Visit Hickory, NC Celebrates the Power of Travel During National Travel and Tourism Week
Travel Powers the Economy, Builds Opportunity & Connects America
Hickory, NC — May 4-10, 2025 — Cue the confetti!! It’s National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), and Visit Hickory, NC is ready to shout from the rooftops (or maybe just our scenic overlooks) about why travel matters more than ever.
“Travel is one of our nation's most powerful economic engines—supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses and propelling industries forward,” said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman. “National Travel and Tourism Week reinforces the pivotal role travel plays in building a stronger, more prosperous America.”
Since 1983, NTTW has been a time to shine a spotlight on the power of travel — to boost economies, support local jobs, and bring communities together. In 2024 alone, travel generated an eye-popping $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported over 15 million jobs nationwide, and contributed $190 billion in tax revenue — that's about $1,490 back in each U.S. household’s piggy bank.
Here in Hickory? We’re proud to be a thriving part of that picture.
In 2023, visitors in Catawba County generated more than $348 million in visitor spending and supported almost 2,500 local jobs in the travel and tourism sector. From vibrant downtown shops to peaceful trails, artisan experiences to local flavors, travel fuels the good vibes and the economic engine of our community.
“This National Travel and Tourism Week, we’re celebrating the undeniable power of travel and its role in shaping not just our economy, but our sense of place,” said Mandy Pitts Hildebrand, CEO of Visit Hickory, NC and the Hickory Metro Convention Center. “Whether you're visiting for business through the week, a weekend getaway or looking to put down roots, our community leaves an impression — and it’s the people, places, and pride in our community that make it so special.”
Curious about what makes Hickory so lovable (and Insta-worthy)? From outdoor escapes and art walks to local eats and can’t-miss events, your next adventure is closer than you think. Head to www.VisitHickoryNC.com to get inspired, plan your trip, and find out how you can help us keep our little corner of North Carolina as beautiful and welcoming as ever.
Let’s celebrate the power of travel — and all the good it brings along for the ride.
For more info on National Travel and Tourism Week, visit ustravel.org/NTTW.
For more information on Visit Hickory’s impact on Travel and Tourism or looking for even more things to do, visit www.VisitHickoryNC.com
