Explore Ridgeland Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week 2024: Growing Tourism in Ridgeland

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Katie Coats
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
Explore Ridgeland
(o) 601.605.5251 | (m) 228.357.4086
katie@exploreridgeland.com

May 21, 2024

Images: https://platform.crowdriff.com

Ridgeland Tourism Commission Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week 2024: Growing Tourism in Ridgeland

Ridgeland, Miss. – As National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is celebrated across the U.S. from May 19 - May 25, 2024, the Ridgeland Tourism Commission (Explore Ridgleand) is highlighting the significant economic contributions of tourism to the local community. This year’s theme, "Growing Tourism in Ridgeland," highlights not only the city's unique attractions, such as the wildflower field, but also the indispensable role tourism plays in driving economic growth and fostering community vitality.

In fiscal year 2023, Ridgeland experienced a substantial influx of visitor spending, reaching an impressive $106.8 million. This spending not only bolsters local businesses but also supports over 1,000 jobs within the community. Furthermore, it contributes $15.1 million in state and local taxes, providing essential revenue for public services and infrastructure development. These figures underscore the vital role tourism plays in Ridgeland's economic prosperity, representing a significant driver of local job creation, business growth, and government revenue.

President and CEO of Explore Ridgeland, Chris Chapman, emphasized the importance of tourism, stating, "Tourism is not just about visiting new places; it’s about fostering economic growth, supporting local businesses, and enhancing our community's vibrancy. National Travel and Tourism Week provides us with an opportunity to showcase Ridgeland’s unique attractions and the positive impact of tourism on our city.”

2022 visitor spending in Ridgeland grew $11.1 million (12%) over the previous year, climbing to 119% of pre-pandemic levels. Of the $106.8 million spent in Ridgeland by visitors, spending on food and beverage accounted for $38.9 million, 36% of total visitor dollar spending. Spending on lodging, including the value of second homes and short-term rentals, resulted in $31.3 million, 29% of visitor spending. Retail, transportation, and spending on recreation rounded out the total.

To celebrate NTTW and showcase Ridgeland's thriving tourism industry, the Ridgeland Visitors Center (VC) invites community members and visitors to visit the VC throughout the week for complimentary wildflower kits and informative displays about the economic impact of tourism in Ridgeland.

Additionally, RTC has recognized outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry with the “Hospitality Champion” Awards. This year, they honored exemplary employees from both the lodging and restaurant sectors in Ridgeland for their exceptional service and dedication.

2024 Hospitality Champion Award Recipients are:

Lodging Sector: Jessica Patrick from Hyatt Place at The Renaissance, nominated by Barbara Young, Dual Director of Sales at InterMountain Management. Patrick has been a sales assistant at the Hyatt Place for six months and in the hospitality industry for five years. Young noted that Patrick is known for her reliability and exceptional attention to detail and has taken full ownership of the sales office, often going above and beyond, even on her days off. Additionally, her dedication and outstanding service were recognized by a healthcare company that insisted she accept a 25% gratuity due to her eagerness to please and her unflappable attention to detail. “Jessica is a valuable asset not only to Hyatt Place but to the entire hospitality industry.”

Restaurant Sector: Laurel Rowell, Social Media Marketing Manager at New South Restaurant Group, nominated by Jose Zambranu, Manager of Enzo Osteria. Rowell has been in the hospitality industry and with the company for three years and has played a crucial role in improving community involvement. Zambranu cited Rowell’s leadership in spearheading initiatives such as sponsoring schools for Toys for Tots and organizing can drives. Rowell has also actively involved the organization in events such as Taste of Mississippi, Sante South, and Alzheimer’s fundraising events, demonstrating her commitment to the betterment of Ridgeland. “Her dedication and caring nature make her an exceptional representative of Ridgeland’s hospitality industry.”

Explore Ridgleand invites the public to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week by sharing experiences on social media tagging #ExploreRidgeland and #NTTW24. The goal is to come together to spotlight the critical importance of tourism in the community and its impact on the local economy.

To learn more about Ridgeland’s tourism offerings, visit www.exploreRidgeland.com. Click here to download this press release as a PDF.

About National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW):
Established in 1983, NTTW celebrates the U.S. travel community’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, and creating quality job opportunities. Travel is a $2.8 trillion industry that supports nearly 15 million American jobs, powering sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture.

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In Ridgeland, Mississippi, small-town southern charm meets big-city luxury, and travelers have near-endless possibilities to explore their passions. Just north of the capital and along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, is a paradise for cyclists, with nationally recognized trails and a vibrant biking community. “The Rez” beckons water lovers for boating, fishing, and more on its sprawling 33,000 acres. Guests can discover unique art at the Bill Waller Craft Center, indulge in diverse culinary delights, and enjoy top-tier shopping, or high-end spas. www.exploreridgeland.com