Atlanta, Georgia – In a major announcement celebrating the strength of Georgia’s tourism industry, Governor Brian P. Kemp revealed that the state has broken its tourism records for the third year in a row. Speaking at the 2025 Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference, Kemp confirmed that Georgia welcomed 174.2 million domestic and international visitors in calendar year 2024, surpassing 2023’s previous record by nearly 4 percent.
Visitors spent a staggering $45.2 billion on hotels, dining, entertainment, transportation, and other local services during their time in the Peach State. This surge in tourism activity generated $5.1 billion in state and local tax revenues, ultimately saving the average Georgia household approximately $1,285 in taxes.
“Georgia’s scenic landscapes spanning the mountains to the coast, cultural attractions, and vibrant communities make our state a top destination that leaves visitors with a reason to keep Georgia on their minds,” said Governor Kemp. He also praised the thousands of workers across the state who contributed to putting Georgia’s best foot forward and enhancing visitor experiences.
A Leading Force in Economic Development
According to the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), tourism is now the second-largest economic contributor to the state’s economy, generating a total economic impact of $82 billion, a 3 percent increase over the previous year. The visitor economy also supports 470,570 jobs, meaning one in every 15 jobs in Georgia is tied to the tourism industry.
“Tourism is the front door to opportunity in Georgia, driving new investment, supporting jobs, and strengthening the very communities that help our state succeed in business and economic growth. These numbers highlight this reality and are a motivating factor for our team every day,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson.
The success has placed Georgia fifth in the nation for overnight visitation, a position it has held for five consecutive years. The state’s blend of urban vibrancy, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage continues to attract leisure travelers, business guests, and large conventions.
Celebrating Tourism Partnerships and Convention Growth
The announcement came during the Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference, a three-day annual gathering hosted by GDEcD’s tourism division, Explore Georgia. The 2025 event was held at the newly expanded Savannah Convention Center, spotlighting one of Georgia’s premier venues for conventions and major meetings. More than 400 travel and hospitality professionals from across the state attended the conference, working to share best practices and plan for future growth.
In addition to leisure travel, business and convention travel made a significant impact in 2024. More than 17 million visitors came to Georgia for meetings and conventions, marking an increase of nearly 5 percent from the previous year. These visitors contributed $4.6 billion in direct spending, a 5.5 percent increase compared to 2023.
“Georgia’s tourism success proves the power of partnerships,” said Jay Markwalter, GDEcD Deputy Commissioner of Tourism. He credited state leaders and local communities for fostering an environment where the travel industry could thrive. “The local communities that bring these authentic experiences to life are a key reason why Georgia’s visitor economy continues to grow and thrive.”
Data Confirms a Bright Future
The positive figures shared at the conference are backed by an annual study conducted by Tourism Economics, a respected research firm under Oxford Economics, commissioned by the Georgia Department of Economic Development. The data confirms a clear trend—Georgia’s tourism sector is not only rebounding post-pandemic but reaching new heights with each passing year.
For more details on the state’s tourism programs and to explore destinations across Georgia, visit ExploreGeorgia.org.
