Numbers are still being tallied for 2023 but tourism is booming in Georgia. The state continues to break records, with 168 million visitors visiting the state in 2022. All those visitors delivered some $39.8 in direct spending, generating an economic impact of $73 billion and supporting approximately 450,000 jobs.
Last week, Gov. Brian Kemp joined with the Department of Economic Development to unveil the 2024 Georgia Official State Travel Guide. The annual publication highlights attractions big and small across all parts of the state, inspiring travel in urban and rural locales, from the Appalachians to the Golden Isles.
“This year’s travel guide reminds us that in all four corners of the Peach State, visitors and residents alike can find a reason to keep Georgia on their mind,” said Kemp. “Georgia is blessed with unmatched and unique geographic diversity, from our major cities and attractions to our small towns and natural treasures. As our tourism industry continues to grow and power economies across the state, this resource will be another tool in supporting the men and women who make our state such a welcoming destination.”
The different covers for this year’s edition include the Downtown Square in Bainbridge, Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta, Bell Mountain Park and Historical Site in Hiawassee, and South Beach Pier and Pavilion on Tybee Island. Representatives from each of the local convention and bureaus were on hand at the capitol for the unveiling, visiting with their representatives from the General Assembly and taking time to boost the cause of tourism at the Gold Dome.
“Georgia is the top state for business, and that includes the business of tourism. More people than ever before are choosing Georgia to live, work, make a movie, and visit, supporting jobs and helping our communities thrive,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “This travel guide spotlights inspiring destinations, where visitors will be welcomed with Georgia’s unmatched hospitality and memorable experiences that will keep them coming back. Thank you to our tourism partners and their excellent work to further strengthen Georgia’s position on the global map and attract new and repeat visitors.”
The visitors guide is a comprehensive 130-page near-book highlighting our natural, historic and just plain fun assets. The guide has a section focused on some of the best trips for each season and a section on selected Georgia cities – Clayton, Atlanta, Thomasville and Tybee – though dozens of cities are featured through the guide. Even for lifelong Georgians, the guide offers up some surprises.
“The growth and evolution of our Official State Travel Guide has contributed to the strongest tourism economy in Georgia’s history,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Chief Marketing Officer Mark Jaronski. “Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kemp and our General Assembly, as well as the effectiveness of our statewide tourism industry and visitor-driven marketing strategies, Georgia’s pro-business approach has helped us reach historic levels of tourism. This guide advances our momentum, inspiring increased visitation and visitor spending that benefits communities across all regions of Georgia.”
For the digital version of the guide, you can find it here. For a print version, visit any Georgia Visitor Information Center or tourism partner, or you can order a copy through ExploreGeorgia.org.
