National Tourism Week

"Tourism Pays" in Columbia, SC

The Columbia Regional Visitors Center joins hundreds of cities, states and travel-related businesses nationwide in recognition of National Travel & Tourism Week, May 5-13, 2012. Designated by Congress and established by presidential proclamation in 1983, the event celebrates the value and scope of the nation's $759 billion travel and tourism industry, and its economic and social contributions. National Tourism Week is an annual event sponsored by the U.S. Travel Association, aimed at promoting the power of travel, enhancing the country's economy, and informing the public of the cultural and social benefits of travel and tourism.

Travel and tourism generates $1 billion in direct spending and brings in 3 million visitors for the Columbia region each year, while providing more than 65,000 jobs in the region and supporting the jobs of nearly 1 in 10 South Carolinians. Tourism is the largest industry in South Carolina according to many economists and saves every household in the state $691 in taxes annually. Travel is a broad and diverse industry employing a vast workforce, from airline and attraction employees to restaurant, hotel and taxi workers.

In celebrating the industry and its impact on the community, we have scheduled many exciting events and promotions during National Tourism Week. We invite you to see 'Why Travel Matters' and become a tourist in your own backyard as you explore all there is to see and do in Columbia, SC.

View the schedule of National Travel and Tourism Week events hosted by Columbia Regional Visitors Center.

---