: Orange County Tourism
Photo credit this page from upper left, clockwise: Liberty Mills, Barboursville, Montpelier, Chateau MerrillAnne, Montpelier Steeplechase Foundation
OCI Insight: What are some of the leading trade organizations in which you participate?
Lori: We participate in VADMO - Virginia Association of Destination Marketing Organizations, MATPRA - Mid Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance, Civil War Trails, and Virginia Tourism Corporation.
OCI Insight : How does tourism affect the local economy?
Lori: The Orange County tourism industry is a vital component of economic growth and job creation which are achieved through tourism visitation and spending. The National Travel Association reports to Virginia Tourism Corporation each year including all localities in the state. Our last data received was from 2019: Tourism revenue for Orange County reached $52,922,809.00, a 3% percent increase over 2018. Local tourism - supported jobs totaled 624, while local tourism - related taxes were $1,529,611.00.
OC Insight: How do you see Orange County tourism rebounding from COVID?
Lori: Small towns and open spaces are our substantial assets in the current travel climate, as they are what today ’ s travelers desire. Virginia Tourism ’ s research shows that current travelers are taking road trips within a 2 - 3 hour ’ s drive. Orange is within easy driving distance of at least five major cities. Our proximity to major highways on the east coast such as I95, Rt. 29, I81, and I64 make it very easy to get here. Orange County is a very attractive destination for visitors who are looking for a simpler way of life, heritage, and authentic experiences.
Page 6 | May 2021
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