NEW REPORT: Tourism Industry Contributed More Than $87 Billion to Pennsylvania’s Economy and Supported Over 521,000 Jobs in 2025

Under Governor Josh Shapiro, the Commonwealth has grown its tourism industry by $6.4 billion and 13,427 jobs - welcoming 206.2 million visitors in 2025 alone.

Pennsylvania was recently recognized with three ESTO awards from the US Travel Association for its tourism excellence, the most awards ever received by any state in a single year.

Over the last three years, Governor Shapiro has promoted Pennsylvania as the "Great American Getaway" and increased funding for tourism and 2026 marquee event support.

Harrisburg, PA - Today, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger unveiled a new report highlighting how the Commonwealth's tourism industry has grown by $6.4 billion and 13,427 jobs since Governor Shapiro took office. The new report, produced by Tourism Economics, shows the Commonwealth's tourism industry had an $87.2 billion impact on Pennsylvania's economy last year - supporting 521,021 jobs, generating $5.2 billion in state and local taxes, and welcoming 206.2 million visitors last year.

Tourism is a key priority in Governor Shapiro's Economic Development Strategy - and the industry is surging. Over the last three years, the Governor has rebranded Pennsylvania as the "Great American Getaway" and increased funding for tourism and 2026 marquee event support.

"Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has focused on making Pennsylvania a top destination for visitors from around the world, and this new report reinforces that we are truly The Great American Getaway," said Secretary Siger. "Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, we created the first economic development strategy in two decades, secured key funding for tourism initiatives and programs, and continue to ensure the world knows that Pennsylvania has exciting and authentic experiences for every traveler."

Key highlights from the 2025 Economic Impact of Visitors to Pennsylvania report include:

• 206.2 million visitors to the Commonwealth, up from nearly 4.6 million in 2024.
• $51.6 billion in visitor spending, a 3.5 percent increase from 2024.
• $87.2 billion in total economic impact, an increase of $3.3 billion from 2024.
• 521,021 total jobs for Pennsylvanians supported through events, hospitality, and the food and beverage industry.
• $5.2 billion in state and local tax revenue.

Additionally, Pennsylvania was recently awarded three US Travel ESTO Awards recognizing Pennsylvania's excellence and creativity for destination marketing, honoring local and state tourism initiatives and organizations. This is the first time any state or destination has received three ESTO awards in a single year.

Pennsylvania was named a finalist and received the Bridging Communities Award, Digital Brilliance Award, and the Marketing Momentum Awards for a state with an overall marketing budget less than or equal to $10 million.

"Pennsylvania tourism has real momentum, and these numbers show it," said Anne Ryan, DCED Deputy Secretary of Tourism. "More people are choosing Pennsylvania, they're staying longer, spending more, and supporting the small businesses and communities that make this Commonwealth such an incredible place to visit. That growth doesn't happen by accident. We've been intentional about telling a bigger, bolder story about Pennsylvania and giving travelers new reasons to take a trip here. Becoming the first state to win three ESTO awards in a single year is tremendous recognition of that work, but the impact we're seeing in communities across Pennsylvania is what matters most. And we're just getting started."

Importance of Pennsylvania Tourism

Pennsylvania is open for business and visitors. The Shapiro Administration continues to uplift Pennsylvania's tourism industry and invite people from across the world to experience all that Pennsylvania has to offer. The 2026-27 bipartisan budget included $19.5 million in Marketing to Attract Tourists to increase awareness and invite visitors to the thousands of quintessential getaway experiences throughout the Commonwealth.

As the birthplace of American democracy, Pennsylvania has been in the spotlight in 2026 with important events throughout the Commonwealth. From the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia to major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup™, NFL Draft, MLB All-Star Game, and more, these experiences have been huge tourism and economic development opportunities for the Commonwealth as millions of people visited - and continue visiting - Pennsylvania.

About Visit PA

Visit PA, the official tourism office of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and part of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, promotes travel to Pennsylvania's 67 counties and showcases the experiences that make the Commonwealth The Great American Getaway. From vibrant cities and historic landmarks to outdoor adventure, arts and culture, culinary experiences and small-town charm, Pennsylvania offers authentic experiences for every traveler. Learn more at visitpa.com.

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