Arkansas' Tourism Sector Anticipates a Prosperous 2024 with Noteworthy Events

In 2024, Arkansas is poised for a significant boost in its tourism sector, already valued at $9.2 billion. Following a report by Tourism Economics for the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, the state saw a remarkable 15.4% increase in visitors in 2022, reaching 48.3 million, compared to 41.2 million the previous year. This surge resulted in an additional $1.2 billion in spending. Shea Lewis, the department's secretary, highlighted this growth as a strong rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic's impacts, signaling a full recovery and then some.

Visitor expenditure in 2022 was primarily driven by transportation, dining, and accommodation, with lodging seeing the most significant increase, reaching $1.6 billion—a 23% rise from 2021. This increase contributed to a 15.8% growth in 2% tax collections, totaling $24.3 million. Lewis emphasized the importance of lodging figures, as they generate a significant portion of the tourism reinvestment tax, predominantly paid by out-of-state visitors, which supports the state's successful marketing campaigns.

Growth Across Various Sectors and Economic Impact

The tourism industry also witnessed growth in other sectors, with transportation expenditure increasing by 21.8%, food and beverage by $200 million, retail by 10%, and recreation by 20%. The overall tax revenue from visitors was $752 million, a 15.2% increase from the previous year, supporting over 68,000 jobs—a 6% increase from 2021—and contributing $2.1 billion in wages. The indirect and induced economic impact of tourism in Arkansas was $6.5 billion, leading to a total impact of $15.7 billion on the state's economy and generating over $1 billion in state and local taxes.

Highlight Events for 2024: Eclipse and Cycling Competitions

Looking ahead to 2024, the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism is preparing for the 50th anniversary of the Governor’s Conference on Tourism and anticipates the total solar eclipse on April 8 as a major attraction. This rare event, where the Moon casts a 117.9-mile-wide shadow across the state, is expected to draw numerous visitors, especially to state parks, though opportunities also exist in cities and towns for eclipse viewing.

Furthermore, Arkansas is set to host premier cycling events, including the Big Mountain Enduro and the inaugural Arkansas Graveler. The former, taking place at Mount Nebo State Park, and the latter, a 340-mile race across northern Arkansas, highlight the state's commitment to promoting outdoor recreational activities. These events, along with the department's focus on enhancing state park experiences and marketing the state's unique culinary, arts, culture, and music offerings, aim to elevate Arkansas' image as a leading destination for outdoor recreation and tourism.

By engaging in these initiatives and focusing on comprehensive marketing strategies, Arkansas not only seeks to attract new visitors but also to enhance the state's reputation on a national and global stage, inviting everyone to experience the unique beauty and hospitality of The Natural State.

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