Walker County’s tourism industry saw a major upswing in 2024, according to a newly released Travel Economic Impact study prepared by Tourism Economics. The report shows visitors spent $51.9 million across lodging, food and beverage, recreation, retail, and transportation — a 19.1% increase from the previous year.
All sectors experienced year-over-year growth, with the largest gains in retail. Visitor spending also supported 450 local jobs, up by 64 positions from 2023, and generated $3.6 million in state and local tax revenue. The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) estimated that tourism revenue saved Walker County households an average of $137 in taxes last year.
Walker County’s growth contributed to another record-breaking year for Georgia tourism, helping the state rank fifth nationally for overnight visitation for the fifth consecutive year.
“Georgia’s tourism success proves the power of partnerships,” said Jay Markwalter, Deputy Commissioner of Tourism for the GDEcD. “Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kemp, our General Assembly, Commissioner Wilson, the Tourism Foundation Board of Directors, and the efforts of our statewide tourism industry, more visitors than ever before are choosing to experience everything that makes our state great.”
Tourism remains Georgia’s second-largest economic contributor, generating $82 billion in economic impact and supporting 470,570 jobs statewide.
Looking ahead, local officials anticipate another tourism boost in 2026 when Atlanta hosts the FIFA World Cup from June 11 through July 19. With international visitors expected to explore destinations beyond the city, north Georgia — including Walker County — stands to benefit from the global spotlight.