YANKTON, SD – As summer travel season approaches, South Dakota is celebrating the impact of the visitor industry and recognizing National Travel & Tourism Week, May 3-9.
Established by U.S. Travel Association, National Travel & Tourism Week brings the visitor industry together annually to spotlight the role travel plays in powering the economy. In South Dakota, this impact not only helps local businesses and attractions – it revitalizes rural communities and improves quality of life for South Dakotans.
“Tourism is about more than fun and memories. It’s fuel for our local and state economies,” said Carmen Schramm, Executive Director of the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota. “By celebrating National Travel & Tourism Week, we’re bringing awareness to the importance of tourism in South Dakota and showing everyone how they can be an advocate for the industry.”
In 2025, South Dakota welcomed nearly 15 million visitors, spending $5.16 billion across the state. That economic impact translated to 59,000 jobs and $2.3 billion in labor income, saving each South Dakota household $1,121 in tax dollars.
To commemorate the event, the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota is holding a statewide roadshow for visitor industry members, celebrating economic wins and preparing for the travel season ahead.
“We’re fortunate to live in a place others want to visit,” said Schramm. “And by supporting our visitor industry, we can all be a part of South Dakota’s growth, progress, and monumental future.”
About The Tourism Coalition of South Dakota
Formerly known as the Visitor Inustry Alliance (VIA), the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota is a membership-driven nonprofit that advocates for the visitor industry, promoting the benefits and impact tourism generates for our state and local communities. Learn more about industry efforts and resources at www.TourismCoalitionSD.com.
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