Ocala/Marion County is Celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week with Record Revenue

OCALA/MARION COUNTY, Fla.—As part of National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) celebrations, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation at the BCC Meeting on Tuesday, May 21 recognizing NTTW and highlighting how travel uplifts the economy, creates quality jobs, inspires new businesses and elevates the quality of life for residents as well as visitors.

Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau is celebrating the positive impact of tourism on the local community ahead of National Travel and Tourism Week (May 19-25, 2024) with another record breaking single month for Tourist Development Tax revenue, $697,599.40. This number reflects tax collected from stays during March 2024, in short-term accommodations in Marion County for less than six months. This is the highest revenue to date, for a single month, since voters approved the Tourist Development Tax (TDT) referendum effective January 2005—to which the use of revenue is strictly regulated by State Law (F.S. 125.0104). The preceding month, February 2024, broke its own record in revenue for February, $628,714.27. The total revenue for these two months combined is $1,326,313.67.

According to the latest economic impact of tourism research (conducted from April 2023-March 2024), Marion county welcomed 1.4 million visitors, who generated more than $1 billion in economic impact in just one year. Visitors spent more than $682 million directly on accommodations, restaurants, groceries, transportation, attractions, entertainment, and shopping. Additionally, visitor spending saves locals $466 in taxes per household annually.

“Tourism is vital to Marion County’s thriving economy and high quality of life. Our natural wonders continue to attract events and visitors from all over the world,” said Marion County Board of County Commissioners Chair Michelle Stone. “Revenue from Florida’s tourism supports more than 10,000 local jobs and generates millions toward our community’s revenue. Tourism is the lifeblood of Florida, driving economic growth, creating jobs, and providing revenue that supports various sectors; from hospitality to retail,” continued Stone. “It’s an essential part of our identity and prosperity, allowing us to operate without a state income tax.”

“Our residents and their businesses are Ocala/Marion County’s most important advocates in tourism, and I want to thank the entire community for your continued southern hospitality,” said Loretta Shaffer, Tourism Development Director. “Our destination is not just for tourists to enjoy, I encourage residents to take some time this summer to explore the outdoor playground that awaits in your own backyard to truly appreciate where you live. If you have not already, download the OcalaMarion Travel Guide App or visit OcalaMarion.com to find inspiration on how to plan your own adventure “

For more information on how to download the app, visit OcalaMarion.com/App. If a local business is interested in partnering with the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau to help promote the OcalaMarion Travel Guide app, please reach out at 352-438-2800 or email marekting@marionfl.org.

In honor of NTTW, Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau will be sharing exciting announcements throughout the week, so stay tuned for more news and follow @OcalaMarion on social media.

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About: Internationally renowned among equestrians, cyclists, geologists, and even the world of classic cinematography, Ocala/Marion County still feels like a hidden gem to those who aren’t already insiders. And yet, when you’re here, you’re never an outsider. The relaxed, genuine friendliness of the county’s communities makes you feel welcome wherever you go. From its otherworldly natural springs to the compounds of World Equestrian Center and Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training to its vibrant restaurants, quaint shops, dynamic arts and culture, and historic sites, the destination takes you by surprise in the best of ways. For more information about Ocala/Marion County, visit OcalaMarion.com or call toll-free 1.888.FL.OCALA.