Sagamore cruise ship

Tourism

Exploring New York State is an amazing business

Contact David Turley
Industry Contact Regional Director David Turley
Telephone Icon Phone (518) 501-1335 Envelope Icon Email [email protected]
Tourists overlooking Niagara Falls

Tourism Industry is Crucial to New York State Growth

Tourists overlooking Niagara Falls

With 11 geographically diverse vacation regions, New York’s world-class tourism industry welcomes, hosts and supports all types of visitors who come to enjoy the beauty and wonder of our great state. New York’s tourism businesses become both visitor destinations and economic drivers in an array of dynamic settings, from awe-inspiring city lights to high mountain peaks, sandy beaches, scenic lakes and world-renowned wine and craft beverage trails. A record-high 306.3 million visitors enjoyed New York State in 2023, spending $88 billion and generating an economic impact of $137 billion.   

New York State prioritizes investment in major tourism infrastructure projects. From the transformation of Penn Station into a modern, world-class transportation hub to the renovation of nearly all major airports (John F Kennedy International, LaGuardia International, Syracuse Hancock International, Plattsburgh International, Elmira Corning Regional, Rochester International, Ithaca Tompkins International, Albany International and New York Stewart International), New York State is committed to ensuring both visitors and residents have first-rate transportation options.

National Comedy Center

The state continues to support the tourism industry with strategic investments in some of New York’s most unique tourism assets like Niagara Falls, the National Comedy Center, the Empire State Trail and the Erie Canal. These investments contribute to a positive and memorable visitor experience. 

fireplace artifacts selfie

New York State understands the value of tourism and has committed millions of dollars to promoting tourism businesses throughout the state with robust marketing efforts that include paid advertising, social media, earned media, tourism trade sales work and live event activations. New York State Welcome Centers are open in each of the 11 regions of the state. The Welcome Centers are regionally reflective of each area, helping inspire travelers to visit everything each region has to offer. 

Tourism in New York State

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306.3 Million

visitors to New York State in 2023

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$88 Billion

direct visitor spending in 2023

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$137 Billion

total economic impact of NYS tourism in 2023

Financial Incentives for Tourism Businesses in New York State

Companies and organizations that strengthen tourism and attract visitors to New York State by promoting destinations, attractions, and special events may be eligible for grants.

Market New York – Tourism Grant Program

Market New York is a grant program with funding available for eligible projects that will create an economic impact by increasing tourism throughout the state.
Learn More

Tourism Matching Funds Program

The Division of Tourism offers matching funds to help local regions reach new market areas and expand programs that generate overnight stays.
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Other funding opportunities

Tax incentives, grants, and other financial and operational support to help your business grow and thrive.
Learn More

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Industry Contact

For press inquiries, please contact [email protected]