Michigan Tourism Drives Billions in Economic Impact, Highlighted During Statewide National Travel & Tourism Week Event
Tourism Leaders to Highlight the Essential Role of Travel in Michigan’s Economy and Communities

WHAT: Members of the media are invited to join Pure Michigan, the Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan (TICOM), and regional tourism leaders from across the state for a statewide press conference celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) at the Michigan Maritime Museum along Lake Michigan.  Speakers will highlight the essential role tourism plays in driving Michigan’s economy, supporting local businesses, and strengthening communities across the state, while also looking ahead to the spring and summer travel season. Media will also have the opportunity to connect with destinations, attractions, and tourism partners from across Michigan during dedicated exhibit and interview time.

WHEN: Monday, May 4, 2026

  • 10:00 – 11:00 AM: Media arrival, exhibits, and self-guided museum tours 

  • 11:00 – 11:30 AM: Press Conference 

  • 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM: Media interviews, exhibits, and tours

 

WHERE: Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Ave, South Haven, MI

 

WHO: Featured speakers will include:

  • Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II (via video remarks)

  • Dan McCole, President, TICOM 

  • Jen Sistrunk, Executive Director, Visit South Haven 

  • Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President, Pure Michigan 

 

WHY: National Travel and Tourism Week (May 3-9, 2026) is an annual celebration of the travel industry’s impact on the U.S. economy and local communities. In Michigan, tourism generates more than $50 billion in total economic impact, including more than $30 billion in visitor spending, and supports over 350,000 jobs statewide. As Michigan celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Pure Michigan campaign, this event highlights how travel continues to serve as a key economic driver while enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

 

VISUALS & COVERAGE OPPORTUNITIES:

  • On-site exhibits from Michigan destinations

  • Footage inside the Michigan Maritime Museum 

  • Scenic waterfront views along Lake Michigan

 

The Michigan Maritime Museum offers a unique backdrop for this year’s event, reflecting Michigan’s deep connection to the Great Lakes and maritime heritage, which are central to the state’s identity and support jobs, tourism and economic opportunity. The museum will also debut its new Harris Commercial Fishing Exhibit in late May, highlighting the stories and traditions of Lake Michigan’s commercial fishing industry.

 

RSVP or Questions? Please contact:

  • Larisa Draves, TICOM Executive Director, mitourismcoalition@gmail.com or (231) 598-1911

  • Chad Wiebesick, TICOM Subcommittee Chair, cwiebesick@annarbor.org or (517) 455-3038