Kentucky's Tourism Industry Continues Record-Setting Growth in 2023

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky's tourism industry sustained its record-setting pace in 2023, generating an economic impact approaching $14 billion while sustaining nearly 100,000 jobs, Governor Andy Beshear announced on Thursday.

Economic Impact and Visitor Spending

Travelers visiting the Bluegrass State last year spent $9.7 billion, contributing significantly to Kentucky's growing economy. Tourism has maintained its post-pandemic momentum, becoming a key economic driver for the state. The Democratic governor highlighted this achievement during his weekly news conference.

“We’re welcoming people to our new Kentucky home, one filled with opportunity and prosperity," Beshear said. "We want you to come see what we have to offer, and then we want you to move your family here to be a part of it.”

Celebrating Success

Governor Beshear and tourism leaders gathered at Castle & Key Distillery to celebrate the second consecutive record-breaking year for Kentucky tourism. In 2022, the tourism sector rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic to generate an economic impact of nearly $13 billion, supporting 91,668 jobs. Last year saw even greater success, with the industry producing $13.8 billion in economic impact and sustaining 95,222 jobs. A study by Tourism Economics found that 79.3 million travelers visited Kentucky in 2023, a 4.5% increase from the previous year.

Key Attractions and Regions

Kentucky's diverse attractions, including horse farms, bourbon distilleries, outdoor adventures, historical sites, and arts and cultural draws, contribute to its tourism appeal. The state is also home to Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system in the world, which continues to attract spelunkers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Bourbon tourism is flourishing, with attendance surpassing 2.5 million visitors last year along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, which highlights smaller distilleries. The bourbon industry notes that bourbon tourists tend to spend more and stay longer than visitors to other attractions.

“With distilleries now in 42 counties, bourbon tourism is resurrecting Main Streets across the commonwealth and pouring much-needed revenue into local coffers. And there’s more to come,” said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Distilleries have invested significantly in new or expanded visitor centers to showcase the industry's heritage and provide guests with an immersive bourbon-making experience.

Regional Economic Contributions

Communities across Kentucky recorded robust tourism numbers in 2023. Beshear reported that tourism generated $4.2 billion in economic impact in Jefferson County, which includes Louisville, the state's largest city. In Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties—just south of Cincinnati—the combined economic impact of tourism reached $2.1 billion. Fayette County, home to Lexington, the state's second-largest city, saw a $1.6 billion impact from tourism. Warren County generated $477 million in tourism-related economic impact, while McCracken County brought in $319 million.

Acknowledging Tourism Workers

State Tourism Commissioner Mike Mangeot expressed gratitude to tourism officials statewide and the thousands of leisure and hospitality industry workers who contribute to the sector's success. "The tour guides, restaurant workers, hotel desk clerks, and others are the frontline ambassadors," Mangeot said, recognizing their crucial role in making Kentucky a welcoming destination for visitors.

Conclusion

Kentucky's tourism industry continues to thrive, bolstering the state's economy and creating jobs. As the industry builds on its success, Kentucky remains a vibrant and attractive destination for travelers from around the world. The ongoing investments in attractions and infrastructure, coupled with the dedication of tourism professionals, ensure that the Bluegrass State's tourism sector will continue to grow and prosper.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Kentucky aims to further enhance its tourism offerings by investing in new attractions and improving existing ones. The state plans to leverage its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant arts scene to attract even more visitors. With strategic marketing and community engagement, Kentucky hopes to maintain its upward trajectory in tourism growth, making it a key pillar of the state's economic development.

Final Thoughts

Governor Beshear's commitment to supporting and promoting Kentucky's tourism industry underscores its importance to the state's overall economic health. As more travelers discover the unique experiences Kentucky has to offer, the tourism sector's impact is expected to grow, bringing prosperity and opportunity to communities across the commonwealth.