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Conventions Matter

Why Do Conventions And Visitors Matter In Columbus?

Columbus is committed to the visitor experience. We recognize the value of tourism.
 

fuels the economy

economy infographic

Greater Columbus welcomes 43 million visitors each year and those visitors directly spend $7.6 billion.

employs residents

The tourism sector supports nearly 78,600 jobs in Columbus and Franklin County - that's 1 in every 12 jobs and enough to more than fill Nationwide Arena, the Schottenstein Center, MAPFRE Stadium and Huntington Park.

jobs infographic

enhances quality of life

Copy of Downtown Skyline with Capitol BuildingThe tourism industry generates revenue for vital city and county needs. In fact, local, state and federal tax revenue generated by visitors to Franklin County is estimated at $1.35 billion. The City and County hotel bed tax was a record $49.7 million in 2019. Bed tax revenue supports not only Experience Columbus and the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority, but also the Greater Columbus Arts Council, the Emergency Human Services and the Affordable Housing Trust.

return on investment

The top five industry sectors that benefit from visitor spending:

Industry
% of Tourism Sales
$ Amount
# of Jobs
Retail 30% $2.3 billion 9,730
Food & Beverage 24% $1.8 billion 24,789
Transportation 18% $1.3 billion 9,561
Entertainment 15% $1.1 billion 11,108
Lodging 13% $989 million 8,941