Did you know that travel is one of the most powerful economic engines in the United States?

From May 4–10, we join communities across the country to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW) - an annual tradition established by the U.S. Travel Association in 1983 that highlights the undeniable impact travel has on our economy, our workforce, and our quality of life. This year’s theme is all about opportunity—and there’s no better time to recognize how travel powers progress, prosperity, and possibility here on Long Island and beyond.

Did you know? Travel is more than just taking a vacation. It’s opportunity in motion. It fuels job creation, business innovation, and government investment in services we all rely on.

🚀 Travel Powers the Nation

Across the U.S., the travel industry fuels more than 15 million American jobs and generates an astonishing $2.9 trillion in total economic output. That includes $1.3 trillion in direct traveler spending - dollars that support not just hotels and attractions, but also restaurants, retail, transportation, agriculture, technology, and manufacturing​.

One in every 11 U.S. jobs is supported by travel. That means when people pack their bags, they’re also helping their neighbors thrive.

Even better? The industry delivers big for public services. In 2024, travel-generated tax revenue reached $190 billion, saving every U.S. household roughly $1,490 annually in taxes​.

 

Islanders UBS

 

🌍 Travel Boosts Global Competitiveness

International travel remains one of America’s largest exports, yet it is important to note that our global market share has declined from 12.8% in 2015 to just 9.1% today. Regaining that ground could add 127+ million international visitors, create 140,000 new jobs, and generate an additional $478 billion in spending over the next decade​.

Major events like the 2025 Ryder Cup, 2026 World Cup, and 2028 Summer Olympics are golden opportunities to showcase America to the world. Long Island is proud to be part of that momentum, especially with Bethpage Black teeing up as the host of the Ryder Cup this fall!

 

Hotel Morraine

 

🏖️ Long Island is a Year-Round Destination

So how does Long Island stack up? Let’s just say, we’re making waves!

As the region’s only accredited destination marketing organization (DMO), Discover Long Island plays a vital role in elevating our region’s visibility, supporting local businesses, and welcoming visitors from near and far.

In 2023 alone, according to the latest data by Tourism Economics, Long Island tourism:

  • Welcomed more than 41 million visitors
  • Generated a record-breaking $7.5 billion in direct visitor spending
  • Supported over 76,000 local jobs
  • Delivered $900 million in state and local tax revenue—funding schools, infrastructure, public safety, and more

Travel on Long Island isn’t seasonal, it’s year-round. From surfing and fishing in summer to vineyard tours and pumpkin picking in fall, from holiday shopping in cozy downtowns to springtime hikes and golf getaways, our destination delivers in every season.

 

Hotel Morraine

 

📸 Join In

This National Travel & Tourism Week, we invite you to:

  • Explore a new part of Long Island!
  • Support the businesses that make Long Island special!
  • Advocate for travel - let your local legislators know why the tourism industry matters to you. Whether it’s job creation, infrastructure improvements, or preserving the places you love, your voice helps ensure travel and tourism remain top priorities in our community.
  • Share your favorite Long Island adventures on social media using #NTTW25 and #YouBeLONG - because when you travel locally, you help Long Island shine.