The smallest state of the United States, Rhode Island, received a record 28.4 million visitors in 2023, reflecting a growth of 2.2 pc over the visitor numbers in 2022.

In a press statement, the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, the official full-service economic development organisation for the state, says that the total tourism receipts also rose in 2023 and stood at USD 5.6 billion, a growth of 4.6 pc over the previous year.

Dan McKee

The statement adds that Rhode Island visitors sustained 86,612 jobs and generated USD 935 million in state and local tax revenues in 2023, a tax revenue increase of 3.5 pc from 2022, with a visitor economy impact of USD 8.3 billion.

“This record achievement is proof that Rhode Island is truly ‘All That!’. We will continue to make investments in tourism to support Rhode Island’s economic resilience and showcase the unique experiences our great state has to offer to the world,” says Governor Dan McKee.

Liz Tanner

“Tourism plays a vital role in Rhode Island’s economy by creating jobs, supporting our local businesses, and showcasing everything that makes our state a premier destination. I applaud the dedicated efforts of the tourism team at Rhode Island Commerce and all others in the industry that helped reach this accomplishment,” says Liz Tanner, Secretary of Commerce, Rhode Island.

Anika Kimble-Huntley

“The economic activity generated from the travel sector represents a critical component of the state’s current and future growth. The Commerce team will continue to work with our great partners, statewide, to support the upward trajectory of tourism and record-breaking visitation,” says Anika Kimble-Huntley, Chief Marketing Officer of the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation.

The statement adds that data also showed the stronger travel appetite in 2023 was reflected by steady day and overnight demand growth. Of the USD 5.6 billion spent in Rhode Island in 2023 by visitors, food and beverages contributed USD 1.4 billion in sales, representing 26 pc of total visitor spending. Lodging accounted for 22 pc of total visitor spending, including short-term rentals and the value of second homes, representing USD 1.2 billion of total visitor spending.

Air transport spending growth was also strong, increasing 10.2 pc in 2023. Spending on recreation grew at a solid pace of 7.5 pc to almost USD 1.1 billion, as visitors shifted preferences to more experiential spending.