Travel Nevada Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week, Champions Travel’s Essential Role in a Landmark Year for America
As the U.S. Prepares for Historic Events, Annual Celebration Highlights Travel’s Local Impact
RENO, NV — Nevada is proud to join a nationwide celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, (NTTW) May 3-9, 2026, recognizing the travel industry’s vital contributions to the U.S. economy. This year’s celebration takes on special significance as the country prepares to host historic events that will put local communities on the global stage.
“The World Cup is weeks away. America’s 250th birthday is right behind it. Tens of millions of visitors are coming, and the travel industry is what makes that possible. National Travel and Tourism Week is our moment to make sure every policymaker, every community leader and every American understands what is at stake and what this industry delivers,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “The numbers speak for themselves: $3 trillion, fifteen million jobs and a decade of global events about to arrive on our doorstep.”
Since its establishment in 1983, NTTW has showcased how travel fosters connection and builds the foundation for the quintessential American experience. This year’s theme, “Postmarked: Essential,” highlights that in every corner of the country, travel is a foundational pillar of growth, leaving an indelible mark on our local economies and culture. The industry’s economic contributions are undeniable.
Travel generates $3 trillion in economic output and supports 15 million jobs, representing a significant 2.4% of America’s GDP.
Here in Nevada, the travel industry is a vital economic engine, delivering $58.5 billion in direct visitor spending and directly supporting over 300,000 jobs in 2024.To mark this year’s celebration, Travel Nevada is highlighting the vital role tourism plays in the Silver State. Through its Tourism Means More educational campaign, the organization helps stakeholders understand the industry’s impact, supported by statistics that demonstrate the fiscal benefits of travel and tourism for the state, the economy, and every Nevada household.
“The energy and growth that define Nevada are made possible by our thriving travel and tourism industry,” said Rafael Villanueva, CEO, Travel Nevada. “Travel means more here in the Silver State. It fuels economic opportunity, strengthens our communities, and supports the livelihoods of Nevadans. During National Travel and Tourism Week, we celebrate the people and businesses that make Nevada a world class destination while reaffirming travel’s essential role in shaping our economy and quality of life for years to come.”
Visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.
The Nevada Division of Tourism is a division of the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. More commonly known as Travel Nevada, the Nevada Division of Tourism is responsible for promoting and marketing Nevada as a travel destination to domestic and international travelers. Operating within a performance-based budget structure, Travel Nevada is funded solely by a percentage of lodging tax paid by overnight guests throughout the state. For more, visit TravelNevada.biz.