As part of its Annual Tourism Outlook, Visit KC looked back on a successful year of tourism in 2024 that saw $4 billion added to the local economy in visitor spending.
“The economic impact is clear proof that our tourism industry is thriving as Kansas City continues to make itself known in unprecedented ways,” says Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, via a press release. “In addition to our championship sports teams and world-famous barbecue, we are a region renowned for its warmth and welcoming spirit—and that comes straight from the heart.”
Visitor spending generated more than $470 million in tax revenue, contributing to enhanced quality of life in Missouri’s largest city. In another highlight of the Annual Tourism Outlook presentation, Visit KC presented Tourism Icon Awards to one organization and one individual who had made a major contribution to Kansas City tourism. The organizational award went to the National WWI Museum and Memorial, for its “outstanding visitor experiences” and also the role it played in hosting popular large-scale events such as the NFL Draft and the annual Stars and Stripes Picnic. The individual award went to Vanessa Kane, who as meeting and events planner for the VFW has helped plan and host nationwide gatherings.
“We are incredibly proud that tourism contributes to the success of so many essential and diverse Kansas City institutions and offerings such as our beloved attractions, arts and music experiences, world-class sports, celebrated culinary scene and much more,” says Kathy Nelson, president and CEO of Visit KC, via the press release. “The cultural and economic contributions of tourism are undeniable and a critical part of our city’s ability to thrive on a broader basis.”
Main Image: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and Visit KC President and CEO Kathy Nelson at the city’s Annual Tourism Outlook; Credit: Visit KC
