CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (May 1, 2026) — Chattanooga Tourism Co. is celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week, May 3-9, 2026, by celebrating the more than 30,000 hospitality professionals who power Hamilton County's $1.8 billion visitor economy.
The U.S. Travel Association's 2026 theme, "Postmarked: Essential," highlights a simple truth: travel is fundamental to America's economy, workforce and way of life. In Chattanooga, that truth shows up every day. Behind every return visit is a local worker: at the front desk, in the food truck, on the trail or on the stage. Their work turns first-time visitors into lifelong advocates for this city.
"To the 30,000 hospitality industry employees who welcome, serve and inspire visitors every day — thank you," said Susan Harris, interim CEO of Chattanooga Tourism Co. "Tourism in Chattanooga works because of the people behind it. We celebrate their work that makes Chattanooga a place visitors choose and residents are proud to call home."
The numbers reflect that impact. According to the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Hamilton County welcomed 11.1 million visitors in 2024, generating $1.8 billion in visitor spending and $186 million in local and state tax revenue. That visitor spending saves each Hamilton County household an estimated $1,232 annually in taxes.
Thanks to the local hospitality professionals who make it all possible, Chattanooga has plenty to celebrate. The city's first National Park City designation recognizes its activated, healthy outdoor spaces; MICHELIN-recognized restaurants and hotels reflect a dining and lodging scene that is earning global attention; and outlets like National Geographic and Condé Nast are introducing Chattanooga to future visitors, residents and businesses.
In honor of National Travel and Tourism Week, Chattanooga Tourism Co. is offering special discounts for hospitality professionals at the official Chattanooga store, where you can find T-shirts, hats, water bottles, candles, notecards and more. Shop online and use code NTTW15 for 15% off, or stop by the Chattanooga Information Center on the pedestrian plaza by the Tennessee Aquarium and mention code NTTW20 for 20% off in person during the week of May 3-9.
National Travel and Tourism Week was established by Congress in 1983. Nationally, the travel industry generates $3 trillion in economic output and supports 15 million jobs. For more information about the celebration, visit USTravel.org.
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About Chattanooga Tourism Co.
Chattanooga Tourism Co. is the official destination marketing organization for Hamilton County, dedicated to sustainably increasing visitation and connecting guests with authentic Chattanooga experiences. The organization aims to strengthen the local economy and enrich the community by establishing Chattanooga as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, sporting events, and leisure travel. Hamilton County welcomes more than 11.1 million visitors annually, who generate an economic impact of $1.8 billion. This visitor spending contributes $186 million in local and state tax revenue, saving each resident household $1,232 in taxes and supporting more than 30,000 jobs.
Media Contact:
Dawn Kimberlin
Communications Manager
(907) 360-4874
dawnk@chattanoogatourism.com
