JACKSON – Visitor spending in Fiscal Year 2023 increased by nearly 10 percent from Fiscal Year 2022 $7.5 billion , ranking the state 11th in the nation in year-over-year growth.

At a press conference in Vicksburg celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week, Gov. Reeves on Thursday shared information that visitor spending generated $744 million in state and local taxes last year, saving each Mississippi household $633 in taxes and supported 105,000 Mississippi jobs.

“The fact that Mississippi is ranked 11th nationally in year-over-year visitor spending growth really highlights how much momentum our state’s tourism industry has,” Reeves said. “We’ve overhauled our tourism marketing strategy, and these award-winning efforts have gone a long way toward promoting Mississippi across the country. The state of Mississippi remains committed to enhancing our parks and welcome centers, as well as supporting the important work of sharing our story to travelers around the world. Wanderers are welcome in Mississippi.”

Outdoor recreation has emerged as a rising driver of tourism in Mississippi, and recent research indicates that 82% of visitors to Mississippi engaged in outdoor activities while on their visit. Renovations at Mississippi state parks are part of a 5-year, multi-million-dollar comprehensive plan that will provide improvements at all the state’s 24 parks.

Designs for the new Commissioner Dick Hall Hospitality Station at 4210 Washington Street in Vicksburg were revealed as well, including its larger footprint and museum showcasing the intertwining history of the city and the Mississippi River. The center will be named in honor of Vicksburg resident and Mississippi’s longest serving transportation commissioner, Dick Hall.