Arkansas Tourism: A Booming Industry With Over 50 Million Visitors
Arkansas has seen a remarkable surge in tourism, with over 50 million visitors in 2023. This influx of tourists has significantly contributed to the state’s economy, making tourism a vital sector.
Economic Impact
The estimated .9 billion in visitor spending represents about 7% of Arkansas’ GDP, which is substantial given the state’s overall economic valuation. This is a notable increase compared to previous years, reflecting the growing importance of tourism to the state’s economy.
Job Creation and Employment
Tourism has directly supported more than 70,000 jobs across Arkansas in 2023. This number includes both direct employment in the tourism industry and indirect impacts such as local businesses benefiting from these visitors. Altogether, these figures indicate that one in every 18 jobs in the state is linked to tourism, emphasizing its broad reach and economic significance.
Regional Variations
The tourism industry is not evenly distributed throughout Arkansas. Pulaski and Benton counties stand out as leaders in both visitor spending and job creation. Pulaski County, home to Little Rock, had 12,003 tourism jobs in 2023, while Benton County, home to Bentonville, had 8,858 jobs. These regions attract a significant share of both leisure and overnight visitors.
Visitor Behavior
Arkansas welcomed 36.4 million leisure visitors last year, with overnight visitors totaling 16.2 million. The state saw a notable increase in leisure visits by 14.4% but experienced a slight decrease of 4.1% in overnight stays compared to 2022. This shift indicates changes in visitor behavior and travel preferences.
Revenue and Marketing Strategies
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism raked in .8 million in revenue from the state’s 2% tourism tax on lodging and attractions, which is a 5% increase from the previous year. The majority of this revenue, .7 million, was spent on advertising, highlighting the importance of effective marketing strategies in attracting more visitors.
Future Plans
Tourism Director Delaney Thomas credits the department’s new marketing tactics for the success, including extending “in-market messaging” to bolster its presence. The department plans to expand into 15 new markets, targeting states like California, Idaho, New Mexico, and Kentucky, while maintaining strong support in key drive markets like Texas and Mississippi.
By targeting these new markets and refining its market expansion strategy, the department aims to further boost tourism in Arkansas, ensuring continued economic growth and job creation. The success of tourism in the state is a testament to its potential as a major contributor to Arkansas’ economy and a popular destination for travelers from across the United States.
