TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – As summer draws to a close, Tucson is grappling with the impact of decreased tourism on its economy.
Traditionally, the intense heat causes a slow season for local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and restaurant sectors. The last two summers have been particularly tough, however. During the pandemic, domestic travel surged, helped by government support. Nonetheless, this trend has reversed, with more travelers opting for international destinations in recent years.
Southern Arizona has seen a decline in hotel bookings and visitor numbers. Despite these challenges, many local hotels utilised the quieter months for renovations, preparing for the upcoming busy season. “We want to prove them wrong,” said Felipe Garcia, president, and CEO of Visit Tucson. “We want to show that, in a year, we can see growth in hotel occupancy here in Tucson. Tourism impacts everyone in Pima County and southern Arizona.”
With cooler temperatures on the horizon, excitement is building for outdoor events. For example, the Food and Film 520 event, one of the first public gatherings in months, sold out within hours. More events are coming up, including the Dusk Music Festival and Tucson Meet Yourself. These events are eagerly anticipated and should help bolster local business activity.
Moreover, the economic benefits of tourism extend far and wide in the region. For continued updates on Tucson’s economic outlook and local events, you can check out Visit Tucson.
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