Buckeye State officials had good reason to celebrate this week, as they took a look at the economic impact of tourism in Ohio in 2024. Those numbers are looking up.

According to a news release from the state Department of Development, Ohio saw 3.5 million more visitors in 2024 than in 2023, for a total of approximately 242 million visitors. Approximately 20% of those travelers were interested in being here long enough that they booked an overnight stay. State officials say that meant $57 billion in economic impact and $4.7 billion in state and local tax revenue. For the state’s purposes, tourism “supports” more than 443,000 jobs.

It’s an industry we know holds up its end of the bargain for communities because Ohio is so rich in history, attractions, restaurants and natural beauty worth visiting.

“Tourism isn’t just about attractions, it’s about impact,” said Development Department Director Lydia Mihalik. “It brings people together, keeps dollars flowing into our communities and boosts local economies in every corner of our state. These numbers show that Ohio’s tourism industry is strong and growing.”

Certainly, we know it is strong here in the Mahoning Valley, where organizations such as the Mahoning County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Trumbull County Tourism Bureau and Columbiana Area Tourism Bureau work hard to broadcast everything from our delicious dining opportunities to our unique shopping experiences, incredible historical treasures and our waterways and trails.

It’s the people who keep visitors coming back for more — and the Development Department says 93% of recent visitors have said they are likely to return within the next year.

“Ohio continues to prove itself as a top destination for travelers, offering memorable experiences and showcasing the best of our communities,” said Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel.

“When people visit our state, they see firsthand what makes Ohio special and why we’re proud to call the Buckeye State home.”

Keep up the hard work and hospitality, folks. When we show guests why WE are proud to call this place home, it might make them wonder whether they should, too.