2016 was another record-breaking year for tourism in the First State.
The state’s Tourism office says its 2016 numbers saw increases in visitors and dollars spent by those coming to Delaware and tourism’s economic impact.
“And it just continues to show that the tourism industry in Delaware is thriving and growing. In 2016 we saw a $3.3 billion impact in the state’s GDP (gross domestic product). We welcomed 9 million visitors and are the fourth largest employer in Delaware as an industry,” said Liz Keller, director of Delaware’s Tourism Office.
Keller attributes the latest increase to several things.
“More people are becoming aware of Delaware as this beautiful destination to visit. And we’re constantly out and engaging with these potential travelers and just to hear them learn about Delaware and all there is to offer, it’s really a special moment,” Keller said.
Keller adds tourism generated more than $504 million dollars in taxes and fees for state and local governments in 2016. Without it, each Delaware household would have to pay an additional $1,434 dollars in taxes.
Beaches, dining and tax-free shopping continue to be popular activities for visitors, who spent an average of $384 dollars per trip to Delaware in 2016.
