Beech Tree News Network

The Bowling Green/Warren County area experienced a 7.9% increase in tourism, surpassing the previous record-setting year

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BOWLING GREEN – Governor Andy Beshear recently announced the economic impact of Kentucky’s tourism industry – $13.8 billion spent in 2023 which is more than a 9% increase compared to 2022. Bowling Green-area tourism in 2023 generated 4,023 jobs, with a total visitor spend of $477.3 million which helped to generate $39.3 million in state and local tax revenue. This is a 7.9% spend increase compared to the previous record-setting year showcasing travelers’ interest in Bowling Green as a destination. 

The impact survey was produced for the Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet by Tourism Economics, the Kentucky Department of Tourism’s research partner. For more information and to view the full economic impact report, please visit kentuckytourism.com/industry.

"While we’re thrilled to see the visitor numbers continue to trend upward, we’re not at all surprised,” said Sherry Murphy, executive director of the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The local tourism industry has proven its resilience and our area continues to attract visitors eager to experience all that Bowling Green has to offer. While it’s hard to sum up the collective efforts of our hotels, restaurants, attractions, event organizers, venues, and retail businesses, I think these numbers speak for themselves. We all work together to create an enjoyable experience for our visitors.”

The 2023 economic impact data comes on the heels of National Tourism and Travel Week, and the latest accolade from Southern Living Magazine, naming Bowling Green to the top ten list of the “ South’s Best Cities on the Rise 2024.” 

"2023 was another fantastic year for Bowling Green attractions," said Justin Jennings, chief executive officer of Lost River Cave. "A record number of visitors from around the country and the world traveled to Bowling Green to experience Kentucky's subterranean adventures. Lost River Cave proudly offers the only underground boat tour in the state, but we also offer the seasonal Butterfly Habitat and nature trails which are open year-round and attract more than 120,000 people each year. We're thrilled with this growth and are excited to see what visitors continue to discover in Bowling Green!"