World Tourism Day: A Spotlight on Morris County’s Resilience & Recovery

World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on September 27, a tradition held since 1980. This day is dedicated to fostering awareness among the international community about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value. As we approach this significant date, let’s take a moment to appreciate the vibrant tourism industry right here in Morris County.

The Impact of Tourism in Morris County

Tourism plays a crucial role in our local economy. The sector provides employment opportunities and drives growth across various industries, from accommodation and food services to arts, entertainment, and recreation. Our rich history, picturesque landscapes, and diverse cultural offerings make Morris County a must-visit destination for travelers near and far.

In 2022, New Jersey demonstrated a strong recovery in terms of increased visitors and expenditure, reflecting the resilience and appeal of our state’s tourism industry. Morris County, in particular, stood out with its unique blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and exciting events.

A Closer Look at the 2022 Tourism Economic Impact

Morris County, nestled in the heart of New Jersey, has witnessed an impressive resurgence in its tourism sector, in line with the state’s overall recovery. Key findings from the 2022 Economic Impact of Tourism in New Jersey report include:

Visitor Volume Rebounded

In 2022, New Jersey welcomed 114.6 million visitors, rebounding to 99% of 2019 levels.

Record-Breaking Spending

Tourists spent $45.4 billion in 2022, marking a 22% increase over the previous year, with day visitor expenditure reaching record highs.

Economic Impact

Tourism contributed $73.5 billion to the state’s economy, generating $5.0 billion in state and local tax revenues.

Job Growth

Nearly 480,000 jobs were supported by tourism in New Jersey, accounting for 8.3% of all jobs in the state.

The forecast for 2023 promises even more promising figures, with visitor spending expected to reach $49.8 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Collaboration and Strategy Implementation

This remarkable recovery is only possible with collaboration and strategic planning. The 2022 National Travel and Tourism Strategy is spearheaded by the Tourism Policy Council. This collaborative effort involves federal, state, and local governments and private sector partners.

Shaping the Future of Travel and Tourism

The U.S. Department of Commerce, in collaboration with the Tourism Policy Council and various stakeholders, has crafted a visionary strategy to bolster travel and tourism across the nation. This comprehensive approach has four primary objectives:

Promoting the U.S. as a Premier Travel Destination

The goal is to attract 90 million international visitors annually by 2027, contributing an estimated $279 billion to the economy.

Improving Travel Services and Visitor Experience

Enhancing visitor safety, reducing travel barriers, and enriching the tourism product offerings are central to this goal.

Fostering a Resilient and Sustainable Travel and Tourism Sector

Sustainability and resilience are paramount, aiming to reduce the sector’s contribution to climate change and fortify travel infrastructure.

Advancing the National Interest Through Travel and Tourism

Recognizing the industry’s role in supporting jobs and economic activity despite setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The national strategy to boost travel and tourism will significantly benefit Morris County. Increased visibility, improved visitor services, sustainable practices, and economic growth align with our local objectives. This strategic approach sets the stage for a thriving tourism sector in Morris County, promoting its significance on the state and national tourism map.

How We’re Celebrating World Tourism Day in Morris County

The theme for World Tourism Day this year encourages us to rethink tourism. It invites us to consider how we can make travel more sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial for visitors and their host communities.

In Morris County, we are committed to this vision. We strive to offer experiences that respect our environment, celebrate our heritage, and contribute to local economic development. From promoting eco-friendly practices among our tourism businesses to ensuring our attractions are accessible, we are rethinking how we approach tourism.

Looking Forward: Morris County’s Bright Tourism Future

It’s evident that the travel and tourism industry in Morris County and the United States is recovering and thriving. With innovative strategies, collaborative efforts, and a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, we can look forward to a future where Morris County shines as a premier destination for travelers worldwide. Together, we will navigate the path to a thriving Morris County and a prosperous U.S. tourism sector.

Connect with Morris County Tourism Bureau

Ready to explore all that Morris County has to offer? Whether you’re planning a trip or interested in learning more about our tourism initiatives, we encourage you to reach out. The Morris County Tourism Bureau is here to assist you and provide valuable information to make your visit memorable. We can guide you to the best sights, sounds, and tastes of our vibrant region. Get in touch with us today and start your journey to discovering the hidden gems of Morris County.

The Morris County Economic Development Alliance & Morris County Tourism Bureau receives operating support from the County of Morris and the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the NJ Department of State. The MCEDA & Morris County Tourism Bureau receives funding through a grant from NJ Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.