Counting Visitors by the Millions

Some 10 million tourists visited Volusia County in 2017, with half staying in hotels and motels, spending some $6.09 billion and putting 3,450 people to work in the lodging industry alone. Overall, tourism generated employment of 55,200 with a payroll exceeding $734 million. Tourists paid 40% of the county’s sales tax, according to Evelyn Fine, president of Mid-Florida Marketing & Research.

Most Volusia visitors are no strangers to the area. In 2017, more than 90% were repeat visitors reporting high levels of satisfaction.

Every season is tourist season in Daytona Beach/Volusia County. The former spring break icon has transitioned into a four-season destination that’s earned the “Festival Capital of Florida” moniker.

It’s easy to see why. Volusia County is home to more than 60 art, music and one-of-a-kind pop culture festivals; with some of the most well established events in the state on the festival calendar like the Greek Festival, Turkey Run and the Halifax Art Festival, it’s an impressive line-up with a flair for everything from culture and cuisine to motorsports and music. The environment, art, history and endless outdoor pursuits are enjoyed side by side in gatherings large and small.

• The Ocean Center, Volusia County’s meeting, convention and entertainment complex, has undergone a renovation that doubled its size while enhancing cutting-edge technology and hospitality comforts. Amenities include 200,000 square feet of flexible exhibit space, a 42,000-sq.-ft. arena, 93,000-sq.-ft. exhibit hall and a 14,000-sq.-ft. ballroom with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, award-winning catering and food service in an eco-friendly environment.

Tags: Daytona Beach and Volusia County