CayugaCayuga County (May 2026) – Cayuga County is proud to have joined a nationwide celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, (NTTW) May 3-9, 2026, a recognition of 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.

In Cayuga County, tourism amounts to more than visitor spending. It is a reflection of who we are as a community. Tourism supports local businesses, strengthens downtowns and main streets, sustains jobs, and helps share the stories that make Cayuga County distinct. From nationally significant historic sites and cultural institutions to farms, wineries, restaurants, outdoor spaces, small businesses, and community events, tourism connects the many pieces of Cayuga County into one larger story. It also reinforces pride of place among residents, encourages collaboration among local partners, and helps ensure that the character of our community remains central to the visitor experience. When tourism is supported thoughtfully, its benefits extend beyond travelers to the people who live, work, and invest here every day.

“National Travel and Tourism Week is a reminder that tourism isn't a luxury; it's essential to the health of our local economy and the vitality of our communities. Here in Cayuga County, visitors spent more than $157 million in 2024, supporting over 1,500 local jobs and generating more than $18.6 million in state and local taxes. That's real, tangible impact for our restaurants, our shops, our hospitality workers, and our neighbors,” said Courtney Kasper, Executive Director of the Cayuga County Office of Tourism. “In fact, visitor spending provides roughly $600 in annual tax relief to every household in our county. As we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week under the theme 'Postmarked: Essential,' we're proud to join communities across the country in recognizing the businesses, the hospitality workers, and the visitors that make Cayuga County such a special place to discover.”

To hear directly from the local voices helping shape our tourism story, visit our Cayuga County Tourism Advocacy page at: www.tourcayuga.com/tourism-advocacy-video-series

Visit www.ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.

About Cayuga County Convention & Visitors Bureau:

The Cayuga County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CCCVB) is Cayuga County’s tourism promotion agency. We increase tourism and related revenues through promotion and research-based targeted marketing,
and we improve the visitor experience by providing data and training to local hospitality industry providers. We continuously work to increase tourism and improve the visitor experience, which in turn stimulates economic growth and sustains recreational and cultural opportunities in the County.

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