This National Travel and Tourism Week, there is more reason than ever to celebrate the collective strength of the U.S. travel and tourism industry and its dynamic workforce.
The 38th annual NTTW, taking place May 2-8, recognizes the Power of Travel and the critical role our industry will play in bringing back our vibrant community, restoring the economy, rebuilding our workforce and reconnecting America.
Prior to the pandemic, the travel industry was a powerful economic engine, supporting jobs and driving local economies in every pocket of America. The industry had experienced 107 straight months of growth, generated $2.6 trillion in economic output, supported 17 million American jobs and delivered a $51 billion trade surplus to the U.S.
Unfortunately, that strong growth trend plummeted last year due to the pandemic. Travel spending in the U.S. declined 42%, costing the economy $1.1 trillion, while hardworking Americans supported by travel made up a staggering 65% of all U.S. unemployment. Here in Plano, Texas, pre-COVID-19, over 7,000 people alone made up the hospitality industry.
However, Plano – and the travel industry – is resilient.
While we faced extraordinary challenges in the past year, our industry united like never before, lifted each other up, aided one another, and devoted ourselves fully to the task of supporting and restoring all sectors of travel. This year’s NTTW is an opportunity to turn the page to a new chapter in our industry’s story and celebrate its collective power by spotlighting the innumerable ways travel will drive recovery, bring Americans together again and help define our country’s path forward.
Today, Plano is excited to welcome travelers back to a city where “It’s All Here”.
From luxurious shopping and delicious patio dining at Legacy West to the family-friendly Crayola Experience, Plano’s travel and tourism industry contributes so much to our local economy and our community’s unique character.
From all of us at Visit Plano, welcome to Plano, Texas.
For listings of events, dining, and attractions, explore our website.
