Destination Dayton is proud to join communities across the country in celebrating the U.S. Travel Association’s National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW), May 4–10, 2025, an annual tradition established in 1983 to spotlight the U.S. travel industry’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.
Nationally in 2024, the travel industry generated $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported more than 15 million jobs and produced $190 billion in tax revenue–equivalent to $1,490 per household.
Tourism is a powerful economic driver in Dayton and Montgomery County. Based on data for Montgomery County released in June 2024, direct visitor spending of $1.6 billion generated tourism's total economic impact of $2.6 billion, including 22,752 total jobs (including full-time and part-time jobs) with associated labor income of $709.2 million in 2023. The economic impacts attributable to tourism generated significant fiscal (tax) impacts as they cycled through Montgomery County’s economy. Overall, tourism generated $342.1 million in Montgomery County tax revenues in 2023, resulting in $761 per household in tax burden relief. (Source: Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics Company)
During National Travel & Tourism Week, Destination Dayton–which promotes Dayton and Montgomery County as a premier destination for leisure visitors, as well as for meetings, events and conventions–encourages area residents to be a "tourist in your own backyard" and rediscover their local community.
"Dayton and Montgomery County have so much to offer, whether you're visiting from out of town or exploring your hometown with fresh eyes," said Jacquelyn Powell, president & CEO of Destination Dayton. "From the world-class National Museum of the U.S. Air Force to a wide range of museums, the vibrant arts scene, scenic trails and rich aviation heritage, there’s something here for everyone. We encourage our local residents to rediscover the incredible experiences that make Dayton unique."
As part of the National Travel & Tourism Week celebration, Destination Dayton is partnering with iHeart Media Dayton to give area residents the opportunity to discover and explore Dayton. Listen to the Mix 107.7 Morning Show's "Impossible Question" May 5-9 for chances to win Dayton/Montgomery County prize packages, featuring items such as tickets to the Dayton Dragons, CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show and Rose Music Center, as well as gift certificates and items from area businesses and restaurants.
Destination Dayton staff will also exhibit to promote Dayton and Montgomery County at Ohio Tourism Day, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the West Plaza of the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus. Ohio Tourism Day is a free celebration of Ohio's tourism industry and provides the opportunity for consumers to plan their Ohio vacations while visiting with tourism destinations and attractions from across the state.
"Travel supports a strong Dayton and Montgomery County," Powell added. "When we invest in tourism, we're investing in our local economy, job creation and a vibrant community. Join us in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week and the powerful role travel plays right here at home."
"Travel is one of our nation's most powerful economic engines–supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses and propelling industries forward," said U.S. Travel Association President & CEO Geoff Freeman. "National Travel and Tourism Week reinforces the pivotal role travel plays in building a stronger, more prosperous America."
As Dayton and Montgomery County's destination marketing organization, Destination Dayton collaboratively leads and advocates for the development of the region's visitor economy, which contributes to a thriving community, a diverse tax base and lifestyle amenities for everyone to enjoy.