Gov. Andy Beshear announced Wednesday that 2025 was the best year ever for Kentucky tourism, with $14.6 billion generated in economic impact supporting 96,993 jobs, and making it four straight record years for the industry.

“Kentucky has the best experiences ,” Beshear said during a press conference at the Ashbrook Hotel in Frankfort. “From climbing and hiking at the Red River Gorge, to witnessing the rare moonbow at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.”

According to a study by Tourism Economics, 81.1 million travelers visited Kentucky in 2025, an increase of 1.1 million from the previous year. Those travelers spent a total of $10.4 billion across the state, a $300 million increase from 2024. The breakdown of spending is as follows:

• $2.7 billion on food and beverages

• $2.4 billion on lodging

• $2 billion on transportation

• $1.9 billion on retail

• $1.4 billion on recreation and entertainment for tourism

“If we look at the best year to the fourth best year, it’s 2025, 2024, 2023 and 2022,” Beshear noted.  “Tourism helps fuel our economy. It creates great jobs for our people. It is, it is essential!”

Mike Mangeot, commissioner of the Department of Tourism, stated, “We have continued to bring more visitors to our state o experience our New Kentucky Home than ever before. In 2025 we faced several tourism challenges, particularly when you look at international inbound travel. We were forced to make strategic and we are pleased to have been successfully able to pivot and drive more domestic visitation throughout the year.”

“Tourism is about more than visitation – it’s about telling Kentucky’s story. A strong tourism industry highlights our people, our culture and our authentic visitor experiences,” said Louisville Tourism CEO Cleo Battle. “Visitation drives economic impact, leading to tourism investment and supporting a thriving future for Louisville and our state.”