Explore Brookhaven Celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week, Highlighting Economic Impact and Community Vitality

Explore Brookhaven is proud to join destinations across the country in celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), held May 4–10, 2025. This annual event shines a spotlight on the U.S. travel industry’s vital role in stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, and enhancing quality of life across the nation—and right here in Brookhaven.

“Travel is one of our nation's most powerful economic engines—supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses, and propelling industries forward,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “National Travel and Tourism Week reinforces the pivotal role travel plays in building a stronger, more prosperous America."

Established in 1983, NTTW celebrates the powerful impact of the travel sector, which in 2024 alone generated $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported over 15 million jobs, and produced $190 billion in tax revenue. That’s equivalent to $1,490 in tax relief per American household.

Locally, Brookhaven’s tourism industry plays a significant role in driving economic development. From hotel stays and dining experiences to cultural attractions and shopping, visitors contribute millions of dollars in state and local economic impact each year. Their spending sustains small businesses, supports public services, and fuels long-term community growth.

Hospitality and tourism are also major sources of employment in Brookhaven. Roughly 10% of the city’s workforce is employed in hospitality-related jobs—spanning hotels, restaurants, transportation, and entertainment—demonstrating the sector’s resilience and its importance to the city’s economic fabric.

To recognize this impact, the City of Brookhaven has officially proclaimed May 4–10 as National Travel and Tourism Week in Brookhaven. The proclamation underscores the essential contributions of the travel industry to the city’s economy, workforce, and community well-being.

“Travel drives economic opportunity and strengthens our community,” said Renée Areng, President and CEO of Explore Brookhaven. “This National Travel and Tourism Week, we celebrate travel’s undeniable impact and reaffirm its importance in shaping our local economy and quality of life.”

For more information about National Travel and Tourism Week, visit ustravel.org/NTTW.