The tourism industry has been one of the hardest hit during the COVID-19 pandemic with a nearly 12-billion dollar loss since January of 2020. Explore Minnesota Tourism Director Lauren Bennett-McGinty:
“When historically the state’s tourism industry has made about 16.6 billion dollars. So you can see how dramatic it’s been.”
Bennett-McGinity says all signs are pointing to continued growth this year within the industry :
“We are already starting to see that in various parts of the state. Greater Minnesota has had some really good last couple of months — last summer leading into now.”
Other promising signs — bookings of conventions, concerts, and sporting events.