The state of Kentucky enjoyed its best year for tourism in 2023.
It generated a record $13.8 billion in economic impact, Gov. Andy Beshear says.
The Kentucky tourism sector supported 95,000 jobs, as tourism remains a key segment of the commonwealth’s economy.
The Governor joined state tourism leaders to celebrate the second straight record-breaking year for tourism economic impact in Kentucky.
“More and more people want to visit Kentucky, creating more experiences for their families while generating jobs for Kentuckians,” said Gov. Beshear.
“Kentucky is on the biggest tourism and economic roll of our lifetime, and this is a direct result of investments in building a thriving, welcoming tourism industry.”
According to a study by Tourism Economics, 79.3 million travelers visited Kentucky in 2023, a 4.5% increase from 2022.
Those travelers spent a total of $9.7 billion across the state including $2.28 billion on lodging, and $1.26 billion on recreation and entertainment.
Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet Secretary Lindy Casebier said: “Today’s numbers emphasize the importance of tourism to Kentucky’s economy and the impact created by all of our local partners.”
Kentucky tourism also had a record-breaking 2022, generating more than $12.9 billion in economic impact.
In November 2023, Gov. Beshear announced nine new tourism development projects are set to generate an estimated $292.1 million in economic investment.
These projects also expect to create 550 jobs once operational.
