Saturday, May 25, 2024 Birmingham’s tourism industry experienced a banner year in 2023, shattering all previous records with a revenue stream exceeding $2.5 billion, according to the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau. This tourism boom not only brought in significant revenue, but also supported over 51,000 jobs and contributed nearly $300 million in state and local taxes, solidifying Birmingham’s position as a major economic driver for the region.
Several factors contributed to Birmingham’s surge in tourism. The metro area played host to a number of high-profile events in 2023, including the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, the National Association of Black Journalists annual conference, and various food and culture festivals. These events undoubtedly played a role in attracting visitors, but 2023 also marked the 60th commemoration of the Birmingham civil rights movement, drawing in those interested in the city’s rich history and cultural significance.
Another major draw for tourists was the SEC baseball tournament held in Hoover, a perennial event that injects an estimated $15 million into the city’s coffers. Hoover officials are confident this number will climb even higher in the coming years thanks to recent renovations completed at the Hoover Met, the tournament’s venue. “Last year, we had a record number of attendees at the tournament, with over 171,000 people coming through that week,” said Hoover’s events manager, Kelly Peoples.
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