Monday, October 7, 2024 The state of Mississippi continues to prove its place as a rising star in the tourism industry. In 2023, the state welcomed a staggering 43.7 million visitors, contributing an unprecedented $17.
5 billion to its economy. These numbers represent record-breaking figures for the state, showcasing Mississippi’s growing appeal to both domestic and international travelers. At the heart of these remarkable achievements is the dedication and vision of the state’s tourism industry professionals.
Their efforts were honored during the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism , which took place this week on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. More than 200 tourism professionals from across the state gathered to celebrate the industry’s success, share ideas, and strategize for the future. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves addressed the conference, highlighting the pivotal role tourism plays in the state’s economic growth.
“Mississippi’s story is a story worth telling, and the tourism industry in our state does a fantastic job doing exactly that,” Governor Reeves said during his speech. He expressed gratitude to the tourism professionals for their continued commitment to promoting Mississippi as a must-visit destination. Hattiesburg, affectionately known as the Hub City , played host to this year’s Governor’s Conference on Tourism, marking a significant return to the city for the prestigious event.
Marlo Dorsey , Exe.