Mississippi’s $18.1 billion tourism industry took center stage at the State Capitol today as the Mississippi Tourism Association (MTA) hosted its annual Tourism Day, joined by Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, legislators, tourism leaders and students representing the next generation of the state’s hospitality workforce.
The event highlighted the economic impact of Mississippi’s fourth-largest industry and the measurable returns it generates for communities across all 82 counties.
In 2024, Mississippi welcomed 44 million visitors who spent $11.9 billion statewide, contributing to a total economic impact of $18.1 billion. That spending generated $1.1 billion in state and local taxes, reducing the tax burden for Mississippi households by approximately $1,045 per family while supporting more than 136,000 jobs, or one in every 13 jobs in the state.
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann addressed attendees and emphasized tourism’s strong return on investment and its role in Mississippi’s continued economic growth.
“Investing in tourism directly delivers real and tangible results for Mississippi,” said Hosemann. “It brings new dollars into our communities, strengthens small businesses, supports thousands of jobs, |
attracts economic development and shares the very best of what our state has to offer with the world.”
Tourism Day also underscored the industry’s broader role in economic development. Visitor experiences often shape the first impression formed by business leaders, site selectors and future residents considering Mississippi. Strong tourism assets including vibrant downtowns, cultural attractions, outdoor recreation and major events help position the state to compete for talent, investment and population growth.
“Mississippi’s tourism success is no accident,” said Laura Beth Strickland, Executive Director of Visit Vicksburg and current President of the Mississippi Tourism Association. “It is the result of strategic investment, accountability and strong partnerships at every level. Tourism strengthens our communities, supports small businesses and enhances quality of life for residents across the state.”
As tourism continues to grow, workforce development remains central to sustaining momentum. Students from the Lodging, Hospitality and Tourism program at Biloxi High School attended the event, representing the future of Mississippi’s tourism workforce and the expanding career pathways within the industry.
“Tourism is more than an industry. It is a solution,” said Danielle Morgan, Executive Director of the Mississippi Tourism Association. “When we invest in our workforce and tourism assets, tourism delivers results that strengthen communities and create opportunity across Mississippi.”
Tourism Day at the Capitol also featured special guests from the Mississippi Aquarium, including two one-year-old penguins, the first penguins born in Mississippi, highlighting the state’s growing portfolio of unique visitor attractions.
The day will conclude with an invitation-only reception honoring legislators and tourism supporters hosted by the Mississippi Tourism Association and the Mississippi Gaming and Hospitality Association from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at The South. Entertainment will be provided by Elvis tribute artist Brandon Bennett and sponsored by the Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau.
