National Travel and Tourism Week is a time to celebrate the people who make travel possible across the country. From hotel staff and tour guides to restaurant teams and event planners, they help power an industry that brings about $2.9 trillion into the U.S. economy and supports 15 million jobs. Travel also generates tax revenue that helps fund things we all rely on—like roads, schools, and public services. More than anything, it’s a chance to recognize the people behind the scenes and the meaningful role travel plays in our communities and everyday lives. Greater Birmingham experienced a record year for tourism. See some impact data below:
2024 VISITORS
4.04 Million Strengthens Nearby Communities through Economic Support
2024 COUNTY TAX REVENUE
2024 VISITOR SPENDING
$107 Million
$2.57 Million
Strengthens Everyday Services and Builds Better Places for Families
Boosts Local Economy and Supports Various Businesses
2024 JOBS SUPPORTED
51,887
Building a Thriving Regional Economy that Creates Lasting Opportunity for Everyone
IDEAS TO CELEBRATE NTTW AT YOUR BUSINESS CELEBRATE VISITORS
CELEBRATE STAFF
Hotels: Conduct tours of the presidential suite
Post daily staff photos with quotes on why they love tourism to counter local “traffic” stigmas.
Venues: Offer a “View from the Stage” tour. Wear red, use red exterior lighting, etc. to show industry solidarity Host a nightly tasting featuring local breweries/ wineries Invite small local artisans who don’t have storefronts to set up in your lobby. Feature a signature dish or cocktail named after a local historic site or landmark Use social media to offer “Power Hour” discounts (e.g. 20% off for anyone who mentions “National Travel and Tourism Week”
GBCVB RESOURCES We’re here to support your visitors’ experience in Greater Birmingham and help showcase your business. Check out our Birmingham Guides and Events web page to share with visitors. You can also submit your event on our Events page. For you and your staff to learn more about Birmingham, ask us about the fall Destination Tour on September 15. Tag us at our below handle for a chance to be featured.
Display a lobby or back-of-house gallery featuring employee photos and fun facts. Host a formal meal specifically for frontline staff (housekeeping, drivers, servers). Organize an informal staff appreciation barbecue or meal. Hold a public competition featuring a Bellman Sprint, Bed-Making Challenge, and Waiter’s Tray Dash. Provide “Thank You” cards in the lobby for guests to write notes to specific staff for delivery during huddles. Use sticky notes at employee entrances for peer-to-peer “save the day” recognition. Offer onsite yoga or chair massages to staff via local partners. Industry Partners: Partner with local businesses to offer 25% off for anyone presenting a tourism-sector ID or paystub.
CELEBRATE LOCAL Offer discounts for local Jefferson County residents.
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