MONTGOMERY, Ala. – In 2022, more than 28.6 million travelers to the state of Alabama spent a record $22.4 billion, contributing 238,741 jobs statewide, reports the Alabama Tourism Department.
Sports Alabama says sports tourism produced an estimated $235.45 million last year just among its 12 member destinations.
Sports Alabama president Don Dukemineer says the state’s communities offer planners unique opportunities to host events because of local officials’ efforts to focus on the impact sports tourism creates.
“Alabama’s sports tourism efforts continue to spotlight our expansive capabilities to event rights holders and national governing bodies across the country of our ability to host high-caliber events. I’m so proud of our members for showcasing the fabulous facilities, unique attractions, and welcoming spirit of Alabama to those who visit every day,” says Dukemineer.
Sports Alabama’s member destinations include Auburn-Opelika Tourism, Decatur-Morgan County Tourism, Visit Dothan, The Shoals, Foley Sports Tourism, Gulf Shores | Orange Beach Sports & Events, Marshall County Tourism & Sports, Explore Rocket City, Visit Mobile, and Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports.
“Sports tourism is not a trend; it’s a staple piece of the overall tourism mix,” says Michelle Russ, vice president of sales, sports and events for Gulf Shores | Orange Beach Sports & Events. “Destinations like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach rely on sports travel to balance out our economy, boost the shoulder seasons, and maintain year-round tourism-based employment.”
