Developing Tourism In Your Community

Section 1

Tourism Facts

Tourism is recognized as one of the world's major economic and social activities and is forecasted to become the largest industry throughout the world in the next decade.

In the United States²:

•   Tourism is America’s largest services export industry, second largest employer, and third largest retail sales industry.
•   In 2006, the U.S. travel industry received almost $700 billion from domestic and international travelers.
•   Tourism generates more than 7.5 million jobs with $177 billion in payroll income for Americans.

Current outlook³:
• Americans are estimated to take more than 2.14 billion trips for either business or pleasure in 2010.
• American travelers are choosing more rural and out-of-the-way destinations, focusing in part on cultural, historic and natural resources⁴.

Billions of dollars are spent on short haul and leisure trips. Most states and many communities, large and small, rural or urban, have recognized the economic benefits of capturing a portion of these travel expenditures. In Texas, the role of tourism is significant and increasing each year.

Billions of dollars are spent on short haul and leisure trips. Many communities, large and small, rural or urban, have recognized the economic benefits of capturing a portion of these travel expenditures. In Texas, the role of tourism is significant and increasing each year.

2. Travel Industry Association of America, Economic of Impact Travel / Tourism Summary 2006, TIA.org
3. Travel Industry Association of America, U.S. Travel Market Overview – Volume and Trends, TIA.org
4. Tourism Works for America 2002 Report, Travel Industry Association of America