April 28, 2022

This paid piece is sponsored by Experience Sioux Falls, formerly the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Each year, destinations around the country celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week during the first full week of May, and this May 1-7 is no different. The travel and tourism industry has an enormous impact on the American economy, which can be felt even on the local level.

Many people think of travel and tourism as only airfare and hotel costs, but it’s so much more than that. It starts with travel costs and then includes expenses for lodging, shopping, dining, attractions, events and more. The industry has a ripple effect through many different sectors.

“If you own a small business or even a fuel station, you may not think you are part of the travel and tourism industry, but you certainly are. If a visitor to Sioux Falls makes a purchase at your business, then the travel and tourism industry is important to you,” said Experience Sioux Falls executive director Teri Schmidt.

Last year, Sioux Falls had over 1.2 million visitors, which resulted in an estimated economic impact of over $437 million — and those figures are just based on the numbers Experience Sioux Falls actually could count.

At the state level, South Dakota saw 13.5 million visitors to the land of Great Faces and Great Places, with an estimated economic impact of $4.4 billion.

“Because of the travel and tourism industry, each household in our state saved $980 in taxes they would have had to pay if tourism did not exist”  Schmidt said.

The next time you see a visitor in Sioux Falls, tell them hello to make them feel welcome and thank them for choosing Sioux Falls as their destination. After all, it’s putting money back into your pockets.

Experience Sioux Falls and the South Dakota Department of Tourism are shining a light on the industry during National Travel & Tourism Week with a few events. Mark your calendars!

Wednesday, May 4

The Department of Tourism is hosting a free Spring Hospitality Training session at the Holiday Inn City Centre from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. intended for front-line employees. Attendees will hear from nationally renowned speaker Christine Cashen, who will teach strategies to achieve the best in your personal and professional life.

Friday, May 6

Enjoy a treat from Experience Sioux Falls as we wrap up National Travel & Tourism Week. Receive a free scoop of Culver’s frozen custard and grab a free T-shirt while supplies last at the Washington Pavilion’s Paladino Hohm Sculpture Garden from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

May 1 – June 30

Experience Sioux Falls is hosting a city Familiarization Tour Contest encouraging front-line employees to visit participating attractions so they can learn more about all there is to do in Sioux Falls and then pass that knowledge onto visitors. Front-line employees will have the chance to win prizes along the way.