What tourism means for the economy; how locals benefit

Friendly. Unique. Special. Story-telling worthy. Generous. So helpful. All smiles. Wonderful suggestions! For sure coming back!”

These are just a few highlights from the latest survey of non-residents who have visited Elizabethtown. The impact of tourism on our local economy tells a compelling story. Our service staff at restaurants, hotels, retail shops and attractions go above and beyond at making guests feel welcome.

How do we know this? We asked the visitors.

As part of Elizabethtown’s recent visitor profile survey, we conducted research to understand why travelers chose to visit our community and how they felt during their stay. This insight helps us pinpoint areas for improvement and explore ways to enhance our offerings for visitors. This enables us to refine our marketing strategies and target audiences to better promote Elizabethtown, and it’s working.

According to the Kentucky Department of Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, the hospitality industry accounts for about 2,588 jobs in Hardin County.

Additionally, visitors spend an estimated $356.6 million each year, creating demand for new businesses and attracting developers to our area. This business growth also creates job opportunities for our residents.

Our mission is to position Elizabethtown as a must-visit destination. In crafting experiences for visitors, we simultaneously create opportunities for our local community. As our population grows, these quality-of-life amenities influence families’ decisions to relocate and settle here.

A diverse mix of visitors is essential, and in Hardin County, we prioritize expanding our connections with travelers. Those interested in cultural heritage or genealogy might visit the Hardin County History Museum or the Brown-Pusey House. Traveling sports teams seek group-friendly dining options and recreation, while outdoor enthusiasts look for unique trails and natural experiences.

All these attractions draw people to our community and support local businesses through dining, shopping, fuel purchases or extending their stay.

Our newest amenity, the Buffalo Lake Trail, connects downtown to Buffalo Lake with a paved, illuminated pathway. This trail will allow families to walk, bike, jog or run through areas featuring natural habitats, educational signage, lookout points and more. The downtown trailhead is located at the railroad crossing next to Haycraft Street, with completion expected this summer.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the upcoming outdoor venue along with the future Commerce Drive extension, a long-term goal for our city. This land, recently acquired by the city, was previously privately owned. Our local leaders’ foresight in envisioning a venue that embodies a “walk in the woods,” while preserving natural habitats and green spaces, has enabled tourism to collaborate with the city to create this new attraction for both visitors and residents.

This venue will host not just music events but also festivals, diverse live entertainment, an ice-skating rink and community celebrations. Additional plans include connections to Buffalo Lake area trails, parking for trail events and public restrooms for local run and ride groups.

It’s an exciting time to live in and visit Elizabethtown. We are blessed to call this place home and are committed to support its growth and appeal.

To stay up to date with Elizabethtown Tourism’s local projects, go to touretown.com/local-information.