Spartanburg Thrives as South Carolina’s Tourism Sector Grows

News Summary

Spartanburg, South Carolina, is experiencing a tourism boom, with the state’s travel sector growing by 65% over the past decade, contributing $29 billion annually to the economy. The recent South Carolina Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism celebrated this success and addressed new trends like ‘skip-gen’ travel. Spartanburg has been recognized as a city on the rise with significant capital investments. With continued growth expected, the Palmetto State offers countless opportunities for exploration and adventure for both locals and tourists alike.

Spartanburg Shines as South Carolina’s Travel and Tourism Sector Booms

Spartanburg, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as recent reports highlight the remarkable growth of the state’s travel and tourism sector. Over the past decade, this vibrant industry has **_expanded by a stunning 65%_**, contributing over **_$29 billion_** annually to South Carolina’s economy. This impressive achievement is more than just numbers; it represents a lifeline for thousands of families across the state.

A Vital Part of the Workforce

Did you know that tourism and travel support nearly **_10% of jobs_** in South Carolina? That means one in every ten workers plays a role in making the Palmetto State a must-visit destination! With this thriving sector comes a significant boost to local economies, generating nearly **_$2 billion_** every year in state and local taxes. The impact of tourism is clear: it’s helping to create jobs, drive revenue, and support communities.

Celebrating Achievements at the Conference

The South Carolina Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism was recently held in Spartanburg, where this fantastic growth was celebrated. Local leaders and tourism professionals gathered to discuss the importance of continually evolving the travel landscape in the state. With a focus on South Carolina’s breathtaking natural beauty, the potential for even more growth seems limitless.

Engaging Generations and Building Memories

One interesting trend that’s gaining popularity is **_“skip-gen” travel_**, where grandparents take their grandchildren on adventures. Many professionals shared heartwarming insights about these experiences, emphasizing how such trips not only create lasting memories but also bridge the gap among different generations. With four adult generations now traveling together, tourism operations must cater to a wide range of values and priorities to engage every type of traveler.

Highlighting Lesser-known Areas

The “Discover South Carolina” campaign has been a game-changer. The innovative marketing effort has encouraged over **_6.5 million trips_** to hidden gems across the state, generating an impressive **_$2.05 billion_** in hotel revenue. If you haven’t checked out these lesser-known areas yet, you’re missing out on some fantastic local treasures!

Spartanburg on the Rise

During the conference, Spartanburg was highlighted not just for its tourism potential but also as a thriving hub of growth. As acknowledged by a recent ranking from Southern Living, Spartanburg stands third on their list of **_“The South’s Best Cities On The Rise_”** for 2024. This is an impressive feat that reflects the county’s burgeoning capital investments, which are now reaching the **_$1 billion_** mark in pledged investments for 2024. Additionally, the city’s success in hosting **_85 sports events_** during the year contributed to a whirlwind of **_$32 million_** in direct spending within the local economy!

The Future Looks Bright

Looking ahead, the travel and tourism sector in South Carolina shows no signs of slowing down. Over the past five years, the economic impact of tourism has increased by **_$4.5 billion_**, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the industry. The **_South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism_** has also confirmed that they will continue to work with their marketing agency to further enhance promotions and outreach efforts.

So whether you’re a local or a tourist, now is a great time to explore all that South Carolina has to offer. With its thriving tourism sector, the Palmetto State is poised for even greater adventures. From world-class beaches to charming small towns, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Upstate Business Journal: South Carolina Tourism Industry Worth $29B Annually
• Business Wire: South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Reappoints 9Rooftops
• Times of India: Travel Advisory State of Emergency Declared
• Spectrum Local News: South Carolina Tourism Fall for Greenville Dates Set
• WLTX: South Carolina Tourism Industry
• Wikipedia: South Carolina
• Google Search: South Carolina Tourism
• Google Scholar: South Carolina Tourism Impact
• Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
• Google News: South Carolina Tourism