Travel Powers the Economy, Builds Opportunity & Connects Coastal Communities 

COASTAL MISSISSIPPI, Monday, May 5, 2025 — Coastal Mississippi Tourism proudly joins destinations nationwide in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW). This annual tradition highlights travel’s essential role in driving the U.S. economy, supporting vibrant communities, and elevating America’s place on the global stage. 

“Travel is one of our nation's most powerful economic engines, supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses and propelling industries forward,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “National Travel and Tourism Week reinforces the pivotal role travel plays in building a stronger, more prosperous America." 

Here in Coastal Mississippi, the power of travel is unmistakable. In 2024, 15.7 million visitors explored our beautiful shores, vibrant communities, and one-of-a-kind attractions, fueling more than $2.2 billion in economic impact. This remarkable growth led to over 3,000 new jobs across the region, boosting coastal employment by nearly 10%. 

“Tourism strengthens our economy, creates jobs, and brings our communities to life,” said Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi Tourism. “This National Travel and Tourism Week, we celebrate travel’s undeniable impact and reaffirm its importance to the economic and cultural vitality of the Coast.” 

Whether it’s an overnight getaway or a spontaneous day trip, every visit makes a difference: 

  • Overnight travelers spent an average of $231 per visit, generating nearly $1.5 billion in spending on lodging, entertainment, dining, shopping, and transportation. 

  • 9.2 million day visitors contributed more than $700 million to local businesses, from seafood restaurants and small shops to beloved local attractions. 

Even more impressive: Two-thirds of overnight travelers said they were delighted with their experience. Proof that Coastal Mississippi continues to make a lasting impression. 

To recognize this vital industry, Coastal Mississippi Tourism is launching a social media campaign throughout NTTW to showcase everything tourism supports across our region. 

As America prepares to host major international events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, America 250, and the 2028 Summer Olympics, the opportunity to grow the travel economy is bigger than ever, with Coastal Mississippi poised to benefit from the national spotlight. 

Visit https://www.coastalmississippi.com/nttw/ to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week and the impact of travel across Coastal Mississippi and the U.S. 

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About Coastal Mississippi Tourism 

Coastal Mississippi is an organization charged with promoting South Mississippi as a tourism and convention destination worldwide. Its mission centers on attracting ever-increasing leisure, convention, sports, and business visitors to the area. It is dedicated to maximizing the travel and tourism industry in South Mississippi.