Georgia has set new tourism records for the third consecutive year, according to an announcement from Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD). The state also maintained its position as fifth in the nation for overnight visitation for the fifth year running.
“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 Brian Kemp. “We’re grateful to the hardworking men and women statewide who make sure Georgia always puts its best foot forward, helping create real positive impacts in all four corners of the Peach State.”
During remarks at the annual Georgia Governor’s Tourism Conference, Kemp shared that 174.2 million domestic and international visitors came to Georgia in 2024. These visitors spent $45.2 billion on hotels, restaurants, recreation, transportation, and other local businesses—an increase of nearly 4% over last year’s record figures. The resulting tourism spending generated $5.1 billion in state and local tax revenues, which helped save each household in Georgia an average of $1,285 annually.
Tourism remains a major part of Georgia’s economy. It is now the second-largest economic contributor within the state and produced an overall economic impact of $82 billion—a 3% increase compared to last year. The sector supports 470,570 jobs across Georgia or about one out of every fifteen jobs.
“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. “Thank you to the countless partners across the state and around the world who have made this kind of achievement possible once again.”
The three-day conference was organized by Explore Georgia—the tourism division of GDEcD—and brought together more than 400 attendees from across the state’s travel and hospitality industry at Savannah Convention Center. The event aims to raise awareness about Georgia as both a business and leisure destination.
“Georgia’s tourism success proves the power of partnerships,” said GDEcD Deputy Commissioner of Tourism Jay Markwalter. “Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kemp, our General Assembly, Commissioner Wilson, the Tourism Foundation Board of Directors, and the efforts of our statewide tourism industry, more visitors than ever before are choosing to spend their time and money experiencing everything that makes our state great. The local communities that bring these authentic experiences to life are a key reason why Georgia’s visitor economy continues to grow and thrive.”
The meetings-and-conventions segment contributed significantly as well; over 17 million domestic travelers visited for business or conventions during 2024—a rise of almost 5% compared with last year—with direct spending totaling $4.6 billion.
Data referenced by officials comes from an annual study conducted by Tourism Economics on behalf of GDEcD.
More information can be found at ExploreGeorgia.org.
