Holiday tourism boosts Orlando economy
ORLANDO, Fla. – The Thanksgiving weekend in Orlando saw a noticeable influx of people on the roadways, as holiday tourists flocked to the city. Although this may have been viewed as an inconvenience by some, it proved to be a significant economic incentive for the residents.
According to the latest data from Visit Orlando, visitors to Central Florida contribute over $26 billion dollars annually towards wages. This staggering amount showcases the immense financial impact of the tourism industry in the region. Moreover, the local tourism sector provides employment opportunities for nearly 500,000 individuals, further highlighting its crucial role in the local economy.
In terms of flight travel, Orlando emerged as the top Thanksgiving destination, surpassing other domestic locations such as Miami and Las Vegas, as reported by AAA. This distinction solidifies the city’s reputation as a preferred choice for holiday getaways.
On Thanksgiving Day, International Drive witnessed a flurry of activity, with both the Starflyer and The Wheel at Icon Park brimming with visitors. The local theme parks also experienced a surge in footfall, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the day.
To provide perspective on the consistent flow of visitors throughout the Thanksgiving travel week, the airport estimated that the number of people flying in would be equivalent to those departing each day, as tourists continued to arrive to replace the ones leaving.
Anticipating a busy day, Friday proved to be no exception as locals took advantage of being out of school, engaged in Black Friday shopping, and joined the influx of holiday tourists. The convergence of these factors contributed to a bustling day for the city.
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