National Travel and Tourism Week Highlights Growth in Washington

This week marks National Travel and Tourism Week, a time to recognize the vital role tourism plays in our Washington economy and local community and the growth in Washington that is fueled by visitors.

THE NUMBERS ARE UP IN BOTH WA AND THE YAKIMA VALLEY

Officials at Yakima Valley Tourism are celebrating promising signs of growth in 2024, with more visitors exploring the region than ever before. According to new data, Washington State saw a significant boost in tourism last year.

THE NUMBER OF VISITS GREW IN 2024

According to officials at Yakima Valley Tourism visitor expenditures increased by 5.3% to $25.1 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels from 2019. While inflation-adjusted figures show the industry remains 5.2% below 2019, the number of visits grew 2.7% to 111 million.

LOTS OF VISITORS FROM OUT OF THE COUNTRY

International travel also displayed strong recovery, with visits from Canada and other countries rising by nearly 10%. State and local taxes generated from tourism increased by 4.1%, reaching $2.6 billion in 2024.

PEOPLE ARE VISITING THE VALLEY FOR A NUMBER OF REASONS

The numbers are also promising in the Yakima valley. In fact tourism continues to thrive. Tourism officials say visitors spent about $411 million last year, supporting over 5,000 local jobs and generating more than $52 million in taxes. The region welcomed 2.52 million visits, reflecting the area's growing popularity as a travel destination. Many people visiting the area for great tasting, food, beer and wine.

WILL 2025 SURPASS 2025

Tourism officials are optimistic about surpassing these numbers in 2024, welcoming even more visitors to enjoy the beauty and attractions of the Yakima Valley and across Washington State.

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