Tourism spending in McCracken County grew to $233.9 million in direct expenditures in 2017 according to the 2017 Economic Impact of Kentucky Tourism Report. This represents an increase of 2.6% over 2016 and contributes to a total economic impact of $15 billion statewide.
“I’m pleased to see Paducah’s steady growth in tourism. Last fall was particularly busy with the eclipse, the addition of a second AQS QuiltWeek and the opening of two new hotels. Paducah continues to see an increase in cultural tourists, international visitors and, of course, quilters who have the National Quilt Museum and our city on their bucket list,” said Mary Hammond, Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director. “The Visitors Bureau continues to see visitors who have visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites and now are exploring UNESCO Creative Cities. This incredible validation of a city valuing culture, creativity and innovation puts Paducah on the global map of places to visit.”
According to the report, Kentucky’s tourism industry supported over 195,000 jobs and generated more than $1.5 billion in tax revenue, with $202 million going directly to local communities.
“The tourism industry is a driving force for Kentucky’s economy and the 2017 economic impact numbers reinforce this,” Kentucky Department of Tourism Commissioner Kristen Branscum said. “We look at growth in our state in terms of investment and the impact numbers prove that visitors are investing their money and time into Kentucky.”
The Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) of Paducah McCracken County. The CVB exists to create new economic opportunities through destination marketing, management and tourism development. For more information, visit www.Paducah.Travel.
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