Visit Fort Lauderdale took the opportunity during National Travel and Tourism Week May 4-10 to speak out about the strength of tourism and its impact on the local economy. According to Travel and Tourist World, President and CEO of Visit Fort Lauderdale Stacy Ritter stated, “Travel is a powerful engine for economic growth and a vital part of what makes our community thrive.” The official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale and Broward County emphasized its commitment to drawing and welcoming visitors from around the world.
In 2024 alone, tourism generated $125.4 million in annual tax revenue, the second-highest in total in Broward’s recorded history. That revenue finances essential public services such as education, healthcare, public safety and infrastructure. Tourism also supports employment in Broward County, directly and indirectly providing approximately 101,700 jobs every year throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale across a range of industries. And the ongoing demand for accommodations has been a driver for real estate and hospitality investors; in fact, 2025 will usher in four major hotel properties including The Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel at the newly expanded Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center.