Tourism Growth Jumps 19% in Walker County in 2024

A newly released Travel Economic Impact study, prepared by Tourism Economics, shows visitor spending increased significantly in Walker County last year.

The report found visitors spent $51.9 million on lodging, food and beverage, recreation, retail, and transportation in 2024 resulting in a growth rate of 19.1% compared to 2023. All four sectors posted year over year gains, with the largest growth occurring in retail.

Travel demand in 2024 supported 450 jobs in Walker County, an increase of 64 positions, and generated $3.6 million in state and local tax revenue. The Georgia Department of Economic Development estimates tourism revenue replaced $137 in taxes for every household in Walker County last year.

Walker County's boost in tourism contributed to Georgia's record year for tourism, helping the state rank fifth in the nation for overnight visitation for the fifth year in a row

"Georgia's tourism success proves the power of partnerships," said Georgia Department of Economic Development Deputy Commissioner of Tourism Jay Markwalter. "Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kemp, our General Assembly, Commissioner Wilson, the Tourism Foundation Board of Directors, and the efforts of our statewide tourism industry, more visitors than ever before are choosing to spend their time and money experiencing everything that makes our state great. The local communities that bring these authentic experiences to life are a key reason why Georgia's visitor economy continues to grow and thrive."

Georgia's tourism industry is the second-largest economic contributor to the state, generating $82 billion in economic impact and supporting 470,570 jobs.

Walker County and other parts of north Georgia are expected to receive another tourism boost next year, when Atlanta plays host to the FIFA World Cup from June 11, 2026 through July 19, 2026. International travelers are expected to stay outside of Atlanta and/or make trips to locations outside of the big city during their visit.