Press Conference Highlights Economic Impact and Accessibility Initiatives Across the State
Tourism leaders from across Michigan gathered Monday at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park to kick off National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), celebrating the vital contributions of the state’s travel industry to Michigan’s economy and highlighting efforts to make the state a more accessible destination for all travelers.
Hosted by Pure Michigan, Experience Grand Rapids, and the Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan (TICOM), the event spotlighted both the statewide economic impact of tourism and accessibility initiatives aimed at fostering an inclusive travel experience for everyone.
“National Travel and Tourism Week is a time to recognize how vital tourism is to the health and prosperity of our communities,” said Holly Laurencelle, President of TICOM. “From supporting local businesses to creating jobs and strengthening quality of life, travel touches every part of Michigan in meaningful ways. We’re proud to come together and celebrate the positive impact our industry brings to every corner of the state.”
Following Laurencelle’s remarks, leaders shared economic impact data highlighting the strength of Michigan’s visitor economy, which generated $29.3 billion in visitor spending in 2023 and supported more than 346,000 jobs statewide, according to a report from Tourism Economics
“Tourism is a powerful driver of Michigan’s economy, contributing more than $50 billion in economic impact in 2023,” said Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan. “The Pure Michigan campaign continues to inspire millions of travelers to explore our two peninsulas, from our thriving cities and downtowns to 3,000+ miles of Great Lakes coastline and 13,000+ miles of state-designated trails. We are proud to join our industry partners and colleagues across the state in celebrating Michigan’s world-class destinations and more than 346,000 tourism and hospitality professionals during National Travel & Tourism Week.”
Wolgamott also highlighted efforts to make travel more accessible, including the Pure Michigan Accessible Traveler Grant program, launched in 2023 to support Michigan travel destinations in providing a more accessible experience to all visitors, increasing tourism, and driving growth in Michigan’s economy.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is helping to make Michigan’s outdoor spaces more accessible by offering the use of “track chairs” free of charge at 29 state parks and recreation areas. These off-road wheelchairs use tracks instead of wheels, allowing them to easily navigate sand and other rugged environments, helping to expand outdoor recreation opportunities for travelers with mobility challenges.
Doug Small, President and CEO of Experience Grand Rapids (EXGR), highlighted how tourism continues to increase throughout Kent County as cultural attractions, community events, destination marketing and convention sales efforts combine to make the community a year-round visitor destination. Grand Rapids is also leading in accessibility innovation.
“Grand Rapids was recently named a Destination Verified city for accessible travel by Wheel the World, and our community is making accessibility a key part of enhancing the visitor experience,” said EXGR President & CEO, Doug Small. “With the accessibility grants from Pure Michigan we were able to expand our work with Disability Advocates and marketing with Wheel the World.”
The press conference also featured interactive exhibits showcasing Michigan destinations and accessibility initiatives, as well as tram tours demonstrating Meijer Gardens’ new electric, accessible trams.
