Explore Minnesota Reports Continued Tourism Growth in 2024

ST. PAUL, MN, August 26, 2025 – Explore Minnesota, the state's marketing and promotion agency, has released its 2024 tourism industry research findings, revealing it was another historic year for Minnesota tourism. Visitor spending reached a record $14.7 billion in 2024, marking an increase of 600 million over 2023. Minnesota also welcomed 81.6 million visitors in 2024, a 4.6% increase from the prior year.  

Visitor spending generated a total economic impact of $24.7 billion, including $2.4 billion in state and local tax revenues and 182,435 jobs supported by the tourism industry. This results in saving each Minnesota taxpayer household $1,031, or the equivalent of about a month of groceries for a household of three. 

“Minnesota's tourism industry delivered record numbers in 2024," said Governor Tim Walz. "Visitor spending, volume, and overall economic impact all grew, proving that Minnesota remains a premier travel destination. While we know national forecasts suggest slower growth ahead, Minnesota continues to stand out because of our strengths: world-class outdoor recreation, vibrant towns and cities, and a welcoming spirit. Those assets keep us competitive and ensure tourism remains a vital part of our state’s economy.” 

Key Findings from Explore Minnesota's 2024 Tourism Research: 

• 81.6 million total visitors: A 1.7% year-over-year increase. 

• $14.7 billion in visitor spending: Up 4.3% from 2023, this year an average of $40.3 million was spent every day by visitors in Minnesota. 

• $24.7 billion in total economic impact: Driven by robust spending across lodging, transportation, recreation and other sectors. 

• 182,435 jobs generated: The visitor economy is responsible for amount of tourism-supported employees in Minnesota could fill U.S. Bank Stadium 2.5 times over. 

• $2.4 billion in state and local tax revenues: Directly benefiting Minnesota communities. The amount generated by our visitor economy could pay the salaries of over 34,000 public school teachers. 

"Year-over-year growth in both visitor spending and volume showcases Minnesota's expanding appeal as a go-to travel destination for all four seasons," said Lauren Bennett McGinty, Explore Minnesota's Executive Director. “These numbers are a testament to the regional and national inroads Explore Minnesota continues to make in our award-winning marketing. We're establishing why Minnesota is the best state for travel, as well as quality of life and economic opportunity, and the public is listening more than ever before. 

Although last year’s data is resoundingly positive, increased economic uncertainty and down-trending consumer sentiments in response to federal policy has put Minnesota’s travel industries at risk and this summer has been difficult for many of our communities that depend on tourism dollars. Regardless, Explore Minnesota will continue to push forward, promoting Minnesota as a must-visit, value destination with authentic, exciting and memorable experiences for every person in every season.  

For more information on tourism's impact on the state of Minnesota and to view additional research and economic data, visit https://mn.gov/tourism-industry/research/ or The Minnesota Visitor Economy 2024 Report..  

 
About Explore Minnesota: Explore Minnesota is the marketing and promotion agency for the State of Minnesota. Our mission is to support and help Minnesota's economy grow sustainably through innovative marketing, industry partnerships and authentic storytelling, showcasing Minnesota as the premier state for travel, quality of life and economic opportunity. To learn more, visit exploreminnesota.com or find us on Instagram at @exploreminnesota.