During the first week of May, tourists, and the service industry that supports them, will celebrate Arizona Travel and Tourism Week. This annual event highlights the significant role played by tourism in the state’s economy. Every year, this export-oriented sector generates $20.9 billion in direct revenues. With a state offering attractions as varied as world-class sports venues, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and exquisite Southwest cuisine, it is little surprise that visitors from across the country and the world are clamoring to experience all Arizona has to offer.
Every county in Arizona enjoys the tremendous benefits of tourism. The Grand Canyon alone attracts 5 million unique tourists each year, all of them eager to gaze out over the most stunning landscape in the world. Pima County , home of the unforgettable Saguaro National Park, top-tier wineries, and the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain, Arizona’s only Five-Star, Five-Diamond resort, also sees considerable gains from tourism.
Not only does tourism promote the service sector that caters to travelers’ needs, but it also provides powerful economic drivers for all who live in Arizona. After all, the same infrastructure that supports tourism also provides valuable services for residents. The Arizona Office of Tourism estimates that tourism contributes $28 billion in federal, state, and local tax revenues, revenues which are then spent on providing public services that improve the overall well-being and quality of life for all residents.
Furthermore, the Arizona Office of Tourism estimates that tourism directly supports 171,500 jobs in our beautiful state, and indirectly supports 300,000 more jobs in industry-related businesses.
Marana is an active participant in the Arizona tourist economy. Last year, the Town launched DiscoverMarana.org, a portal for visitors to Marana to learn more about all this community has to offer. Marana’s tourism efforts also include targeted advertising in print publications that reach audiences across the country and even abroad.
Last year, these efforts supported Marana’s partnership with Perimeter Cycling, the host of El Tour de Tucson. In November 2016, for the first time, Marana will host its own start in El Tour, inviting visitors to Marana to join our residents in an invigorating ride through Marana to Downtown Tucson.
Town of Marana Tourism Manager Toby Parks has reveled in the opportunity since she started in her position in 2015. “Marana is the gateway to Southern Arizona and has many wonderful tourism draws, including hiking, cycling, and world class golf. Anyone who visits Marana walks away with incredible memories of a rich landscape filled with natural beauty.”
To stay up to date with Marana’s tourism efforts, be sure to like Discover Marana on Facebook, and visit DiscoverMarana.org to learn all there is to know about visiting this beautiful community.
