Ever wandered Costco’s aisles, questioning if that giant jar of pickles is a real bargain? Or debated buying tires where you get your rotisserie chicken? Welcome to the definitive guide to Costco shopping—a journey to save money, prevent regrets, and offer quirky insights into bulk buying. 8 Costco Must Buys and 8 to Leave Behind

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone <p>Texas is becoming a beacon of opportunity, blending cultural heritage with economic growth. From its landscapes to its industries, the Lone Star State offers a dynamic lifestyle. Here are 23 reasons why Texas stands out, attracting entrepreneurs, artists, tech professionals, and families seeking new beginnings. <strong><a href="https://wealthyliving.com/23-reasons-why-texas-is-up-and-coming/" rel="noopener">23 Reasons Texas Is the Next Big Thing</a></strong></p>

23 Reasons Texas Is the Next Big Thing

Texas is becoming a beacon of opportunity, blending cultural heritage with economic growth. From its landscapes to its industries, the Lone Star State offers a dynamic lifestyle. Here are 23 reasons why Texas stands out, attracting entrepreneurs, artists, tech professionals, and families seeking new beginnings. 23 Reasons Texas Is the Next Big Thing

Image Credit: Shutterstock / GaudiLab <p>Selling your unwanted items can declutter your space and boost your income. While Craigslist is popular, there are many alternatives with unique features and wider audiences. Explore these 15 Craigslist alternatives for selling everything from furniture to electronics, finding the perfect platform to turn clutter into cash. <strong><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/smallbusiness/15-top-sites-to-sell-your-unwanted-goods-besides-craigslist/ss-BB1lyO6B" rel="noopener">15 Top Sites to Sell Your Unwanted Goods Besides Craigslist</a></strong></p>

15 Top Sites to Sell Your Unwanted Goods Besides Craigslist

Selling your unwanted items can declutter your space and boost your income. While Craigslist is popular, there are many alternatives with unique features and wider audiences. Explore these 15 Craigslist alternatives for selling everything from furniture to electronics, finding the perfect platform to turn clutter into cash. 15 Top Sites to Sell Your Unwanted Goods Besides Craigslist

Image Credit: Shutterstock / insta_photos <p>Tired of commuting and craving work flexibility? You’re not alone. Many companies now offer remote work, benefiting both employees and employers. Ever wondered how this shift could enhance your work-life balance? <strong><a href="https://wealthyliving.com/work-from-anywhere-19-companies-still-supporting-remote-work/" rel="noopener">Work from Anywhere: 19 Companies Still Supporting Remote Work</a></strong></p> <p><span>The post</span> – <a href="https://libertyandwealth.com/indiana-set-to-gain-2-billion-google-ai-and-cloud-computing-hub/">Indiana Set to Gain $2 Billion Google AI and Cloud Computing Hub</a> –<span> first appeared on </span><a href="https://libertyandwealth.com/"><span>Liberty & Wealth</span></a><span>.</span></p> <p>Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / VDB Photos.</p> <p><span>The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.</span></p>

Work from Anywhere: 19 Companies Still Supporting Remote Work

Tired of commuting and craving work flexibility? You’re not alone. Many companies now offer remote work, benefiting both employees and employers. Ever wondered how this shift could enhance your work-life balance? Work from Anywhere: 19 Companies Still Supporting Remote Work

The post – Kentucky Tourism Smashes Records with $14 Billion Earnings – first appeared on Liberty & Wealth .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / rarrarorro.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.

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IMAGES

  1. CHART: Kentucky Tourism Spending on the Rise

    kentucky tourism statistics

  2. 2022 Economic Impact

    kentucky tourism statistics

  3. CHART: Kentucky Tourism Spending on the Rise

    kentucky tourism statistics

  4. Kentucky sets record for tourism in 2022, $12.9b in economic impact

    kentucky tourism statistics

  5. Kentucky Tourism announces increased visitor growth and spending in

    kentucky tourism statistics

  6. Kentucky Cooperage Experiences 97% Tourist Growth in Last 5 Years

    kentucky tourism statistics

COMMENTS

  1. PDF ECONOMIC IMPACT OF VISITORS IN KENTUCKY 2021

    Visitors to Kentucky spent $7.7 billion across a range of sectors in 2021. Visitor spending expanded 30.6% in 2021, recovering to 96% of 2019 levels. Of the $7.7 billion spent in Kentucky in 2021 by visitors, food and beverage accounted for $2.0 billion, 26% of the average visitor dollar. Spending on lodging, including the value of second homes ...

  2. PDF ECONOMIC IMPACT OF VISITORS IN KENTUCKY 2023

    Of the $9.7 billion spent in 2023 by visitors to Kentucky, food and beverage accounted for $2.5 billion, or 26% of visitor purchases. Spending on lodging, including short-term rentals and the value of second homes, resulted in $2.3 billion of visitor spending or 23% of the total. Retail spending reached $1.8 billion or 19% of visitor purchases.

  3. PDF ECONOMIC IMPACT OF VISITORS IN KENTUCKY

    The travel sector is an integral part of the Kentucky economy. Visitors generate significant economic benefits to households, businesses, and government alike and represent a critical driver of Kentucky's future. Gross output (business sales) attributable to visitor spending in Kentucky totaled $11.8 billion in 2019.

  4. Kentucky Tourism Continues Record-Setting Pace in 2023 With Nearly $14

    Ed Reinke. FILE - Tourists stand in the rotunda area of Mammoth Cave in Mammoth Cave National Park, Ky., on Aug. 3, 2011. Kentucky's tourism industry stayed on its record-setting pace in 2023 ...

  5. Kentucky Reports Best Year for Tourism in 2022, With Nearly $13 Billion

    FILE - Tourists stand in the rotunda area of Mammoth Cave in Mammoth Cave National Park, Ky., on Aug. 3, 2011. Kentucky's tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best ...

  6. PDF Economic Impact of Visitors in Kentucky 2022

    Visitors to Kentucky spent $8.9 billion across a range of sectors in 2022. Visitor spending expanded 16% in 2022, exceeding 2019 levels by 12%. Of the $8.9 billion spent in 2022 by visitors to Kentucky, food and beverage accounted for $2.3 billion, or 26% of visitor purchases. Spending on lodging, including the value of second homes, resulted ...

  7. Kentucky reports best year for tourism in 2022, with nearly $13 billion

    FILE - Tourists stand in the rotunda area of Mammoth Cave in Mammoth Cave National Park, Ky., on Aug. 3, 2011. Kentucky's tourism industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic to post its best year on record in 2022, generating an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, the state said Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. (AP Photo/Ed Reinke, File)

  8. Kentucky tourism brought a record economic impact in 2022

    The report sets out that tourism-related businesses across the state generated $12.9 billion in economic impact and accounted for more than 91 thousand jobs. The Tourism Economics study indicates in 2022 almost 76 million travelers visited Kentucky. State Tourism Commissioner Mike Mangeot.

  9. Kentucky tourism continues record-setting pace in 2023 with ...

    FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky's tourism industry stayed on its record-setting pace in 2023, generating an economic impact approaching $14 billion while sustaining nearly 100,000 jobs, Gov. Andy ...

  10. Kentucky sets record for tourism in 2022, $12.9b in economic impact

    Staff report2022 was the best year on record for Kentucky tourism, with $12.9 billion generated in economic impact and 91,668 jobs -- NKY is the second largest impact region in the state.Gover

  11. Kentucky'S Tourism Impact

    Tourism is the world's largest industry. The total economic impact of tourism in Kentucky in 2022 was $12.9 billion. Kentucky offers visitor experiences unlike any place else in the world. Visitors to Kentucky spent $8.9 billion in 2022. Tourism supports over 91,660 jobs.

  12. Gov. Beshear: Kentucky Tourism Industry Achieves Historic Success With

    Kentucky Tourism generated $13.8 billion in economic impact, 95,222 jobs in 2023, making it best ever year for Kentucky Tourism. FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 30, 2024) - Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that 2023 marked a new record year for Kentucky tourism, with $13.8 billion generated in economic impact and 95,222 jobs, as tourism remains a key piece of the commonwealth's booming economy.

  13. Economic Impact

    Tourism is the 3rd largest industry in Kentucky. Of the $14.5 Billion* economic impact it generates in Kentucky, $3.4 Billion** comes from tourism activity in Louisville. The tourist dollars spent on day trips and overnight trips to Louisville supported 70,000 hospitality industry jobs*** in Jefferson County alone prior to the pandemic and ...

  14. Kentucky reports record year of tourism; state leaders tout bourbon as

    Last year marked a record year for Kentucky tourism, drawing in nearly $14 billion in spending according to the state's Department of Tourism. The state said tourism led to more than 95,000 jobs.

  15. Kentucky tourism continues record-setting pace in 2023 with nearly $14

    The tour guides, restaurant workers, hotel desk clerks and others are "the frontline ambassadors," he said. Kentucky's tourism industry stayed on its record-setting pace in 2023, generating an economic impact approaching $14 billion while sustaining nearly 100,000 jobs, Gov. Andy Beshear said Thursday.

  16. Home

    Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage. Office of the Secretary 500 Mero Street, Fifth Floor Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 (502) 564-4270

  17. 2023 announced as Kentucky's best year for tourism, breaking previous

    Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear recently announced 2023 to be the best year in Kentucky Tourism, breaking the record set by 2022. Officials reported tourism in the state generated $13.8 billion and sustained nearly 100,000 jobs. Governor Beshear said developing the state as a tourist destination takes the combined efforts of tourism professionals.

  18. PDF ECONOMIC IMPACT OF VISITORS IN KENTUCKY

    Spending by category, 2020. Visitors to Kentucky spent $5.9 billion across a wide range of sectors in 2020. Of the $5.9 billion spent in Kentucky in 2020 by visitors, food and beverage spending captured $1.7 billion—28% of the average visitor dollar. Retail captured 23 cents of each visitor dollar, a total of $1.4 billion.

  19. Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage 2022 Annual Report

    The Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet (TAH) is excited to share our 2022 Annual Report highlighting the accomplishments of our 13 cabinet agencies. In 2022, the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet had an eventful year with many challenges and accomplishments. We made vital investments in tourism and the arts that benefited the entire ...

  20. Kentucky Tourism Smashes Records with $14 Billion Earnings

    Naturally, Louisville, the largest city in the state, has been a major attraction for visitors, with $4.2 billion in tourism revenue being generated in Jefferson County, where the city is located ...

  21. Tourism

    Tourism With a vibrant arts and crafts community, rich history, and beautiful scenery, Kentucky is the place you'll want to visit again and again. ... Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Gift Card Purchase the gift of exciting adventures, relaxing getaways, Kentucky crafted gifts, food, education and fun for the whole family.

  22. PDF Tourism, Arts and Heritage

    Kentucky Horse Park 10,754,500 12,710,900 TOTAL EXPENDITURES 10,754,500 12,710,900 Horse Park Commission Tourism, Arts and Heritage The Kentucky Horse Park (KRS 148.260) is comprised of 1,224 acres on which are situated over 1101structures, 40 miles of fencing and 260 campsites.