NASHVILLE, Tenn (WTVF) — The state of Tennessee welcomed 147 million visitors in 2024, setting a new record for tourism. Those travelers generated $31.66 billion in direct spending statewide—marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking growth.
Nashville, in particular, stood out as the top destination. Davidson County alone brought in $11.2 billion in visitor spending, according to Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. That translates to an average of $30.7 million spent every day in Music City.
For tourists, the numbers tell only part of the story. Over Labor Day weekend, visitors from across the globe packed their bags for Music City—trading in a holiday at home for a holiday of adventure.
Jo Theis and Joyanne Vanbloom, who traveled from Nebraska, were among them.
“It is my first time, yes,” Theis said, explaining that their trip coincided with Nebraska’s women’s volleyball tournament at Bridgestone Arena.
Vanbloom, a repeat visitor, said there’s always something new to discover.
“About my fourth time in Nashville, but it’s the first time I walked this much in Nashville,” she said with a laugh.
From honky-tonks and Fourth of July fireworks to dog parks and breweries, the city continues to offer something for everyone. Visitor Peter Ranger summed it up simply:
“Come, walk around, talk to the locals, and everyone’s pretty friendly,” he said. “We went to a couple of parks yesterday, a couple of breweries, and the people are pretty friendly.”
Tourism is more than just fun and entertainment—it’s big business for Tennessee. Direct visitor spending in Davidson County alone generated more than $1 billion in state and local tax revenue. Without that, officials say every Nashville household would pay nearly $3,700 more in state and local taxes each year.
From Mountain City to Memphis, tourism is fueling local businesses, creating jobs, and cementing hospitality as one of Tennessee’s proudest industries. And for Music City, it’s proof that its rhythm keeps travelers coming back
"This story was reported on-air and written by Kelsey Gibbs and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy."
Music lessons for just 50 cents! A Nashville music school has been providing that to area students for over 40 years including for the city's current mayor. As a child, I always wanted to take piano lessons. I was able to for about 6 months but had to stop due to family finances. I would have loved to have had access to a program like this at the W. O. Smith Music School.
- Lelan Statom
