CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The Mountain State is doing its part to make the most of National Travel and Tourism Week, which was established by a congressional resolution in 1983.
State Tourism Commissioner Amy Shuler Goodwin says tourism is a bigger boom for West Virginia than some might expect.
“Bringing in about $4.5 billion of economic impact; so that’s certainly not chump change,” she said. “I think that what we’re doing this week, celebrating across the Mountain State is not just reminding folks across the state and across the country all that’s ‘Wild and Wonderful’, but also to remind folks that this is a big business for us.”
Goodwin said that “Tourism Week” also serves to remind residents the importance of taking vacation.
“We’re launching some new information on what’s called Project Time-Off; the real value of not only investing in the state, but also investing in your time with your children; your spouse; your parents.”
Spending quality time with loved ones helps relationships grow, Goodwin said.
“Plan ahead, plan now, and set that on the calendar. Because research shows that it is the number one thing that you can do to improve your relationships,” she said.
She said more information can be found online, including a list of the 100 best places to eat in the Mountain State, and an app to guide tourists on where to go wherever they may be.
“Its Wild and Wonderful West Virginia, it’s a free app, you can literally make your own bucket list for any region of the state that you’re traveling,” Goodwin said. “You can do food, arts, music events and outdoor activities. What’s Wild and Wonderful for you may be completely different for someone else.”
West Virginia National Travel and Tourism Week Wild, Wonderful West Virginia is hosting a full week of events around the state highlighting the many recreational opportunities in the state.
A list can be found gotowv.com.