OCALA, FL (352today.com)—The Marion County Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation at their meeting on Tuesday, May 6, highlighting National Travel and Tourism Week.
The commissioners say they wanted to celebrate the “immense contributions” that the tourism industry has made to the area’s local economy and quality of life.
According to the county’s latest economic impact of tourism research, Marion County welcomed 1.4 million visitors between April 2023 and March 2024.
The county says those visitors generated over $1 billion in economic impact. Over $682 million was estimated to have been spent on accommodations, restaurants, groceries, transportation, attractions, entertainment, and shopping.
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Along with the economic influx, the visitor spending is estimated to save locals $466 in taxes per household annually.
“Tourism is vital to Marion County’s thriving economy and high quality of life. Our natural wonders continue to attract events and visitors from all over the world,” said Loretta Shaffer, Marion County Tourist Development Director. “Travel and tourism are an economic powerhouse for our community and this week is a chance to celebrate the vital role the industry plays in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for our residents.
The City of Ocala and Marion County are celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week in more ways than one:
- The Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau (VCB) will release a new Marion Insider’s Guide episode. Follow Commissioner Carl Zalak’s Facebook page or the Ocala Marion website for the latest episode.
- The Ocala/Marion County VCB is also launching a photography contest that invites local residents to take photos showcasing the local area’s beauty. The winner will have their photo featured on an official Ocala/Marion County postcard.
- The bureau would also like to announce that last month, the team won two prestigious awards for destination marketing: Internet Advertising Competition (IAC) award for Best Online Campaign, and the eTSY award for Best Family-Friendly Marketing Campaign.
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