National Travel and Tourism Week in Madison
Madison, Indiana | April 23, 2025— Madison, Indiana | April 23, 2025—National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), taking place May 4–10, 2025, spotlights the U.S. travel industry’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.
Since 1983, NTTW has emphasized travel’s contribution to the economic strength, vitality, and quality of life in communities across America. In 2024, the travel industry generated $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported over 15 million jobs, and produced $190 billion in tax revenue—equivalent to $1,490 per U.S. household.
Locally, the latest economic data highlights Madison & Jefferson County as a premier destination, welcoming over half a million visitors each year and generating a robust $63.7 million in visitor spending—an impressive 6% increase over the previous year.* Jefferson County alone benefits significantly from tourism, with visitor spending contributing over $6.9 million in state and local taxes, effectively reducing each household's tax burden by $540.
“Travel and tourism play a vital role in the continued growth and vibrancy of Madison and Jefferson County. Not only does tourism fuel our local economy, but it also spotlights the culture, charm, and hospitality that make our community a destination worth visiting. The impact is clear: from job creation to enhanced public services, the ripple effect of tourism is felt in every corner of our region. I am grateful to the dedicated team at Visit Madison and the Jefferson County Board of Tourism for their leadership and efforts in promoting our community and creating meaningful opportunities through travel,” said Mayor Bob Courtney.
At the April 22nd City of Madison Council meeting, Mayor Bob Courtney officially proclaimed May 4–10, 2025 as National Travel and Tourism Week in Madison, Indiana.
Visit Madison, Inc. (VMI) celebrates travel's critical role in powering our local economy, building meaningful opportunities, and connecting our community with the wider world. Andrew Forrester, VMI Executive Tourism Director, remarked, “NTTW is a wonderful way to shine a spotlight on the importance of tourism to our community. It's especially fitting that during this celebration, Madison will proudly host two conferences and a retreat, showcasing the power of business travel for a destination like ours. Additionally, we're excited to begin staffing our satellite Visitor Center located at the Main Street Comfort Station and debut our new trolley programming. With so many exciting initiatives unfolding, we invite the community to celebrate with us as we promote Madison as a great place to visit, play, and call home!”
During NTTW, May 4th through May 10th, we encourage residents to become tourists in their own hometown! Rediscover Madison’s charm by experiencing local historic tours, participating in community events listed on our online calendar, or exploring scenic beauty at Clifty Falls State Park—particularly on Sunday, May 4th, when the Indiana DNR celebrates "Indiana Day" by offering free admission. Embrace the opportunity to see Madison anew and appreciate all that makes our city and county uniquely special.