May is the official kick-off to the summer travel season, and National Travel and Tourism week is a great time to reflect on the importance of travel and tourism to our mental and physical health, social well-being, and our economy. Traveling has an immeasurable ability to change our perspective, balance our lives, and open our eyes to new opportunities. Whether we take a trip to a nearby community festival or hiking trail or fly to another continent, traveling is good for the body, mind, and soul.
Travel and tourism are also an important part of North Dakota’s diversified economy. New research shows visitors spent more than $3.3 billion in our state in 2023, impacting all 53 counties. In fact, visitors spend $9 million dollars per day in North Dakota. These dollars help sustain 3,000 businesses, like your favorite restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Last year, we saw a surge of 1.3 million additional trips to North Dakota, totaling 25.6 million in visitation.
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By creating more experiences that attract visitors, we are also enhancing the quality of life for our residents and helping to retain the talent needed to keep our businesses and organizations strong.
Our work as Commerce’s Tourism and Marketing division elevates our image and awareness as a destination, impacting businesses and lives across North Dakota. As we kick off the summer season, we encourage everyone to get out and explore, extending a friendly “Hello” to visitors discovering all that’s so legendary about North Dakota.
Sara Otte Coleman, Bismarck
North Dakota Tourism and Marketing director