Tennessee tourism generated $24.2 billion in 2021 in both domestic and international travel spending, according to data collected by U.S. Travel and Tourism Economics.
The total is the largest visitor spending in Tennessee’s history.
Travelers visiting the state spend about $66 million per day, with $1.9 billion generated in state and local tax dollars.
The tourism industry is the state’s third largest employer among its residents.
“Tourism drives economic development and job creation so that every Tennessean can thrive,” says Tennessee Governor Bill Lee.
Gov. Lee continued, “Our decision to prioritize strong recovery has yielded record levels of tourism growth, and we continue to welcome visitors to see all Tennessee has to offer, from the Mississippi River to the Great Smoky Mountains.”
Commissioner Mark Ezell of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development added, “Tennessee is one of the top travel destinations in the world because of our tremendous assets, including our unmatched scenic beauty, diverse cities, and small towns, as well as our world-class attractions, music, cultural and historical sites. We’re so grateful to this industry and our partners, and blessed visitors come experience these destinations and support local businesses, local restaurants, and local lodging and support communities.”
