In 2023, visitor spending and economic impact in Christian County hit an all-time high, ranking the county 9th out of the state’s 120 counties in visitor spending, according to a report released by the Kentucky Department of Tourism.
Oak Grove Tourism Executive Director Traci Cunningham announced that visitor spending in Christian County reached a record 239.1 million in 2023, up 1.9 million from the previous year. She said they are thrilled that this marks the third consecutive year of unprecedented economic impact, solidifying the county’s status as a premier travel destination in Kentucky. Cunningham credited strategic marketing, regional partnerships, and investments in visitor experience for the growth and affirmed their commitment to sustaining this momentum.
Cunningham also highlighted that a surge in festivals, concerts, and community events attracted record crowds, further establishing Oak Grove as a vibrant cultural hub. Additionally, she noted that Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel significantly contributed to the rise in visitor spending and overall growth.
Executive Director Amy Rogers of the Hopkinsville-Christian County Convention Visitors Bureau expressed excitement over the record-breaking tourism numbers in Christian County. She highlighted the area’s diverse attractions, from local Bar-B-Que and craft distilleries to its title as the Batter Capital of the World and the beautiful Western Kentucky landscapes, as ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Rogers stated that the Hopkinsville Visitors Center is dedicated to promoting Christian County and making all visitors feel at home. Their ultimate goal is for everyone to create cherished memories in “the sweetest little place on earth.”
According to the information released, the economic impact extends beyond direct spending. The tourism industry in Christian County has created over 1,804 new jobs countywide, up from 1,791 in 2022, generating 46.7 million in labor income. Additionally, the rise in tourism has produced significant tax revenues, which are reinvested into community projects, infrastructure improvements, and promotional initiatives to sustain this growth.
Using the Tourism Economic model, the economic impact of the tourism industry in Kentucky generated 13.8 billion in visitor spending in 2023, supporting more than 95,235 jobs and 996.2 million in state and local.
