Last week, Visit Philadelphia released their annual report that confirmed what those in Philly already knew—travel and tourism make a huge economic impact on the city.
The report noted that, in 2014, the industry’s impact was $10.4 billion. Other numbers showed that 39.7 million people visited the city; the impact supported 92,000 full time jobs; and that $655 million in state and local taxes was generated through the industry—helping support local programs.
Additionally, the report featured information on leisure activities. Of the 39.7 million visitors, 34.9 million were there for leisure purposes, and of the 3.1 million hotel room nights, 30.7 percent were leisure stays. Philadelphia’s Saturday hotel occupancy is second only to New York City among major northeast cities.
“Greater Philadelphia’s tourism industry is strong and getting stronger each year,” says Meryl Levitz, president and CEO, Visit Philadelphia. “The leisure segment has been particularly successful. It’s increased 90 percent since 1997, making it the fastest growing segment of all.”
