Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, experienced a record-breaking year for tourism in 2024, with 10.2 million visitors contributing $2.7 billion to the local economy. This represents a 2.7% increase in visitors and a 4.2% rise in spending compared to 2023, according to a report by Discover Lancaster, a nonprofit destination marketing organization. The report, conducted by Tourism Economics, highlights the county's appeal as a prime getaway spot for residents of nearby cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
Jeffrey Vasser, the new president and CEO of Discover Lancaster, expressed his excitement about the county's growth, stating, "It’s very gratifying to join a renowned destination like Lancaster County that continues to grow." Key attractions such as Kitchen Kettle Village and Dutch Wonderland have played a significant role in drawing tourists. Lisa Horn from Kitchen Kettle Village noted the nostalgic appeal of the area, saying, "People kind of tap into that nostalgia" when visiting.
The tourism boom has had a positive impact on the local economy, supporting over 26,000 jobs in the county. Vasser emphasized the importance of tourism by stating that without it, each household would need to pay an additional $1,200 in state and local taxes to compensate for the loss.
Despite economic uncertainties, Discover Lancaster remains optimistic about 2025, citing the county's accessible location and new visitor offerings as reasons for continued growth. Courtney Burkarth from Dutch Wonderland mentioned that the area provides a relaxing escape from city life, adding, "As soon as you drive out here, you can kind of just relax and let that stress go."