Omaha's Billion Dollar Tourism Industry

[UrbanNebraska]

http://www.omaha.com/article/2013063...706309928/1685

“Omaha is becoming more of a destination, with big-time events,” City Council President Pete Festersen said. “In addition to the benefit to the economy, the identity and image it creates for our city is priceless.”

The research by Philadelphia-based Tourism Economics shows that after a recession-related plunge in 2009, the local tourism industry steadily rebounded and, in 2012, reached 11.4 million visitors, 4 percent more than the year before. That count includes day, overnight, business and convention guests.

Visitor spending on items such as lodging, shopping, transportation and food grew to $1.025 billion, a 10 percent jump compared with the year before.

First time ever breaking the billion dollar mark for the city. A nice milestone to hit, showing Omaha actually has some draw in the region.