Owensboro and Daviess County are celebrating a record year for local tourism, contributing to Kentucky’s $14.3 billion economic impact statewide in 2024 — the largest in the state’s history.
Gov. Andy Beshear called it “the biggest winning streak Kentucky tourism has ever seen,” crediting strong partnerships and smart investments for the success.
Locally, tourism generated an economic impact of $249.7 million, bringing in $19.1 million in state and local taxes and supporting nearly 2,000 jobs, according to figures from the Governor’s office.
That momentum has continued into 2025. From January through May, Owensboro broke hotel occupancy records every month, according to president of Visit Owensboro, Mark Calitri. He added that local restaurants and attractions have also seen steady crowds.
“In sports, the scoreboard doesn’t lie. These results tell the story — Owensboro has massive momentum, and we’re headed in the right direction,” said Mark Calitri, president of Visit Owensboro. “This five-month streak proves that when you execute a smart plan and everyone buys in, great things happen.”
Calitri credited strategic planning and the use of ARPA funds for helping attract new events, meetings, and sports tournaments.
More growth is on the way with a new hotel nearing completion and construction underway on a downtown sports complex. Both are expected to help draw larger conventions and tournaments to the city.
“Our partners are all in,” Calitri said. “Our team at Visit Owensboro just wrapped up a sales blitz — making calls, shaking hands, and bringing new business to town. It’s already paying off with major new groups on the books. That’s how you win — good people working together toward a shared goal.”
Calitri also thanked state lawmakers Rep. Suzanne Miles, Rep. DJ Johnson, and Sen. Gary Boswell for their continued support.
“More visitors mean more money spent at local businesses,” Calitri said. “That’s money going straight into our community. It’s the kind of growth that lifts everyone. The best is yet to come.”
For more information, visit Visit Owensboro.
