South Carolina Travel and Tourism
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The recent 60th Annual South Carolina Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism highlighted a remarkable 65% growth in the tourism sector over the past decade, with an annual contribution exceeding $29 billion to the state’s economy. Strategies such as ‘skip-gen’ travel, a surge in sports tourism, and campaigns to discover hidden gems are drawing more visitors. Moreover, tourism also alleviates local tax burdens, showcasing its crucial role in the community and economy.
Spartanburg has recently taken center stage as it hosted the 60th Annual South Carolina Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism. This year, the highlight of the event was the booming travel and tourism sector in the state, which has experienced an impressive 65% growth over the past decade. What does that mean for South Carolina? Well, it translates to a staggering annual contribution of more than $29 billion to the state’s economy!
Besides bolstering the economy, the impact of tourism is also felt in population growth. As more visitors come to appreciate the abundant natural beauty of South Carolina—from its stunning beaches to its lush greenery—they fall in love with the state. This love has contributed to a steady increase in the population, reflecting a growing trend of people wanting to call South Carolina home.
Over 350 industry professionals gathered at the conference, where the state’s Governor emphasized the strength of the tourism sector. One of the key points discussed was how technology can certainly help promote travel, but nothing can replace the magic of personal engagement in creating memorable travel experiences. This highlights a growing emphasis on what is known as “high touch” over “high tech” in the travel sphere.
One interesting trend noted was the rise of “skip-gen” travel. This is where grandparents embark on adventures with their grandchildren, creating lasting bonds and unforgettable memories. Personal experiences were shared about trips to favored spots like the Columbian’s Sesquicentennial State Park and the Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site in Charleston. These anecdotes highlight the importance of catering to a diverse range of travelers, from grandparents to millennials.
To ensure travelers explore all that South Carolina has to offer, the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism recently launched the “Discover South Carolina” marketing campaign. This initiative focuses on bringing visitors to undiscovered areas, resulting in over 6.5 million trips generated. The campaign has not only promoted the state’s hidden treasures but also played a role in driving over $2.05 billion in hotel revenue.
Another benefit of this thriving sector is the financial relief it brings to local residents. Visitor spending and tourism tax collections help reduce the average tax burden for South Carolinians by nearly $1,000 annually. With the sector generating close to $2 billion annually in state and local taxes, it’s clear that tourism is more than just fun and relaxation; it’s a crucial contributor to everyday life.
Sports tourism is another area experiencing rapid growth, with a projected increase of 18% over the next six years. Major events like the Bassmaster Classic are drawing significant attention to the state, while Myrtle Beach, serving as the largest industry sector in its area, employs over 80,000 people. Local governments are also cashing in, supported by programs aimed to enhance sports tourism through advertising and recruitment.
Looking ahead, South Carolina expects to welcome more than 15.8 million visitors in 2022. In a move to bridge the gap in tourism taxes, the state has recently secured $60 million from Airbnb as part of a settlement. This agreement comes after issues with the platform collecting taxes owed to communities, ensuring that future collections will occur smoothly.
As South Carolina continues to evolve, the travel and tourism sector stands strong—resulting in a dynamic economy, an enriched community, and a promise of new adventures ahead!
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