Arlington needs more cultural venues to supplement the sports teams and recreational attractions.
The City of Arlington relies heavily on tourism. But once visitors travel to Arlington to see one of our major sports teams or visit one of our recreational destinations, there are not very many other things for them to do that will keep them here an extra day. Having other activities that are more cultural will help attract and keep families who want to entertain their minds as a part of their vacation. Part of the mission of MITA is to become a first class museum and contribute to the Arlington tourism model by providing a cultural alternative to enhance that model.
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Based on the 2008-2010 City Tourism Impact Study, here are few Arlington area travel and tourism facts, as estimated by Experience Arlington*:
- More than 6.5 million travelers — those who made an overnight trip or traveled in excess of 50 miles for a day-trip – visit the city each year.
- In 2010, visitor spending in Arlington totaled $593 million. Tourism accounts for a $6.3 billion in economic impact and another $1.8 billion in indirect economic impact.
- Tourism spending supports 10,500 jobs within Arlington, making up 8.8% of all private employment. Of these, 7,800 were directly supported by tourism spending. Tourism generated an additional 1,400 indirect jobs and 1,250 induced jobs.
- Travelers spent $168 million in restaurants, $160.3 million for entertainment, $103.3 million for lodging, and $161.1 million for a broad range of services including transportation and shopping.
- In 2010, spending by travelers in Arlington generated $55.1 million in state and local taxes, and $65.9 million in federal taxes.
* Taken from the City of Arlington website.
MITA is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) non-profit scientific and educational corporation.