With the grounds of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park as a backdrop, tourism leaders from Pure Michigan, Experience Grand Rapids and the Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan shared data highlighting the industry’s $53.2 billion annual economic impact generating $29.3 billion in visitor spending in 2023 and supporting more than 346,000 jobs statewide.
Nick Nerbonne, Media and Digital Director for Pure Michigan emphasized the focus on inclusive tourism with Grand Rapids recently designated as a Verified City for accessible travel by Wheel the World, a worldwide accessibility advocate.
“Michigan is a leader across the country in accessible travel and we’re proud to have so many opportunities here at Meijer Garden and in Grand Rapids and across the state for people of all abilities to enjoy.”
International travelers are a key component to Michigan’s economy and Pure Michigan’s Vice President Kelly Wolgamott says leaders are monitoring numbers closely as some foreign tourists react to political issues.
“Michigan has those features that the repeat international traveler is looking for and from what we’re seeing bookings are still looking great when you look at the UK and Germany. The traveler sentiment there is very positive when it comes to Michigan.
Wolgamott says tourism officials have good relationships with neighboring Canada, are monitoring travel trends there, and will continue to offer a warm welcome to travelers.
