Following Eclipse windfall in 2017, numbers continue to increase across the board
August 15, 2019
Christian County, KY – Visitor spending and visitation growth are on the rise throughout Christian County, according to a report released Wednesday by the Kentucky Department of Tourism.
Economic impact figures show that visitors to the area spent $192.89 million in 2018, which is just over $10 million more than the $182.71 million total in 2017.
“These numbers are a direct reflection of our incredible tourism destinations and hospitality partners in Christian County and the impact they have on drawing visitors to our community,” said Hopkinsville Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Brooke Jung. “We love seeing these numbers continue to grow, and are constantly hearing from visitors what a wonderful experience they have while exploring all facets of Hopkinsville and Christian County.”
Not only did Christian County see an increase in tourism spending, but also in employment. A total of 1,608 tourism-related jobs were reported county-wide, leading to the creation of 68 more jobs in the hospitality sector than in 2017 and, subsequently, the generation of $36.79 million in labor income. In addition, tourism in Christian County contributed $13.44 million in state and local taxes.
The continued increase in tourism is partially attributed to the growth and popularity of the craft spirits industry and the visitor interest in experiencing unique distilleries, breweries and wineries. The addition of a dedicated Visitors Center that is open seven days a week, has also played a role in informing visitors of the variety of activities/attractions to visit while in the community.
Many patrons have also shown interest in historical tourism, and have traveled from all corners of the earth to visit the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park. In 2018 alone, thousands of people visited the Heritage Cabin from 31 states and 10 countries.
In 2017, Hopkinsville was the Point of Greatest Eclipse for the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse, which saw an estimated economic impact of $28.5 million in economic impact. The recent numbers provided by the Kentucky Department of Tourism indicate that 2018 has surpassed even those astronomical figures.
Using the Tourism Economics model, the economic impact of the tourism industry in Kentucky went from $10.9 billion in 2017 to $11.2 billion in 2018, generating more than 94,500 jobs and $787 million in state and local taxes.
For additional information regarding tourism in Hopkinsville and Christian County please contact Brooke Jung, Executive Director, Hopkinsville Convention & Visitors Bureau at 270-887-2300 or bjung@visithopkinsville.com